Quick answer
Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve is a protected forest of roughly 500 hectares on the hills above Kandy, about 15 minutes from the town centre. Its trails, of roughly two to four hours, pass an old reservoir built in the British period and climb to viewpoints over Kandy. The forest holds endemic birds such as the yellow-fronted barbet and Sri Lanka hanging parrot, purple-faced langurs, giant squirrels and many butterflies. Early mornings are best, and a local guide is recommended.
Key takeaways
- Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve covers roughly 500 hectares of mid-elevation forest on the hills above Kandy.
- The reserve surrounds an old reservoir that once supplied Kandy's water.
- Trails of roughly two to four hours lead through the forest to viewpoints over the town.
- Endemic birds include the yellow-fronted barbet, Sri Lanka hanging parrot and Layard's parakeet.
- The reserve is about 15 minutes from central Kandy and is far quieter than Udawattakele.
What Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve is
Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve lies on the hills south of Kandy's lake, in the Kandy district. It protects a mid-elevation forest that serves as a watershed for the town, and an old reservoir, built in the British period, sits within it.
The reserve is sometimes called Wakarawatta, after the area around its entrance. It is managed for conservation and education, and its trails are used by local walkers, students and birders.
Compared with Udawattakele, the better-known forest sanctuary north of the Temple of the Tooth, Dunumadalawa is larger, higher and quieter. Udawattakele is easier for a short stroll from a lakeside hotel, while Dunumadalawa rewards a proper morning on foot, with longer climbs, fewer people and a better chance of the shyer forest birds that keep away from busy paths.
Wildlife in Dunumadalawa
Dunumadalawa's wildlife is typical of Sri Lanka's mid-elevation forests. Endemic birds include the yellow-fronted barbet, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Layard's parakeet and Sri Lanka grey hornbill, along with many widespread species such as the Indian paradise flycatcher in the cooler months.
Purple-faced langurs and toque macaques feed in the canopy, and giant squirrels and the endemic dusky-striped squirrel are often seen. Butterflies are abundant, and the forest floor holds lizards, frogs and the occasional snake.
- →Endemic birds: barbets, hanging parrots, parakeets and grey hornbills.
- →Primates: purple-faced langurs and toque macaques.
- →Squirrels: giant squirrels and dusky-striped squirrels.
- →Butterflies: many species, especially after rain.
The trails
Dunumadalawa's main trail starts near the entrance and passes the reservoir before climbing through the forest to viewpoints over Kandy and the surrounding hills. A walk of roughly two to four hours covers the main loop, depending on pace and stops.
The trails are steep in places and can be slippery after rain. Leeches are common in wet weather, so leech socks or long trousers tucked into socks help. Bring water, as there are no facilities in the forest.
- →Allow two to four hours for the main loop.
- →Wear good shoes and leech protection in wet weather.
- →Bring water and a light rain jacket.
How to visit
Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve is about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk or car from central Kandy. There is usually an entry fee for foreign visitors, payable at the entrance; confirm the current rate locally. A local guide is recommended, both for navigation and for finding wildlife.
Lankan Stays & Trails can arrange a guided early-morning walk at Dunumadalawa as part of a Kandy stay. Early morning, from around 7 am, gives the best birds and the coolest walking.
When to visit
Dunumadalawa can be visited in any month. The driest period around Kandy is roughly January to April, which is the most comfortable for walking. During the monsoons, especially roughly May to July and October to December, there are more showers and leeches, but the forest is lush and butterflies are abundant.
Early morning is best in every season, as birds are most active and the heat builds by midday. Weekday mornings are also quieter than weekends, when local families and student groups walk the lower trail near the reservoir.
- →January to April: driest and most comfortable.
- →May to July and October to December: wetter and leechy.
- →Early morning: best birds in any month.
Who Dunumadalawa suits
Dunumadalawa suits birders, walkers and anyone staying in Kandy who wants a few hours in the forest. It is more of a hike than Udawattakele, so it suits travellers with reasonable fitness.
For a gentler forest walk, Udawattakele is closer to the town and flatter. For a full day in the hills, the Knuckles Range is roughly two hours away.
- →Birders: good for endemics close to Kandy.
- →Walkers: steep trails and viewpoints.
- →Families: better suited to Udawattakele.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve?
Dunumadalawa Forest Reserve is on the hills south of Kandy's lake, about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk or car from the town centre. The entrance is near the Wakarawatta area, and the reserve surrounds an old reservoir that once supplied Kandy's water.
What can you see at Dunumadalawa?
Dunumadalawa holds endemic birds such as the yellow-fronted barbet, Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Layard's parakeet and grey hornbill, along with purple-faced langurs, toque macaques, giant squirrels and many butterflies. The trails also give views over Kandy.
How long is the Dunumadalawa trail?
The main loop takes roughly two to four hours, depending on pace and stops for wildlife and views. It passes the reservoir and climbs through the forest to viewpoints. The trail is steep in places, so good shoes and water are needed.
Is Dunumadalawa better than Udawattakele?
They suit different visitors. Udawattakele is closer to the Temple of the Tooth and flatter, which suits families and short walks. Dunumadalawa is larger, higher and quieter, with longer trails and viewpoints, which suits birders and keen walkers.
Do I need a guide for Dunumadalawa?
A guide is recommended. Trails can be confusing, and a local guide knows where to find endemic birds and other wildlife. Guides can be arranged through hotels in Kandy or at the entrance, though availability varies, so book ahead if possible.
Are there leeches at Dunumadalawa?
Yes, especially in wet weather. Leeches are common on forest trails around Kandy during the monsoons. Wear leech socks or long trousers tucked into socks, and check yourself after the walk. They are harmless but unpleasant.
When is the best time to visit Dunumadalawa?
Dunumadalawa can be visited all year. January to April is driest and most comfortable, while the monsoon months bring more showers and leeches but lush forest. Early morning, from around 7 am, gives the best birds and coolest walking.