Kandy Lake, also known as the *Kiri Muhuda* (meaning "The Sea of Milk"), is one of the most picturesque and tranquil landmarks in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Nestled in the heart of the historic city, this artificial lake is a serene oasis that reflects the beauty of Kandy’s rich cultural heritage. The lake, which stretches over 5 hectares, is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the nearby hills. It serves as a popular spot for tourists, locals, and pilgrims alike, providing a peaceful setting for reflection, leisurely walks, or boat rides. With its historical significance and scenic beauty, Kandy Lake is truly one of the gems of Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape.
How to Reach Kandy Lake, Kandy
Kandy Lake is located right in the center of Kandy city, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Here are the main ways to reach Kandy Lake:
- By Car: Kandy is well connected to other major cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo. From Colombo, Kandy is about a 3-hour drive via the A1 highway. Once in Kandy, the lake is centrally located, and you can reach it in a few minutes by car.
- By Bus: Kandy has a central bus station, and buses from Colombo and other major towns run frequently. After arriving at the Kandy bus station, you can either walk to the lake or take a tuk-tuk, which is only a 5-minute ride.
- By Train: Kandy can also be accessed by train from Colombo. The Kandy railway station is located a short distance from the lake, and you can easily walk from the station to the lake within 10 minutes.
Weather at Kandy Lake, Kandy
The weather in Kandy is typically tropical, with a relatively mild climate due to its elevation. Here's what you can expect in terms of weather:
- Temperature: The temperature in Kandy ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with cooler evenings and mornings, especially in the hill regions surrounding the lake.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kandy Lake is during the dry season, which lasts from December to March. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and lower humidity.
- Rainy Season: The rainy season, from May to October, brings heavy monsoon rains, which can sometimes hinder outdoor activities. However, the lake and surrounding areas still offer a beautiful, lush atmosphere during this time.
Timing of Kandy Lake, Kandy
The lake is open to the public throughout the year and is accessible at all times of the day. However, the best times to visit are during daylight hours to enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings. Here's a suggested timeline:
- Best Time to Visit: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, when the weather is most favorable, and the lake is surrounded by sunlight, offering a more vibrant view.
- Evening Visits: If you wish to experience the lake in a different light, visiting in the late afternoon or evening can provide a peaceful and calming atmosphere as the sun sets over the water.
Why is Kandy Lake, Kandy Famous?
Kandy Lake is famous for its rich history, serene beauty, and central location within Kandy. It is historically significant for several reasons:
- Historical Significance: Kandy Lake was constructed in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Kandy. The king built the lake to serve as a moat to protect the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which is located right beside the lake.
- Scenic Beauty: The lake is surrounded by lush gardens and trees, creating a peaceful environment that is perfect for leisurely walks, boat rides, or simply sitting by the water and enjoying the view.
- Spiritual Importance: The lake plays a central role in the spiritual life of Kandy. It is located near the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. The lake serves as a place of reflection and tranquility for the many pilgrims who visit the area.
Entry and Visit Details About Kandy Lake, Kandy
Visiting Kandy Lake is free, and the lake is open to everyone throughout the year. While there is no entry fee to visit the lake itself, you may need to pay for additional activities, such as boating or visiting nearby attractions. Here are some details for your visit:
- Entry Fee: No entry fee is required to visit the lake. However, if you plan to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic or take a boat ride on the lake, there are separate fees for those activities.
- Boating: You can hire a small boat to take a relaxing ride on the lake. The boat rides typically last about 15-30 minutes and offer a unique perspective of the surroundings. Boat rides are usually available from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Facilities: The area around the lake has several places where you can sit and enjoy the view. There are also some cafes and shops nearby where you can enjoy refreshments and buy souvenirs.
History and Architecture of Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake was constructed in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, and it was initially intended as a defensive moat to protect the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. The lake was designed to be an artificial reservoir, and it is about 5 hectares in size. The lake is built with a causeway along one side, which serves as a walking path. At the far end of the lake is a small island, which was once used as a summer retreat for the king.
The architecture around Kandy Lake reflects the traditional Kandyan style of design, with beautiful stone walls and pathways. The calm waters of the lake are surrounded by lush greenery, creating an idyllic setting that enhances the spiritual and historical significance of the site.
Things to Do at Kandy Lake
- Leisure Walks: Take a peaceful stroll around the lake on the causeway or the paths that surround it. This is the best way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and admire the lake from various angles.
- Boating: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake and take in the views of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the surrounding hills. Boating is one of the most popular activities at Kandy Lake.
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic: While you are at Kandy Lake, don’t miss the nearby Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the holiest places for Buddhists in Sri Lanka.
- Photography: The lake offers many beautiful spots for photography. The combination of natural beauty, historical architecture, and spiritual landmarks makes Kandy Lake an excellent location for capturing memories.
Interesting Facts About Kandy Lake
- The lake was initially built as a moat for the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the holiest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka.
- The island in the lake was once home to a small pavilion used by the king as a retreat.
- Kandy Lake is a popular spot for pilgrims who come to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, as the lake is considered a sacred site in its own right.
- Despite being man-made, the lake has become an important part of the local ecosystem, with various species of birds and plants surrounding its shores.
Tips for Visiting Kandy Lake
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Kandy can be warm, especially in the afternoon. Bring a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated during your visit.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be walking around the lake and exploring the surrounding areas, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
- Take Photos: Kandy Lake and its surrounding beauty offer great photography opportunities. Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenery.
- Respect Local Customs: As the lake is near a sacred temple, be sure to maintain respect and follow the local customs and etiquette when visiting the area.
- Visit Early or Late: To avoid the midday heat and crowds, visiting the lake in the early morning or late afternoon will give you a more peaceful experience.
