Things to do in Udawattekele Sanctuary
Discover the best attractions and experiences Udawattekele Sanctuary has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore relics and royal landmarks around Kandy and the Udawatta Kele area.
Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
A sacred Buddhist temple in central Kandy housing the revered Tooth Relic and ornate ceremonial chambers.
Kandy Royal Palace (Maha Wasala) precinct
The historic royal complex surrounding the temple with palatial ruins and ceremonial spaces.
Queen's Bath (Kandyan era)
Ancient royal bathing pool and pavilion ruins from the Kandyan period near the palace complex.
Museums
Learn about Sri Lankan culture, archaeology, and the Kandyan era.
Dalada Maligawa Museum
Museum within the Temple of the Tooth complex displaying sacred regalia and Kandyan era artifacts.
Kandy Archaeological Museum
Exhibits spanning ancient Sri Lankan kingdoms with artifacts from the Kandyan period.
National Museum, Kandy
Regional museum housing ethnology, regalia, and historical artifacts related to the Kingdom of Kandy.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks in or near Kandy's sacred landscapes.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kandy
Anglican cathedral with neo-Gothic architecture and tranquil grounds overlooking the city.
Natha Devale (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Complex ancillary temple)
One of the devales that forms part of the Temple of the Tooth complex.
Gadaladeniya Temple (Gadaladeniya) in Digana
A historic temple perched on a hill offering panoramic views and classical architecture.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and botanical wonders in the Kandy region.
Udawatta Kele Forest Sanctuary
A shaded forest reserve next to Kandy’s center, ideal for nature walks and birding.
Victoria Park, Kandy
A pleasant city park perfect for a calm stroll and sunset views.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Expansive gardens famed for giant avenue trees and orchid collections.
Neighborhoods
Explore the city’s districts that frame the Udawatta Kele experience.
Fort, Kandy
Historic commercial and administrative heart of the city near the lake.
Ampitiya
Leafy residential area with scenic views and access to tea estates.
Katugastota
Suburban hub with markets and local cafés a short drive from Udawatta Kele.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost explorations and scenic experiences around Kandy.
Walk around Kandy Lake
Stroll the lake promenade and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Explore the Temple of the Tooth exterior & Esplanade
Enjoy views of ceremonial spaces and the bustling market area.
Sunset at the Kandy Lake viewpoint
Watch the sky change colors over the water and hills.
Gastronomy
Taste Kandyan and Sri Lankan flavors in local eateries.
Kottu Roti at a local eatery
A Sri Lankan street-food staple with chopped flatbread and vegetables.
Rice & Curry platter
A traditional Sri Lankan meal with multiple curries and accompaniments.
Tea-inspired desserts or tea-tasting at a local tea estate cafe
Sample the region’s world-famous teas and related treats.
Nightlife
Evening culture and relaxed venues around the city.
Kandyan Cultural Show
Traditional dance and music performances that showcase local heritage.
Evening drinks at a lakeside cafe
Chill with a view along the Kandy lake front.
Live music at Fort-area cafes
Casual performances in the city’s historic center.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and theatre in the city.
Kandy Theatre performances
Traditional and contemporary stage shows in the city center.
Kandyan dance demonstrations at cultural centers
Public demonstrations of temple dances and drumming.
Evening puppet shows and street performances
Local street theatre and puppetry in busy squares.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the natural backdrop.
Udawatta Kele forest hikes
Gentle to moderate forest trails suitable for a nature walk.
Bird watching along Udawatta Kele
Spot Sri Lankan birds in a tranquil forest setting.
Railway-side cycling or scenic walks around Peradeniya
Flat routes with views of tea estates and river.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and day trips from Kandy.
Tea estate walks in the Hantana area
Walk through tea plantations and learn about tea cultivation.
Visit the Royal Botanical Reserve of Peradeniya area
Explore farmlands, orchards, and botanical delights nearby.
Excursions to Digana for Gadaladeniya Temple views
A short trip to a historic hilltop temple with panoramic views.