Home to giant water lilies and colonial relics, Pamplemousses is more than just a botanical garden near Port Louis. It’s a living museum of exotic plants, colonial architecture and tranquil pathways that invite you to slow down and take it all in.
Officially known as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden (or SSR Garden for short), it was my favourite place in Mauritius and worth tearing myself away from the beach for an afternoon.
Fancy visiting a serene retreat steeped in history and lush tropical beauty? I spill the beans in my guide to visiting Pamplemousses Botanical Garden.
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pamplemousses botanical garden: practical information
ADDRESS: Royal Road, Pamplemousses, Mauritius
OPENING HOURS: 08.30 to 17.30 daily
TICKET PRICE (2025): 300 MUR. Cash and cards accepted.
GUIDED TOURS: Authorised guides are available for an extra charge (75 MUR per visitor in 2024)
Why I Loved Pamplemousses
This isn’t your average botanical garden. Established in the 18th century and spanning 37 hectares, it’s one of the oldest in the Southern Hemisphere and home to rare plant species from around the world.
Originally established as a private garden by Pierre Poivre, a French horticulturist, it became a national botanical garden during the British colonial era. The garden is named after Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, a key figure in the country’s political history.
The garden’s star attraction? The giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies — their dinner-plate-sized leaves floating like green rafts across still ponds
But there’s more: towering palms, spice trees, and the hauntingly beautiful Château de Mon Plaisir, a colonial-era mansion that whispers stories of Mauritius’ past.
How to Get There
Located just north of Port Louis, the garden is easily accessible by car or taxi (map location here). You can get there on a guided tour by rental car, taxi or public bus.
On a guided tour – I visited Pamplemousses Garden as part of this affordable private tour of northern Mauritius.
By rental car – this provides the most flexibility and convenience. Car rental agencies are available at the airport and in major tourist areas. Parking is free.
By taxi – if you’re staying in Port Louis or one of the resorts in the north of the island, consider taking a taxi to Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. Your hotel should be able to arrange this for you or negotiate a price directly with the driver.
On public bus – this is the cheapest option, and several routes connect Port Louis to Pamplemousses. You can check bus timetables here.
There are bus services from other resort towns on the island’s west coast, such as Grand Baie and Trou Aux Biches. However, as services are infrequent and slow, I abandoned any plans of trying to make it to the SSR Garden on public transport.
What to See
You’ll be given a useful map when you buy your ticket, which indicates points of interest and helps you navigate the garden. Keep an eye out for its interesting flora and fauna. These include talipot palms, baobab trees and several sunbathing ducks.
Giant Water Lilies
The much-photographed Victoria Amazonica, or giant water lilies, are Pamplemousses Botanical Garden’s best-known sight. Their colossal, circular leaves reach up to 10 feet in diameter, and the upturned edges create a natural basin to capture water.
Bust of Pierre Poivre
You can meet the man who established Pamplemousses Botanical Garden at the northern end of the giant water lilies pond.
White Lotus Pond
The White Lotus Pond is a serene oasis, its still waters reflecting the elegance of lotus flowers.
Animal Corner
This was my favourite spot in Pamplemousses Botanical Garden.
I watched deer (Cervus timorensis) having the time of their lives cooling off in muddy puddles. It’s also home to vibrant birds and butterflies and a group of giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea).
Chateau de Mon Plaisir
This colonial-style two-storey building was constructed in 1823. It once served as the residence of various prominent figures in Mauritius’s history and was designated an Ancient Monument in the second half of the 20th century.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Memorial
Opposite the Chateau de Mon Plaisir is this memorial to Mauritius’ founding father. He was the first Prime Minister of Mauritius and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Model of an old sugar mill
The fortunes of Mauritius are bound to its sugar cane industry and this is represented by a model of an early sugar mill near the garden’s main entrance. This replica was created by the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture in 1953.
Final Thoughts
Pamplemousses isn’t flashy. It doesn’t demand attention. But it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my Mauritius trip.
Bring water and wear comfortable shoes; the garden is expansive. But most importantly, don’t rush. Sit on a bench, listen to the birds, and let the garden work its magic.
If you want to find out more about this lovely Indian Ocean island, I’ve put together this short article on what to know about Mauritius before you go. Check out my other awesome places to visit in my guide to solo travel in Mauritius. To help you pick your perfect hotel, I also have a review of SALT of Palmar and what it was like to stay at Westin Turtle Bay.
Finally, hit the highlights of Mauritius in this 1-minute video:
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.