BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Royal Botanical Gardens, known as 'Peradeniya Gardens,' is a renowned attraction in Sri Lanka, drawing nearly 2 million visitors annually. Spanning 147 acres, it boasts a stunning array of trees, flowers, and pathways, some dating back centuries. While officially established in 1843 under British colonial rule, its origins trace back to the 14th century during the reign of King Wickramabahu III.
Originally a site for a temple built by King Wimala Dharma, the garden's modern history began in 1821 when Alexandar Moon initiated its development for cultivating coffee and cinnamon plants. It was officially established as a botanical garden in 1843, with plants brought from various locations, including Kew Garden and Slave Island, Colombo.
Under the superintendence of individuals like George Gardner and Henry Trimen, the garden flourished and expanded. It features iconic avenues such as Cook's Pine Avenue, Palmyra Palm Avenue, and Royal Palm Avenue. Notable attractions include the Cannonball Tree, planted by King George V and Queen Mary, and the Great Circle, adorned with trees planted by dignitaries over the years.
During World War II, the garden served as the headquarters for Lord Louis Mountbatten, adding to its historical significance. Beyond its historical importance, the garden boasts rich biodiversity, characterized by tropical vegetation, climbing plants, palms, bamboos, and epiphytes.
Visitors can explore the garden's diverse flora through a numbered circuit, marked by signboards, with around 10,000 plants and trees, including 4,000 labeled species. Highlights include the snake creeper and the Great Circle, surrounded by trees planted by notable figures like Princess Henry of Prussia and the Czar of Russia.
Overall, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya offers a captivating blend of history, biodiversity, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
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