How about stepping into a world of botanical wonders right here in Peradeniya? This town is a suburb of Kandy. It is famous for its Royal Botanical Gardens.
Peradeniya is more than just a scenic spot. It is a place where history and nature intertwine. The Royal Botanic Gardens are a testament to this. They attract visitors from Sri Lanka and abroad. The gardens span 147 acres. They stand 460 meters above sea level.
Did you know that Peradeniya’s name comes from “pera” meaning guava and “deniya” meaning plain? The town has about 30,000 residents. It is located west of Kandy city center.
But the story of Peradeniya goes back further than that. King Wickramabahu III held court here in 1371. This area near the Mahaweli River was his chosen spot. Later, King Wimala Dharma built a temple here. Unfortunately, the British destroyed it.
Fast forward to 1821, and we find Alexandar Moon laying the groundwork for a botanical garden. He cultivated coffee and cinnamon plants here. The Royal Botanic Gardens were formally established in 1843. Plants were brought from Kew Garden and other locations.
The Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya became more independent under George Gardner in 1844. He served as superintendent. Later, the garden came under the Department of Agriculture in 1912.
Peradeniya boasts an impressive collection of flora. There are over 4000 plant species. This includes orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. The National Herbarium of Sri Lanka is attached to the gardens.
Look around and notice the avenues. There is Cook’s Pine Avenue. You can also see Palmyra Palm Avenue and Royal Palm Avenue. The classical Avenue of Palms is a sight to behold in Peradeniya.
Keep an eye out for the Cannonball Tree. King George V and Queen Mary planted it in 1901. Its fruits resemble cannonballs.
During World War II, Lord Louis Mountbatten used the gardens. They served as the headquarters for the South East Asia Command.
The Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya welcome around 1.2 million locals and 400,000 foreign visitors each year. Peradeniya is a suburb with the University of Peradeniya. Its buildings blend colonial and Sri Lankan styles. The Department of Agriculture is also located here.
So, as you wander through these gardens, remember the kings and commanders. Recall the botanists and everyday visitors who have all been captivated by Peradeniya. It truly is a unique place.