Experts' Choice Award Royal Botanical Gardens
What the experts agree on
Once reserved for Kandyan royalty, this sprawling 60-hectare garden near Kandy is Sri Lanka's largest, boasting over 4,000 species of palms, orchids and tropical plants across expansive landscaped grounds.
“The base of the Sigiriya rock is a beautifully landscaped area dotted with formal water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders that were once home to numerous Buddhist shrines.”
– Lonely Planet
Travel + Leisure "Founded in the 16th century, the largest botanic garden in Sri Lanka is 2 1/2 miles from Kandy, the country's second-biggest city." Full review
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"These stunning gardens were once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty. Today, even commoners are allowed in to enjoy the most impressive and largest (60 hectares) botanic gardens in Sri Lanka." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"Today the largest of the island and home to over 4,000 species. Dozens and dozens of acres provide shelter to splendid indigenous specimens: palm trees, spice trees, orchids and tropical plants." Full review
