Sparta

5.0

An ancient forest with a truly special atmosphere. The lake near the entrance looks a bit neglected, but it’s still absolutely worth taking a walk inside. You’ll find massive old trees, fresh air, wild monkeys, and beautiful panoramic views over Kandy. Please note that the entrance ticket is cash only. I also recommend bringing mosquito repellent and water, especially if you plan to walk for a while. A peaceful escape into nature right next to the city — definitely worth visiting.

Sajeev Jose

5.0

It is a beautiful rainforest just behind the Temple of Tooth, though the entrance is a little far away. I was amazed that there is such a beautiful and thick forest in the heart of such a city. You have to buy a ticket to go in which is just LKR 75 for the residents of Sri Lanka. There are beautiful paths through the forest and they are just beautiful. Usually there are not many visitors and so you can get a very peaceful nature walk listening only to the sounds of nature. Sometimes I found some monkeys asking the way and so I carried a stick with me. Once I also spotted a few deers. If you go after a rain, you'll find leeches crawling up to you. I tried the Kodimala peak, but it was not worth the climb and there were many leeches. In short, if you are a nature lover, this is one of the best places to visit in Kandy. You can make a round in less than two hours.

Jelle

5.0

A beautiful forest with a striking contrast between tourists and locals, which makes the experience even more interesting. It’s a great place to spend a couple of relaxed hours and a wonderful way to start your morning. The area is peaceful, and you can rent a bike for around 500, which is definitely worth it. The route is mostly flat, so it’s easy and enjoyable to cycle around. Overall, a very attractive and pleasant place to visit. Highly recommended if you’re looking for a calm and refreshing outdoor experience.

Nuria Alonso

5.0

Loved it. Saw a lot of monkeys and a couple of deer. The trees are pretty amazing. I wouldn't bother with the cave, just a rock on top of a run-down building.

LAHIRU HASARANGA

4.0

this era Kandy was called as Senkadagala. This name came into being due to a Brahmin named Senkanda, who lived in a cave at Udawattakele during that era. During the Kandyan Kingdom, this forest area behind the palace was called Uda wasala watta or the 'Upper Palace Garden' frequented by the royalty and was out of bound to the people. Since the downfall of the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, this forest area started to loose it's pristine condition due to wood cutting etc. The condition of the forest deteriorated due to human activities and in 1856, the Government declared it as a Forest Reserve and later in 1938, it was made a sanctuary. The Kandy Lake gets it's water resourses mainly from this forest's catchment areas. This precious forest area supplies the much needed air purification activity to the Kandy city which is enclaved by several hills.