Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens Hakgala Botanical Gardens Hakgala Botanical Gardens Hakgala

Hakgala Botanical Gardens, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka near Nuwara Eliya, is one of the oldest and most renowned botanical gardens in the country. Nestled at the foot of the Hakgala Mountain, the garden spans over 28 hectares of lush greenery, showcasing a vast collection of flora that thrives in the cool, temperate climate of Sri Lanka's hill country. Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse plant species, Hakgala offers visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat, perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking to escape the bustle of urban life.

The biodiversity at Hakgala Botanical Gardens is exceptional, with over 10,000 plant species representing both local and international flora. The garden is particularly famous for its collection of roses, orchids, and ferns, which flourish in the cool highland environment. Visitors can also explore sections dedicated to medicinal plants, tropical trees, and beautiful flowering plants that add to the garden’s vibrant colors. The surrounding forests and mountain views further enhance the natural beauty, creating a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation and exploration.

Visitors to Hakgala Botanical Gardens can enjoy a variety of activities, including leisurely walks along well-maintained paths, photography, and guided tours. The garden’s diverse plant life offers ample opportunities for botanical study, while the picturesque setting provides a perfect backdrop for picnics or quiet reflection. Nature lovers will find joy in observing the unique plant species, while birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of endemic birds that inhabit the surrounding forests and hills. The cool climate, combined with the tranquil environment, makes it a perfect destination for a peaceful day out.

The best time to visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The garden is easily accessible from Nuwara Eliya, which is just a short drive away, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the hill country. Whether visiting for a leisurely stroll, botanical exploration, or simply to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, Hakgala Botanical Gardens remains a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sri Lanka's highlands.

Botanical Gardens Hakgala Botanical Gardens Hakgala Botanical Gardens Hakgala

Special places in Badulla

  • Muthiyanganaya Raja Maha Viharaya lies in the centre of the city of Badulla. The History of this temple goes back to the time of Buddha but this area around Badulla goes way back in to the time of 19th -18th century BCE.

    Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara 

  • Dowa Raja Maha Viharaya (Dowa Cape Temple) lies few kilometres away from the Bandarawela town on the Bandarawela – Badulla Road. This temple is thought to be done by King Walagamba in the in first century BC.

    Dowa Raja Maha Viharaya 

  • The Bogoda Wooden Bridge was built in the 16th century during the Dambadeniya era. This is said to be the oldest surviving wooden bridge in Sri Lanka. The bridge is situated at 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) west of Badulla.

    Bogoda Wooden Bridge 

  • Dunhinda Falls is situated about 5 km away from Badulla town. It is 63 meters high and is considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The falls gets its name dew to the smoky dew drops spray.

    Dunhinda Falls 

Explore Badulla

About Badulla District

Badulla is the capital of Uva Province in Sri Lanka. Badulla is located on the southeast of Kandy, almost encircled by the Badulu Oya , about 680 meters (2200 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by tea plantations. The town is overshadowed by the Namunukula range of mountains. Badulla is about 230km away from Colombo towards the eastern slopes of central hills of Sri Lanka.

Badulla and surroundings are highly recommended for eco-tourists as Horton Plains National Park and the Knuckles mountains are few hours away.

About Uva Province

The Uva Province is Sri Lanka's second least populated province, with 1,187,335 people, created in 1896. It consists of two districts called Badulla and Moneragala The provincial capital is Badulla. Uva is bordered by Eastern, Southern and Central provinces. Its major tourist attractions are Dunhinda Falls, Diyaluma Falls, Rawana Falls, the Yala National Park (lying partly in the Southern and Eastern Provinces) and Gal Oya National Park (lying partly in the Eastern Province). The Gal Oya hills and the Central Mountains are the main uplands, while the Mahaweli and Menik rivers and the huge Senanayake Samudraya and Maduru Oya Reservoirs are the major waterways in Uva province.

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