What is the first thing that strikes your mind when you hear the name of the city of Kolkata? It might be Sweet dish, Durga Puja, different types of fishes, or Howrah Bridge. But this is not the only thing that is famous in Kolkata. Kolkata is also known as the “Cultural Capital of India”.With the soothing climate, sweet Bengali people, and old traditions still being practiced there, Kolkata, too, got some attractive gardens for the tourists as well as the local people to visit. It is said that one of the most beautiful things that one can see in this world is just nature. So here are the top 5 Gardens to visit in Kolkata, which everyone should try visiting once.
Gardens to visit in Kolkata for Tourists
Kolkata’s gardens encourage tourists and locals alike to reconnect with nature and appreciate the serene beauty that can often be overlooked in a busy city. So, when you plan your visit, be sure to include these gardens in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience!
1. Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanic Garden
Located in Shibpur, Howrah, the Jagdish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic garden has been a constant source of pleasure to botanists across the world. Spread across a majestic 110 hectares of land, this garden boasts of thousands of species of exotic plants. The garden is mainly famous for its breathtaking collection of rare flora that are no more found in the wild. You will have plenty of things to look at in this green paradise.
This garden is a zone of No Plastic. The easiest and well-known landmark of the garden is The Great Banyan tree, an expansive banyan tree whose scientific name is Ficus benghalensis. This is believed to be the largest tree in the world, having a circumference of more than 330 meters. This garden is also famous for its large and beautiful collection of Flora, which includes orchids, bamboos, palms, and plants of the screw pine genus Pandanus. Flower Delivery Kolkata service providers help you to send any of these flowers to your loved ones.
This Botanic Garden consists of different types of animals like the Jackal (Canis aureus), Indian mongoose, and the Indian Fox (Vulpesbengalensis), and even different types of snakes reside here.
2. Central Park
Central Park is situated in Salt Lake, which is a public urban park. Itis also called as the Banabitan. It is among the second largest open space in Kolkata Metropolitan Area after the Maidan.
This park has a very beautiful rose garden. The rose garden is edged by a number of rows of hedges that surround the rose plants. When these rose flowers start blooming, it represents a delightful and eye-catching sight. This park has a lot of flowers which give great pleasure to the visitors as it consists of a marigold, Jamun tree, roses, and many more.
The park has a butterfly garden which has several species of butterflies. The butterfly garden comprises several spaces where shrubs and trees are grown and on which butterflies and their larvae (caterpillar) feed.
3. Rabindra Sarobar
Rabindra Sarobarwas was previously known as the Dhakuria Lake. It is an artificial lake that is built in the SouthKolkata of West Bengal.
Calcutta Improvement Trust was in charge of the development work in the early 1920s. Its main motive was to improve the standards of the metropolitan areas of Kolkata. They acquired about 192 acres (0.78 km2) of marshy forested areas to develop it for residential purposes. This project includes the improvement of roads, road level adjustments, building artificial lacks, and parks.
The area around this gouge lake was later developed to build entertainment complexes, which included the children’s parks, gardens, and auditoria.
The lake and its surrounding areas are among the most popular areas in Kolkata. Almost 73 acres (300,000 m2) of the garden are covered by the water body while the shrubs and trees, out of which some are more than 100 years old, are occupying the rest of the area. In the year 2012, a partial tree census was recorded to have 50 different species.
4. BibhutiBhushan Wildlife Sanctuary
BibhutiBhushan Wildlife Sanctuary was previously known as ParmadanForest. It is situated on the bank of IcchamatiRiverwhich is in the 24 Paraganas district of West Bengal. In the year 1980, it was declared as a wildlife sanctuary to pay tribute to the famous Bengali writer Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay who was a resident from a nearby village.
The Sanctuary is considered as a home to numerous trees such as Shishu, Minjiri, tut, Arjun, Shimul, Shishir, bamboo, and many others.
The deodar trees with the Sal and Shegun trees stand straight in a line turning it into beautiful scenery. The bowed bamboo trees provide an amazing shelter to the visitors. The neighboring children’s park is an enclosure, which really makes this place eco-friendly.
5. Agri Horticulture Society of India
This garden is located in Alipore and has been visited by eminent botanists since the time of its creation. The best thing about this garden is the research laboratory hat consists of high-end equipment for conducting botanical researches. It also has a greenhouse where a lot of exotic plant varieties are kept. You will find plenty of flower varieties that bloom throughout the year. Any garden lover will find peace by walking through the lush-green landscapes of this garden.
There’s a broad range of ferns and medicinal plants growing in the Society’s gardens. There are almost thousands of fruits and flowers grown and can also be bought at the nursery. It hosts an annual flower show in the winter season and gives training in the field of horticulture, which is a major seasonal attraction. Florist in Kolkata help you to buy the best flowers.
