Udawaththa Kele - An Oasis in a Crowded City
Udawaththa Kele is a forest reserve situated close to Kandy city and has a forest cover of 257 Acres. The forest was earlier used for the entertainment of the royals during the Kandyan era and today acts as a catchment area for the Kandy Lake and also acts as natural habitat for various wild animals like Monkeys , Wild boars, Deers, Birds and Snakes.
Many Buddhist shrines are situated in the forest and similarly a cave considered to be the dwelling of the hermit Senkada who is connected with the legend of the Kandy city is situated in the forest. Lake inside the forest is believed to be used by the royals for bathing.
You can simply reach this place by using the Sri Dalada Thapowana Vihara Road from Kandy A9 road in front of Hills Street.
You have to purchase tickets to enter the place and the ticket includes a map which will help you to find the way. Information centre inside the forest might be helpful for you to get more details of the place.
Kandy city is clearly visible from the forest. Though it was possible to visit Garrison war cemetry through the forest the route has now been closed.
As told by the official at the gate be mindful not to take food into the forest as the monkeys might be a little aggressive.
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