Mirijjawila Dry Zone Botanic Gardens

A botanical garden is being established in Mirijjawila in the Hambantota district. This is the first botanical garden to be established in the dry zone in Sri Lanka.

It has an extent of 300 acres. The objective of establishing this botanical garden is for the conservation of dwindling trees and shrubs in the dry zone, popularizing of unpopular trees, conservation of medicinal herbs, promotion of tourism and providing botanical knowledge to the younger generation.

The Garden will comprise ornamental flower cultivation, commercial flower cultivation and facilities to undertake studies on trees. Already planting of various trees and floral varieties has been commenced. Construction of infrastructure facilities is also nearing completion.

It will also provide opportunities for eco-tourism and economic development in this area and to model dry zone landscape improvement. In the longer term, within the first 3-5 years, the garden will feature those plants that are lesser known and under utilized in the dry zone promote the herbal industry; and provide education and training on botany and floriculture in the dry zone.

This garden being established in a dry landscape would provide much relief and peace of mind to the visitors.

Mirijjawila Dry Zone Botanic Gardens, situated in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, is a captivating oasis in the heart of the arid dry zone region. Established in 2013, this 300-acre botanical garden showcases a diverse array of flora, including rare and endangered plant species, all adapted to thrive in the challenging dry climate. Visitors can explore themed gardens, educational exhibits, and conservation zones, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the region's unique biodiversity and the importance of conservation. The gardens also serve as a research and education center, contributing to efforts to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystems of Sri Lanka's dry zone, making it both a natural wonder and a vital hub for ecological research and awareness.

Location

This Botanical Garden is located on the Colombo-Kataragama main road. It has the Mattala International Airport on its left side and the Hambantota Harbour on its right side, and therefore it becomes a centre point for the tourists.