hakgala botanical garden essay grade 8

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Ultimate Guide to Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Located around 2000 m above sea level, Hakgala Botanic Gardens is the highest altitude garden in Sri Lanka. Staying behind only the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens , it is the second largest garden in Sri Lanka. It spreads out 28 hectares in extent and home to over 10,000 different species of flora. The massive Hakgala Rock towers to a height of about 2,200m behind the gardens and the surrounding forest reserve. The garden faces the Uva Valley, with some splendid views of the Madulsima and the Namunukula range of mountains.

The Hakgala Garden becomes a flower paradise in April, during the Spring season in Nuwara Eliya . During that period, thousands of local and foreign visitors come to see the blooms.  Particularly, Hakgala Garden is reputed for the lovely rose and dahlia collections. You’ll find the climate of the gardens is cool and fresh, thus it is an ideal place for a day out in Nuwara Eliya city. Reportedly, around 500,000 people annually visit this beautiful garden.

History of the garden

Hakgala Garden was established by Dr. G. H. K Thwaites in 1861, as an experimental station and nursery for Cinchona. The original purpose was growing Cinchona, to extract the anti-malarial drug Quinine. The development of Hakgala Gardens as a botanic garden was initiated by Mr. William Nock in 1884. Subsequently, the garden was used to cultivate various plants including foreign and local trees, ferns, herbs, and flowers. 

Access to the garden

Hakgala Botanical Garden locates on the Nuwara Eliya- Badulla main road, 7 km from Nuwara Eliya city. You can reach there by bus, car or train. If you are using the Kandy-Ella train , you need to get off at Nanu Oya station. Then you need to travel around 13 km, bypassing Nuwara Eliya city to reach Hakgala Gardens.

Climate of the garden

The garden has a cool and refreshing environment because of altitude is 2,000 m above sea level. The temperature ranges between 16 °C to 30 °C during the year. From December to February, it has a cold climate while the warm climate persists from April to August. During the Southwest monsoon, strong winds blow across the gardens towards the Uva Valley. Between October to December, heavy downpours of rainfall are more frequent in the afternoon and evenings.

Lay out of the garden

The entire garden divides into different sections and dedicated to different plant species like flowering plants, ferns, cacti, and many more. Below is the detailed map of the garden showing each area.

Main entrance

The main entrance consists of the ticket counter and flower beds on the slope. The garden is elegantly landscaped to take the shape of several terraces. At the top terrace, there is a striking metal and pebble structures of the letters HAKGALA. This beautiful structure at the peak increases the visitor attraction at glance.

Then the main drive leads you to the garden and it is edged by mixed flower borders and edge plants. Well-maintained mixed flower borders are one of the unique features of the Hakgala Botanical Garden. These fine hedges are formed by different kinds of Azalea, Camellia, and several other flowering shrubs.

Bulb garden

The bulb garden was opened in 1924. It contains a collection of Lilium, Watsonia, Gladiolus, Agapanthus, and Zephyranthes. Many of the species have been introduced from Holland and Japan.

Ferns garden

Undoubtedly, one of the major attractions in the gardens is the Fernery. Shaded by tall trees, dark and misty Fern Garden is home to over 50 kinds of ferns. This is a collection of native hill country ferns. It acts as a refuge for many rare epiphytes, mosses, and lichens.

The distinct feature in the fernery is the wooly tree fern of Sri Lanka. It gives unique character to the fern garden. There are lots of tree ferns, that flourished throughout history. When fully grown, these tree ferns can attain a height of 30-40 feet.  Remember to have a look at the large woolly tree fern with a huge trunk over 30 ft in height. Its graceful fronds are 18 ft in diameter.

A distinctive feature of Fernery is the wonderful manner in which the natural springs use to enhance the beauty of the landscaped garden. These springs diverted to form ponds and rippling streams adorned by bridges. Since the fernery has a cool climate shaded by tall trees, Lichens and mosses grow all over the area. Certainly, this area is so cool and refreshing, thus visitors may not wish to say goodbye to it.

Flower gardens

The flower gardens display varieties of blooming flowers adding beauty to the gardens. You can see colorful blooms of Carnations and Poinsettias swaying in the wind. Moreover, many kinds of Fuchsia proudly display their drooping clusters of pretty flowers.  Enhancing the beauty of the gardens, there are varieties of salvia ranging from orange to deep purple.

Central pond

A footpath commences from the main drive and leads to the central area of the garden. There is a pond in which yellow water lilies are grown. Huge trees are planted around the central pond.

Ancient trees

Hakgala Garden has a great collection of ancient trees including conifers, cedars, cypresses, pines, and English oaks. Most of them have been introduced from foreign countries, but they have made their home in the garden now. You’ll see that these tall trees are over 100 years old.

Some of the interesting trees around the flower gardens are the Monterey Cypress from California, the camphor tree from China, The Queensland box tree from Australia, the Japanese silkworm Oak tree from Japan, and the southern Magnolia tree from Florida.

