Victoria Park – Nuwara Eliya
Description
Victoria Park at Nuwara Eliya, named after Queen Victoria’s 60th jubilee and built-in 1897, has 27 acres. This is a site where most prominent travellers, especially holidaymakers, nevermore abandon to visit and enjoy the beautifully set out gardens with the colourful flora and fauna maintained beautifully by the City Council. The blossoms are in full bloom in March, April and May and repeat in August and September. There is a separate area for the kids to play.
Read More in Details
History of Victoria Park
Victoria Park was once a Hakgala Botanical Garden research field 10 km from Nuwara Eliya. The garden was established in 1860 by the British colonial government. Its focus was testing the adaptability of crops that could replace coffee, which was destroyed by a fungal disease.
In 1897, the park was named Victoria Park to commemorate Queen Victoria's 60th year as monarch. The park was renovated in the 1920s to become the stunning garden visitors can enjoy today.
Flora and Fauna
The park is home to various flowering plants, including rare endemic flora such as the Sri Lanka White Eye, Sri Lanka Scaly Thrush, and the Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon. Visitors can also spot exotic blooms like hydrangeas, azaleas, and petunias. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from March to May and August to September when the flowers bloom.
Birdwatchers can also enjoy spotting tropical birds in the gardens, including the Kashmir Flycatcher, Indian Blue Robin, and Pied Thrush. Remember to bring your binoculars!
Attractions
At the park's far end, visitors can find the Children's Park, which features a play area and even a miniature train. The train ride takes visitors on a 20-minute loop around the park and is a fun way to see the sights.
The park also features a picturesque lake with ducks and swans swimming around. In addition, visitors can rent a paddleboat or swan-shaped boat and take a leisurely ride around the lake.
For those who prefer to relax on land, the park has several benches and picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a packed lunch or snack. There are also several food and drink vendors in the park if you prefer to purchase refreshments.
Practical Information
Victoria Park is located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and the entrance fee is 300 Sri Lankan Rupees for adults and 150 Sri Lankan Rupees for children. Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover.