Description
The Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, is one of the most famous botanical gardens in Sri Lanka and is situated near Kandy, a major city in the central part of the country. Established in 1821 by the British colonial administration, the gardens cover an extensive area of about 147 acres and showcase a diverse collection of plants, trees, flowers, and orchids.
Here are some key features and attractions of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya:
- Plant Collections: The gardens are home to a wide variety of plant species, including exotic palms, bamboos, spices, medicinal plants, and a large collection of orchids. Some trees within the gardens are over a century old.
- Avenue of Royal Palms: One of the iconic features of the gardens is the Avenue of Royal Palms, a majestic pathway lined with tall palm trees that leads to the main entrance.
- Peradeniya Botanical Garden Railway: The gardens feature a miniature railway system that allows visitors to explore the vast grounds and enjoy scenic views.
- Great Circle: This circular lawn area within the gardens serves as a venue for events, picnics, and recreational activities.
- Botanical Garden Herbarium: The gardens also house a herbarium with a vast collection of dried plant specimens for research and educational purposes.