These 147-acre botanical gardens contain over 4,000 plant species including giant bamboo groves, orchid houses, and a famous avenue of royal palms planted in 1905. Originally created as a royal pleasure garden in 1371, the gardens now serve as both research facility and public park. The Mahaweli River forms the gardens' natural boundary on three sides. It sits in Kandy's Peradeniya, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Kandy's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost LKR 200 adult, LKR 100 child, parking LKR 50 and 2-4 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
What It Is
The building itself is the attraction. Take time with the architectural detail rather than rushing through - the craftsmanship rewards a slow look. The Peradeniya location means you can step outside and be at other sights within minutes.
Why Visit
Walk through one of Asia's finest tropical botanical gardens with rare plant species and peaceful river views. That puts it near the top of any Kandy visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with University of Peradeniya and Gadaladeniya Temple - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Kandy. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
