In Sri Lanka the botanical garden, if not a public one, was already in evidence with the royal founding of Peradeniya, near Kandy, in the 14th century. Since British times Peradeniya has become one of the finest botanical gardens in Asia. When the British eventually wrested control of the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, the site at Peradeniya was a Royal Pleasure Garden, apparently being enjoyed by the last Queen of Kandy.  In typical fashion, the British were quick to establish their own indelible stamp on this lush corner that exists in the cradle of a deep bend in the wide and languid river, the Mahaweli. 

 
Initially managed by Alexander Moon, the gardens started as little more than a coffee and cinnamon plantation.  Today, spread over a sprawling 147 hectares, they are home to some 4,000 species from all corners of the earth. There is a pungent and fascinating spice garden which provides a fine introduction to the long-practiced medicinal science of Ayurveda and an exceptional orchid house sheltering some 300 varieties. A number of the wider pathways are tree-lined, including the classic “Avenue of Palms” which has the aesthetic power to transform a simple stroll into an event. 
 

One of the most entertaining segments of this botanical wonderland is the commemorative garden where royalty and other international dignitaries have planted trees marking their visits to the island. In the vein of rich history of the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, it is worth noting that it acted as the operational headquarters of Lord Mountbatton, Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces of the South East Asia Command during the rough and tumble years of World War II.  While it is quite proper that a trip to the botanical gardens opens up a world of vegetative delights, this is after all Sri Lanka where the existence of flora essentially guarantees the occurrence of one faunal treasure or the other. 
 

With the abundant wealth of trees, shrubs, fruits and flowers to explore, it is definitely of value to spend the entire day and meander about at a relaxed pace.  There is a small restaurant within the grounds for food and drink, the verandah of which affords lovely views across the neatly tended lawns.
 
(Content Source: Travel Sri Lanka Magazine)