One cannot think of leaving Kashmir without paying a visit or specifically planning a day tour of the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden. This natural masterpiece has an exciting blend of native flora and carefully curated exotic species worldwide, making it a place worth visiting and being a part of. This vast and beautiful garden, nestled within the embrace of the majestic Himalayas, encompasses a unique variety of plants, trees and voluminous breeds of flowers, such as the Himalayan Orchid. Ultimately, feeling the timeless blessing and beauty of nature in this garden is bound to leave visitors spellbound and in awe of what they just witnessed.
History Of The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
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The history of the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden dates back to 1969 when it was established by the government of Jammu and Kashmir and was built in honour of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. This botanical garden is located against the majestic Zabarwan Range and is close to the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. The garden has a dense temperature forest of Oak trees and a collection of well-nursed and well-maintained trees and plants.
This botanical garden in Srinagar is home to more than 1.5 lakh ornamental plants, a variety of tree species of more than 50 breeds, and a wide range of plants and flowers. To increase awareness of environmental concerns and underline the necessity for dedicated spaces to preserve the region’s rich biodiversity, this garden was envisioned as a sanctuary for Kashmir Botanical Conservation.
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Architecture Of The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
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The detailed architecture of the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden was created with immense planning that involved traditional Kashmiri and Mughal gardening styles, amalgamating water features, terraced landscapes, and an array of plant species. This not only mirrored the authentic cultural heritage of Kashmir but also promoted modern conservative practices.
This botanical garden in Srinagar is the perfect paradise for Botanical Garden Photography enthusiasts since it provides an array of opportunities to capture Kashmir’s botanical wonder in all its glory. Moreover, the Kashmir Botanic Garden Tours enrich the visitors’ experience on a deeper level by delving into the gardens’ flora, conservation efforts, and importance in the broader landscape of the Botanical Garden of Kashmir.
Flora And Fauna In Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
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One looks forward to visiting the Botanical Garden of Kashmir to specifically witness the variety of attractions, such as the vibrant tulip displays and the beautiful oak trees. This garden brings into the bigger picture why one needs to preserve and protect flowers by hosting an annual Tulip fair and showcasing Kashmir’s botanical wonders through their wide flora ranges. Roses, for example, bloom during the early summer, enduring their everlasting beauty and fragrance, while lilies, on the other hand, add a high touch of elegance and scent, thus enhancing the serene beauty of the Srinagar Botanical Gardens.
The iconic Chinar trees stand tall, symbolising Kashmir’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Their leaves turn red in autumn, making them a visual treat. This garden is also home to rare saffron crocuses, known for producing valuable saffron spice. In addition, beautiful orchids flaunt their unique charm and diversity due to the meticulous care taken.
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Timings And Entry Fee
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The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden timings is from 7 am to 7 pm and is functional during all days of the week, thus allowing visitors to visit and appreciate this garden according to their convenience, be it a weekday or a weekend. Moreover, this garden attracts peace seekers, nature lovers, photo fanatics and fitness freaks, making it open to all.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden entry fee for adults above 12 is Rs. 10/—, and for children below 12, the entry fee is just Rs. 5/-. The stunning lake spreads across 17 hectares and includes paddle boats that showcase the beauty of the surroundings. The charges for paddle boat services are based differently.
Other Botanical Gardens In Srinagar
Srinagar is home to several other botanical gardens that offer picturesque landscapes and unique plant species. These lesser-known gardens provide a tranquil retreat and showcase the diverse beauty of Kashmir’s horticultural heritage. From meticulously curated flower beds to expansive green lawns, each garden has its charm, inviting visitors to explore the rich natural tapestry of this beautiful region.
Shalimar Bagh
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Spreading across a vast area of 31 acres, Shalimar Bagh is the largest of the three Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Shalimar Bagh is considered a high point of Mughal horticulture, a beautifully laid garden that overlooks the scintillating waters of the Dal Lake. Built in 1619 by the Mughal Emperor, Jahangir, for his beloved wife, Nur Jahan, this pristine attraction is now a public park known as the “Crown of Srinagar”. Sprinkled generously with well-trimmed gardens and exquisite architecture, the ‘Chini Khanas’ or arched niches placed behind the waterfall and the Chinar trees are the highlights of this place.
Address: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM from November to March and 9 AM to 7 PM from April to October
Entry fee: Rs. 20 per person
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Nishat Bagh
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Nishat Bagh is a terraced Mughal garden that is popularly known as the ‘Garden of Bliss’ that commands a magnificent view of the lake beneath the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain range that stands far away to the west of the Kashmir valley. This garden was designed and built in 1633 by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Noor Jahan and covers an area of 46 acres, starting from the banks of Dal Lake and extending up to the hill end with polished stone channels. This garden is largely influenced by Persian architecture. It has tall Chinar trees and colourful flowers that adorn the lush green landscape of the garden, which also has several beautiful fountains.
