Seethawaka Botanical Garden | AmazingLanka.com

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Seethawaka Botanical Garden - සීතාවක තෙත් කලාපීය උද්භිද උද්‍යානය — Seethawaka Botanical Garden – සීතාවක තෙත් කලාපීය උද්භිද උද්‍යානය

Opened in 2014, Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Garden is a 43-hectare sanctuary dedicated to conserving endemic flora. Located near Avissawella, it features scenic lakes, vibrant flower beds, and a mountain-view platform. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, boating, and nearby waterfalls, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

The Seethawaka (Sitawaka) Wet Zone Botanical Garden, opened in 2014, spans approximately 43 hectares (106 acres). It was established primarily as a research and conservation site dedicated to protecting threatened and vulnerable endemic plant species of the Siṁharāja Rainforest region. In addition, the garden promotes export floriculture, ex-situ conservation of wet lowland flora, and the cultivation of bamboo.

Historical Background and Development

The land on which the garden now stands was originally developed in the 20th century as a rubber and tea plantation known as Pannāgula. Over time, much of the estate was abandoned and subsequently taken over by the Land Reform Commission. The transformation of this reclaimed land into a botanical garden began in 2008, culminating in its official opening in 2014.

Visitor Facilities and Access

The garden includes a food outlet, although visitors are permitted to bring their own meals. Private vehicles are generally allowed inside the park, though larger vehicles such as vans are typically restricted, as is common in many botanical gardens. Visitors also have the option of hiring electric golf carts at the entrance for easier mobility within the premises.

Layout and Attractions

The lower section of the garden is landscaped in the traditional botanical garden style, featuring neatly arranged flower beds, well-maintained lawns, and a scenic lake where boating is available. Moving further uphill, visitors can reach an elevated viewing platform that offers expansive views of the garden below and the surrounding mountainous terrain.

For birdwatching enthusiasts, early weekday mornings are recommended, as the quieter environment increases the likelihood of spotting a variety of bird species.

Location and Directions

The Sītāvaka Botanical Garden is situated in Illukōvita, between Puwakpiṭiya and Labugama, near Avissāwella. The most convenient access route is via Avissāwella Road. From the Puwakpiṭiya Railway Station, take the Puwakpiṭiya–Thunmodara road and travel approximately 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) to reach the garden on the right.

An alternative route is via Pādukka. From there, take the Bōpe road to Labugama, then proceed along the Puwakpiṭiya–Thunmodara road for about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) to reach the garden. This route passes several scenic waterfalls, including Dambora Ella and Thunmodara Ella. Travelling from Puwakpiṭiya, visitors will also pass Kumāri Wala Ella. Additionally, Ella Uda Ella is also located very close to the garden and can be accessed via a byroad directly opposite the entrance.

Seethawaka Botanical Gardens Opening Hours

Open Days	all 365 days
Opening Hours	7.30 AM – 6.00 PM
Ticketing Hours	7.30 AM – 5.00 pm

Seethawaka Botanical Gardens Entrance Fees

Description	LKR
Local Adults	200
Local Children below 12 years and School Children	30
Local Adults over 60 (NIC proof needed)	50
Foreign Adults	3,540
Foreign School and University Students ((Must have satisfactory proof)	2,360
Foreign Children (5 to 12 years)	1,770
Electric Cars (4-seater) – per hour	1,000
Electric Cars (8-seater) – per hour	2,000
Vehicle Parking	charged

(2026 prices)

Electric Cars and other facilities are available only in certain locations and prices may be increased regularly.

Fern Garden - Seethawaka Botanical Garden - සීතාවක තෙත් කලාපීය උද්භිද උද්‍යානය

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Traveling to Seethawaka Botanical Garden

Route From Colombo Seethawaka Botanical Garden (route I)	Route From Colombo Seethawaka Botanical Garden (route II)
Through : Kaduwela – Hanwella – Puwakpitiya Distance : 52 km Travel time : 2 hours Driving Directions : see on google maps	Through : Kaduwela – Hanwella – Waga – Labugama Distance : 49 km Travel time : 2 hours Driving Directions : see on google maps