Introduction

A trip to Pondicherry is incomplete without a visit to the verdant botanical garden maintained by the French till 1947. Located at the southern entrance of city bus stand, the Botanical Garden of Pondicherry was first opened to public in 1826 by French colonists. It was initially opened as an experiment to analyze the crops that could be grown in the region. Laid down in French architectural style, the Botanical Garden is green with thick plantation interspersed with paved in-garden roads. For the entertainment of kids, there is a small children's train and track in the garden.

The garden is spread across 22 acres, and offers a cool retreat in harsh afternoons when you can enjoy a quiet stroll under the canopy of shady palms, listen to the twittering of birds and look out for rare species of flora. While exploring the garden, you will notice that every tree or plant is labeled with scientific, common and Tamil names, some of them also state the use, the amount of oxygen they emit and their medicinal value. The Botanical Garden is indeed an interesting mix of endangered and exotic species of plants. Take at least an hour in hand for a walk in its sprawling expanse, what with 28 plots dividing the garden and each with a separate theme. The towering shade-giving trees, the lovely flowers and the impressive layout of the garden with well-manicured plants lining the paved walkways, make the park a visual extravaganza. Not surprisingly, tourists and students on study tour flock the Botanical Garden through out the year.

A popular draw to the garden is the flower show hosted during the third or fourth week of February, when the place is a riot of colors. The exhibition of a motley assortment of flowers and plants goes on for the whole day, with sales picking up at the end of the day. It is usually a three-day event.

It was the eminent botanist, Perrottet, who was mainly instrumental in transforming the place into a botanical garden, also called Le Jardin in French, in 1831. You will see his memorial within the premises. With children’s train, an array of fountains, a dancing fountain, Japanese rock, and an aquarium with ornamental fish, the Botanical Garden of Pondicherry is a delight to explore, and bliss for nature lovers.

Special Attributes

An interesting mix of endangered and exotic species of plants, you will notice that every tree or plant in the garden is labeled with scientific, common and Tamil names, some of them also state the use, the amount of oxygen they emit and their medicinal value.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can hire an auto or cycle-rickshaw to move around in Pondicherry. Besides, the garden is at the southern entrance of city bus stand in Pondicherry.

Enjoyed by

Families, Kids, Backpackers, Senior Citizens, especially nature lovers

Exposure

The exposure to sunshine is not too high as you will be strolling under the canopy of shady palms. The garden offers a cool respite from the summer heat.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

A popular draw to the garden is the flower show hosted during the third or fourth week of February, when the place bursts with flowers in a riot of colors.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Choose to visit early in the day when the sun is not very strong, and a mild breeze wafts through the lush garden.

Type of site

Botanical garden