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Kandy Lake, created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a picturesque and serene spot in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Adjacent to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, the lake offers a tranquil retreat with scenic walking paths, lush surroundings, and historical charm. Go for a tour on the Kandy lake with your friends and family for an incredible experience!
Famously known as the Sea of Milk or Kri Muhuda, Kandy Lake is a picture-perfect and serene water body in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. The lake was built in 1807 by the last ruler of the Kandyan Kingdom, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Since it is a scenic natural beauty, it makes a perfect getaway option for tourists and locals alike. The lake is spread over 3.4 km, making it ideal for leisure walks and evening stroll. Since the place is lined by several cafes, restaurants, and lush greenery, you get awe-struck by its nature’s beauty.
One of the lake's notable features is the small island at its center, which is said to have been used by the king's harem for bathing. It is adorned with a charming cluster of palm trees, adding to the lake's picturesque quality. Near the Kandy Lake, there is a Temple of the Tooth Relic or Sri Dalada Maligawa. Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka must feature Buddha's sacred tooth relic. This place is a seamless combination of natural beauty and historical significance, offering a peaceful retreat to tourists paying their visit here.
Highlights
• Visit the Temple of Tooth Relics, a sacred Buddhist site near Kandy Lake, Sri Lanka.
• Indulge in recreational activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling around Kandy Lake, Sri Lanka.
• Explore the tiny, picture-perfect island called the Island Pavilion within Kandy Lake.
• Head to the historic colonial-era hotel named the Queens Hotel, which promises a stunning view of the surroundings.
• Taste delicious delicacies served in cafes and restaurants around Kandy Lake.
How To Reach
1 By car: Kandy Lake is located 3.6 km from the city center of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It will take around 13 minutes via the A26 route.
2 By foot: Kandy Lake is 800 m from the city center. It will take around 10 minutes to visit Via the Sri Dalada Veediya route.
Best Time To Visit
Kandy Lake remains open all through the year.
1 Best season: Winters are the best time to explore Kandy Lake. You can plan your tour between December and April.
2 Best day in the week: Plan your visit to Kandy Lake during the weekends. You may also visit during the weekdays to explore the lake.
3 The best time of day: The best time of day is to visit Kandy Lake in the earl
Other Essential Information
Some major tips to visit Kandy Lake are:
- Wear comfortable shoes when going to Kandy Lake
- Wear comfortable and breezy clothes.
- Carry enough water and snacks with yourself
- Apply lots of sunscreen for heat protection
- Keep essentials like a hat and scarf to cover yourself.
Explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The temple of the Tooth Relic is a sacred site in Sri Lanka located adjacent to Kandy Lake. The temple is home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, making it a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Kandyan architecture inspires the temple complex, featuring intricate wood carvings and mesmerizing frescoes. An annual festival called the Esala Perahera is organized every July or August, attracting traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers.
Stroll Around the Kandy lake
The pathway that encircles Kandy Lake offers a leisurely and scenic walk, approximately 3.4 kilometers long. This walk provides stunning views of the lake, the surrounding hills, and various historical landmarks. Ancient trees shade the path, and benches along the way invite visitors to sit and enjoy the tranquility. The walk is particularly popular in the early morning and late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler, and the light creates a magical atmosphere. Along the walk, visitors can observe local flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species and fish, and sometimes even monitor lizards basking on the lake’s shores.
Explore the 19th-Century Queen’s Hotel
Located near the northern end of Kandy Lake, the Queens Hotel is a colonial-era establishment with a rich history. Built in the mid-19th century, this grand hotel has hosted numerous dignitaries and offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Sri Lanka. The architecture of the hotel, with its grand facades, wooden staircases, and vintage charm, provides a stark contrast to the traditional Kandyan structures nearby. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink on the hotel’s terrace, which overlooks Kandy Lake, providing a perfect spot to relax and soak in the views.
Udawattakele Forest Reserve
Just a short distance from Kandy Lake is the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, a historical forest reserve that once served as the royal garden for the Kandyan kings. This lush sanctuary is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including several species of birds, monkeys, and deer. The reserve offers a network of walking trails that allow visitors to explore its dense forests, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites, such as the Senkada Cave and the Garrison Cemetery. The cool, shaded environment of Udawattakele provides a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and offers a deeper connection with nature.
Tourism Board Alliances
Kandy Lake FAQs
Can tourists go for boating on the Kandy Lake?
What are the languages spoken in the areas around Kandy City?
What are the various day & night tour packages that you can book with Thrillophilia?
Here are the various day & night tour packages that you can book with Thrillophilia:
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