The appealing Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a comparatively unknown forest sanctuary situated on the ridge of a hill near Kandy, the second largest city in Sri Lanka. Although it is not a reputed tourist attraction it is an interesting forest reserve that is sure to appeal to the nature lover. As you visit this engrossing natural sanctuary an attractive place to stay would be bungalows in Kandy such as Mountbatten Bungalow part of Theme Resorts & Spas and within easy reach of this sanctuary.
The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is always an intriguing place to explore, featuring numerous trekking trails and tranquil pathways where visitors can stroll along. Although this natural sanctuary is located near the bustling city of Kandy, visitors will be struck by the quiet and serenity to be found within the reserve.
Udawatta Kele was officially made a nature sanctuary in the year 1938. In addition to sightseers the reserve and its educational centre are often visited by students and schoolchildren for educational and academic purposes. Udawatta Kele is also considered to be a highlight for birdwatchers as you will find many interesting avian species within it. However the sanctuary also has a religious significance as there are a number of hermitages and shelters for Buddhist monks.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is renowned for the splendid flora as well as fauna that it contains. Here you will find more than 460 varieties of plants, as well as many kinds of wildlife including toque monkeys, wild boars and porcupines. You will also find snakes as well as many other reptiles in the sanctuary. A well-known feature is the giant liana which has made its way through a long extent in the reserve.
In the time of the Kandyan monarchs Udawatta Kele was a section of the royal compound and was used by the royal family for leisure activities. Today this appealing nature reserve is a verdant sanctuary which is a great place to unwind and relax from the hustle and bustle of the urban environment.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
