Explore Kandy Lake

The centrepiece of Kandy, the Kandy Lake, a place where time stands still. Originally called Kiri Muhuda or Milky Sea, the lake was built in 1807 by the last king of Kandy and Sri Lanka, King Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, an man made lake epitomising a part that represents the final Sri Lankan kingdom.
A characteristic of the lake is the unfinished wall called, Valakulu Bamma or the Clouds Wall. This wall couldn’t be completed because of the imprisonment of the king when the British took over in 1815. This wall gives notable recognition to the lake with its unusual patterns with triangular holes which are used to light oil lamps.
There is an island in the centre of the lake which was made by the king and it was used as his harem. The British destroyed it and used it as a spot for storing ammunition. The Temple of the Tooth Relic borders one side of the lake, adding charm and beauty to the city. People take pleasure in walking around the lake; sitting on benches and watching city life drift by. Boat rides across the lake is a popular excursion enjoyed by locals and tourists.