Weather: 14 - 26°C
Tags: Garden & Park, Nature
Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Time Required: 2-3 hrs

Entry Fee:

  • Indian Nationals: INR 10
  • Foreigners: INR 100
  • Camera: INR 20
  • Annual Membership: INR 200 (for daily walkers)

Overview
The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, located in Shibpur, Howrah, near Kolkata, is one of India's oldest and most renowned botanical gardens. Spanning over 273 acres, this lush paradise was established in 1787 and is home to over 12,000 plant species from around the world. The garden's rich diversity includes rare tropical and exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees like the Great Banyan Tree, known for its massive canopy—one of the largest in the world. It’s a haven for nature lovers, offering peaceful surroundings to relax, explore, and learn about plant life.

Key Attractions

  • Great Banyan Tree: The highlight of the garden, this 250-year-old banyan tree has a crown spread of 450 meters and is supported by 2880 aerial roots. It holds a place in the Guinness World Records.
  • Plant Diversity: The garden features an incredible variety of plants, including exotic species from Nepal, Malaysia, and Brazil, along with medicinal plants, aquatic species, and towering trees like tamarind, mahogany, and coconut palms.
  • Boating: A serene serpentine lake offers visitors a chance to enjoy boating amidst natural beauty.
  • Library: The on-site library boasts an impressive collection of books on botany and horticulture.

History
Founded in 1786 by Colonel Alexander Kyd, the garden was initially aimed at growing plants for commercial purposes. Over the years, it evolved into a research hub, and in 1950, it was renamed the Indian Botanic Garden. In 2009, it was dedicated as the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden in honor of the eminent scientist.

Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March.

Tips for Visiting

  1. No Plastic Zone: Please respect the garden’s no-plastic and no-smoking rules.
  2. Food Restrictions: Carrying food is not allowed, but there are eateries available within the garden.
  3. Tour Guide: Due to the vast size of the garden, it's recommended to hire a guide or a six-seater car for a more informative and convenient tour.
  4. Photography: Be sure to capture the beauty of the Great Banyan Tree and other exotic plants.

How to Reach
The Botanical Garden is easily accessible by taxi or private vehicle. The nearest train station is Shalimar Railway Station, and buses to "B Garden" also provide direct access. There is no metro service to the garden.