Explore the Natural Beauty of Popham's Arboretum
Discover the serene beauty of Popham's Arboretum in Dambulla, a lush haven filled with diverse flora and tranquil walking paths.
Popham's Arboretum, located in Dambulla, is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat. This expansive arboretum features a stunning collection of indigenous and exotic trees, all cultivated in a meticulously landscaped environment. As you wander along the winding paths, you will be enveloped by the tranquil sounds of nature, making it a perfect spot for relaxation, reflection, or a leisurely picnic. The vibrant flora offers a picturesque backdrop for photography, attracting both amateur and professional photographers alike. In addition to its natural beauty, Popham's Arboretum serves as an educational platform, showcasing the importance of biodiversity and conservation. Visitors can explore informative displays that highlight the various species of plants and trees on the grounds. The arboretum is also home to several walking trails, which provide an opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the serene atmosphere while observing the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to unwind or a scenic location to appreciate nature's wonders, Popham's Arboretum is a must-visit destination in Dambulla. Its accessibility, combined with the wealth of knowledge and beauty it offers, ensures that your visit will be both enjoyable and enlightening.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful trees.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on unpaved paths.
- Check for any guided tours available to learn more about the flora.
A brief summary to Popham's Arboretum
- Dambulla, LK
- +94777267951
Getting There
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Car
From the center of Dambulla, head west on the A9 highway. Continue on the A9 for approximately 5 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to Popham's Arboretum, which will be on your left. There is parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
Catch a local bus heading towards Matale from Dambulla bus station. Make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at Popham's Arboretum or at the nearest stop. The bus ride should take about 15-20 minutes, and the fare is usually around 50 LKR. After getting off, it may require a short walk of about 500 meters to reach the entrance.
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Walking
If you are staying in a hotel near Dambulla, you can walk to Popham's Arboretum. From the center of Dambulla, head towards the A9 highway and follow the road signs. The distance is approximately 4 kilometers, which would take around 1 hour to walk.
Attractions Nearby to Popham's Arboretum
- Kandalama Reservoir Bridge
- Museum Of Wall Painting
- Painting Conservation & Research Center and Painting Museum
- Buddhist Museum
- Temple Lake View Point
- Randeniya Rock Temple
- Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
- Kandalama Bunt
- Dambulla Rock
- Dambulla Clock Tower දඹුල්ල ඔරලෝසු කණුව
- Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
- Sri Lanka Jeep Safari
- Gimanhala Hotel
- Minneriya National Park Safari
- Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
Landmarks nearby to Popham's Arboretum
- Sri Lanka Ballooning - Sunrise Ballooning (Pvt) ltd
- Heritage Dambulla By Ceylon Hotels Corporation
- Sundaras Resort & Spa
- Rangiri Dambulu Rajamaha Viharaya (Dambulla Royal Cave Temple)
- Dambulu Rock Inscription
- Rock Temple
- Dambulla Rock Arch
- Gurupaura Picture Palace
- JC's Village
- Jetwing Lake
- Heritance Kandalama
- Amaya Signature Kandalama Dambulla
- Amaya Lake Dambulla
- Rangiri Dambulla Resort
- Pelwehera Village Resort