Kandy Botanical Gardens: Expansive garden
Description
The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, located in Kandy, is Sri Lanka’s largest and most famous botanical garden. Spanning 147 acres (59 hectares), the gardens house over 4,000 species of plants, including rare orchids, palm avenues, spice gardens, and giant bamboo groves. Originally established in the 14th century as a royal garden, it was later expanded under British colonial rule in the 19th century.
Visitor Fee
- Foreigners: ~$10 (USD) per adult
- Locals: LKR 200 per adult
- Children (5-12 years): ~$5
- Students: Discounted rates available
Transportation
- By Car/Taxi:
- From Kandy (~15 min, 6 km)
- From Colombo (~3.5 hours, 110 km)
- By Train & Bus:
- Take a train or bus to Peradeniya Station, then a short tuk-tuk ride.
Things to Do
- Orchid House – Explore a stunning collection of exotic and rare orchids.
- Giant Javan Fig Tree – A massive century-old tree with an impressive canopy.
- Palm Avenues – Walk through rows of royal palms and cannonball trees.
- Spice Garden – Discover cinnamon, nutmeg, and other Sri Lankan spices.
- Suspension Bridge – A scenic pedestrian bridge over the Mahaweli River.
- Birdwatching – Spot parrots, kingfishers, and other tropical birds.
- Picnicking & Relaxing – Enjoy the peaceful surroundings in the shade of ancient trees.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Breathtaking landscapes with diverse flora and scenic walking trails.
- Historical significance, with links to Sri Lanka’s royal past and colonial era.
- Great for photography, with unique trees, colorful flowers, and serene backdrops.
- Cool and pleasant climate, making it perfect for a relaxing visit.
How Old is This Place?
- The gardens were first established in the 14th century by the Kingdom of Kandy.
- Officially expanded in 1821 under British rule as a botanical research center.
List of Activities
- Walking through themed gardens (orchids, palms, spices, cacti).
- Exploring historical monuments and colonial-era buildings.
- Relaxing and enjoying nature with a picnic.
- Birdwatching and photography.
- Learning about rare plant species from guided tours.
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – Kandy’s most sacred Buddhist site (~6 km away).
- Kandy Lake – A peaceful lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for an evening walk.
- Udawattakele Forest Reserve – A lush jungle with hiking trails and wildlife.
- Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – A giant Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Kandy.