6. Maidan
Maidan, often dubbed the “lungs of Kolkata,” is a sprawling urban park situated right in the heart of the city. Covering approximately 1,200 acres, it is larger than Central Park in New York City. The vast greenery, punctuated by historical monuments such as the Victoria Memorial and the Eden Gardens cricket stadium, makes it a popular spot for joggers, picnickers, and families. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or participate in a game of football, Maidan offers a refreshing escape from the city’s buzz.
Picnicking is a time-honored tradition at Maidan. Families often spread their blankets under the shade of towering trees, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying homemade snacks. The park becomes a backdrop for birthday celebrations, romantic outings, and casual get-togethers, transforming ordinary weekends into cherished memories. The spacious lawns offer ample room for children to play, fly kites, or roll a football, filling the air with the sounds of joy and carefree laughter.
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to engage in at Maidan. Football matches spring up spontaneously on the open green fields, showcasing the local talent and deep passion for the sport. Cricket is another favorite pastime, with makeshift pitches set up for friendly matches. The sense of camaraderie is palpable as players and spectators alike gather to root for their favorite teams. This unique blend of leisure and competition adds to the park’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a melting pot of activity and enjoyment.
7. Botanical Gardens, Howrah
Located just across the Hooghly River in Howrah, the Indian Botanic Garden is a treasure trove of flora and fauna. Established in 1787, this garden is famed for its spectacular collection of plants, including the iconic Great Banyan Tree, which is over 250 years old and spans over 3 acres! Visitors can stroll along well-maintained pathways, explore themed gardens, and marvel at the wide variety of species housed here. It’s not just a garden; it’s a living museum where you can learn about the diversity of plant life.
The garden is meticulously maintained and carefully curated to allow for easy exploration. Visitors can stroll along well-kept pathways that wind through a variety of themed gardens, each offering a unique experience. From the aromatic herb garden to the vibrant flower beds, the botanical garden showcases a kaleidoscope of colors and scents. Educational signboards throughout the gardens provide insights into various species and their ecological significance, making it a perfect outing for families, students, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the environment.
Among the numerous collections within the garden, the palm collection is particularly notable, featuring a wide range of species from different parts of the world. These towering plants create an atmosphere reminiscent of tropical forests, providing a refreshing contrast to the urban surroundings. Additionally, the garden boasts a vast collection of medicinal plants, making it an invaluable resource for herbal enthusiasts and researchers alike.
8. Nakhoda Mosque Garden
Tucked away near the bustling streets of Burrabazar, the Nakhoda Mosque Garden is a peaceful oasis that offers a unique blend of spirituality and tranquility. The gardens surrounding this stunning mosque provide a serene environment for reflection and relaxation. The intricate architecture of the mosque, coupled with the lush greenery, creates a captivating atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for tourists seeking solace away from the commercial noise of the city.
The serenity of the garden is amplified by the soft murmur of water features, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the tranquil environment. A stroll through the garden is an experience in itself, allowing you to disconnect from the chaos of the outside world. It’s a wonderful place to sit quietly, read a book, or simply indulge in your thoughts while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
For photographers and nature lovers, the Nakhoda Mosque Garden provides a plethora of opportunities to capture stunning imagery. The juxtaposition of the mosque’s intricate architecture against the lush backdrop creates captivating photographs. Shutterbugs can find numerous angles to showcase the harmony between religious symbolism and natural beauty.
The garden not only appeals to tourists seeking tranquility but also serves as a community space. It is not uncommon to find families enjoying a picnic on the grass or children playing games in the open area. This blend of sacred space and community interaction highlights the mosque’s significance beyond mere religious practice; it embodies the spirit of harmony among diverse cultural backgrounds in Kolkata.
9. Shahid Minar Garden
A historical landmark dedicated to the martyrs of the 19th-century freedom struggle, Shahid Minar Garden is nestled near the bustling Kothari Building. The garden features well-kept lawns adorned with flowers that bloom in vivid colors throughout the year. Its central tower, a symbol of resistance, stands tall against the backdrop of the city’s skyline. Visitors can admire the well-manicured gardens while reflecting on the rich history that surrounds this area, making it a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
The garden offers more than just aesthetic pleasure. It provides a space for contemplation and reflection. Many visitors find solace in the peaceful atmosphere, whether they seek a quiet moment to think or a place to engage in meaningful conversations. Families picnic on the grassy expanses, children play among the flowers, and individuals find inspiration by strolling through the shaded pathways. It’s a place where nature and history intertwine, encouraging everyone to embrace the legacy of the freedom struggle while enjoying the tranquility of the garden.
Shahid Minar Garden is more than a site of remembrance; it also serves as a hub for cultural activities. Throughout the year, the garden plays host to various events, including poetry readings, art exhibitions, and community gatherings. These events not only celebrate the heritage of the location but also foster a sense of community among visitors. They offer an opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for history, culture, and the arts, reinforcing the importance of collective memory and identity.
Conclusion
So from the top 5 Gardens to visit in Kolkata, we got to know about many new and attractive things, which would definitely help the tourists to make their Kolkata trip an amazing one by going to all the above-mentioned places.