Royal Botanical Gardens - The Largest Landscaped Gardens in Peradeniya
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, are kind of a big deal. Think of it as the Disneyland of plants, but way more spread out and way less crowded. We're talking over 4,000 plants spread across 147 acres, from towering trees that look like they've been there forever to delicate orchids. Basically, it's a nature lover's paradise.
Best time to visit: From Dec-To-Apr
How to Reach Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
- Stuck on how to get there? No worries! The gardens are super close to Kandy, Sri Lanka's cultural hub, just a 15-minute drive by car or a short bus ride away. You can also grab a taxi, but don't forget to haggle for the best price first! If you are coming from far away, then the Colombo Airport (CMB) is the closest airport to the Royal Botanical Gardens.
- Exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
- These gardens are massive, so comfy shoes are a must. If you're feeling lazy, there are electric cars that take you around, or you can rent a bike for a more adventurous cruise.
Food To Try Near Royal Botanical Gardens
- There aren't any restaurants inside the gardens, but there are vendors selling snacks and drinks to keep you fueled. Once you're out, here's what to try:
- Rice and Curry: Sri Lanka's national dish! Fluffy rice with a bunch of yummy curries, veggies, and chutneys.
- Kottu Roti: Basically shredded flatbread stir-fried with goodies like veggies, meat, or eggs. Filling and tasty!
- Hoppers: Think bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice flour. You can have them plain, fancy them up with an egg, or get them with fillings.
- Watalappan: Craving something sweet? This rich and creamy dessert is made with coconut milk, eggs, and jaggery (palm sugar). Delicious!
- Hotel Near Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
- Kandy has places to stay for all budgets:
- Luxury time: Pick Earl's Regent Hotel or Eagle Regency Hotel for a fancy experience. Think swanky rooms, amazing service, and epic views.
- Mid-range chill: Several comfy guesthouses and boutique hotels like Mount View Hotel and Araliya Home Stay are near the gardens. Perfect if you want a good balance of comfort and affordability.
- Budget backpackers: For budget-friendly options, basic guesthouses and hostels are your best bet. Clean, cheap, and gets the job done!
Other Tourist Attractions Near Royal Botanical Gardens
- Kandy has other cool stuff to check out after your botanical adventure:
- Temple of the Tooth: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sacred temple that houses the tooth relic of Buddha.
- Kandy Lake: Take a boat ride or stroll along the pretty walking path around this scenic lake in the heart of the city.
- Cultural Shows: Catch a traditional dance performance like Kandyan dancing and get a taste of Sri Lankan culture.
- The Verdict
- The Royal Botanical Gardens are a fantastic day trip from Kandy. With its incredible plant life, stunning scenery, and convenient location, it's a must-do for any Sri Lankan adventure. So grab your comfy shoes, camera, and sense of adventure, and get ready to be amazed by this plant paradise!