Forest Walk and Birding Tour to Udawatte Kele, Kandy from Negombo

Negombo , Sri Lanka

Forest Walk and Birding Tour to Udawatte Kele, Kandy from Negombo

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Forest walk and birding tour in the historical King’s forest, Udawatte Kele. This historic sanctuary is famous not only for its avifauna but also its variety of plant species including lianas, shrubs and small trees. It contains 460 plant species including 135 species of trees and nine endemic species the opportunity to visit the Senkada Cave, where a hermit lived alone in the forest. It is also home to several species of mammals and reptiles, which makes it a holistic nature experience. This is a great place to explore the bird life where approximately 80 species of birds can be seen.

Available options

Forest Walk and Birding Tour to Udawatte Kele, Kandy from Negombo

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Nature guide

English speaking driver

Sri Lankan Set Local Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Udawatte Kele is the only forest reserve in the Kandy city limits and is a great addition to your list of things to do in Kandy. It was once known as Uda Wasala Watta meaning the garden above the royal palace and is of significant cultural and historic value. This breathtaking forest is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts. It is a moderate track that is great at burning off the excess calories gained while holidaying. This historic sanctuary is famous not only for its avifauna but also for its variety of plant species including lianas, shrubs and small trees. It contains 460 plant species including 135 species of trees and nine endemic species.

You will be able to see the historically important ruins and places from the Kandyan Kingdom such as the Lady Horton’s Road, Royal Pond, Lovers’ Walk, and Marble Seat. The opportunity to visit the Senkada Cave, where a hermit lived alone in the forest.

It is also home to several species of mammals and reptiles, which makes it a holistic nature experience It is easily accessible and has a great educational and recreational appeal The forest is also a very important religious site as it contains three Buddhist meditation hermitages and three rock shelter dwellings. It is suitable for all ages.

Kandy Lake, otherwise called Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a counterfeit lake in the core of the slope city of Kandy, Sri Lanka, worked in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe by the Temple of the Tooth. Throughout the years, it was diminished in size. It is an ensured lake, with angling restricted.

What's not included

Gratuities

Beverages or food other than specified.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes/Hat/ Sun block lotion

Important notes

Please wait at Hotel Lobby or Meeting Point 15 minutes before the time specified on this voucher to start.

Please call hotline number at least 24 hours before to confirm your pick up point.

About Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.

Top Attractions

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Negombo Fish Market

The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.

Market 1-2 hours Free (Food purchases extra)

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Dutch Canal

The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Boat rides extra)

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Nature Half day Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Seafood Curry

A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.

Dinner Contains seafood and coconut.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless with egg).

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish.

Popular Activities

Water sports Boat safaris Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

26-30°C 79-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)

By train

Negombo Railway Station

By bus

Negombo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Negombo City Center Negombo Beach Lunuwila

Day trips

Colombo

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

Kelani River Safari

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Muthurajawela Marsh

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year) Christmas Celebrations • December 25

Pro tips

Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.