Dahlia collection

As same as Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden is famous for its Orchid collection, Hakgala Garden is particularly famous for its beautiful Dahlias. There is no doubt, that lovely dahlias show the epitome of floral beauty with strikingly beautiful blossoms. Dahlias are eternally smiling flowers. When a flower blossoms, it can remain on the plant for nearly one week.  These lovely blooms make the visitors happy with their pretty appearance.

There are varieties of colorful dahlias with several exciting hues in the Hakgala Botanical Garden. You’ll find red, white, purple, yellow, and orange dahlias in the garden. Each plant has bunches of dahlias, creating wonderful photogenic scenery. Be ready with your camera, since there will be endless opportunities to capture the striking beauty of these flowers.

Rose garden

The rose garden was created in the 1960s, by importing the mother plants from England. One must not miss out on this rare and exotic collection of roses in Hakgala Garden. They are breathtakingly colorful and their sweet perfume lingers on the surrounding air. The vivid colors and sweet fragrances of lovely roses in the garden make the visitors spellbound. They can easily steal the heart of visitors.

Rose garden is established on a twin terraced land and contains over 100 varieties of roses. Some of them are quite rare to find in Sri Lanka.  Moreover, there are several modern bicolor rose varieties, which are strikingly beautiful. These bicolor varieties with two hues add a unique beauty to the rose garden.

Hakgala gardens put up the best display of r oses  during the spring festival in April. The process of bringing the rose garden to the epitome of beauty starts at the beginning of January. The careful planning and dedicated efforts by Hakgala Botanical Gardens staff make it a flower paradise in April. Roses start flowering on April 1, with the rose garden attaining full bloom by mid-April at the height of the Nuwara Eliya season.

Glass House

There are several glass houses that give home to many plants too tender to thrive in an open environment. They are carefully nurtured inside this house with optimum conditions to grow. It displays a collection of indoor plants including species of Begonias and many kinds of cacti and succulents. As well, you can see some beautiful hanging plants inside the glass house.

Agave collection

Agave is another wonderful plant collection in Hakgala Botanical Garden. With their thick, long, and prickly leaves growing in a rosette, these plants add a unique beauty to the garden.

Nock Memorial

This colorful Memorial was erected in 1910, for the memory of Mr. J. K. Nock. He was the curator of the gardens from 1903-1909. This memorial is dedicated to his outstanding work to develop the garden into a charming flower paradise. Currently, this summer house is a very popular venue for resting and enjoying a meal.

Best time to visit the garden

Right riming is important to witness the gorgeous blooms of Hakgala Botanical Garden. The best time to visit the gardens is from about mid-March to the end of April, popularly known as the Nuwara Eliya season. The garden becomes extremely pretty in this period.

There aren’t many flower blossoms for the rest of the year.  But the garden is very pleasant with lush greeneries and beautiful plants. If you are a nature lover, visiting this garden is worth it even in the low season .

Moreover, Hakgala Garden is an ideal spot for bird watching . There are many species of hill country birds that live in the surrounding forest reserve. Therefore, this is a must-visit place for bird watching enthusiasts.

The garden is opened 365 days of the year from 7.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. The ticket counter is open until 5.00 p.m.

To sum up, Hakgala Garden is one of the most picturesque and beautiful gardens in Sri Lanka. It welcomes all visitors with its pleasant and inviting setting. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it provides a beautiful oasis for holidaymakers. Moreover, Hakgala Garden is a top family-friendly destination , as well as the best romantic hangout place for young people. Remember to visit there in April, when the Hakgala Garden is in its full glory!

Text by Magnificent Sri Lanka. Images from Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, and Twitter. All copyrights are reserved by original authors.

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Hakgala Botanical Garden

Hakgala Botanical Garden, located in the central province of Sri Lanka, is one of Sri Lanka's five botanical gardens. It is the second largest, after the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. The garden, which covers an area of around 28 hectares, is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, which includes several rare and endemic species.

History of the Hakgala Botanical Garden

The Hakgala Botanical Garden has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was first established in 1861 by the British colonial government, which sought to establish a botanical garden to study and cultivate the diverse range of plants in the region. Over the years, the garden has expanded and evolved, showcasing a magnificent collection of plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world.

Highlights of the Hakgala Gardens

The Hakgala Botanical Garden offers a variety of highlights for visitors to enjoy, providing a sense of wonder and joy as they explore the diverse plant life and picturesque landscapes.

The Central Pond

This tranquil pond is surrounded by towering trees such as the Bunya Bunya Pine and Eugenia Cunninghamii, creating a peaceful oasis where visitors can relax, admire the scenery, and listen to the gentle sounds of nature.

The Bulb Garden

Showcasing a stunning collection of flowering bulbs, including Lilium, Watsonia, Gladiolus, Agapanthus, and Zephyranthes, the Bulb Garden bursts with color and offers a delightful display of diverse blooms throughout the year.

