Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy has rich biodiversity and is historically significant as well. It spans a huge acre of land and is home to several mammal and bird species, flora, and fauna. In earlier times, it was used as a royal forest reserve, but now it is open to tourists and is the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The sanctuary is full of lush greenery that soothes the eye and offers many panoramic views that make it a must-visit destination for all tourists.
Things To Do In Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy
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Sri Lanka is home to many beautiful places; Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy is the haven for adventure enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. From exploring beautiful sceneries to rich flora and fauna, there are various things to do in Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy
- Numerous well-maintained and picturesque trails and paths throughout the sanctuary are available for hiking or leisurely nature walks.
- The sanctuary is full of historical sites and marvels that visitors can admire and gain insights into the historical and cultural heritage of the sanctuary and its historical significance and glory.
- The sanctuary houses several species of birds and animals, including bears, deer, monkeys, various other mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can spot these animals in their natural habitats.
- The Kodimale temple is a Buddhist temple on the sanctuary’s premises. Visitors can visit this small but significant spiritual haven in nature’s serene environment.
- This is a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. The panoramic views and the numerous animals and birds in their natural environment provide many great photo opportunities that are sure to create an everlasting impression in your heart.
Must Read: Best National Parks In Sri Lanka
Entry Fee And Timings
Specific entry timings and fees exist for the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The entry fee for foreigners is typically higher than that for locals. Foreigners have to pay around LKR 570, while for Sri Lankan locals, it is much lower at around LKR 100-200. It is crucial to note, however, that these rates can change due to various factors; hence, one should look up the rates before planning a visit to the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The best time to visit would be in the early mornings and late evenings for a comfortable experience. Avoid the afternoons, as the scorching heat may make walking on the trails and paths hard. The animals also prefer to remain in their shelters in the afternoons. Again, it is advisable to check the timings of the sanctuary before planning a visit. Due to certain events or circumstances, the timings may change, or the sanctuary may be closed altogether.
How To Reach Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy
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There are various ways to reach the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Kandy. One can opt for the following accommodation options,
- By Air—The distance from Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo to Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is about 112 km, and a card ride takes about 3 hours to reach the place.
- By Train- The nearest railway station is the Kandy Railway station. From there, the remainder of the journey ( 2 km) can be covered by a taxi, car, or an E-rickshaw is 15-20 mins, depending on the traffic
- By bus—There are no buses that will take you directly to the sanctuary. However, some buses head towards Kandy Lake, which visitors can take and then walk from there to the sanctuary.
- By road—Visitors can also drive their private cars to the sanctuary since ample parking spaces exist. They can also hire cabs from online apps such as Uber or PickMe, which are popular and highly used nationwide.
- Local transportation- Rickshaws, known as Tuk-tuks in the country, are available in almost all corners, and visitors can hire one to reach the sanctuary. However, it is advisable to be cautious of scams and agree on a fare before hiring the tuk-tuk
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Places To Visit Near Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
There are many tourist attractions near Udawatta Kele Sanctuary that visitors can visit for a memorable trip full of unforgettable memories.
1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
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Situated at a mere distance of around 600 m, this UNESCO World Heritage site cannot be missed. This stunning Buddhist temple houses the ancient tooth relic of the Buddha and is considered to be highly sacred and spiritually significant. It is a must-visit destination owing to its cultural significance as well as its breathtaking views.
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Entry Fee: Rs. 1500
2. Kandy Lake
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Located about 850m from the sanctuary, this stunning lake is in the centre of Kandy city. The lake houses a small island in the middle, which used to be the Queen’s home. The panoramic views provided by the lake soothe the mind and the eyes. It is a perfect spot for leisurely walks along the lake, meditation, and introspection.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Temples In Sri Lanka
3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
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Situated roughly 25 km from the sanctuary, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a must-visit tourist attraction. The tranquil, scenic views and the elephants in their natural environment are serene. This is one of the largest elephant rescue centres and cares for homeless, injured or separated elephants. Visitors visiting the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Kandy, Sri Lanka, should visit this place for an unforgettable Sri Lanka trip.
Best Time To Visit: December to May
Entry Fee: Starting from 500 Rs.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Sri Lanka
The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is undoubtedly beautiful. If you are a Nature enthusiast or looking to explore nature in Kandy, this place is ideal for you. Now that you have a list of things to know about the incredible Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy, it’s time to plan a visit and set off for a trip to Kandy, Sri Lanka, to make everlasting memories and have a truly unforgettable trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Udawatta Kele Sanctuary Kandy
When is the best time to visit the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary?
The best time to visit the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary in Kandy is from December to April for a pleasant, comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Are there tours available in the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary?
Yes, there are tours available with knowledgeable guides who will show you around and help you gain insights and information on the various species of animals found there as well as the whole sanctuary.
What kind of animals one can spot in the sanctuary?
A variety of animals can be spotted in the sanctuary such as bears, boars, deer, as well as different kinds of reptiles. Different kinds of bird species, as well as butterflies, can be spotted in the sanctuary.
What one should bring when visiting the sanctuary?
Visitors should wear comfortable clothes as well as shoes due to the hike and bring ample amounts of water, a hat and sunscreen to be protected against the heat.
Is there a parking space available in the sanctuary?
Visitors can bring their private cars since there are ample parking spaces in the sanctuary. However, it is advisable to arrive early to guarantee a parking spot and have a hassle-free experience.
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