Udawattakele Forest Reserve

Udawattakele is a historic forest reserve on a hill ridge behind the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, a rare pocket of protected rainforest right beside a city centre. Once a royal reserve of the Kandyan kings, where commoners were forbidden to enter, it is now a sanctuary valued for its biodiversity and its peaceful walking trails.

The forest is rich in wildlife. Its dense canopy shelters many species of birds, making it a well-known spot for birdwatchers, along with monkeys, giant squirrels, monitor lizards, snakes and abundant butterflies and insects. Ancient trees, tangled lianas and a small lake give the reserve a genuinely wild character despite its urban location.

It also carries cultural history. Within the forest lie old meditation caves and hermitages used by Buddhist monks, along with remains linked to the royal era, adding a spiritual dimension to a walk beneath the trees. The reserve has long been a place of quiet retreat.

For visitors, Udawattakele is entered from a gate a short climb above the town, and a modest fee is charged; a network of marked paths ranges from easy strolls to steeper loops, generally taking one to two hours. Sturdy shoes and insect repellent are useful, and leeches can appear after rain. Early morning is best for birdlife and cooler air. Because it is so close to the centre, it combines easily with the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake. Guides can be hired at the entrance and help in spotting wildlife. For travellers wanting a taste of Sri Lanka's forest ecology without leaving the city, this reserve offers an accessible and atmospheric green escape in the highlands.