The Flower Garden

A vibrant and colorful display of annual flowers, the Flower Garden features eye-catching plants such as the flame bush and Cestrum elegans. This garden is designed to provide year-round interest and ensures that there is always  something in bloom to admire.

The Rose Garden

This beautifully terraced garden is renowned for its collection of modern rose varieties imported from England and America. With its romantic atmosphere and enchanting fragrance, the Rose Garden is a favorite spot for visitors to unwind and enjoy the timeless beauty of roses.

The Fernery

With its cool climate and shaded by tall trees, the Fernery is home to unique ferns such as the Wooly Tree Fern of Sri Lanka. This serene area provides a refreshing escape from the sun and invites visitors to explore the fascinating world of ferns and their ancient origins.

The Arboretum

A living showcase of exotic, native, and endemic plants, the Arboretum provides a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the incredible diversity of Sri Lanka's plant life. From towering trees to delicate flowers, the Arboretum is a wonderful example of the richness of the island's flora.

Wildlife at the Hakgala Botanical Garden

While exploring the garden, visitors can also encounter various birds, butterflies, and reptiles that call the Hakgala Botanical Garden their home. Some commonly spotted birds include the Indian Pitta, Sri Lanka White-eye, and the Oriental White-eye. The garden is also home to several species of colorful butterflies, such as the Common Jezebel and the Blue Mormon.

Best Time to Visit

The Hakgala Botanical Garden is open daily from 7.30am to 6pm. The entrance fee is nominal, and guided tours are available for an additional cost. It is best to visit during the early morning or late afternoon, as the garden can get quite hot during the middle of the day. The garden is especially gorgeous during the months of March to May, when many flowers are in full bloom.

How to Get There

Visitors can take a train or bus to the nearby town of Nuwara Eliya to get to the garden. It is a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride to the garden from there. The garden is well sign-posted, and it is easy to find your way around once you arrive. Alternatively, those who prefer a more scenic route can hire a car or motorcycle to drive through the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside.

  Plant Conservation and Research

The Hakgala Botanical Garden plays a vital role in the conservation and research of Sri Lanka's diverse plant life. By cultivating and preserving rare, endangered, and endemic species, the garden contributes to the protection of the country's unique flora. The botanical garden also collaborates with local and international institutions, facilitating research and educational programs to promote the understanding and appreciation of plant diversity.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Hakgala Botanical Garden, consider exploring these nearby attractions that further enrich the overall Nuwara Eliya experience:

• Victoria Park: A beautiful green space located in Nuwara Eliya, Victoria Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. Its well-manicured gardens and peaceful environment make for a pleasant afternoon.
• Moon Plains: For a unique experience, head over to Moon Plains. The region offers breathtaking views of the Sri Lankan highlands and is home to various wildlife species.
• Strawberry Farms in Nuwara Eliya: A visit to the local strawberry farms is a delightful experience. Tour the farms, indulge in some fresh strawberry picking, and treat yourself to delicious strawberry-based treats.
• Horton Plains National Park: A trip to Horton Plains National Park offers a chance to explore the unique highland ecosystem and possibly spot some of the park's resident wildlife, including several endemic species.

You can also find out more about these and other attractions in our guide to the top things to do in Nuwara Eliya.

  Travel Tips

To ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit to the Hakgala Botanical Garden, keep the following travel tips in mind:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden's pathways can be uneven and require a fair amount of walking.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and shades to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
• Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, as there may not be many places to buy drinks within the garden.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of the garden and its inhabitants.
• Be respectful of the wildlife and plant life by not disturbing or harming them in any way. Stick to designated pathways and avoid littering to help preserve the garden's natural beauty.

The Hakgala Botanical Garden is a must-see destination if you are visiting Nuwara Eliya. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just someone looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Hakgala Botanical Garden is sure to impress. The serene atmosphere, colorful landscapes, and diverse plant collections make it an ideal destination for all ages. The garden is not only a haven for plant enthusiasts but also offers a delightful experience for photographers, birdwatchers, and families looking for a fun and educational day out.

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Hakgala Botanical Garden

Located about 10 to 16km from Nuwara Eliya is the Hakgala Botanical Garden, one of five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka and the second largest garden in the country over all. It once spanned over 500 acres, but currently encompasses about 88 acres. It’s adjacent to the Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve, making it a hotspot for various flora and fauna.

Establishment of the Landscaping Marvel

Established in 1862 by George Henry Kendrick Thwaites, the Hakgala Botanical Garden was once an experimental cultivation of the medicinal plant Cinchona. Once tea took precedence in Sri Lanka, this was replaced with tea cultivation. But it didn’t seem to work out, and in the end, in 1884, it was transformed into a garden instead. Interestingly, the oldest tea bush in Sri Lanka is said to reside within the garden’s premises.

What You Can Expect

Today, the garden is home to temperate and subtropical plant species of all kinds, consisting of over 10,000 unique species⁠—many of which are vibrant blooms. Due to its altitude being about 5,400 ft above sea level, the temperatures tend to get a bit chilly all year round, with it dropping to about 16°C during its coldest period (December to February), with the warmest period being April to August, when the temperature reaches about 30°C.

