Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

Kandy, Central

Established in 1821 and moved to its current site in 1843, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya span 147 acres along a bend in the Mahaweli River and hold over 4,000 plant species, including one of the world's most celebrated orchid collections. Its Royal Palm Avenue, planted in the 1900s, and a giant Javan fig tree with a canopy wide enough to shelter hundreds of people are among its best-known features. Originally developed under British colonial rule as a research garden, it remains an active center for botanical study as well as a popular day trip from nearby Kandy.

Nature & viewpointsPhotography spots

Best time to visit

Weekday mornings avoid both the day's heat and the weekend crowds of local visitors.

Visitor tip

The grounds are large; allow several hours if you want to explore beyond the main paths.

Local pick

The giant Javan fig tree near the Great Lawn has a canopy circumference wide enough to shade an entire gathering — most visitors walk past without realizing how large it actually is until they stand beneath it.

Quick answers

Where is Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya?

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya is in Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka.

When is the best time to visit Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya?

Weekday mornings avoid both the day's heat and the weekend crowds of local visitors.

How far is Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya from Colombo?

About 90 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.

What is near Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya?

Nearby places include Embekka Devalaya (about 2 km away), Hanthana Mountain Range (about 3 km away), Bahirawakanda Temple (about 5 km away), Kandy Lake (about 6 km away).

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More to see around Kandy: things to do in Kandy. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.