The lake of Kandy is popularly known as Kiri Muhuda or Sea of Milk. It is a man-made lake and is placed right at the center of Kandy-the cultural and historical capital of Sri Lanka. It epitomizes the rich heritage and beauty of the city, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, who was the last ruler of the Kandyan Kingdom. Beautiful gardens are on all sides around this lake with a picture-postcard promenade making it a very serene oasis amidst the bustle of the city.
With history, nature and culture in it, Kandy Lake and its gardens surely are a must to be seen in Sri Lanka hill country by travelers.
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1. Historical Background
1.1 The Construction of Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake was constructed by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807 to beautify the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is one of the most sacred religious places in Buddhism. It is a lake made by constructing a dam over a part of the Bogambara River, and an artificial island is added in the middle. This was said to have originally been used as a retreat for the king's harem for bathing purposes but later attached to the palace with a secret tunnel.
1.2 Colonial Impact
Some minor modification that were started after the British's invasion of Kandy in the year 1815 includes the construction of parapet as a decoration of that region that remains and, through which the glory is partially preserved and by all events that happened because of the colonization invasion and it stands at its position as center iconic sign of Kandy
2. Design and Functions
2.1 Lake
Kandy Lake covers an approximate area of 6.5 hectares, and has a walking path of approximately 3.2 kilometers all around. The still water of the lake reflects the surrounding hills, temples, and colonial buildings, and hence makes it picture-perfect.
2.2 The Island
In the middle, there is a tiny artificial island mysterious and intriguing. There are a few trees, and old ruined remnants. Since the visitors can't gain access to the island, that makes the feature still an interesting one.
2.3 The Parapet Wall
The decorative parapet wall enclosing the lake is called "Walakulu Bamma," or Cloud Wall. Carvings in relief depict shapes of clouds and waves; thereby, the lake represents its gentle atmosphere.
2.4 Surrounding Gardens
Flowering plants, shade trees, and manicured grass make up the beautifully well-kept gardens of Kandy Lake. Thus, the atmosphere would be perfect for resting and strolling leisurely amidst picnics.
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3. Flora and Fauna
Kandy Lake and its gardens are full of teeming flora and fauna. It contains species of fish besides all types of waterbirds. Herons, cormorants, kingfishers, etc., form some of the regular visitors here. Squirrels, monkeys, and butterflies populate the gardens, so it is an extremely lively ecosystem within this area.
These will fill in their blooms and beautify the garden decorations as ornamental flowers, so that the space is spectacular to everyone who visits, especially at flowering time. A burst of color from hibiscus, bougainvillea, and frangipani blooms greets every visitor.
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4. Activities and Attractions
4.1 Walking and Jogging
The 3.2 km jogging and walking track circumscribes Kandy Lake, wherein one can have shady views of the lake while walking or jogging around its periphery.
4.2 Boating
Boating is restricted in the lake due to maintaining sanctity and ecological balance; scenic views can be taken either from the shores or some appropriate vantage points.
4.3 Photography
Location has indeed been a photographer's delight. Reflection off water, rich greenery with gardens and ancient historical setting of the Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic makes the sea of great opportunities towards the best shots possible.
4.4 Cultural Enrichment
Since the location is near other attractions of cultural significance, such as Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Royal Palace of Kandy, one can also appreciate natural attractions alongside culturally inspired visits.
4.5 Picnic and Recreation
The atmosphere which surrounds the garden is the best for a picnic and only relaxation. Its cool breeze and the relaxing atmosphere makes it one place to think of getting out from turmoil of city's life.
5. Visitor Information
5.1 Location
Kandy Lake is situated in the heart of city Kandy. This location is quite easily accessible by road. It is within walking distance of other major attractions, like Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy City Center.
5.2 Opening Hours
All are allowed to walk the pathways and the gardens of Lake Kandy during daytime, dusk until dawn. Normally, it will be a good time when the sun has just started rising or during late evening when it gets cooler, if there is light in the area.
5.3 Entrance Fee
The Kandy Lake and any of the gardens surrounding it do not charge entrance fees; thus they are free to visit any of the visitors of theirs.
5.4 Facilities
• Public toilets: There are facilities with toilets accessible to the public, near the lake.
• Seating Areas: Benches are placed along the walking track and in the gardens.
• Snacks and drinks: At every street corner, there are vendors along the lake selling snacking items, beverages, and local cuisine.
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6. Activities to Preserve
Kandy Lake is a conserved area, and it exists only for the cultural and ecological significance of the site. In this locality, the administrators along with environmental organizations pay a lot of effort toward preserving this lake and the surrounding location. It involves controlling pollution in that place as well as maintaining the walking paths and the gardens and conducting the other kind of awareness campaigns to further responsible tourism.
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7. About Attractions
There are so many important and famous attractions near Kandy Lake that the tourist can see:
•Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred temples in the world.
•The Royal Palace of Kandy: former residence of the Kandyan Kings, right next to the temple.
•Udawattakele Forest Reserve: a lush forest reserve with nature walks and bird watching.
• It is Kandy Market Hall which is a crowded market offering local produce and handicraft, besides souvenirs.
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8. For Tourist
• Time to Visit: During early morning and evening it would be quite pleasant to roam around the Kandy Lake; cooler atmosphere makes an evening perfect for photograph.
• Carry Bottle of Mineral water : If one intends to ramble, then carry one's mineral water bottle.
• Dampen Up the Comfort: Sure, there are long stretches of walking through pretty maintained walking path.
• Local Custom: The local religion institutions are close by therefore one should dress according that and should behave decent
• Take Care of Local Environment: Do not create litter, treat flora as well fauna with respect
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Kandy Lake and gardens is an oasis of calm beauty and rich culture that lies deep within the hill capital of Sri Lanka. Having historic importance, it's a time-capsule charm of Kandy, bringing in the tourist to relish in the scenic landscape of the place and explore some cultural landmarks, maybe just basking in peace on the waters.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, an environmental activist, or just a tourist who wants to explore and experience the culture of this beautiful country, Kandy Lake waits for you as the memory-making, unforgettable experience and some truly cherished memories for those of you who've explored the very heart of Sri Lanka's culture.