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 ...

The Dehiwela Zoo has an aquarium, a herpetarium and a walk-through aviary and butterfly house, apart from the many enclosures. The zoo has well-signposted trails and paths that enable visitors to find their way with ease. The elephant shed is a special place. Each elephant is given a name such as Raja and Sama. A mahout is ...

Founded by the eminent British botanist, Dr G.H.K. Thwaites in 1860, Hakgala was established at the height of imperial botany to supply the British Empire with cinchona to fight the scourge of malaria. The cinchona is long gone and instead Hakgala has plantations of roses, shrubs, orchids, ferns, camphor, eucalyptus, and ...

Two highland bird sanctuaries are Udawattakele and Peak Wilderness.Udawatta kale is situated just above the temple of Tooth Kandy.It supports many species of bird life. Some of the common birds are Layard’s Parakeet, Gold fronted and Blue winged Leafbirds etc.

This seaside promenade, stretching one-and-a-half kilometres, was laid out in 1859 by the British Governor Sir Henry Ward. Used for horse racing 100 years ago, it is now the largest open space in Colombo and a place for all those who want to indulge in their favourite pastimes next to the sea. Walk around at sunset and watch ...

Viharamahadevi Park is the green lung of Colombo: the largest, oldest and most colourful park. It is at its best from March to May, when most of the flowers are in full bloom. The park is great for shaded walks and relaxation. There are small ponds, occasional elephants, and some interesting Buddha statues.

Located in the south-east corner of Sri Lanka, Yala(Officially known as Ruhunu National Park) lies within reasonable reach of the tourist destinations of the west coast and south-west coast. Comprising 97,881 hectares of land,it started as a game reserve for British colonial and overseas sportsmen in 1900.