Tired of the honking horns, fast-moving yellow taxis, and the endless rush of city life? Well, you’re not alone. If you’re someone who often dreams of walking barefoot on grass or just sitting under a tree without hearing a ringtone every two minutes—then the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata might just be your next favourite spot.

Located in Shibpur, Howrah, right on the western bank of the Hooghly River, the garden is officially called the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden. Sounds like a long name? Just say Botanical Gardens in Kolkata, and Google Maps will do the rest.

Botanical Gardens in Kolkata History 

The Botanical Gardens in Kolkata were founded back in 1787 by Colonel Robert Kyd of the British East India Company. Back then, the goal was to grow commercially useful plants like teak and spices. Fast forward a couple of centuries, and it’s now a lush, 273-acre paradise of over 12,000 plant species.

It’s not just a tourist spot. It’s a big green textbook of botanical wonders. You’ll see plants here that you’ve probably never even heard of—unless you’re a botany student, in which case, this is your Disneyland.

What’s So Special About It?

Alright, let’s address the elephant in the room—or in this case, the tree. One of the main attractions of the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata is the Great Banyan Tree. And when we say “great,” we mean it. This single tree covers around 3.5 acres of land. Yup, one tree. It’s not just big, it’s basically a whole forest with aerial roots that look like supporting pillars in a temple.

Fun fact: It’s over 250 years old and still standing strong like your grandparent’s umbrella stand—just way, way bigger.

Timings and Entry Fees 

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Closed on Mondays and national holidays

Entry Fee:

• Indian visitors: ₹50

• Foreign tourists: ₹350
  (If you’re just there to vibe, no extra fee for your eyes, thankfully.)

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes. The place is huge, and flip-flops are not your friends here.

What Else Can You Expect?

Other than showing off your tree-spotting skills, the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata offer:

• Rare and exotic plants from five continents (yes, they’re imported and fancy).

• Beautiful ponds with lilies and lotus flowers, perfect for reflection (or dramatic selfies).

• Peaceful walking trails—perfect for clearing your mind or eavesdropping on people talking about plants like pros.

• Birdwatching opportunities! You may spot some feathered friends if you’re lucky (and silent).

Let’s just say, it’s the kind of place where you can take your grandparents and your date, and both will end up loving it.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

The gardens are open almost all year round, but October to February is when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are showing off. Summers? A bit too sweaty. Monsoons? Slippery but super green. Winters? Just right.

So if you’re planning a peaceful morning stroll or a weekend family picnic, Botanical Gardens in Kolkata during the cool season is the way to go.

How to reach?

Located in Shibpur, the gardens are pretty accessible:

• By Metro: Get off at Howrah Station and take a cab or auto.

• By Bus: Plenty of options from central Kolkata.

• By Cab: Always convenient if you want the door-to-garden experience.

If you’re directionally challenged (like some of us), just follow the locals or smell the fresh greenery!

A Bit of Humor – Because Plants Are Funny Too

Have you ever seen a cactus that looks like it’s trying to do yoga? Or a tree that has more branches than your family WhatsApp group? You’ll find all this and more at the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata. It’s nature’s version of a quirky museum—with no audio guides, just rustling leaves.

Also, it’s one of the rare places where “getting lost” can actually be fun. You’ll find corners so quiet, even your thoughts start whispering.

Final Thoughts – To Visit

If your idea of a good time includes fresh air, green surroundings, and the occasional squirrel photo-bombing your selfie—then yes, absolutely, visit the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata. It’s educational without being boring, beautiful without being flashy, and peaceful without being dead silent.

So grab your walking shoes, maybe a hat, and head over to the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata—your lungs (and your soul) will thank you later.