Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Central Highlands, on the A5 highway at an elevation of 1745 meters above sea level, near Nuwara Eliya. Spread across roughly 28 hectares, the garden is famous for its collection of orchids and roses.
The best time to visit Hakgala Botanical Garden is during the spring months, from April to August, when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather in Nuwara Eliya is mild and pleasant.
Tourists can enjoy a diverse collection of flora, including roses, ferns, orchids, and an array of temperate and tropical plants. The garden is also home to several endemic and non-endivative species, with scenic landscapes, a cool climate, and beautiful mountain backdrops adding to the visual appeal.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting Hakgala Botanical Garden. The fee varies for locals and foreigners, and it is subject to change. Tourists are advised to check the latest rates before planning their visit.
While there may not be official guided tours offered by the garden, visitors can often hire local guides at the entrance for a personalized tour. Tourists can also explore the gardens on their own.
Notable attractions within the garden include the Rose Garden, the Fernery, the Rock Garden, and the Japanese Garden. Visitors can also expect to find a variety of endemic tree species and an exotic collection of plants from around the world.
A visit to the Hakgala Botanical Garden can take around 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the pace of your walk and how thoroughly you'd like to explore the diverse sections of the garden.
Hakgala Botanical Garden is typically open to visitors from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm daily. However, it’s a good idea to check the current opening times before your visit as they can change due to weather conditions or special events.
While some areas of the garden may be accessible, the hilly terrain and some unpaved pathways might be challenging for wheelchair users. It's best to contact the garden in advance for specific accessibility information.
There are no formal dining facilities within the Botanical Garden, but there are a few small snack stalls. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in designated areas.