The Hakgala Botanical Garden is open to visitors from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day. Whether you’re visiting with the family, looking for a romantic hangout with your partner, or just out to rest your mind on your own, the garden is sure to welcome all with its pleasant and inviting setting that is akin to the traditional English garden meets the wilderness.

Useful Tips

• Open throughout the year from 8:00 am – 5:30 pm.
• The best time to visit is between March and April- when all the flowers are in bloom.

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Hakgala Botanical Garden (හක්ගල උද්භිද උද්‍යානය)

• Botanical Gardens

A leisurely walk in the Hakgala Botanical Gardens can be a most rewarding experience. The season for visiting this garden is said to be between the months of April and August.

Situated some 10 kilometres South of Nuwara Eliya, the road to Hakgala along the Badulla road is a pleasant downhill drive, mostly through pine forests. It was the end of August when we visited and it was still a riot of colour.

The first hint that one is approaching the Hakgala Gardens is the Hakgala rock peak which looms protectively over ‘its garden of delight’. The rock of Hakgala rises 450 m above the garden, forming an inspiring backdrop, shaped like the jawbone of an elephant, from which it is said the place gets its name.

The Hakgala Gardens are not without legend. According to folklore, it is believed that this was once the pleasure garden of Ravana of the Ramayana epic and where his love, the princess Sita was hidden. The present botanical gardens were founded in 1860 by the eminent British botanist, Dr. G.H.K. Thwaites who was superintendent of the Peradeniya Gardens in Kandy .

The site initially was for experiments with cinchona whose bark yielded quinine, esteemed as a tonic and febrifuge. Quinine at that time was widely used to counter malaria.

Hakgala is a temperate hill-country garden, where the lovely low-country lotus and water lily mingle in their serene simplicity with sophisticated English roses, pre-historic looking ferns, and endemic orchids. Where the garden ends, starts the Hakgala Natural Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, monkeys and birds. The curving road that rises from the main gate between well laid banks of colourful flowers is but a glimpse of what is to come.

The terraced rose garden full of English flowers seemed to be the favourite of most visitors, as they posed alongside these stylish beauties. It was cameras everywhere, as man-made his best efforts to capture the exquisiteness of the rose, bringing to my mind the Jim Reeves favourite:

“Each time I touch a rose petal, And feel the sweet fragrance it brings I know there is a God up in Heaven, No human can create such things.”

The flowers of Hakgala seem to vie for your attention; reds, blues, purples, oranges and yellows, their names too many to remember as they stand to attention in well-formed squads.

But there is definitely more than the beauty of multi-coloured flowers at Hakgala.

At Hakgala, trees make art. Huge trees and tree-scapes seem to abound in the garden with their ancient knotted and twisted trunks encrusted with mottled bark in a variety of browns and blacks, making their own individual drama. Looking at these wonders, I am not surprised at Kahlil Gibran’s words when he wrote;

“Trees are poems that the earth writes upon the sky. We fell them down and turn them into paper, that we may record our emptiness”.

An interesting tree which we noticed was named the Badulla tree. This tree is said to have valuable medicinal properties.

Winding pathways will take you to the romantic rock garden and the water garden where boulders blend with ponds and meandering streamlets that trickle through mossy banks under the cool gloom of green. Few visitors seemed to visit this area where the beauty and harmony of nature itself was so prominently displayed.

The fern garden gave an inkling of some pre-historic garden with tall tree ferns shading giant ground ferns. As someone has said, the fernery at Hakgala is truly a shady harbour of many quiet walks in the shade of the Hakgala rock.

At Hakgala you can set free the artist in you to find art and drama in the many tributes to Mother Earth, whether you look up at a gigantic tree or down into the nooks and crannies that fill the lush gardens with its winding pathways.

The Japanese garden however was a sad and neglected disappointment after we climbed to it along an enchantingly rugged pathway. But its saving grace was a unique sculpture of a huge pot with an elephant spout, in which my little daughter took extreme pleasure.

The seed room is also an interesting place for aspiring botanists. And definitely, there may have been more places we would have missed due to the dark skies and threatening rain. Hakgala indeed is an enchanting place.

By Kishanie S. Fernando Daily Mirror

Hakgala Botanical Gardens Opening Hours

Hakgala botanical gardens entrance fees.

Electric Cars and other facilities are available only in certain locations and prices may be increased regularly.

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Map of Hakgala Botanical Garden

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Hakgala Botanical Gardens

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Hakgala Botanical Garden is the second largest garden among the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka and is contiguous to Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve, which is the home to a variety of wild life, including bears, monkeys and birds. Situated some 5 kilometers South of Nuwara Eliya, the road to Hakgala along the Badulla road is a pleasant downhill drive, mostly through pine forests. The comfortable cool weather that prevails throughout the year compliments the exotic flora and fauna, creating a true paradise. It boasts thousands of flora species. .

