Udawatakelle Sanctuary
The ancient city of Kandy is steeped in a rich history, mountainous scenery, a relaxing climate and most of all lush tropical forests. The Udawatakelle Sactuary is an old forest reserve that is situated above the famous Temple of the Tooth. The forest sanctuary spans about 103 hectares and is home to a wide a variety of vivid and colourful flora and fauna. Originally, the forest was the preserve of royalty, but during the colonial era, it was open to the public and many paths and drives were built to help make exploring and walking through the forest easier.

Many of the flora that dominates the forest comprise of large species of trees and a wide variety of small shrubs and herbs that cover the forest floor. The bigger trees have merged at the top layers to form a canopy that dispels the suns rays as they hit the forest floor giving a pleasant and calm effect. A main flora attraction is the 300 year old Entada Rheedii Liana Creeper. The fauna that dominates the sanctuary are mainly a wide variety of birds such as the Layard’s Parakeets, Yellow fronted Barbet and the endangered Kashmir Flycatcher.

Other attractions include the cave in which the Brahmin Senkanda lived in, the royal pond and its associated shady lover’s walk, ideal for a romantic stroll around the pond. Dotted around the sanctuary are many Buddhist monasteries where monks live and practice. The Udawatakelle Sanctuary is ideal place to experience nature tours in Kandy with its wide variety of flora, fauna and deep history it has something to offer for everyone. Jetwing Hunas Falls is situated beside the awe inspiring Hunasgiriya peak, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation making it the ideal lodging choice to experience the wonders of Kandy.