Joanna James
Tucked away in Sri Lanka's central highlands, Kandy is a verdant haven of natural splendour, cultural heritage, and serenity. Beyond its famed attractions like the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Gardens, the region offers some of the most scenic walks and hiking trails in the country. Whether you're an avid hiker or a casual stroller, Kandy’s trails promise breathtaking vistas, verdant landscapes, and a tranquil escape. Here's your guide to the best scenic walks and hikes in and around Kandy.
Located near the heart of Kandy city, the Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a lush sanctuary perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moderate hike. Once a royal hunting ground, this forest now serves as a biodiversity hotspot teeming with birds, monkeys, and exotic plant species.
The trails within the reserve are well-marked and range from easy walking paths to slightly challenging ascents. Highlights include the Senkanda Cave, Water Pond, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Kandy Lake. As you walk, you'll hear the melodies of birds and the rustling of leaves, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.
Just a short drive from Kandy, the Hanthana Mountain Range is a favourite among trekking enthusiasts. The range offers multiple trails of varying difficulty levels, catering to both beginners and experienced hikers.
As you ascend, you'll pass through tea plantations, pine forests, and rocky outcrops. The views from the peaks are spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the Knuckles Range, the Mahaweli River, and even distant towns. The trail to Katusu Konda, known as "Snake Hill," is particularly popular for its dramatic ridge walk.
For a relaxing walk within the city, the Kandy Lake Walk is perfect. This picturesque pathway encircles the lake and offers serene views of the water, the surrounding hills, and the cultural landmarks nearby. You can step out of any of the beautiful hotels in Kandy Town and go for an energising walk along the lake.
Ideal for early mornings or late afternoons, the walk is shaded by tall trees and dotted with benches for resting. Along the way, you'll encounter colourful fish, waterbirds, and sometimes even monitor lizards basking on the banks.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a trekking paradise located about an hour’s drive from Kandy. This rugged range gets its name from its resemblance to a clenched fist and offers some of the most diverse hiking experiences in Sri Lanka.
Trails wind through misty forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced rice fields. One of the most rewarding hikes is the trail to Mini World's End, a viewpoint offering jaw-dropping vistas of the valleys below. The area is also rich in biodiversity, making it a favourite among wildlife enthusiasts.
The Bahirawakanda Temple, located just 6 minutes away from places to stay in the area such as Hotel Topaz, is home to the towering Buddha statue overlooking Kandy. It is a short but rewarding walk. Starting from the city centre, the route meanders through quiet streets and uphill paths.
Upon reaching the top, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Kandy city, framed by rolling hills. It's an excellent spot to catch the sunrise or sunset while soaking in the spiritual ambience of the temple.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
