Discover the Serenity of Makandawa Conservation Center
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Makandawa Conservation Center in Kitulgala, a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Kitulgala, the Makandawa Conservation Center is a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This vibrant tourist attraction offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning biodiversity of Sri Lanka, where you can witness rare flora and fauna, enjoy thrilling outdoor activities, and embrace the tranquility of the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Makandawa Conservation Center (Makandawa Forest)
- XCR4+949, Kitulgala, LK
- +94362287596
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking to explore the trails more easily.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the area is home to many unique species.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the local ecosystem.
- Pack some snacks and water, as facilities may be limited within the conservation area.
Getting There
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Bus
From the Kandy City Center, head towards the bus station located near the Kandy Lake. Look for buses heading to Kitulgala; they are usually marked with a destination sign. The bus fare is affordable. The journey to Kitulgala takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Kitulgala bus stand, exit the bus and walk towards the main road. Continue straight for about 500 meters until you see signs for the Makandawa Conservation Center. It is a short walk from the main road.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a tuk-tuk from Kandy. Go to the main road and flag down a tuk-tuk or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. The ride to Makandawa Conservation Center in Kitulgala will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. The tuk-tuk driver will take you directly to the entrance of the center.
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Train and Bus
You can take a train from Kandy to the nearest station to Kitulgala, which is the Avissawella station. From Kandy Railway Station, board a train heading to Colombo. Get off at Avissawella station after about an hour. From Avissawella, you can catch a local bus or tuk-tuk to Kitulgala, which is approximately 30 minutes away. Once in Kitulgala, follow the previous instructions to reach the Makandawa Conservation Center.
Discover more about Makandawa Conservation Center (Makandawa Forest)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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