Kandy Lake,Sri Lanka
Kandy Lake (also called Kiri Muhuda or the "Sea of Milk") is an artificial lake created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe at the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It forms an integral part of the historic cityscape and sits adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the island's most important religious sites. The lake helped define the royal palace precinct and remains central to the cultural and ceremonial life of Kandy, while also providing an urban green-water habitat supporting local birdlife and aquatic species.
Places to visit
- Kandy Lake promenade and scenic walkway
- Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) nearby
- Kandy city viewpoints and colonial-era buildings facing the lake
- Bogambara and the former royal palace areas
- Birdwatching and lakeside photography spots
Unique Aspects
- Man-made lake with a rim-wall and pedestrian path encircling it
- Central urban setting combining natural, historic and religious elements
- Regular views of traditional Kandyan architecture and nearby hills
- Habitat for waterbirds and local aquatic life
Things to do
- Leisurely walk around the full perimeter (the lakeside path is the most popular)
- Photography of the Temple of the Tooth, lakeside vistas and sunsets
- Informal birdwatching and relaxing on benches in Kandy Lake Park
- Joining guided historical walking tours of Kandy’s old city
- Visiting nearby cultural sites, museums and shops
Best Time to Visit
December to April (generally drier and more comfortable). Kandy is in the central highlands, so shoulder seasons can also be pleasant.
Weather Conditions
Tropical highland climate: mild to warm days (around 18–28°C / 64–82°F) with higher humidity and frequent showers during the southwest and northeast monsoon periods (roughly May–November). Expect cooler evenings.
Accessibility
Kandy is about 100–120 km from Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo). Travel options include the scenic train from Colombo (2.5–4 hours depending on service) or highway buses and private cars (approximately 3–4 hours). Kandy Railway Station and bus stands are within easy walking distance of the lake; local tuk-tuks and taxis are widely available for short transfers.
Recommended Duration
For the lake and immediate surroundings: 1–2 hours (a full circuit walk plus photos). For a fuller Kandy visit including the Temple of the Tooth and nearby museums: allow 1–2 days.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Modest clothing for visiting the Temple of the Tooth (shoulders and knees covered). Comfortable walking shoes for the lakeside path, a light rain jacket during wet months, sun protection (hat/sunscreen) and a refillable water bottle.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Taste local specialties such as hoppers (appa), kottu, and traditional Sri Lankan rice-and-curry at nearby eateries. Purchase Ceylon tea, Kandyan batik textiles, wooden masks, spice packets and handloom items as souvenirs.
