History:
The garden has a rich history dating back to 1371 when it was first established as a royal garden by the Sinhala Kings. However, it was later developed and expanded during the British colonial period in the 19th century. It was officially opened to the public in 1821.

Location:
The garden is situated in the Peradeniya area, which lies near the Mahaweli River, providing a serene and picturesque environment. The proximity to the famous Temple of the Tooth in Kandy makes it a popular destination for tourists visiting the region.

1. Plant Collections:
   The Peradeniya Botanical Garden boasts an impressive collection of over 4,000 species of plants, including:

   • Tropical and subtropical plants
   • Orchids: The orchid collection is one of the most popular and diverse in the garden, with over 1,000 varieties.
   • Palm trees: It has a large collection of palm species from around the world.
   • Medicinal plants: The garden showcases a variety of plants with medicinal properties used in Sri Lankan traditional medicine.

2. Notable Sections and Attractions:

   • The Great Lawn: A large open space where visitors can relax and enjoy the views of the garden and surrounding hills.
   • The Orchid House: A spectacular collection of orchids, both native and exotic, displayed in a greenhouse.
   • The Palm Avenue: A stunning row of towering palm trees leading visitors through the garden.
   • The Royal Palms: A section of the garden featuring the majestic royal palms that create a grand entrance to the garden.
   • The Spice Garden: A section dedicated to various spice plants used in Sri Lankan cooking and Ayurveda.
   • The Cactus House: An area dedicated to succulent and cactus species from arid regions around the world.

3. Flora and Fauna:

   • The garden is home to a diverse range of plant species, some of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. It also supports various birds, butterflies, and other wildlife that add to the charm of the garden.
   • Some of the trees in the garden are particularly famous, such as the Java fig tree and the giant Burmese Banyan tree.

4. Educational Value:
   The garden serves as an educational center for students and researchers interested in plant science, horticulture, and conservation. It offers an excellent opportunity to learn about different plant species, their ecological importance, and conservation efforts.

5. Tourism and Accessibility:
   The Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a popular tourist attraction, drawing both local and international visitors. It is well-maintained and offers guided tours, making it an ideal location for nature lovers, botanists, photographers, and families to explore. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, take photographs of the stunning flora, or simply relax in the garden’s natural beauty.