Discover the Natural Serenity of Popham's Arboretum
Explore the tranquility and biodiversity of Popham's Arboretum, a hidden gem in Dambulla for nature lovers and tourists seeking serene beauty.
A brief summary to Popham's Arboretum
- Dambulla, LK
- +94777267951
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-8 pm
Nestled in the heart of Dambulla, Popham's Arboretum is a breathtaking park that serves as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers. Spanning a vast area, this arboretum is home to an impressive collection of trees and plants, representing both local and exotic species. Visitors can stroll through its beautifully maintained paths, immersing themselves in the lush greenery and vibrant colors that change with the seasons. The park is not only a place for relaxation but also an educational hub where you can learn about the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts in Sri Lanka. As you wander through Popham's Arboretum, take a moment to appreciate the rich biodiversity that surrounds you. The park features informative signage that provides insight into the various species of trees and plants, making it an ideal stop for families and school groups. The tranquility of the arboretum is enhanced by the gentle sounds of nature, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for picnics or quiet contemplation. With ample space for children to play and explore, families can enjoy a day of fun and learning in this natural haven. For those looking to delve deeper into the flora of Sri Lanka, guided tours are available, offering a more in-depth understanding of the arboretum's diverse ecosystems. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow over the landscape, enhancing the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're looking to unwind, learn, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk, Popham's Arboretum is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sri Lanka's natural beauty.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning flora and scenic landscapes.
- Check for guided tours to enhance your understanding of the arboretum's plant species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the center of Puttalam, head south on the A12 road towards Anuradhapura. Continue on the A12 for approximately 40 kilometers until you reach the Dambulla Junction. At the junction, take the exit onto the A9 road towards Dambulla. After about 18 kilometers, you will see signs for Popham's Arboretum on your left. Follow the signs, and you will arrive at the arboretum in approximately 5 minutes.
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Public Transportation
From Puttalam, you can take a bus heading towards Dambulla from the Puttalam Bus Station. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once you reach the Dambulla Bus Station, you can take a local bus or a tuk-tuk to Popham's Arboretum. The local bus will cost around 50 LKR and will take about 20 minutes. If you prefer a tuk-tuk, it may cost around 250 LKR and will also take approximately 15 minutes to reach the arboretum.
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
- Sri lanka
- Dambulla Rock Arch
- Gurupaura Picture Palace
- JC's Village
- Jetwing Lake
- Heritance Kandalama
- Amaya Signature Kandalama Dambulla
- Amaya Lake Dambulla
- Rangiri Dambulla Resort