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Parks & gardens Must see

Popham's Arboretum

Dambulla, Matale District

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Popham’s Arboretum is a peaceful dry-zone woodland in Dambulla. It protects a wide variety of native trees and provides a natural habitat for birds, butterflies, mammals and the rare grey slender loris. Visitors can explore marked walking trails and join guided wildlife tours.

Best time to visit
Early morning is recommended for birdwatching and cooler weather.
Opening hours
Daytime nature trails: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily,
Time needed
Approximately 1–2 hours

Highlights

  • Four colour-marked nature trails: Green, Blue, Pink and Yellow.
  • Native dry-zone trees such as Ebony, Palu, Margosa, Weera, Milla and Tamarind.
  • Birdwatching and butterfly watching.
  • Opportunity to observe wildlife, including the grey slender loris.
  • Guided daytime nature walks and night safaris.
  • Wooden bridges, small streams and peaceful forest surroundings.
  • Nature education, conservation and research activities.

The arboretum was established in 1963 by F. H. (Sam) Popham on approximately 7.5 acres of scrub jungle. He used a conservation approach called Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR), encouraging naturally growing native trees instead of creating a conventional planted garden. In 1989, he gifted the original property to the Institute of Fundamental Studies (IFS), now associated with the National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS). An additional 27 acres were added, bringing the site to approximately 34.5 acres. Today it is used for forest restoration, biodiversity research, environmental education and nature-based tourism. The arboretum contains dry-zone vegetation and provides habitat for numerous species of plants, birds, butterflies, dragonflies and mammals.

Photos

How to get there

The arboretum is located on Kandalama Road, approximately 2.5–4 km from Dambulla town, depending on the starting point. From Dambulla, travel towards Kandalama and follow the signs or Google Maps directions to NIFS Sam Popham’s Arboretum. It can be reached by tuk-tuk, car or other private transport.

Tips for visitors

• Wear comfortable walking shoes. • Carry drinking water, insect repellent and sun protection. • Keep noise to a minimum when observing birds and wildlife. • Do not touch, feed or disturb wild animals. • Follow the marked trails and instructions from guides. • For a night safari, book or contact the arboretum in advance. • Carry a torch if advised by the tour guide. • Avoid littering and respect the natural environment.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Popham’s Arboretum located?

It is located on Kandalama Road in Dambulla, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka.

What is Popham’s Arboretum famous for?

It is famous for its dry-zone forest, native trees, birdlife, butterflies, nature trails and the possibility of observing the grey slender loris.

What are the opening hours of Popham’s Arboretum?

The daytime nature trails are listed as open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Guided night safaris are arranged from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Confirm availability with NIFS before travelling.

Can visitors explore the arboretum without a guide?

Yes. Visitors can walk the four marked daytime trails independently or choose a guide to learn more about the trees, birds and wildlife.

Can visitors see grey slender lorises at Popham’s Arboretum?

Grey slender lorises live in the arboretum, and guided night safaris focus on finding them. However, sightings are not guaranteed because they are wild animals.

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