Hakgala Botanical Garden, Sri Lanka

Hakgala Botanical Garden lies below the great rock of Hakgala, about 10 km from Nuwara Eliya at roughly 1,700 metres. It began in 1861 as a plantation for cinchona, the tree used to make quinine, and is now one of Sri Lanka's prettiest gardens, with cool air, terraced lawns and views over the Uva hills.

Many visitors come for its place in the Ramayana. Tradition links this area with the Ashok Vatika, the garden where Ravana is said to have kept Sita. Some also say that Hakgala Rock is a piece of the mountain Hanuman carried from the Himalayas.

What to see

• The rose garden — at its best in the drier months, with many varieties in bloom.
• Tree ferns and the fernery — a green, shady walk through plants from around the world.
• Old trees and lawns — good for a picnic, with views across the valley.
• Birdlife — hill-country species, including some endemics, in the quieter upper paths.

Visiting tips

• Allow 1.5 to 2 hours. The paths are steep in places, so wear shoes with grip.
• Go in the morning, before mist and afternoon rain.
• Carry a light jacket. It is much cooler than the coast.
• Foreign visitors pay a higher entrance fee than locals, so bring cash.

When to visit

The gardens are open all year. Flowers are best around February to May, and April is very busy with domestic visitors.

Getting there

Hakgala is on the A5 road towards Badulla, about 20 minutes by car or tuk-tuk from Nuwara Eliya, and a few minutes past the Seetha Amman Temple. Local buses also pass the gate.