The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, popularly known as the Botanical Garden Kolkata, is situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River in Shibpur. It covers a sizable area of more than 273 acre, and is one of India’s largest and oldest botanical gardens. It is a haven for anyone who enjoys the outdoors or just wants some quiet time in a beautiful setting. The garden is a must-visit location for both locals and tourists because of its rich collection of flora, breathtaking landscape and historical significance.
Source: Pinterest
See also: Lalbagh Botanical Garden Bangalore: Visitor’s guide
Botanical Garden Kolkata: How to reach?
By air: The garden is located around 26 km from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.
By rail: The Botanical Garden is approximately 6 km from the Howrah Railway Station.
By road: The garden is conveniently located in Shibpur, close to the Howrah Bridge, and is reachable from many parts of Kolkata via car, taxi or bus.
Botanical Garden Kolkata: History
The Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical centres in India, having been founded in 1787. Colonel Robert Kyd, a British East India Company army officer, founded it initially with the intention of cultivating therapeutic plants. The garden evolved into a collection of numerous species of plants from all over the world over time. Later, it was renamed after Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, a renowned scientist and intellectual.
Botanical Garden Kolkata: Plant species
The Botanical Garden is home to many tall mahogany trees. One of the garden’s most well-known features is the Great Banyan Tree, which is one of the largest known banyan trees in the world. It is thought to be more than 250 years old and spans 14,500 square metre.
Source: Pinterest
Over 12,000 native and foreign plant species are present in the Botanical Garden. It features immaculately maintained flower beds, well-kept lawns and a number of themed gardens. The Palm Collection, which features a variety of palm trees from various countries, is one of the many attractions. Another must-see part of the garden is The Orchid House, which showcases a variety of exquisite orchid species in several vivid colours.
Numerous endangered and rare plant species can be seen when strolling through the botanical garden.The garden serves as a centre for plant conservation for many species, including the endangered Hopea parviflora tree and the double coconut palm, which produces the largest seed in the world. The garden is a part of many botanical research and conservation initiatives to safeguard these various plant species.
The garden also offers numerous architectural attractions in addition to natural ones. Cast iron and glass are combined to create the Palm House, which was constructed in 1888. It contains an amazing variety of tropical plants that together create an atmosphere resembling a tropical rainforest. The ‘Pond of Serenity,’ a tranquil and attractive lake, offers guests a peaceful location to unwind.
Botanical Garden Kolkata: Significance
The Botanical Garden is a location with immense historical value. It houses a number of old buildings and monuments that showcase the rich history of the garden. Tea, coffee and rubber are just a few of the plants on display in the Economic Plant Garden. Rabindranath Tagore previously lived in the tranquil Tagore House, which has been preserved as a museum and provides insights into the legendary poet’s life.
Source: Pinterest
Botanical Garden Kolkata: Educational centre
The botanical garden promotes the study of plant science as an educational institution. It has labs for scientific study and documentation as well as a library and a herbarium. To advance botanical knowledge and promote environmental conservation, the park frequently hosts symposia, workshops and educational programmes.
FAQs
Is photography allowed inside the Botanical Garden?
Generally speaking, photography is permitted in the garden. However, using drones or professional photographic gear may be subject to some limitations. Before taking pictures or recording videos, visitors are urged to inquire with the relevant authorities about any specific restrictions.
Can I buy seeds or plants at the Botanical Garden?
Yes, there is a plant nursery inside the Botanical Garden where customers can buy a range of plants, seeds and saplings.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
