Kandy Udawattakele Forest: Guided Hike & Birdwatching Walk

Summary

Walk old forest paths in Kandy with birdsong and local stories

You’ll start early in Kandy with a local guide leading you straight into Udawattakele Forest Reserve’s tangled trails. Spot rare birds hiding in the canopy, step into ancient monk caves, share simple refreshments along the way, and feel that sudden hush when city noise fades behind you.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that tree?” our guide, Suresh, asked as soon as we stepped off the city street and into Udawattakele Forest Reserve. His voice dropped, like he didn’t want to disturb anything. I could still hear tuk-tuks buzzing behind us but suddenly it was all green — wet leaves underfoot, air thick with that earthy smell after rain. Suresh pointed out a little bird I’d never have noticed (he called it a brown-capped babbler — I probably said it wrong). He grinned anyway.

I kept thinking about how close we were to Kandy’s bustle, but inside the forest it felt like time slowed down. The path was uneven, old stones poking through mud. At one point we stopped by a cave where monks used to live — Suresh told us stories about them meditating here for centuries. There was this cool hush inside the cave, almost chilly compared to the sticky warmth outside. We shared some bottled juice and just listened for a bit; I’m not sure why that moment stuck with me.

The hike itself wasn’t tough but you do need to watch your step — vines everywhere and sometimes the trail narrows fast. Suresh would pause whenever he heard a bird call (he could name them all), and once he even tried to teach me how to spot an orchid among the creepers. I failed miserably but he laughed and showed me anyway. The forest is full of these tiny surprises if you pay attention. By the end, my shoes were muddy and my mind felt strangely clear — maybe that’s what people come here for, not just the birds or plants but something quieter you can’t really name.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Udawattakele Forest Reserve Hike

• Start tour at 7:00 am in Kandy City Center
• Guide picks you up to forest entrance
• Purchase entrance tickets
• Begin hike with naturalist guide
• Stop periodically to rest and refresh
• Visit ancient monk dwellings in caves
• Observe rare flora and endemic birds
• Return to forest entrance by 11:00 am

Top questions

How long does the Udawattakele Forest hike take?

The hike takes about 4 hours from start to finish.

Where does the tour start in Kandy?

The tour begins at 7:00 am from Kandy City Center with pickup included.

Is this hike suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

You may spot rare birds like Layard's parakeet and brown-capped babbler along with unique plants and orchids.

Are refreshments included on this tour?

Yes, refreshments are provided during the hike.

Will there be a local guide?

An English-speaking naturalist guide leads the walk and shares insights about flora and fauna.

Does the tour include entrance tickets?

Yes, entrance tickets to Udawattakele Forest Sanctuary are included.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Kandy City Center where you start.

What’s included

Your morning includes pickup from Kandy City Center, entrance tickets for Udawattakele Forest Sanctuary, guidance from an English-speaking naturalist who knows every corner of the forest, plus simple refreshments while you rest along the trail before heading back late morning.