Design Garden

When one considers the island paradise of Sri Lanka it immediately conjures up images of stunning coastlines, towering Buddhist monuments and lush hillsides heavy with the scent of tea. But theres more to the island nation than the tried and tested attractions that deck its well-worn travel brochures, and that is its equally captivating plethora of botanical gardens.

Although the Haggala and Peradeniya botanical gardens are among the most frequented gardens in the country, theres a lesser known but equally mesmerizing verdant patch of picturesque perfection closer to the capital Colombo named the Henarathgoda Botanical Garden. Located a mere 30km from the capital of Sri Lanka, the Henarathgoda Botanical Garden is conveniently placed along the Colombo-Kandy road near the town of Gampaha. With its history forever connected to the colonial rubber industry of the island, the Henarathgoda Botanical Garden contains the first ever rubber seedling to have been planted in Asia in the year 1876. Legend states that an English colonial agent brought 70,000 rubber seeds illegally from the Amazon Forest, out of which 2700 seedlings were planted in Londons Kew Gardens. It is said that nearly 2000 seedlings were then brought to the Henarathgoda Garden and were used to create rubber plantations nationwide.

Spread out across an area of 36 acres at its inception, another seven acres were added to the property in 2005. Situated at an elevation of 33 feet above sea level, this sprawling parkland is home to a truly international collection of trees from across the globe. With several Brazilian trees among its more famous inhabitants, the Henarathgoda Garden serves as a popular recreational point for residents and tourists who love to explore the shady environs of this tropical green enclave.

Although the garden is open to the public throughout the year, locals and seasoned travellers agree that the best period to visit the botanical garden is following the monsoon season which leaves the venue brimming with vibrancy and innumerable blooms. As one of the islands most renowned institutions for conservation, the Henarathgoda Botanical Garden is also actively engaged in the development and education of the countrys floriculture and botanical research.

Those who wish to discover the many fascinating attractions in Sri Lanka should first explore the premier travel information guide that is Truly Sri Lanka. Offering guests a practical look at the islands touristic possibilities and attributes, visitors are well advised to tour this site if they wish to visit Sri Lanka.