The last ruler of the Sri Lankan Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, in 1807 ordered the construction of Kandy Lake. Some of the local dignitaries were not happy with their work force being diverted to help build the dam, clear the land and make the lake edge.

View of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Sri Dalada Maligawa over the Lake in Kandy Sri Lanka

They made their objections known to the king. That was a big error of judgment. The King was not happy and had them executed strapped to stakes in the bed of the lake. One of the reasons the King wanted the Lake built was so that he could house his harem in a building on a central island where it would be difficult for the woman to escape and safe from external influences.

It was the British that added the castle style parapet wall around the outside perimeter after they triumphed over the King of Kandy's army. The circular enclosure on the South Shore in front of the Malwatte Maha Vihara is the Monk's bath house.

View over Lake Kandy of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Sri Dalada Maligawa

Getting around Kandy by Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are a fun way to explore Kandy. I would recommend Mr Raju Salaldeen, Phone number 0777-653580 or 072-2111670. He was a lovely guy with a good sense of humour. He would stop on route and show you the best places.

If you wanted to take a photograph then all you had to do was ask. He was not time keeping. He was reliable and did not try to rip us off. He will meet you from the train and take you to your hotel. He will also be ready for you in the morning at the agreed time. As normal always agree a price before you start a journey with a Tuk-tuk driver.

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