Originally used for the cultivation of cinchona and tea, the present day Hakgala Gardens was established in 1861 under the patronage of Dr. G H W Thawaites. The development of Hakgala Gardens as a botanic garden was initiated by Mr William Nock in 1884 and since then many varieties of flowers and trees, both local and foreign, have been introduced.

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Hakgala Botanical Garden

Hakgala Botanical Garden, nestled in the lush hills of Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to nature’s splendor. Established in the 19th century during British colonial rule, this enchanting oasis has become a haven for nature enthusiasts and plant lovers alike.

Floral Diversity: A Symphony of Colors One of the striking features of Hakgala Botanical Garden is its remarkable floral diversity. As you wander through its meticulously landscaped grounds, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of indigenous and exotic plant species. From colorful orchids to towering ferns, the garden showcases the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka.

Historical Significance: A Glimpse into the Past Beyond its natural allure, Hakgala Botanical Garden boasts historical significance. It was once a pleasure garden for a 19th-century British dignitary, and remnants of its colonial past can still be observed in the architecture and layout. Exploring the garden offers visitors a chance to step back in time and envision the leisurely pursuits of a bygone era.

The Rose Garden: A Fragrant Paradise Among Hakgala’s many attractions, the Rose Garden stands out as a fragrant paradise. Here, meticulously tended rose bushes of various hues create a captivating tapestry of colors and scents. The garden is not only a delight for the senses but also a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the timeless beauty of roses in full bloom.

Biodiversity Conservation: A Hub of Research and Education Hakgala Botanical Garden serves as more than just a picturesque destination; it plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation, research, and education. Conservationists and botanists work tirelessly to preserve endangered plant species, making the garden a hub of research and environmental stewardship. Educational programs and guided tours further enhance visitors’ understanding of the importance of preserving Sri Lanka’s unique flora.

Conclusion: A Journey Through Nature’s Wonderland In summary, Hakgala Botanical Garden invites travelers on a journey through nature’s wonderland. Its diverse plant life, historical charm, and commitment to conservation make it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re a botany enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking solace in the embrace of nature, Hakgala Botanical Garden promises an unforgettable experience amidst the splendor of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.

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Hakgala Botanical Gardens

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The second largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka with the highest altitude of 5,400 feet above sea level, situated on the Badulla -Welimada main road, 10 km away from the Nuwara Eliya town.

The Hakgala Gardens was established in 1861 on a 28-hectare stretch of land near the Hakgala Mountain under the curatorship of three British nationals - William Nock, J. K. Nock and J. J. Nock.

The garden was set up initially as an experimental cultivation of Cinchona, a commercial crop thriving at the time. After Tea replaced Cinchona, it was turned into an experimental Tea cultivation. 

In 1884 it was transformed to a garden. Since then many sub-tropical and some temperate plants were planted in the gardens. Among the most noted are an over-100-years-old Monastery Cypress tree from Canada, Japanese Cedars, Himalayan Pines, and English Oak, enormous tree ferns, and bark-shedding Australian Melaleucas.

Hakgala Gardens is a paradise of flowering plants including great many varieties of roses and orchids. They blossom throughout the year, most colorful in March and April. Endemic bird species frequenting the gardens include Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lankan Whistling Rush and Sri Lankan Bush Warbler.  

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• Hakgala Botanical Garden

HAKGALA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. The other four are Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, Mirijjawila Botanical Garden and Seethawaka Botanical Garden. It is the second largest garden in Sri Lanka. The garden is contiguous to Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve.

Hakgala Botanical Garden is situated on the Nuwara Eliya - Badulla main road, 16 km from Nuwara Eliya. The garden has a cool temperature climate because of altitude and is 1620 meters (5,400 feet) above the sea level. From December to February it has a cold climate, while the slightly warm climate persists from April to August.

The garden was established in 1861 as an experimental cultivation of Cinchona, a commercial crop thriving at the time. Once after Tea replaced the Cinchona, it was turned into an experimental Tea Cultivation. In 1884 it transformed to a garden. Since then many sub-tropical and some temperate plants were planted in the garden.

In the folklores, it says Sri Lankan King Ravana after abducting Sita, kept her hidden in this area and area was offered to Sita as a pleasure garden, the place finds mention in the Ramayana as Ashok Vatika. The area was named as "Sita Eliya" and "Sita Amman Temple" was built on the site.

There are over 10,000 species of flora planted here and during the Spring season in Nuwara Eliya thousands of visitors come to see the blooms here. The garden is famous for number of species of Orchids and Roses.

Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the Surprising Collection of Nature’s Diverseness

The splendid island of Sri Lanka is simply a land of beauty. From its charming golden shores , to its majestic white cascades , it has so much to offer for the nature lovers. Going beyond, the brilliance of the vibrant blossoms, that can be seen among the lush greenery on this island cannot be ignored. And with regard, the Botanical Gardens in Sri Lanka hold a major significance. Moreover, out of five major botanical gardens in Sri Lanka, Hakgala Botanical Garden happens to be the second largest botanical garden. And why not? The allure surroundings of the Hakgala Botanical Gardens has made this place one of the best reasons to visit Sri Lanka . Thus, we thought of sharing with you delight of this magical paradise!

