Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
The Largest Gardens in Sri Lanka
The Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya, near Kandy, were first established in the 14th century. Since British times, Peradeniya has become one of the finest botanical gardens in Asia. Before the British ruled the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, the site at Peradeniya was a Royal Pleasure Garden, apparently being enjoyed by the last Queen of Kandy. This lush corner exists in the cradle of a deep bend in the wide and languid river of the Mahaweli and was formally established in 1821. Initially managed by Alexander Moon, the gardens started as little more than a coffee and cinnamon plantation. Today, spread over sprawling 147 hectares, they are home to some 4,000 species from all corners of the earth. There is a pungent and fascinating spice garden which provides a fine introduction to the long-practiced medicinal science of Ayurveda and an exceptional orchid house sheltering some 300 varieties. A number of the wider pathways are tree-lined, including the classic “Avenue of Palms” which has the aesthetic power to transform a simple stroll into an event.
A Tranquil Oasis: The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
Escape to the largest and most magnificent botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya offer a lush, tranquil retreat just outside the city of Kandy, showcasing the finest flora from the tropics. Once reserved exclusively for Sri Lankan royalty, the 147-acre gardens are a world-renowned collection of over 4,000 species of plants, trees, and spices, bordered on three sides by the island’s longest river, the Mahaweli.
The gardens are replete with must-see attractions. The Orchid House is perhaps the most famous feature, housing an exquisite collection of over 300 varieties of orchids, including rare and endemic species. Visitors should also take a leisurely stroll down the majestic Avenue of Royal Palms, a grand, highly photogenic pathway lined with towering palms. On the Great Lawn, you will find the celebrated Giant Javan Fig Tree, a colossal, centuries-old specimen with a sprawling canopy that provides shade like a gigantic natural umbrella. For a cultural experience, the Spice Garden offers an aromatic journey where you can see cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom plants up close. Be sure to look for the Cannonball Tree, planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901, known for its unique fruit. The gardens also feature historic Memorial Trees planted by world leaders, including Queen Elizabeth II, and a fascinating Bamboo Collection with the massive Giant Bamboo of Burma.
The history of these royal grounds dates back as far as the 14th century when it was a royal pleasure garden for the Kandyan kings. It was formally established as a botanical garden by the British in 1821. Beyond its botanical importance, the site played a pivotal role during World War II, when it served as the headquarters for the South East Asia Command, led by Lord Louis Mountbatten. The gardens span an expansive 147 acres (59 hectares), making them an incredible display of biodiversity.
For visitors, the Royal Botanic Gardens are open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (note that they may close on certain public holidays). The best time to visit is typically during the drier seasons from April to June, August to September, and December, though the lush environment remains captivating year-round. The garden is located in Peradeniya, approximately 5.5 km (3.4 miles) west of central Kandy, and is easily accessible by private vehicle or taxi along the main Kandy-Colombo highway (A1). Please note that an admission fee applies to foreign citizens.
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Peradeniya Botanical Gardens