Peradeniya Botanical Garden of Sri Lanka: A Natural Oasis in the Heart of Kandy
Peradeniya Botanical Garden, located in the heart of Kandy in Sri Lanka, is a natural oasis and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists. The garden is one of the oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, covering an area of over 147 acres. It is home to a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers, including rare and endemic species, making it a haven for biodiversity.
History of Peradeniya Botanical Garden
The history of Peradeniya Botanical Garden dates back to the 14th century when it was used as a royal pleasure garden by King Vikrama Bahu III. The garden was later expanded and developed by the British during their colonial rule in Sri Lanka. The garden was established in 1821 by Alexander Moon, who was the British colonial secretary at the time. The garden was initially used for the cultivation of coffee, tea, and rubber, which were the main crops grown in Sri Lanka at the time.
In 1843, the garden was converted into a botanical garden, and over the years, it was expanded and developed into the beautiful garden it is today. The garden was officially opened to the public in 1844, and since then, it has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Attractions in Peradeniya Botanical Garden
Peradeniya Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers, including rare and endemic species. The garden is divided into several sections, each with its own unique attractions. Here are some of the highlights of the garden:
Orchid House: The Orchid House is one of the most popular attractions in the garden, housing a stunning collection of over 300 varieties of orchids. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful colors and shapes of the flowers and learn about the history and cultivation of orchids in Sri Lanka.
Royal Palm Avenue: The Royal Palm Avenue is a beautiful walkway lined with majestic royal palm trees, which were planted by the British in the 19th century. The avenue is a popular spot for taking photographs and enjoying the natural beauty of the garden.
Bamboo Grove: The Bamboo Grove is a peaceful and serene area of the garden, with a beautiful collection of bamboo trees. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the grove and enjoy the soothing sound of the leaves rustling in the wind.
Great Lawn: The Great Lawn is a large, open area of the garden, which is perfect for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can take a break from exploring the garden and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
Medicinal Plants Section: The Medicinal Plants Section is a fascinating part of the garden, showcasing a variety of plants and herbs with medicinal properties. Visitors can learn about the traditional healing practices of Sri Lanka and the uses of various plants for treating illnesses and ailments.
Other attractions in the garden include the Spice Garden, which features a variety of spices grown in Sri Lanka, and the Cactus House, which showcases a stunning collection of cacti from around the world.
Biodiversity in Peradeniya Botanical Garden
Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a haven for biodiversity, with a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers from around the world. The garden is home to over 4,000 species of plants, including many rare and endemic species. The garden is particularly famous for its collection of orchids, with over 300 varieties on display.
The garden is also home to a variety of birds and animals, including monkeys, squirrels, and bats. Visitors can spot these animals in their natural habitat as they explore the garden.
By :-Wasantha kumara (GAJABA-LANKA)