Visit Royal Botanical Garden

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is one of the key attractions in Kandy.

• Location & Size: Situated about 5–6 km west of Kandy, the gardens stretch across approximately 147 acres (59 ha) and are nestled within a loop of the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s longest

• Flora: Home to over 4,000 plant species from around the world—including palms, orchids, ferns, medicinal and spice plants, and exotic trees like giant bamboos and the double coconut

• Highlights to Explore

  • Orchid House: Features around 300 species and hybrids celebrated for their vibrant, delicate blooms

  • Avenues of Palms & Pines: Iconic, stately lanes lined with Royal, Palmyra, Cabbage, Double Coconut palms, and leaning Cook’s pines—perfect for photography.

  • Herbarium & Medicinal Garden: Hosts over 200,000 preserved specimens and various Ayurvedic plants, including cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.

  • Notable Trees: Includes the Cannonball Tree—planted by King George V in 1901—and a massive Java fig covering more than 2,500 m².

  • Cactus & Fern Houses, Spice Garden: A delightful mix of succulents, tropical ferns, and aromatic spices.

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  📜 Historical & Cultural Significance

  • Royal Roots: Originates from a 14th‑century royal pleasure garden; officially became a botanical institution in 1821 under British colonial rule.

  • Economic Botany: Early experiments with coffee, cinnamon, rubber, and tea helped shape Sri Lanka’s plantation economy.

  • Wartime Role: Served as the Southeast Asia Allied Forces HQ during WWII under Lord Mountbatten.

  • Cinematic Legacy: Featured in the classic film The Bridge on the River Kwai