Kandy Lake
Kandy, Central
Built in 1807 on the orders of Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Kandy, this artificial lake was created by damming a paddy field — legend says the king emptied a woman's rice granary to build it, and jailed anyone who complained. Locals call it Kiri Muhuda, the "Sea of Milk," and its perimeter walking path, lined by the ornamental "Cloud Wall" battlements, is one of the most popular evening strolls in the city. Fishing has been banned here since royal times and remains so today, keeping the water still and reflective.
Best time to visit
Late afternoon into sunset, when the walking path fills with locals and the light over the water is best.
Visitor tip
The lakeside is mainly a walking and sightseeing area; traffic around central Kandy can be busy.
Local pick
The small island in the middle of the lake was once the king's harem and later a British ammunition store — you can't visit it, but it's worth knowing the story as you pass.
Quick answers
Where is Kandy Lake?
Kandy Lake is in Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Kandy Lake?
Late afternoon into sunset, when the walking path fills with locals and the light over the water is best.
How far is Kandy Lake from Colombo?
About 95 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Kandy Lake?
Nearby places include Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (about 1 km away), Bahirawakanda Temple (about 1 km away), Hanthana Mountain Range (about 5 km away), Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya (about 6 km away).
Add to my itineraryNearby places
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth RelicKandy
- Bahirawakanda TempleKandy
- Hanthana Mountain RangeKandy
- Royal Botanic Gardens, PeradeniyaKandy
More places in Central Province
More to see around Kandy: things to do in Kandy. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.