The Gampaha Botanical Garden, officially called the Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, is a peaceful and historically important spot in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province. It is one of six botanical gardens on the island and represents Sri Lanka’s colonial history and its growth as an agricultural center. Established in 1876 by the British, this garden played a key role as the nursery for one of Asia’s most important cash crops, rubber.
Today, this expansive 17.8-hectare (43-acre) garden serves as both a vital site for botanical research and conservation and a beloved retreat for families, students, and nature enthusiasts looking for a break from the busy commercial capital of Colombo.
A Historical Seed: The Birthplace of Asian Rubber
A significant part of the garden’s history, and of commercial agriculture in South and Southeast Asia, is its connection to the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis).
Undermining the Amazonian Monopoly
In the late 19th century, the British Empire aimed to stop Brazil’s monopoly on natural rubber, which was becoming increasingly essential for the industrial revolution. After unsuccessful attempts to grow the crop in India, British naturalists, including Dr. G.H.K. Thwaites, superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya, found that the tropical low-country climate near Gampaha was suitable and reminded them of the Amazon Basin.
In 1876, after Sir Henry Wickham smuggled seeds from Brazil, 1,919 rubber seedlings were imported from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and planted at Henarathgoda. This marked the start of commercial rubber cultivation in Asia. The trees thrived, with the first blooms occurring in 1881. Seeds from these initial successful plants were then spread across Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and exported to other British colonies, such as South India, Malaysia, and Myanmar, forever changing the global economy and the agricultural landscape.
The Monumental Remains
The original rubber trees at Henarathgoda have a storied but delicate legacy. One of the oldest trees eventually fell during a storm in 1988, but its remains are carefully preserved as a national monument. This piece of land in Gampaha is the birthplace of the vast rubber industry that grew throughout Asia. Visitors can still find other 19th-century trees that have survived, connecting them to this crucial moment in history. The garden is home to the largest surviving rubber tree in Sri Lanka, which stands at 40 meters tall.
Exploring the Botanical Diversity
Besides its historical value, Henarathgoda is an important tropical low-country botanical garden that is active in botanical research and conservation and helps develop the nation’s floriculture. Located only about 10 meters (33 feet) above sea level and bordered by the Attanagalu Oya river, it provides a peaceful waterfront setting.
The garden hosts around 2,000 plant species, representing a wide range of tropical flora from Sri Lanka and other tropical areas worldwide. Key sections and notable collections include:
The Specialized Gardens
- Orchid House: A highlight for plant lovers, this greenhouse features a colorful collection of native and exotic orchids, one of the most admired plant families in tropical settings.
- Japanese Garden: This space offers a peaceful contrast to the garden’s other sections, carefully landscaped with traditional features, perfect for quiet reflection and photography.
- Rose Garden: This area showcases various species and types of roses, adding vibrant colors and fragrances to the garden’s low-country plants.
- Medicinal Garden: This section highlights the island’s rich Ayurveda heritage, displaying numerous medicinal herbs and plants vital to traditional Sri Lankan healing methods.
- Palm Collection: Henarathgoda boasts a large number of palm species, creating beautiful tropical pathways and shaded groves throughout the park.
Forest and Wetland Habitats
The garden’s grounds include manicured lawns, tree-lined paths, and areas of secondary forest along the Attanagalu Oya. This mix of habitats supports a lively local ecosystem, making the garden a sanctuary for wildlife. It is home to around 80 bird species, including endemic varieties, making it a delightful spot for birdwatchers. The river and the tropical lowland climate contribute to a lush environment filled with aquatic plants and wetland flora.
A Visitor’s Guide to Henarathgoda
Henarathgoda Botanical Garden is a great day trip from Colombo, offering history, education, and relaxation.
Location and Access
- Distance from Colombo: About 29-31 km.
- Proximity to Gampaha Town: The garden is conveniently located just 450 meters from the Gampaha Railway Station, right on the Gampaha-Minuwangoda main road.
Getting There from Colombo:
- Train: The most affordable and fastest option. Direct trains run from Colombo Fort to Gampaha, taking around 30-51 minutes. The garden is a short walk or quick tuk-tuk ride from the station.
- Taxi/Ride-Hailing: A direct journey takes around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Essential Information
- Opening Hours: The garden is usually open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Visiting in the morning is recommended for cooler temperatures and softer light.
- Entrance Fees (Approximate, Subject to Change):
Overseas Adult: Rs. 1500
Overseas Child (under 12): Rs. 750
- Note: Separate fees or permissions may apply for professional photography or videography.
- Facilities: The garden offers public toilets, parking, and a canteen. There are also designated picnic and resting areas throughout the grounds.
Key Attractions and Activities
- The First Rubber Tree Monument: Respect the preserved remains of the tree that started an entire industry.
The Old Henarathgoda Railway Station: A preserved site near the entrance, built during the colonial era for foreign scientists visiting for rubber research.
- Nature Walks and Photography: The 43 acres offer peaceful paths, open lawns, and shaded areas, making it a favorite spot for walks or a quiet afternoon of photography.
- Family Recreation: The garden is popular with local families and includes playgrounds for children and large grassy fields often used for picnics, sports, and family gatherings.
- Botanical Education: Visitors can explore the many informative signs and take guided tours (it’s best to ask about tour availability upon arrival).
A Natural and Historical Retreat
The Henarathgoda Botanical Garden offers a unique experience. It’s a historical landmark, providing clear evidence of a moment that greatly impacted Asian trade. At the same time, it serves as an important center for conservation, preserving a diverse range of plant life.