Inside India’s best gardens: up close and personal with nature

The beauty of nature is well-preserved in its gardens, which are away from the din and usually transform into a sanctuary of nature. Gardens in India let travellers get a glimpse of nature in its truest form, and are great for those interested in bird-watching. We don’t get much of nature these days, and it would be just perfect to go back into natural surroundings. These botanical gardens, as they are called, are spread over large area of land, creating just the perfect place for visitors to relax. Moreover, you get to see some amazing flora that you may not find elsewhere.
So take a break and spend some quality time amidst nature.

Lodi Gardens, Delhi
A beautiful botanical garden built by the Mughals, this has the tombs of Mohammad Shah and Sikandar Lodi. Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, Lodi Gardens was built in 1444. The garden also has a three-domed mosque, and a central courtyard that still has the ruins of a water tank. The 15th century architecture of the Lodi Empire is an interesting watch; but more importantly, the garden is beautiful for a quiet walk.

Calcutta Botanical Gardens, Kolkata

Located at Shibpur, Howrah, near Kolkata, here you will find yourself lost in the beauty of nature. There are close to 12,000 floral specimens here, spread across a large area of land. One of the greatest attractions here is the Great Banyan tree, which is more than 330 m in circumference. Besides this tree, you will find bamboos and orchids as well. Residents of Kolkata come here mostly during winters for picnic. But do remember that this place is a no plastic zone.

Nishant Garden, Srinagar

A terraced Mughal Garden in Srinagar, this is paradise on earth. This garden is comparatively smaller than the more popular Shalimar Garden, but it is stunning to say the least. The garden was built way back in 1633, and is full of chinar trees. Here, at Nishant Garden, you will see mountains all around you, and a beautiful breeze will keep you company on a chilly Srinagar morning.

Hanging Gardens of Mumbai, Mumbai

Also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, and sits on top of the Malabar Hills. Built in 1881, the Hanging Gardens of Mumbai is one of the best places to see sunset views over the Arabian Sea. The garden is open from 5 AM to 9 PM; it is built on top of a water reservoir, and is full of utmost greenery. There is a flower clock at the centre of the garden, and you must see it.

National Botanical Garden, Lucknow

Located in the heart of Lucknow, the garden is a great facility for flora, and is just the right place for travellers to go and relax. There are about 6,000 indigenous and exotic floral lives here, and the garden is largely reputed as a great institute. Established by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan, it was known as the Royal Garden then. It was further developed by the last Nawab of Oudh, Wajid Ali Shah, and was named Sikander Bagh.