Pamplemousses
Home of the historic Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.
Hero image: Benoît Prieur, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Pamplemousses is an inland village in the north of Mauritius, between Port Louis and the north-coast resorts. It is known above all for the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere, which began in the eighteenth century under French colonial administration.
Most visitors come for a few hours rather than to stay. The garden is an easy half-day from Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches or Port Louis, and pairs well with other sights in the north.
At a glance
- Region
- North Coast
- From Port Louis
- A short drive north-east, inland
- Suggested stay
- A half-day visit from a north-coast base
- Best time
- Mornings are cooler and quieter; any season
- Known for
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, giant water lilies, palms and spice trees
- Getting around
- Taxi, hire car or bus from Port Louis or Grand Baie
Where to stay and what to book
Places to stay
In this Pamplemousses guide
Why visit Pamplemousses
The botanical garden is one of the most visited sights in Mauritius and a welcome change from beach days. Its ponds of giant water lilies, avenues of palms, spice and fruit trees and historic buildings make it rewarding even for travellers with no particular interest in plants.
It also gives context to the island’s history: the garden was developed by the French colonial administration, and its collections reflect centuries of plant introductions to the island.
The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden
The garden is named after Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the first prime minister of independent Mauritius. Highlights include the large pond of giant water lilies, a wide collection of palms, the talipot palm, spice trees and the giant tortoises kept in an enclosure. Paths are mostly flat and shaded in places.
Guides are often available at the entrance and can make a visit more informative; agree the scope and cost before you start. Entry arrangements, opening times and fees are set by the garden’s management and should be checked before you go.
Combining Pamplemousses with other sights
Pamplemousses fits easily into a day that also includes Port Louis to the south-west or the beaches of the north coast. Many island tours of the north stop here, and taxis from the north-coast resorts often offer half-day trips.
Getting there and around
Pamplemousses lies just north-east of Port Louis, inland from the north-west coast. From Grand Baie or Trou aux Biches it is a short drive; from the south of the island it is reached via the motorway through Port Louis.
Buses link Pamplemousses with Port Louis and the north. Taxis and organised tours are the most convenient option for most visitors.
Best time to visit
The garden can be visited in any season. Mornings are cooler and generally quieter. In the hot, humid summer months, take water and sun protection; in heavy rain, some paths can be muddy.
How long to stay
Allow at least two to three hours for the garden itself. Most visitors combine it with a beach afternoon or a visit to Port Louis on the same day.
Find accommodation in Pamplemousses
Accommodation in Pamplemousses itself is limited; most visitors stay on the North Coast and visit for half a day.
Browse Pamplemousses accommodation
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Nearby destinations
Grand BaieThe north coast’s busiest resort town, built around a sheltered bay.Read the Grand Baie guide 
Trou aux Biches & Mont ChoisyLong, gently shelving lagoon beaches on the north-west coast.Read the Trou aux Biches & Mont Choisy guide 
Port LouisThe capital: markets, waterfront, history and the Aapravasi Ghat.Read the Port Louis guide Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Pamplemousses garden?
Two to three hours is enough for the main sights at a relaxed pace.
Is the Pamplemousses botanical garden worth visiting?
Yes, especially for its giant water lilies, palms and history. It is one of the island’s most visited sights.
Can I visit Pamplemousses from the south of Mauritius?
Yes, but it is a long day. It is easiest from the North Coast or Port Louis.
Plan the rest of your trip
Official sources for Pamplemousses
Opening hours, entry fees, boat and transport schedules, access rules and park conditions change; check the official source before you travel.
Plan a North Coast trip
Compare the places in this region before you choose a base.
Where to stay, and what to book
Most visitors stay on the North Coast: browse North Coast accommodation or Pamplemousses accommodation, and see tours and activities for island tours of the north. See also where to stay on the North Coast.