The Location of Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Hakgala Botanical Gardens is situated 16km from Nuwara Eliya on the main road of Nuwara Eliya to Badulla. In addition, it is close to the Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve . And of course, you can get there from Nuwara Eliya. Simply, ride along the Peradeniya – Badulla – Chenkaladi highway, through Katumana and Seetha Eliya, to Hakgala, to reach the Hakgala Botanical Gardens.

Climate and Temperature around Hakgala Botanical Gardens

The route to Hakgala Botanical Gardens on Badulla Road is a wonderful downhill drive, mainly through pine forests. Similarly, the pleasant cool weather that prevails all year round complements the tropical flora and fauna, making it a real paradise. The garden has a cool temperature climate due to its altitude of 1620 meters (5,400 feet) above sea level. From December to February, the temperature is cool, although the climate is mild from April to August. However, Hakgala Botanical Garden’s mean annual temperature is typically between 16°C and 30°C.

History of the Garden

Dr. G. H. W. Thawaites founded the Hakgala Gardens in the year of 1861 as an observational cultivation of Cinchona, a commercial crop that grew in Nuwara Eliya at the time. Once the tea was replaced by the Cinchona, it was converted into an observational tea cultivation in Nuwara Eliya. And since then, many subtropical and some temperate plants have been grown in the gardens.

As per the Sri Lankan chronicles, the Sri Lankan lord Rama Ravana is said to have abducted Sita, kept her concealed in this area and offered it to Sita as a pleasure garden. Hence, the Ramayana describes this place as Ashok Vatika. Later, the place which is called “Sita Eliya” and “Sita Amman Temple” was built on this site.

The Pleasingness of Hakgala Botanical Garden

As you might already know, Hakgala is a tropical hill-country garden. The way the lovely Low-Country Lotus and Water Lilies there, mingle in their serene beauty with sophisticated classical flowers are simply delighting. And why not? How they blend with the prehistoric fountains and similarly with endemic orchids are more fantastic. Moreover, the arduous rock of Hakgala offers an impressive background to the garden, rising 450 meters above it.

Besides, at present, Hakgala’s gardens of flowers, shrubs, ferns and mountain trees are marvellously set in a safe setting. The small streams that flow, wooden bridges constructed over them, and the birds soaring around further enhance the delight of this garden. Also, the charm of this garden, the cool and shady climate and the enchanting landscape help your mind soothe your anxieties.

The gardens stretch up the steep hillside, from the anodyne ornamental areas around the entry to the much larger and more interesting woods up the slopes. However, the best views are from the stairs. Moreover, the walk to the right directly after the entrance gate leads through the azalea garden to a small pavilion.

Further, below are some of the most significant garden flora species that can be found on this wonderful land.

• Old Tea Trials
• Cupressus Macrocarpa
• Cinnamomumcamphora
• Syncarpia Glomulifera
• Rhodoleiachampioni
• Michelianilagirica
• Rhododendron zeylandicum
• Streptosolenjamesonii
• Santolinachamaecyparissus

In addition, the impressive Rose Garden, Conifers, Cedars, Cypresses, Pine Trees and English Oaks make their home in the garden.

Main Sections of the Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Hakgala Botanical Garden consists of 10 main sections as follows.

• The Spice Garden

The Rose Garden

The orchid house, house with small plants, the cactus house and the herb garden, the fernery, the rock garden, the bulb garden, the arboretum, forested areas.

Indeed, their splendours are worth exploring! So, let us get to know about each of them.

The Garden with Spice

The pleasant Spice Garden on the right at the main entrance bears a good array of cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg. A few of the oldest nutmeg trees are already available in excellent form since the year 1840.

The Rose Garden, a twin cottages block of land, is home to over 100 varieties of Roses. Further, the British colonial emperors of Ceylon planted some of the other varieties of the Roses here. Also, glass house, indoor garden shows flowering species & varieties of Begonia, Peperomia, Saintpaulia, Primula, Gloxinia, Steptocarpus & Pelargonium.

The Orchid House displays the captivating tropical flowers of Cattleya, Dendrobium, Arachnis, Oncidium, Phalaenopsis, Vanda and their hybrids. Similarly, around the Orchid House you have the ability to see numerous hardy orchids, including the largest orchid in the world (Grammatophyllum speciosum), which grow a flower spike up to 2.5 m long and a green orchid (Coelogyne mayeriana).

Next to the Orchid House is a small plant house with a number of green indoor plants, such as ferns, begonias, African violets, Episcia dieffenbachia, Philodendron bromelia and Anthurium.

The Cactus House exhibits over 800 species, such as Agaves, Opuntia, Kalanchoe, Cereus, Rebutia, Rhipsalis. Similarly, the Flower Garden showcases various annual flowers organised according to the height and colour of the plants.

