A historic forest sanctuary on the ridge behind the Temple of the Tooth, laced with shady walking trails.

Overview

Once a royal forest reserved for the Kandyan kings, Udawattakele is now a birdwatcher's haven of giant lianas, ponds and forest monasteries just minutes from the city centre. Expect macaques, giant squirrels and dozens of bird species along quiet trails.

History

Known in the Kandyan era as 'the forbidden forest of the king', it was protected as a sanctuary in 1856 and remains one of the oldest reserves in the country.