A 27-hectare botanical garden established in 1861 at 1,745 meters elevation, originally for cinchona cultivation. The garden contains over 10,000 plant species including temperate flowers rare in tropical Sri Lanka. Rose gardens bloom year-round while the orchid house displays endemic species. It sits in Nuwara Eliya's Hakgala, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Nuwara Eliya's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost LKR 200 adult, LKR 100 child, LKR 25 SAARC nationals and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
What It Is
What you experience depends on the season. Spring and summer are the strongest months, but even in winter the grounds have a quiet appeal. Dress for the weather - you are outdoors the entire time.
Why Visit
See temperate flowers and plants impossible to find elsewhere in tropical Sri Lanka. That puts it near the top of any Nuwara Eliya visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Pedro Tea Estate and Seetha Amman Temple - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Nuwara Eliya. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
