Kandy Lake

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Kandy Lake ariel view
Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake at night

Overview

    Known by several names, including Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, Kandy Lake is an artificial lake located in the centre of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Constructed in 1807 by the final monarch of the Kandyan Kingdom, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the lake serves as a focal point of the city, providing tranquil surroundings and beautiful vistas. The lake offers a peaceful haven from the busy city and is a well-known sight for both residents and visitors.

Label: outdoor activity

How to reach: Bike, bus, taxi

Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Time Required: 2 hours

Entry Fee: INR 1500 for Boating

Key Features

The Island: A tiny man-made island with beautiful flora and palm trees is in the middle of Kandy Lake. According to legend, the previous monarch used this island as a harem, and the British exploited it for a variety of purposes after that.


Walakulu Bamma (Cloud Wall): The monarch abandoned construction of the lake's ornamental wall, also known as the Cloud Wall. It enhances the lake's visual charm with its elaborate sculptures.


Historical Monuments and Structures: There are a number of historical monuments and structures dotted around the lake, such as the Buddha statue, which provides a picturesque perspective of the lake, and the Queen's Bathing Pavilion, which was formerly used by the royal family.


Wildlife: Kandy Lake is an excellent place for nature lovers since it is home to a variety of fish, birds, and reptiles. Around the lake, you may frequently spot monitor lizards, cormorants, and pelicans.

Nearby Attractions

Sri Dalada Maligawa

One of Sri Lanka's holiest Buddhist temples is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which is next to Kandy Lake and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It draws pilgrims and visitors from all over the world and is home to a relic believed to be the Buddha's tooth.


Kandy City Centre is a contemporary retail centre with a range of stores, eateries, and entertainment venues close to the lake. It's a fantastic location to purchase souvenirs and learn about the local way of life.


Udawattakele Forest Reserve: Hikers and nature enthusiasts will find paradise in this forest reserve, which is only a short stroll from the lake. It provides access to many paths and a variety of plant and animal life.


King's Palace, Queen's Palace, and other ancient structures are part of the Kandyan monarchs' former palace, the Royal Palace complex. For people who are interested in Sri Lankan history, this is an important website.


Kandy Market Hall: An energetic marketplace where you may purchase handicrafts, fresh fruit, and spices while taking in the native way of life. It's a bustling area to explore and engage with the community.

Best Time to Visit

When it comes to visiting Kandy Lake, the dry season (December through April) is the ideal time of year. This is the best time of year to go sightseeing and engage in outdoor activities because of the good weather, which includes milder temperatures and less rainfall. Nonetheless, Kandy may be visited at any time of year due to its year-round warm temperature.

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Conclusion

Kandy Lake is a lovely monument of historical significance that perfectly captures the tranquilly and beauty of Kandy. The lake provides tourists with a range of activities as well as a tranquil haven with its calm waters, fascinating history, and an abundance of species. It is a handy and attractive tourist destination because of its close proximity to important sights including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy City Centre, and Udawattakele Forest Reserve.


Kandy Lake offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable vacation, whether your interests are just lounging by the lake, taking nature hikes, or seeing cultural places. Visitors may easily choose a place to stay that meets their needs because to the variety of lodging alternatives available, each catering to different budgets and interests. Kandy Lake is an essential place to visit in Sri Lanka since visiting during the ideal time of year guarantees beautiful weather and a fun experience.

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Kandy Lake, Sri Lanka | Backpackers United