A walk through the green

As I entered its dark depths, it was only green that surrounded me; only green as far as the eye could see. Moist leaves underfoot, birds twittering overhead, a ray of sunshine filtering through the trees, the Udawattekelle - Royal Forest Park was nothing short of enchanting…Its stillness and serenity enraptured me from the moment I set foot in it. No words could describe the sense of peace and calm I felt as I walked through the misty forest, the sound of the Maligawa Hewisi drummers resonating in the distance…

Situated in the heart of the hill capital north-west of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Udawattekelle spreads over an area of nearly 257 acres. This magnificent forest, which was known as 'Udawasalawatta' in former times, was home to King Sena Sammatha Wickramabahu, who ruled Gampola in the late 1371 A.D. In the past, the forest served two main purposes; as a resting place for all the members of the Royal Family and to supply food to the elephants that belonged to the Dalada Maligawa.

The Senkanda Cave (also within the forest) was home to a hermit named Senkanda and later was a refuge for King Wickramabahu himself, when his kingdom came under attack by an enemy. The King later built his kingdom within the forest as well.

"Lady Horton Street" constructed by then Governor Robert W. Horton in memory of his wife in 1834, was the first ever street to be constructed within the forest. This significant construction was later followed by the State declaring the forest to be a Reserve in 1856 and a National Sanctuary in 1938. Two years later the Forest Conservation Department began to plant various valuable trees such as Jak and Mahogany and continued to develop it to its current state.

'Kodimale Kanda'- the highest peak situated in the forest, which is about 1800 feet above sea level, is believed to have been the spot where the national flag and other religious flags were hoisted on special occasions. The 200-300 year old giant endemic liana "Pus Wela" (Entada pusaetha) near 'Kodimale' is an ornamental liana, which enhances the natural beauty and value of the forest.

There is also an artificial pond believed to have been used by the Queen and other members of the royal family for recreation. People believe that a golden pot filled with valuables of King Keerthi Sri was hidden at the bottom of this pond.

They also believe that the pot surfaces once a year and then disappears. According to folk tales, many who had attempted to take the pot have drowned in the attempt. Many also believe that there is a tunnel from the middle of the Kandy Lake to this pond.

The 'Lovers’ Walk' is an amazing creation of nature, as the narrow lane runs around the pond, beneath a thick canopy of trees.

A marble seat too situated within the forest, was used as a resting place by the royal family who would visit the forest to take in the picturesque view. However, it now lies at the Sri Dalada Sylvan as an altar for offering flowers.

The forest is also rich in biological diversity, with its numerous species of endemic plants and animals. Three storied vegetation namely the canopy, sub canopy and underground layers can be identified at Udawattekelle. Toque monkeys, porcupines, mouse deer, birds and butterflies can also be seen here.

The magnificence of the forest however can only be maintained by the conscious efforts of those who visit its premises and leave behind nothing but their footsteps…