Famous Botanical Gardens in Sri Lanka [Back]

Sri Lanka, renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, is home to several notable botanical gardens that serve as centers for conservation, research, and public education. These gardens not only showcase a diverse array of flora, including native and endemic species, but also play a pivotal role in preserving the country's natural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in meticulously curated plant collections, explore thematic sections, and gain insights into Sri Lanka's unique botanical legacy. Here are some of the most prominent botanical gardens in Sri Lanka:

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

Situated approximately 5.5 kilometers west of Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya are the largest and most renowned botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Covering about 147 acres (59 hectares), the gardens are nestled in a loop of the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka. Established formally in 1843, they house over 4,000 species of plants, including a vast collection of orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. The gardens also feature notable avenues lined with royal palms and an iconic giant Java fig tree. Annually, they attract approximately 1.6 million visitors, both local and international.

Hakgala Botanical Garden

Located near Nuwara Eliya, Hakgala Botanical Garden is the second-largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka. Established in 1861, it spans approximately 28 hectares and is situated at an elevation of 1,745 meters (5,725 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest botanical gardens in the world. The garden is renowned for its temperate climate flora, including a diverse collection of roses, ferns, and orchids. The cool climate and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for both tourists and researchers.

Henarathgoda Botanical Garden

Established in 1876 in Gampaha, Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, also known as Gampaha Botanical Garden, was initially founded for the introduction and experimentation of rubber cultivation in Sri Lanka. Covering about 17.8 hectares, the garden now boasts a diverse collection of tropical flora, including over 2,000 plant species. It features well-laid-out sections, eye-catching landscaping, and a variety of shrubs, bushes, and trees. The garden's historical significance and rich biodiversity make it a valuable center for botanical studies and a serene spot for visitors.

Seethawaka Botanical Garden

Opened to the public in October 2014, Seethawaka Botanical Garden, also known as Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanic Garden, is located in Illukovita, Avissawella. Spanning approximately 42 hectares, the garden serves as a conservation area for threatened and vulnerable endemic plant species from the Sinharaja Rain Forest region. It also focuses on promoting bamboo cultivation and the ex-situ conservation of wet lowland plants. The garden's landscape is enhanced by a beautiful stream that sustains various wet zone plants, providing visitors with a tranquil environment to explore Sri Lanka's wet zone flora.

Mirijjawila Botanical Garden

Located in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, near Hambantota, Mirijjawila Botanical Garden is the first botanical garden established in the country after independence. Covering approximately 300 acres, the garden was designed by local experts and focuses on the conservation of dry and arid zone plants. It also aims to promote economic development in the region through studies on plants and floriculture. The garden's establishment in a semi-arid zone highlights its role in maintaining and showcasing plant species adapted to such climates.

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