Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens: Historic garden

Description

Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens, located near Kandy, is the largest and most famous botanical garden in Sri Lanka. Covering 147 acres, it features over 4,000 species of plants, including rare orchids, medicinal plants, palms, and giant bamboo. Originally developed as a pleasure garden for the Kandyan royal family, it was later expanded by the British in 1821 and is now a major tourist attraction and research center.

Visitor Fee

• Foreigners:
  • Adults: 3,000 LKR (~$9.50 USD)
  • Children (5–12 years): 1,500 LKR (~$4.75 USD)
• Sri Lankan Residents:
  • Adults: 200 LKR
  • Children: 30 LKR

Transportation

• By Car/Taxi:
  • From Kandy: ~15 min (6 km).
  • From Colombo: ~3 hours (110 km) via the Kandy Road (A1).
• By Bus:
  • Regular buses from Kandy stop near the entrance.
• By Train:
  • Peradeniya Railway Station is 2 km away from the garden.

Things to Do

1. Explore the Orchid House – Home to over 300 species of orchids.
2. Walk through the Avenue of Royal Palms – A stunning row of tall palm trees.
3. See the Giant Javan Fig Tree – A massive tree with an 80-meter-wide canopy.
4. Visit the Great Lawn – A relaxing open green space with iconic trees.
5. Check out the Cannonball Tree – Planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901.
6. Enjoy the Suspension Bridge – A scenic footbridge over the Mahaweli River.
7. Spot Wildlife – Look for monkeys, giant squirrels, and exotic birds.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Beautiful landscapes with exotic flowers and rare plants.
• Rich history, linked to Sri Lanka’s royal and colonial past.
• Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxing and photography.
• Educational value, with detailed information about plants and conservation.

How Old is This Place?

• Established as a royal garden in the 14th century during the Kandyan Kingdom.
• Developed into a botanical garden by the British in 1821.

List of Activities

• Nature walks & photography
• Botanical research & learning
• Picnicking in scenic spots
• Birdwatching & wildlife spotting
• Relaxing by the Mahaweli River

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – A major Buddhist temple in Kandy (6 km).
2. Kandy Lake – A beautiful artificial lake in the city center (6 km).
3. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – A massive Buddha statue overlooking Kandy (7 km).
4. Udawatta Kele Sanctuary – A nature reserve with hiking trails (8 km).
5. Ceylon Tea Museum – Learn about Sri Lanka’s famous tea culture (6 km).