It offers a shaded environment. Wood Fern is one of the kinds of ferns (Cyathea crinita). Many species of natural ferns grow in the shadow of tall trees. This section also houses old tea bushes (Camellia sinensis) which have been used to experiment with the cultivation of tea in the hill country. Moreover, this collection forms the very appearance of the Assam Tee Hybrid brought to Ceylon in 1967.

The major rock garden, founded in 1921, provides an area for several kinds of herbaceous plants. However, these plants survive well in the beds of rock and boulders. Similarly, the reservoir underneath the sloppy grass is home to the water lily (Nymphaea mexicana).

The history of Bulb Garden runs back to the year 1924. Besides, it comprises a good selection of subtropical bulbous plants and some of them are as follows.

• Hemerocallis
• Alstroemeria
• Zantedeschia

Indeed, all of them hold a significant place in this wonderful paradise, and they are worth seeing!

The arboretum is one of the most significant aspects of the garden. This segment includes a wide area in the rock garden. Various native species as well as species imported from subtropical countries occur here.

The wooded areas of the gardens contain several magnificent Monterey cypresses from California, U.S.A. and fine ancient cedars. Also there are areas of huge tree ferns, Japanese camphor stands, and pines and eucalyptus, a shaggy cluster of Australian melaleucas.

Hakgala Botanical Gardens as a Home for Birds

Hakgala Botanical Garden has become one of the best destinations on the island to spot endangered mountain bird species and migrating birds during the North East monsoon.

You have the ability of finding a good number of native birds in the garden premises. Some of them are as follows.

• Sri Lankan Wood Pigeon
• Southern Crow Pheasant
• Layard WoodPecker
• Powerful Fan Tailed Warbler
• Yellow Fronted Barbet
• Tickell’s Flower Pecker
• Ceylon Jungle Bird
• Forest Eagle Fowl
• Yellow Eared Bulbul
• Green Willow Warbler
• Black Heaven

Besides, the most visible migratory birds out there are as follows.

• Gray wagtail
• Pied field thrush
• Bungalow swallow
• Pied & brown shrike
• Indian woodchat
• Gray-headed flycatcher
• Black winged kite
• Pintail Snipe
• Brown shrike.

The playful flatters, and the vibrant shades of all these bird species, not only enhance the charm of this wonderful garden, but also add a sense of value to this wonderful attraction.

Biodiversity at Hakgala Botanical Gardens

If you read our article up to now, there is no wonder that you have realised that Hakgala Botanical Gardens is a biodiversity hotspot. To be specific, there are over 10,000 species of flora at Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Besides, Hakgala Botanical Garden is world famous for the number of species of orchids and roses that it houses. Also, it is home for an extensive range of massive trees, plants and fauna. All these together, makes it one of the ideal places to observe the biodiversity of nature at its best.

The Opening Hours of the Garden

The opening hours for the Hakgala Botanical Gardens are from 8.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., and the plant nursery is closing at 3.30 p.m. Wheelchairs are available for a small rental. While light motor vehicles are allowed to access the gardens. However, visitors are encouraged to walk all around Hakgala Gardens if they want to discover the best of the delightful spots in this very spacious garden.

The Bottom Line

Above all, let us sum up mentioning you that the Hakgala Botanical Garden is a magical paradise that you should never miss. And the amazing fact is, the number of visitors to this garden exceeds 500,000 annually. So, why miss it? If you are ever planning to backpack on this splendid island , make sure that you add Hakgala Botanical Garden into your list. Its astounding beauties, coupled with the relaxing cool breeze of charming Nuwara Eliya will surely make your visit memorable and delighting like no other. Happy and Safe Travelling! 

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

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Hakgala Botanic Gardens

This garden of 28 ha lies at an elevation of about 1745 meters above sea level, in several terraces upon the lower slopes of the Hakgala Rock (elephants jaw rock), covered by the Hakgala strict nature reserve in the Nuwara Eliya district. The massive Hakgala rock towers to a height of about 2200 m behind the gardens and surrounding the forest reserve like a solitary giant. Adorned by the surrounding forest the garden faces the Uva valley and the mountain ranges of Madulsima and Namunukula in the distant landscape.

The best time to visit the garden is during the festive season at Nuwara Eliya from April trailing off to August when the gardens also put up their best display of temperate annual flowers, Roses and Foliage. Although not many flowers are seen during October to December one can enjoy the serenity of subtropical mist covered woodland flora with other vegetations.

This picturesque garden has a cool, fresh climate somewhat similar to an alpine atmosphere. The flora of the garden is distinctly subtropical and consisting of indigenous montane vegetation intermingled with introduced subtropical flora from various countries and includes about 1000 plant species. The area receives rainfall through the southwest monsoon from May to August when gusts of strong winds blow across the garden and the North East monsoon from October to December. During this period thick mist envelopes the garden with frequent, heavy rains during the afternoon and evenings.

