Lakes, Islands, Gardens: A Visual Journey Through Kolkata’s 480-Acre Eco Tourism Park

Eco Park is divided into five main areas: the active zone, theme area (north), theme area (south), lake zone, and eco zones. These zones allow visitors to explore different aspects of nature, including tropical rainforests, garden meadows, and birdwatching areas, offering a mix of educational and leisure experiences for all age groups. (Photo credit: Mayukh Sengupa)

Spread over 480 acres of land with an additional 104 acres of waterbody, Eco Tourism Park, officially called Prakriti Tirtha, is a beautifully landscaped ecological garden in Rajarhat, Kolkata. It features theme gardens, recreational areas, ecological zones, and open spaces, making it a major attraction for nature lovers and families visiting the city.

Commissioned by the West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (WBHIDCO), Eco Park was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on December 29, 2012, and opened to the public on January 1, 2013. It is considered the first ecological garden of its kind in Eastern India, blending natural beauty with recreational facilities.

One of the park’s highlights is the large waterbody, featuring an island named Sabuj Sathi. Visitors can enjoy scenic views from the promenade, relax on benches overlooking the lake, or indulge in boating activities. The lake area also enhances the overall ecological beauty and provides a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Eco Park houses several theme gardens, including the butterfly garden, bamboo garden, mask garden, rose garden, and fountain garden. Additionally, the park features replicas of the seven wonders of the world, adding an element of global cultural education and photo opportunities for tourists and school groups.

The site of Eco Park was initially chosen by CM Mamata Banerjee in July 2011 when she visited the waterbody beside the main arterial road. The 480-acre land was then earmarked to be transformed into an ecological garden, introducing a unique green space in Kolkata’s rapidly developing Rajarhat region.

Visitors to Eco Park can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as zorbing, cycling, boating, and walking along well-maintained promenades. The park is designed to balance relaxation with fun-filled activities, making it ideal for family outings, picnics, and group excursions, while promoting physical wellness and outdoor engagement.

To enhance the visitor experience, Eco Park includes food kiosks, an artist’s cottage, and open spaces for leisure. Guests can enjoy refreshments while soaking in the scenic surroundings, making it a convenient location for spending extended hours amidst nature without missing out on modern amenities.

Eco Park emphasizes ecological conservation, hosting tropical rainforests, flowering meadows, and habitats for various birds and small wildlife. Visitors, especially students and families, can learn about biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and the importance of green spaces in urban areas through interactive exploration.

Eco Park provides a comprehensive recreational and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With its vast landscapes, theme gardens, water features, and diverse activities, it serves as a key destination for both locals and tourists in Kolkata, offering an ideal combination of nature, adventure, and cultural enrichment.