Hakgala Gardens , Nuwara Eliya
About Hakgala Gardens
The Hakgala Botanical Gardens got its name from the rock on which the garden grows, known as “Hakgala” rock which basically means “jaw-rock”. This garden is located around 10 km. southeast of Nuwara Eliya and is a tranquil retreat spot. It was originally established to cultivate the medicinal crop of Cinchona, but was later used for tea cultivation.
This place also has a religious history attached to it. It is believed by many this is the place where the demon king Raavana abducted and imprisoned Lord Ram’s wife Sita. It was supposed to be a pleasure garden gifted by Raavana to Sita in an attempt to lessen her sorrow and was named as “Ashok vatika”. As if to prove this whole legend true, the surrounding area of this garden is called Sita Eliya and has a Goddess Sita temple situated at this site.
The Hakgala Gardens is believed to be the highest set botanical gardens in the world! This place has a sub-tropical, cool climate which makes a visit to this place very pleasant. The garden is divided into different parts and each of it is dedicated to different plant species and type. The best time to visit the gardens is during the month of April when the flowers are in full bloom.
It is simply a delight to walk around in the Hakgala Gardens and just soak in the beauty and serenity of the place!