Kandy Lake: A Historical Overview of Sri Lanka's Most Popular Tourist Attraction
Kandy Lake, or Kiri Muhuda, is a picturesque lake located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. The lake has long been a popular destination for visitors to the city, and it has a rich and fascinating history. This article will explore the history of Kandy Lake, as well as some of the amazing facts and things to do at the lake.
History of Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is believed to have been constructed in the late 18th century by the last king of the Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. The lake was constructed as part of a larger project to build a pleasure garden for the king, which also included the construction of the Temple of the Tooth and the Royal Palace. The lake was designed to be a symbol of the king's power and wealth, and it was intended to be a place of relaxation and recreation for the royal family.
Kandy Lake was also a major site for religious ceremonies and festivals. Every year, the Perahera festival was held at the lake, which was a huge event that included processions of elephants and other animals, dancers, musicians, and other performers. The event was attended by thousands of people from all over the country, and it was a way for the royal family to show their power and influence.
Today, Kandy Lake is a popular tourist attraction. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, monitor lizards, and birds.
Amazing Facts about Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is the largest lake in Sri Lanka, covering an area of approximately 1.5 square kilometers.
The lake is fed by the Mahaweli River, which is the longest river in Sri Lanka.
Kandy Lake is also home to a variety of fish, including tilapia, carp, and catfish.
The lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 100 species of birds being spotted around the lake.
The lake is also home to a variety of aquatic plants, including water lilies and lotus flowers.
The lake is also a popular spot for boating, with a variety of boats available for hire.
Things to Do at Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake is a popular destination for visitors to Kandy, and there are plenty of things to do at the lake. Here are some of the most popular activities:
Birdwatching: Kandy Lake is home to a variety of birds, and it is a great spot for birdwatching.
Boating: Visitors can hire a boat and explore the lake.
Fishing: Fishing is allowed in the lake, and visitors can hire a boat and try their luck.
Picnicking: Kandy Lake is a popular spot for picnicking, with plenty of spots around the lake to enjoy a meal.
Exploring the Gardens: The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and visitors can explore these gardens and enjoy the scenery.
Kandy Lake is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, and it is a great spot to explore the city's history and culture. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. Whether you’re looking to explore the lake’s history, go birdwatching, or just take in the scenery, Kandy Lake is a great destination for visitors to Kandy.