The largest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka, Peradeniya is a haven of peace. Located in Kandy district which is 110kms from Colombo,You can take a walk through lush greenary and stretch your legs and discovering the results of very hard work by British colonists to create a garden fit for kings. The gardens cover a surface of 147 acres and are originally conceived in 1371 by Sinhalese kings. In 1821, the British turned them into botanical gardens and began conserving the many plant species found in Sri Lanka. Imported crops were tested in the gardens: coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber, cinchona… Interestingly, the first plants of tea were regarded as a decoration, before becoming a huge industry for Sri Lanka.The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens are home to many species native to Sri Lanka. Here, you have a great opportunity to put a name on plants you see everywhere in Sri Lanka. Indeed, the cannonball tree is quite common in Sri Lanka and it has a peculiar look…As a place of conservation and sustainability, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens are a must-see if orchids and spices are of interest. The Orchid Pavilion is therefore worth a tour if you are keen to discover many different species. Growing orchids is an art and a delicate one. You have to find the perfect balance of temperature, moisture and shading. Personally,Sri Lankans are very proud of their history and very knowledgeable about it. Interestingly, this includes the colonial history, and a visit to Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens is a great way to experience how a typically British creation has become part of Sri Lankan life. The garden welcomes two million visitors each year and about 5% of all Sri Lankan schoolchildren visit Peradeniya every year. Sri Lankan people are friendly and easy to talk to, and the gardens host many families and couples enjoying the beauty of the place. Most importantly at the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, you can simply enjoy a moment of peace at the foot of a giant tree. If trees give you a sense of calm and purpose, you can sit in their shade and daydream for a moment…