MYSTICAL MOUNTANIN EXCAPE IN SRI LANKA
Have you ever dreamed of walking through a real-life fairytale garden high in the misty mountains, where the air is cool and flowers bloom in every colour imaginable? Welcome to Hakgala Botanical Garden, one of Sri Lanka’s most magical natural attractions. Hidden away in the lush hills near Nuwara Eliya, this enchanting garden is filled with history, myth, and breath-taking beauty.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka’s hill country, Hakgala is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking peace and inspiration.
THE GARDEN IS SITTING AMONG THE CLOUDS
Hakgala Botanical Garden is located about 10 km southeast of Nuwara Eliya, at an elevation of 1,745 meters (5,600 feet) above sea level. The cool, fresh air and misty atmosphere give it a calm, dreamlike feel a welcome change from the country’s hot coastal regions.
The garden sits under the shadow of the dramatic Hakgala Rock, also known as “Elephant’s Jaw Rock” because of its shape. This massive rock forms a stunning natural backdrop for the manicured lawns, flower beds, and winding pathways. The journey to the garden is equally scenic, passing through rolling tea plantations, pine forests, and mountain valleys.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Hakgala is not just beautiful, it’s steeped in history and legend.
The garden was first created in 1861 by the British, who used it to grow cinchona, a plant used to produce quinine (a medicine for malaria). Later, they experimented with tea cultivation, and in 1884, Hakgala officially became a botanical garden. Its purpose was to test how plants from colder climates could adapt to the tropics.
But Hakgala’s story goes even deeper — all the way to ancient mythology. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, this area was the mythical Ashok Vatika, the pleasure garden where King Ravana kept Princess Sita captive. Some say you can still feel the spiritual energy of those legends while walking beneath the old trees and misty paths.
A BOTNICAL WONDERLAND
Spread over 28 hectares, Hakgala Botanical Garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants, both local and foreign. Each section has its own unique charm and beauty.
THE ORCHID HOUSE
This is one of the garden’s highlights. It features a dazzling collection of native and exotic orchids, each with different colours, shapes, and sizes. Look out for the giant Grammatophyllum speciosum, one of the largest orchids in the world!
THE ROSE GARDEN
Perched on twin terraces, the rose garden is a romantic and colourful corner of Hakgala. With hundreds of rose varieties, the air here is filled with fragrance, and the vibrant blooms make it a favourite spot for photos.
THE FERNERY AND ARBORETUM
Need a little shade? Step into the fernery, where the air is cool and damp, and the ground is covered with native ferns, mosses, and lichens. The arboretum features ancient trees like Monterey cypress and eucalyptus, giving the garden a grand, old-world atmosphere.
THE JAPANESE GARDEN AND CENTRAL POND
This peaceful area adds a touch of Zen to Hakgala. Wooden bridges cross over gentle streams, and the pond filled with water lilies creates the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sound of nature.
WILDLIFE AND BIRDS
Hakgala isn’t just about plants, it’s alive with wildlife too! The garden is a great spot for birdwatching, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot endemic species like the Yellow-eared Bulbul or the Ceylon White-eye.
You might also see playful Toque macaques (a type of monkey found only in Sri Lanka) swinging through the trees. They’re cheeky but part of the charm of the place — so keep your snacks hidden!
GARDEN LAYOUT AND ATTRACTIONS
The Hakgala Botanical Garden is organized into several distinct sections, each offering its own unique appeal:
Upper Terrace : Known for its neatly manicured lawns, beds of colourful flowers, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Fernery : A magical corner with lush ferns and mosses that thrive under the shade of towering trees.
Rock Garden : An area showcasing ornamental rocks and drought-tolerant plants.
Rose Garden : A romantic spot featuring an array of vibrant roses, making it a favourite for photography.
Medicinal Garden : A section dedicated to plants with therapeutic properties, reflecting Sri Lanka's rich ayurvedic heritage.
TTIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Hakgala is open all year, but the most beautiful time is mid-March to late April, when the flowers are in full bloom. The spring season transforms the garden into a sea of colours.
GETTING THERE
It’s just a 15–20 minute drive from Nuwara Eliya, and you can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi along the main Badulla Road.
A light jacket : it can get chilly
An umbrella or raincoat : mountain weather changes quickly.
Comfortable walking shoes : some paths are steep.
A camera : you’ll want to capture every view!
THINGS TO DO
Nature Walks : Wander along the well-maintained pathways and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.
Photography : Capture the breath taking beauty of flowers, landscapes, and wildlife.
Picnics : Enjoy a tranquil picnic amidst the lush greenery.
Educational Tours : Learn about the diverse plant species and their ecological significance.
As final thoughts Hakgala Botanical Garden is truly one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting places. With its mix of colonial history, ancient legend, and stunning natural beauty, it feels like a little slice of heaven tucked away in the mountains.
Whether you’re a botany enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone who loves peaceful nature walks, Hakgala offers something special for everyone.
So, the next time you find yourself in Nuwara Eliya, don’t miss this mystical mountain escape ,where myth meets nature, and every path leads to beauty.
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