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Hakgala Botanical Garden
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Hakgala Botanical Garden is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,745 meters above sea level, making it the second largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka. Located along the Nuwara Eliya-Badulla road, it was established in 1861 by George Henry Kendrick Thwaites as an experimental plantation for Cinchona cultivation. The garden lies at the foot of the Hakgala Rock, which rises to about 2,200 meters, creating a unique microclimate suitable for temperate plants. It is particularly famous for its extensive rose garden, which features over 100 varieties, and its impressive collection of ferns and orchids. In local folklore, the area is believed to be part of the Ashok Vatika mentioned in the Ramayana, where Sita was held captive. Today, it serves as a vital conservation site for montane flora and remains a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Welimada Valley Panorama Viewpoint · Hakgala Peak · Ambagasdowa Sri Sumanajothi Viharaya
- Nearby: Knuckles Range (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 144 | 106 | 102 | 155 | 128 | 62 | 50 | 65 | 112 | 221 | 289 | 262 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The garden is easily accessible by road, situated on the Nuwara Eliya-Badulla highway, a short drive from the town of Nuwara Eliya.
Best season
The spring months, particularly April, are the most popular time to visit when the roses and other flowers are in full, bustling bloom.
Terrain & paths
The garden features well-maintained, paved pathways and manicured lawns, though the layout includes gentle slopes and terraced sections.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended, as the climate is cool and sudden mists or showers are common.
Parking
There is a designated, official parking area available near the main entrance for cars and tour buses.
Safety
The pathways are generally very safe and well-kept. Beware of local macaque monkeys, which can sometimes be aggressive if they spot food.
Time needed
Visitors typically spend between two to three hours casually strolling through the various thematic sections of the garden.
Geography
Facts
- Established in the year 1861
- Elevation of 1,745 meters
- Second largest garden in Sri Lanka
- Features over 100 rose varieties
- At the foot of the Hakgala Rock
- Linked to the Ramayana legend
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hakgala Botanical Garden (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the climate here different from Kandy?
The garden is located at over 1700m altitude, so it is much cooler here.
Which flowers are particularly famous here?
The garden is known for its magnificent roses and subtropical plants.
Is there a connection to the Ramayana legend?
Yes, it is believed this was the place where King Ravana hid Sita.
When is the peak blooming season?
April and May are the best months when almost everything in the garden blooms.
How far is it from Nuwara Eliya?
It is about 10 kilometers away, a short bus or tuk-tuk ride.
Hakgala Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Hakgala Botanical Garden is located in Sri Lanka.
Hakgala Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Welimada Valley Panorama Viewpoint, Hakgala Peak, Ambagasdowa Sri Sumanajothi Viharaya.
Hakgala Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
Hakgala Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
Hakgala Botanical Garden is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,745 meters above sea level, making it the second largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka.
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