Nature Tour to Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, Kandy from Bentota

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Hidden Green Gem: The Udawatte Kele Sanctuary from Bentota

Traveling from Bentota to Kandy for a nature-focused day trip offers a refreshing escape into lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. This tour promises a mix of forest walks, cultural insights, and a taste of local Sri Lankan cuisine, all wrapped into an approximately 8 to 10-hour experience. The standout feature? The chance to spot around 80 bird species and explore the historic Udawatte Kele sanctuary—an oasis within the city of Kandy.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of nature and culture—walking through the ancient forest reserve with a knowledgeable guide makes the birds and plants come alive in a way you can’t get from a book. Plus, the visit to the Senkada Cave and other historic sites adds depth to the experience. One possible drawback? The early start at 6:00 am might be a challenge for late risers. Still, it’s a small price to pay for a full day immersed in nature and history. This tour suits travelers who appreciate birdwatching, cultural sites, and a sense of authentic Sri Lankan life—especially those eager to combine wildlife with history.

Key Points

• Unique combination of forest walk and cultural exploration within Kandy.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of the plants, wildlife, and historic sites.
• Excellent value for the price, covering transportation, lunch, and guided insights.
• Early start maximizes daylight, but may be tough for some travelers.
• Limited group size (max 15), ensuring a personalized experience.
• Accessible for most travelers with comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This nature tour from Bentota to Udawatte Kele is designed for travelers craving a genuine connection with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and historical charm. It starts bright and early at 6:00 am, with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel by air-conditioned vehicle. The drive from Bentota to Kandy offers a scenic beginning, as you leave the coast behind and head into the heart of the island’s inland lushness.

First Stop: Udawatte Kele Sanctuary – The Forest and Birdwatching Haven

Once you arrive at the Udawatte Kele sanctuary, you’ll immediately notice its significance as the only forest reserve within Kandy city limits. Historically known as “Uda Wasala Watta”—meaning “garden above the royal palace”—this site holds both ecological and cultural importance. The sanctuary boasts 460 plant species, including 135 different trees and nine endemic species, making it a botanist’s delight.

Walking along the moderate trail, you’ll be surrounded by lianas, shrubs, and small trees—each adding a layer of beauty and complexity to the forest. The guides, often local experts, are great at pointing out details that might otherwise go unnoticed—such as a rare endemic flower or a bird perched quietly overhead.

Birding is a major highlight here. With approximately 80 bird species—including endemic and migratory varieties—it’s an excellent spot for bird enthusiasts. Expect to see various warblers, sunbirds, and possibly even some shy forest-dwellers. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who help identify the different species and share interesting facts, elevating the experience beyond just a walk in the woods.

Cultural and Historic Interlude: Kandyan Heritage and Senkada Cave

After your forest walk, your guide will lead you to the Kandyan Cultural Centre, a site brimming with historical importance. Here, you’ll visit several remnants from the Kandyan Kingdom such as the Lady Horton’s Road, Royal Pond, and the Marble Seat—each offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s regal past.

A special highlight during this part of the tour is the visit to the Senkada Cave—the hermit’s retreat deep in the forest. According to local stories, a hermit once lived alone there, and the cave remains a quiet, spiritual spot. It’s a meaningful stop for those interested in the religious and spiritual history of the area, as the sanctuary also contains three Buddhist meditation hermitages and rock shelter dwellings.

Lunch and Relaxation: Local Sri Lankan Flavors

A hearty Sri Lankan set lunch awaits you after the cultural exploration. The restaurant chosen for the meal is typically a local spot, giving you a chance to savor authentic flavors—think spicy curries, rice, and fresh vegetables, paired with tropical fruits or cool drinks. This break is well-timed, giving everyone a chance to relax before heading back.

Return Journey: Reflection and Scenic Drive

Post-lunch, you’ll hop back into your air-conditioned vehicle for the return to Bentota. Although this is a shorter part of the day, it allows you to process the sights, sounds, and flavors experienced throughout the day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience truly worthwhile is the combination of ecological discovery and cultural insight. The guides, often appreciated for their interesting and helpful commentary, enhance your understanding of the flora, fauna, and ancient sites. The small group size (maximum of 15 travelers) ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd—making it ideal for those who prefer a more personalized touch.

The value for money is another big plus. For around $150, you get transportation, a local lunch, bottled water, knowledgeable guides, and access to several significant sites. It’s a package that balances cost with the richness of experience, especially considering the inclusion of birdwatching, cultural sites, and scenic drives.

The reviews highlight how memorable and well-organized the trip is—one traveler mentioned that the day was “fantastic and memorable” with a guide who was “interesting, helpful, and informative.” Such feedback suggests that the guides really make a difference.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour begins early at 6:00 am, it suits travelers who are morning persons or want to maximize their time in Kandy. Be prepared with comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun protection, and lightweight clothing suitable for a forest walk. The moderate trail is manageable for most, but good footwear helps on uneven terrain.

Although the tour is mostly suited for most age groups, children should be supervised, especially during the walks and cultural visits. The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring plenty of personal attention, but booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

The tour provides bottled water and a local lunch, but other beverages and extra snacks aren’t included—so plan accordingly if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Nature Tour to Udawatte Kele Sanctuary and Kandy offers a thoughtfully curated blend of nature, culture, and history. It’s perfect for travelers looking to experience Sri Lanka beyond its beaches—diving into its lush forests, spotting unique bird species, and understanding local history through guided insights.

If you’re after a value-packed day trip that combines adventure with educational moments, this tour ticks all the boxes. The expert guides, scenic setting, and cultural visits make it a well-rounded choice for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those interested in Sri Lankan heritage.

While the early start might not appeal to everyone, it definitely pays off in the form of a full, enriching day that leaves you with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and historical depth. This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Kandy—one where nature and history enjoy a peaceful coexistence.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you are picked up from your hotel in Bentota and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.

What is the group size limit?
The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Does the tour include any cultural site visits?
Yes, you will visit the Kandyan Cultural Centre and see historic sites linked to the Kandyan Kingdom, including the Royal Pond and Marble Seat.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Sri Lankan set lunch is provided at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic cuisine.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes, a hat, and sunblock are recommended for walking through the forest and cultural sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The moderate trail is manageable for most, but parents should consider their children’s stamina.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
Mostly yes, but comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended due to walking and uneven terrain.

In all, this tour is an excellent choice for those who want a meaningful, scenic, and culturally rich day exploring some of Sri Lanka’s most treasured natural and historic sites.