Address: Main road Nishat next to Mughal garden Nishat, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, 191121
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children
Chashme Shahi
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Chashme Shahi is a beautiful Mughal garden located in the Zabarwan range and overlooks the Dal lake. It was built in 1632 AD by the Mughal Governor, Ali Mardan Khan, around a freshwater spring that was unearthed by Rupa Bhawani, a renowned female Kashmiri saint. This garden is spread over an acre of land and is considered the most miniature garden compared to the above two. This artistically built Mughal garden is inspired by Iranian architecture and art and is designed based on Persian gardens. What attracts visitors most to this garden is the spring which flows down in terraces and is divided into three sections – an aqueduct, waterfall and fountains.
Address: 7, Boulevard Road, Chashma Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Saturday and 2 PM to 9 PM on Sunday
Entry Fee: Rs. 20 per person
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Tulip Garden (Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden)
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Considered the most extensive tulip garden in Asia, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden was opened in 2007 to boost floriculture and tourism in Kashmir Valley. Spreading across an area of about 30 hectares, it is a seven terraced garden built on a sloping ground that overlooks the Dal lake as well. Adding more charm to the place is the water channel that runs through the terrace, making it a perfect place for romantic couples who can spend quality time here. The eye-soothing verdure and rows and rows of the blossoming tulips of different colours clubbed with the mighty Zabarwan Hills and the sparkling Dal lake in the backdrop lend immense scenic beauty to this garden and eventually the visitors.
Address: Jammu and Kashmir, Cheshma Shahi Rd, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 25 for children.
Best Time To Visit Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
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The best time to visit this beautiful garden is during the summer, as the climate is favourable for outdoor activities and makes it more pleasant to see without any hassle. April brings spring, which gives new life to the valley, and the garden turns into a work of art with bright colours that capture one’s eyes. Moreover, the Tulip Festival in Kashmir comes to life this month, exhibiting a stunning range of tulip types.
May welcomes full bloom as the weather has warmed up just enough to make exploring the vast ground comfortable and also brings in longer days, giving visitors more time to take in this beautiful space. The natural gardens of Kashmir are at their busiest during this time, showcasing their wide range of plants from roses to lilies. June sets in the change from spring to summer and is the last chance to enjoy the spring flowers and start the summer lushness. June is also a great time for kids to visit since there are a lot of fun, engaging and educational things to do on the gardens’ large grounds.
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How To Reach Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
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By Air
If you want to reach the garden in Srinagar by air, there are several flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh or Shimla that arrive at the Sheikh ul-Alam International airport which is also known as Srinagar International Airport, located at a distance of 19 km from the botanical garden. Upon arrival at the airport, you can hire a taxi or public transportation to reach your destination in around 43 minutes.
By Rail
If you are most comfortable travelling by train, then you book your tickets to Jammu Tawi Railway Station which is easily connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune etc. The Jammu railway station is located approximately 302 kilometres from the botanical garden from where you can hire taxis to reach you to your destination.
By Road
If you are planning to travel by road to get to the botanical garden, you should be aware of the streets that are easily connected to cities like Jammu, Delhi and Chandigarh. You can also take a bus from nearby towns to access this wonderful garden.
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Paying a visit to the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden in Srinagar is an informative way to see how Kashmir Botanic conservation works. The garden’s peaceful ambiance and conservation methods teaches us the significance of keeping plants and trees safe in Kashmir and also shows us how to look after our earth and what it offers. Plan a trip to Srinagar to explore this beautiful garden!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
What is the botanical garden in Kashmir famous for?
The botanical garden in Kashmir is famous for its diverse variety of both local and exotic plants, the amazing tulip display and the beautiful location set against the Zabarwan range and Dal lake.
How many gardens are there in Kashmir?
Kashmir is home to several beautiful gardens that each offer a unique glimpse into the region's horticultural beauty. Some of which are the Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi and the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden.
Which is the most extensive garden in Kashmir?
The largest garden in Kashmir is considered to be the Shalimar Bagh that is known for its extensive terraces and water channels.
Which is India’s most extensive botanical garden?
The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden in Kolkata is the largest botanical garden in India and spans over 270 acres and is known for its great banyan tree which is one of the largest in the world.
What is the nearest landmark to the botanical garden in Srinagar?
The Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden can be easily located within a close proximity of the Chashme Shahi Garden.
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