Explore the Wonders of Henarathgoda Botanical Garden

Visit Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, one of Sri Lanka’s six botanical gardens, covering 44 acres and located 33 feet above sea level. Surrounded by paddy fields and the Attanagalu Oya, this garden offers a peaceful retreat into nature.

Established in 1876, the garden is famous for being the site of Sri Lanka’s first rubber tree plantation. After failed attempts in India, British naturalists turned to Ceylon, recognizing its Amazon-like climate. In 1876, 1,919 rubber seeds from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, were planted here. By 1881, the trees bloomed, and their seeds were later exported to South India, Malaysia, and Myanmar.

Because of its success, Che Guevara visited Sri Lanka on August 7, 1959, during his Asian tour, to study rubber planting techniques. Sri Lanka remains one of the few countries he explored during his remarkable lifetime.

Unfortunately, the first rubber tree collapsed in a storm in 1988, and its remains were not preserved. However, the garden has introduced new attractions, including boat rides on the Attanagalu Oya and a bridge over the river, making the visit even more enjoyable.

The garden features an impressive collection of palms, orchids, and endemic trees. It is home to 80 bird species, including 10 endemic ones, along with 18 species of mammals, such as the Sri Lankan flying squirrel. Visitors may also spot 12 butterfly species and 10 dragonfly species while exploring.

There are several sections to explore, including the orchid garden, which houses the rare Queen of Orchids, a forest path, a palm garden, a medicinal garden, an educational zone, and a Japanese garden.

Although open year-round, the best time to visit is June to November, after the Southwest monsoon, when the garden bursts with color and life.

Best season : All year around
Available : Daily
Arranging time needed : 1 hrs

Best time to start : Early mornings & afternoons
Starting point : BI Airport and Negombo area
Whole touring hrs : 3-4
Total Kms driven : 60

Restrictions : Do not leave plastics behind / Please do not feed wild animals.

Basic price includes : Pick up & drop off / Entrance ticket / All Gov tax.

Child price : Aged 6 - 12 is considered a child / Aged 0 - 6 is free of charge.

Feedback us : Our drivers and service providers are advised not to promote any other activities or nudge you for shopping. Please leave your feedback on Google.

Optional : A well-spoken local animal expert / historian could be arranged with an additional fee.

You may bring : Water / Hat and sun glass / Sun cream / Camera

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Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off Options

At CCT Sri Lanka, we prioritise your comfort and convenience with our flexible pick-up and drop-off services. Our team of service-oriented drivers is registered with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, ensuring you receive the highest standard of professionalism and care.

Our Services Include:

• Airport Pick-Up: Arrive with ease as we provide reliable transportation from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or Palali International Airport (JAF). Start your journey smoothly and stress-free.
• Hotel Pick-Up: Already arrived? We’ll pick you up directly from your hotel or any other location, tailored to your schedule.
• Customizable Drop-Off: Whether you’re returning to the airport or heading to another destination, we’ll arrange a drop-off location that suits your needs.

Let us take care of the logistics while you focus on enjoying your adventure in Sri Lanka. To reserve your vehicle, select your date from the drop-down menu for your destination or contact us directly for personalised assistance. Experience the difference of exceptional service with CCT Sri Lanka.

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