Home to multicoloured foliage, lush gardens and an impressive variety of endemic fauna, the Hakgala Botanical Garden entices many a visitor be it foreign or local.
Introduction
Enticing many visitors to its finest specimens of tropical fauna and flora, the Hakgala Botanical Garden is a destination frequented by lovers and admirers of nature. The season between April and August welcomes enthusiastic visitors to the blooming spectacles of the garden.
Reaching Hakgala Botanical Garden
The garden is found around 10 kilometres south of Nuwara Eliya. You will pass many a stunning spectacle through a pine forest en route to the Hakgala Garden along the Badulla road. If you are based in any of the nearby hotels in Nuwara Eliya including popular options such as Jetwing St. Andrews, the garden is just a half an hour drive away.
History of the Garden
The present botanical garden was founded by the popular British botanist, Dr. G.H.K Thwaites. Several folklore tales indicate that the gardens were used by Ravana to hide his beloved, princess Sita.
Features of the Garden
Low-country water lilies sway in the wind as sophisticated English roses lined up along winding pathways add a sense of elegance to this stunning backdrop. Those exploring the garden will also come across prehistoric ferns and endemic orchids.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
