Arthur’s Seat is an view point rarely visited by Sri Lankans which lies right at the heart of Kandy. The view point lies 1790 feet (545 meters) above the sea level overlooking the city of Kandy 800 meters on Rajapihilla Mawatha. It provides a spectacular panoramic view across Kandy Lake, Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Royal Palace of Kandy and the city centre whether its day or night.
According to legend, this area has belonged to a planter called Arthur during the British colonial era and there has been a seat made of stone at this location in front of his Bungalow where Arthur had spent his time gorging on the spectacular view of Kandy.
Later this became a tourist attraction drawing many foreign tourists. In 2015, it was estimated that 1,500 tourists per day visit the location during the peak season (November to May), with 500 tourists per day in the off season. Therefore in 2016, a viewing platform was built at this location with funding from the world bank. But unfortunately it was reported that the original stone slab was destroyed in the process and today a seat made of cement made in form of a rock has replaced it.
Also See
- Attractions of Sri Lanka
- Heritage of Sri Lanka
- Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
- Nature and Wildlife of Sri Lanka
- Other Places of Interest Within Close Proximity
Map of the Arthur’s Seat Viewing Deck in Kandy
The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites
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Driving Directions to Arthur’s Seat Viewing Deck in Kandy
Route 1 from Colombo to Kandy | Route 2 from Colombo to Kandy |
Though : kadawata – Warakapola – Ambepussa – Mawanella Distance :120 km Travel time : 3.45 hours Driving directions : see on google map | Though : Katunayake Expressway – Distance :150 km Travel time : 3.20 hours Driving directions : see on google map |
Route From Nuwara Eliya to Kandy | |
Though : Walapane – Raja Mawatha Distance :100 km Travel time : 3.0 hours Driving directions : see on google map |
Route from Kandy to Arthur’s Seat Viewing Deck |
Though : Rajapihilla Mawatha Distance : 800 m Travel time : 5 mins Driving directions : see on google map |