Hakgala Botanical Garden Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Hwy Hakgala – Sri Lanka

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The History

The history of Nuwara Eliya roughly dates back to 1818 when Dr. John Davy discovered Nuwara Eliya as a place with a similar ...

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Hakgala, Nuwara Eliya

(6.4km from Nuwara Eliya)

7.30am-5.30pm

Near Places

Seetha raman kovil.

Located just 1 km from the Hakgala is the Seetha Amman kovil. This is the only Seetha Amman kovil in the world and is built according to South Indian architecture.

Bomburu Ella lake

Also known as Perawella Falls and located near the Nuwara Eliya border.

Gregory Lake

Named after Sir William Gregory in 1873, this is a prominent attraction used for water sports and recreational activities.

Strawberry Farm

Strawberry Farms can be reached via Hakgala, Ambewela Road, New Zealand Farm Road.

Nuwara Eliya is often referred to by the Sri Lankan tourist industry as ‘Little England’. E-Mail Us: [email protected]

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Hakgala Botanical gardens

Kavindu Ashan,

Rahula College,

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A great venue for nature lovers.

A trip  to Nuwara Eliya would best be crowned with a visit to the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Take the hilly road that winds from Nuwara Eliya to Badulla, and stop in Hakgala where two old green gates invite you to one of the most paradisiacal gardens Sri Lanka can offer. The gardens, thought to be the highest located in the world, actually climb up a slope, resting under the mighty blue shadow of the Hakgala rock peak.

Legends connect Hakgala to The Ramayana and the King Ravana. In modern times it came into importance in 1861 when the land was grown with Cinchona to make quinine, a counter to Malaria.

The British landscaped the gardens and made it a place of great beauty, where trees could be seen in their real green splendour of many moods, and 10,000 species of flowers would flourish, kissed, braced and fostered well by the cool climate which is one of the most pleasant found in the Island.

Here flourish not only our local flora but bold, exotic blooms dripping with colour, natives of a medley of exotic places including the Netherlands, Japan, Britain and China. The flower beds flame in shades ranging from shocking to subtle. The trees themselves are quite majestic. Here the tropical blends with the alpine, with palms standing next to Bunya pines on grasslands; ferns droop over dark pools creating scenes from a Jurassic world; and garden art or flower beds in elaborate designs and motifs, seen from upper terraces, fascinate you.

The Hakgala garden is carefully divided. Among the most charismatic places are the Rose Garden with its giant classic English blooms and the Orchid House. The Bulb Garden will be euphoric with its brilliant Christmassy colours. The herbarium and orchards add variety to the experience. While there, watch out for uncommon birds among the greenery, like the Forest Eagle Owl. A woody trail connects the gardens to the Hakgala Nature Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife including the Sloth bear.

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Hakgala Botanic Gardens

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Hakgala Botanic Gardens - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Moscow Parks and Gardens

(moscow, central federal district, russia), aleksandrovskii sad (alexander gardens), botanicheskii sad (botanical gardens), garden of the russian army, ermitazhnyi sad (hermitage gardens), izmailovskii park (izmailovo park), sokolniki park, aptekarskii ogorod botanicheskii sad (medicinal botanical gardens), timiriazevskii park, tsaritsyno park, park pobedy (victory park).

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A very nice Graden - Aptekarskiy Ogorod Botanical Garden

• Europe    
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• Aptekarskiy Ogorod Botanical Garden

This year, for the first time, the capital of Russia, Moscow, hosted a large-scale celebration of... read more

The Pharmaceutical Garden is located near the Garden Ring next to the Prospekt Mira metro station... read more

A very nice Graden

A very well kept place where we roamed around for quite some time and also had Lunch at a Restaurant inside the Park.

The best park in Moscow. Very cosy and beautiful! If you visit Moscow in may – you’ll see here the magnificent tulips.

The botanic garden is close to metro Prospekt Mira and is beautifully situated behind a modern building. It is a favorite plce for Moscovites to walk enjoy the special plants and pieces of art and afterwards eat or drink something in the places around. It is also close to the Olympic stadion

This is, perhaps, the best park in Moscow. Tiny but colourful, with plenty of flowers and various trees, it is amazing even when it is raining. Inside the park there is such quiet and pleasant atmosphere that it makes invisible the city sounds and crowds from outside just a row of restaurants. The garden is easy to reach on public transport, but somebody can spend couple of minutes to find the parking. Besides, there is some admission fee.

Perhaps the cosiest park in the city centre. This oldest botanical garden was created in 1706 according to decree of Peter I and was used for cultivation of medicinal herbs.

I love this place, it's really cute in spring and summer, and there are some days when it's free to visit! Otherwise you would have to pay. It has really beautiful flowers, and although being close to Pr. Mira busy road, it offers real relaxing atmosphere. It's a great place to go for a walk, and they have a cool(not very big though) greenhouse, it does get quite hot in there in summer!

Central Botanical Garden

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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CENTRAL BOTANICAL GARDEN: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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