Botanical Gardens

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  • Address
    Howrah, Botanical Garden Rd, Shibpur
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  • 07:00 - 17:00

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Lonely Planet review

The haven of Kolkata's Botanical Gardens is a welcome respite from the choking noise and crowds. The gardens were founded in 1786 and extend along the west bank of the Hooghly River. It was in these gardens that India's famous black teas were first developed after cuttings were spirited down from tribal regions in Assam.

The prime attraction is a 250-year-old banyan tree, which offers a cooling canopy of shade stretching 400m (1300ft) across from side to side. The palm house in the centre of the garden is also worth a look. Open from dawn until dusk, the gardens are accessible by ferry from Babu Ghat (near Eden Gardens) - otherwise it's a slow taxi ride along the west bank of the Hooghly. Entry is free.