Traces of Sino-Sri Lankan Friendship | Visiting the Crape Myrtle Tree Planted by Premier Zhou Enlai

On February 1, 1957, Premier Zhou Enlai visited Sri Lanka for the third time at the invitation of the Sri Lankan government. During his visit, he personally planted a Crape Myrtle tree in the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, as a symbol of Sino-Sri Lankan friendship.

📍 Highlights

Historical Significance: The commemorative tree planted by Premier Zhou is one of the earliest symbols of diplomatic relations between China and Sri Lanka.

Plaque and Tree Texture: When taking photos, include the wooden plaque, detailed tree bark, and yourself in the frame to instantly convey a sense of history.

🗺️ Complete Guide to Finding the Tree

Main Entrance
➤ After entering the Royal Botanic Gardens through the main entrance, walk approximately 300 meters along River Drive, lined with palm trees.

Turn into the Friendship Grove or Memorial Tree Area
➤ Follow the official garden map to the "Memorial Tree Area" or "Friendship Grove."
Look for the Crape Myrtle Tree (also known as Lagerstroemia or 紫薇).

➤ Find the tree marked with a wooden plaque that reads, "Planted by Premier Zhou Enlai February 1, 1957."

📸 Photo Composition Tips

Front Portrait: Stand beside the tree, slightly angled, with the wooden plaque in the frame. Ensure the person and the tree are of equal height, with the palm avenue or flower garden as the background.

Close-up of Tree Bark: Capture the texture of the tree bark with your hand touching the trunk and the wooden plaque in the shot to highlight the sense of history.

🧭 Tips Before You Go

🕒 Best Time to Visit: 9:00–11:00 AM, when the light is soft, and the garden is less crowded.
👟 Getting Around: You can explore on foot or rent an electric cart within the garden (approximately 2,000 LKR).

This is not just a tree but a piece of diplomatic history spanning decades. Standing under it, you can feel the profound meaning of friendship planted by Premier Zhou—history and nature, the past and the future, quietly conversing in Sri Lanka.