Our 5 Favourite Gardens in India
The oldest story in the book, a chapter that we re-read and yet often forget about, is the connection between nature and our mood. Taking a walk in the park, and sitting in a garden, is an access point to better mental health. We're hoping that this encourages morning walk routes around your neighbourhood, but until you find something local, here’s a list of national treasures that are historic as well as newly renovated in and around the country:
1. Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore:
In the vast expanse of 240 acres, the glass house, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, is iconic to Lalbagh Gardens. With over 1,800 plant species, a large lake, and a mini waterfall, this government botanical garden was once a royal retreat for Hyder Ali. If you’re looking to get into bird watching, this is a great place to start – by the lake whilst boating. Located a little to the south of central Bangalore, it is easily accessible by cars and public transport.
2. Buddha Jayanti Park, Delhi:
As a celebration of 2,500 years of Buddha’s parinivana (the final passing of a Buddhist), the park was created in the 1960s. In the middle of the park, you’ll find a Tibetan-style statue of Buddha sculpted by Pemba Dorje, inside a canopy by architect Ashish Ganju. A place where culture and tradition meet ecology as the Tibetan people gifted this graceful idol to India.
3. Kamala Nehru Park or Hanging Gardens, Mumbai:
Mumbaikars tend to identify this garden as the ‘Shoe’ park - owing to a large woman’s boot reimagined as a house for children to play in. A recent addition to the park is the Malabar Hill walkway, an elevated nature trail with views of the sea and city skyline. The perfect breakfast spot, Malabar Hill Club is right around the corner, we recommend grabbing a member and enjoying the Mysore sada dosa. Another South Indian option nearby is Dakshinayan. To go, make sure you book your slot here.
4. Mughal Gardens of Kashmir, Srinagar:
When the Mughals travelled from Agra to Lahore, they came across natural springs, lakes, and large landscapes of beauty. This led to the commissioning of six pleasure gardens. Whether for spiritual rejuvenation, court meetings, or romantic liaisons, these gardens provided a space for all. Stroll through the garden of Achabal to witness a mesmerizing spring and waterfall. The Taj Dal View is merely a 3-minute drive with Tulip Lounge offering pastries and Himalayan scenery.
5. Jetty Garden, Daman:
The Nani Daman Jetty Garden is situated near St. Jerome’s Fort in Daman. The architects envisioned a coastal park that created a mezze of land between the sea and sky. With the option to walk on a pavilion or beside the Arabian Sea and by the banks of the river Ganga. We suggest picnicking, embracing nostalgia in the playground, and reading by the water. It's ideal for sunset clicks too.
