The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, situated about 5.5 kilometers west of Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast. Established in 1821, it's the largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka and one of the finest in Asia.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, Sri Lanka
Spanning over 147 acres, the gardens encompass a fascinating variety of over 4,000 plant species, including:
- Woody trees
- Palms
- Ferns
- Orchids
- Shrubs
The garden is particularly renowned for its collection of orchids, boasting over 300 varieties. Be sure to visit the Orchid House to witness these stunning blooms in profusion.
The Royal Botanic Gardens are cradled by the longest river in Sri Lanka, the Mahaweli River, which gracefully flows around the gardens' borders. The scenic beauty is further enhanced by the flourishing growth of huge tropical trees within its arboretum, a flower garden with a vibrant ribbon border, and walking paths lined with majestic palm trees.
The gardens also house the National Herbarium of Sri Lanka, a treasure trove of preserved plant specimens for research and conservation purposes.
Here are some of the highlights of the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens:
- Giant Cannonball Tree: This magnificent tree, native to South America, is a popular attraction due to its unique fruit resembling cannonballs.
- Spice Garden: Embark on a fragrant journey through the Spice Garden, where you can learn about Sri Lanka's rich history of spices and witness the plants that produce them, like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Avenue of Giant Javan fig: Take a stroll beneath the towering canopy of the giant Javan fig trees, a mesmerizing experience. Avenue of Giant Javan fig, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden
- Victoria Amazonica Water Lily: Marvel at the giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies, some of the largest water lilies in the world, capable of supporting a small child's weight!
The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens offer a tranquil escape amidst the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka. It's a perfect place to relax, connect with nature, and learn about the country's diverse flora.tunesharemore_vert