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Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens | Kandy


Information

Landmark: Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
City: Kandy
Country: Sri Lanka
Continent: Asia

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens

The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, located about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) west of Kandy, is the largest and most impressive botanical garden in Sri Lanka. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse plant collections, and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone visiting the central region of Sri Lanka. Spread across 147 acres (59 hectares), the gardens attract over 2 million visitors annually, offering an immersive experience of tropical flora and stunning natural beauty.

Overview

  • Location: Peradeniya, Kandy District, Central Province, Sri Lanka.
  • Established: Initially as a royal garden during the 14th century under King Wickramabahu III and later formalized by the British in 1821 during the colonial period.
  • Significance: The gardens were once used exclusively by Kandyan royalty, and today, they are among the finest botanical gardens in Asia, known for their historical value, scientific research, and horticultural displays.

Key Attractions

The Orchid House:

  • One of the most popular sections of the gardens, the Orchid House boasts a stunning collection of over 300 orchid species, including both native and hybrid varieties. These delicate and colorful flowers are beautifully displayed, making this area a favorite for photography enthusiasts.

The Giant Javan Fig Tree (Ficus benjamina):

  • This iconic tree is one of the most photographed landmarks in the garden. Its sprawling branches create a natural canopy, covering an area of over 2,500 square meters. Visitors are awed by its sheer size and beauty.

The Palm Avenues:

  • The garden is famous for its three majestic palm-lined avenues:
    • Royal Palm Avenue: Planted in 1905, featuring towering Royal Palms (Roystonea regia).
    • Coconut Palm Avenue: Showcasing tall and graceful coconut palms.
    • Cabbage Palm Avenue: A stunning row of Cabbage Palms (Livistona australis), offering a picturesque walkway.
  • These avenues are perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.

The Great Lawn:

  • This vast open space is a highlight of the gardens. The centerpiece of the lawn is an impressive Java Willow Tree, with branches cascading gracefully to the ground, creating a natural shaded area.

Medicinal Plants Garden:

  • A section dedicated to traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic plants and medicinal herbs, showcasing their historical and cultural significance. Informative signage explains the health benefits of these plants.

The Cannonball Tree (Couroupita guianensis):

  • Planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901, this unique tree produces large, spherical fruits resembling cannonballs, as well as vibrant, fragrant flowers.

The Bamboo Collection:

  • Featuring rare and giant bamboo species from around the world, including Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus giganteus), which can grow up to 30 meters tall.

The Suspension Bridge:

  • A charming steel suspension bridge crosses the Mahaweli River, which flows along the boundary of the gardens. It offers scenic views of the river and surrounding greenery.

Flower Beds and Shrubberies:

  • The gardens are home to meticulously maintained flower beds and shrubs, showcasing seasonal blooms, roses, and exotic tropical flowers. The explosion of color throughout the year makes it an enchanting experience.

The Spice Garden:

  • A dedicated section featuring Sri Lanka's famous spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg. Visitors can learn about the uses of these spices in cooking, medicine, and traditional practices.

Plant Diversity

The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens are home to over 4,000 plant species, including:

  • Tropical timber trees such as teak, ebony, and mahogany.
  • Fruit trees like jackfruit, breadfruit, and mango.
  • Ornamental plants, including ferns, begonias, and water lilies.
  • Rare and endangered plants, including native Sri Lankan species and international flora.

Wildlife

The gardens are a haven for wildlife, particularly:

  • Birds: Over 80 bird species have been recorded, including kingfishers, parrots, and hornbills.
  • Butterflies: Numerous species flit among the flowers, adding to the gardens' natural charm.
  • Bats: A colony of Indian flying foxes (fruit bats) can often be seen roosting in the trees, especially in the late afternoon.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Royal Roots:

  • The gardens were originally designed as a pleasure garden for Kandyan royalty in the 14th century. It served as a retreat for the Kandyan kings and their families.

British Influence:

  • Under British colonial rule, the gardens were developed into a formal botanical garden. It became an important center for plant research, especially for the cultivation of tea, rubber, and coffee—key crops that transformed Sri Lanka’s economy.

Famous Visitors:

  • The gardens have hosted numerous notable figures, including Yuri Gagarin, Queen Elizabeth II, and Indira Gandhi, whose visits are commemorated by planted trees and plaques.

Visiting Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens

Opening Hours:

  • The gardens are open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entrance Fees:

  • Foreigners: Approximately 1,500 LKR per adult (subject to change).
  • Locals: Lower rates apply for Sri Lankan citizens.
  • Discounts are often available for children and students.

Getting There:

  • From Kandy, the gardens are easily accessible by taxi, tuk-tuk, or public bus. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Kandy city center.
  • Visitors arriving by train can alight at the Peradeniya Railway Station, located approximately 2 km from the gardens.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The gardens are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler, and the lighting is ideal for photography.

Facilities:

  • Restrooms and cafés are available within the gardens.
  • Guided tours can be arranged at the entrance for a more in-depth understanding of the plants and history.
  • Wheelchairs and golf carts are available for those with mobility challenges.

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the gardens are expansive and require a fair amount of walking.
  • Bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles, especially during warm days.
  • Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore the gardens thoroughly.
  • Respect the environment by avoiding littering and not plucking plants or flowers.

Conclusion

The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens are a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and biodiversity. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the gardens offer an unforgettable experience. Their rich history, combined with their vibrant flora and scenic landscapes, makes them one of the most iconic attractions in Sri Lanka and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kandy.


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