Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Bird Watching and Trekking from Kandy 1
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Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Bird Watching and Trekking from Kandy

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Kandy, Sri Lanka
Bus & Minivan ToursLuxuryWalking ToursNature Tours
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About this activity

Explore Udawatta Kele, a 103-hectare forest sanctuary perched above Kandy Lake that once served as a royal garden during the Kandyan kingdom. This 7-hour guided trek immerses you in pristine native woodland teeming with endemic bird species and offers panoramic views across Kandy's cultural landscape.

Being a rich country of natural biodiversity, Sri Lanka elaborates and proves it many times. Udawatte Kele located north of Kandy Lake is an eco-tourism site that expands over 103 hectares. 

The park was once a forbidden forest called Uda masala watte (the garden above the royal palace) during the Kandyan kingdom. 

Visitors can tour the sanctuary every day from 6 am to 5 pm. Though the entire garden was declared as a forest reserve in 1856 and upgraded as a sanctuary in 1938. 

This garden has an exclusive collection of avifauna. Other than that it is one of the beautiful bird sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. Udawatte Kele is on a hill ridge stretching between the Temple of the Tooth and the Uplands- Aruppola suburbs. 

The highest point of the ridge is 635 meters above sea level and 115 meters above the nearby Kandy Lake.

Highlights

  • ✓Track endemic and migratory bird species in one of Sri Lanka's premier avifauna hotspots
  • ✓Walk forest trails along a ridge 115 metres above Kandy Lake with views to the Temple of the Tooth
  • ✓Discover remnants of the historic royal forest (Uda Masala Watte) from the Kandyan kingdom
  • ✓Traverse 103 hectares of protected woodland with diverse native flora and ecosystem
  • ✓Early morning and late afternoon wildlife viewing for optimal bird activity

Insider tips

  • ★Arrive at dawn (6 am opening) when bird activity peaks and light is best for photography; mid-morning activity drops significantly
  • ★Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide for Sri Lankan species—your guide will enhance sightings with local ecology knowledge
  • ★Wear neutral colours (greens, browns, greys) to avoid startling birds; avoid perfume and sudden movements on narrow ridge paths

Good to know

  • •7-hour duration includes transport from Kandy, guiding, and trekking—wear sturdy hiking boots and bring water (1.5–2 litres)
  • •Trails are moderate; highest point reaches 635 metres elevation with some steep sections—not suitable for very young children or those with mobility restrictions
  • •Sanctuary open daily 6 am–5 pm; tours typically depart early morning; bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and lightweight rain jacket (tropical downpours possible)
  • •No entrance fee mentioned; included in tour price (from EUR 57)

Who it's for

Birdwatchers and ornithology enthusiasts seeking endemic Sri Lankan speciesNature lovers and eco-tourists interested in forest conservation and biodiversityActive travellers who enjoy moderate hiking with cultural and historical contextPhotographers seeking wildlife and landscape shots with minimal crowds

Best time to visit

Visit October–April (dry season) for best weather and clearest lake views; early morning starts (6–8 am) yield the highest bird activity before midday heat reduces movement. Avoid heavy rain months (May–September) when trails become slippery and visibility poor.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€57
per person