The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, commonly known as the Botanical Gardens, is situated in Shibpur, Howrah near Kolkata. They were established in 1787 by Colonel Robert Kyd, an army officer of the British East India Company, primarily for the purpose of identifying new commercial value plants for trade and of course, for plain curiosity and scientific exploration. Over time, the gardens became notable for their extensive collection of flora, which includes a wide variety of rare plants and a large herbarium.
The gardens are best known for the Great Banyan Tree, which is over 250 years old and spreads across about 14,500 square meters, making it one of the largest of its kind in the world. The sheer size and the spread of the Banyan tree's aerial roots have fascinated tourists and botanists alike.
Over the years, the Botanical Gardens have seen a steady increase in their role as a tourist attraction. In addition to being a botanist's treasure trove, it has become a refreshing escape for those looking to break away from the constant hustle and bustle of Kolkata. People come here for morning walks, educational tours, and family picnics.
In recent years, there has been a distinct move towards eco-tourism and educational tourism. The Botanical Gardens, with their rich history and ecological importance, cater to both these trends by offering a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a learning ground for students and academics. The emphasis on preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainability has only enhanced the value of such sites.
Digital interventions have also modernized the way tourists visit and experience the gardens. The use of QR codes to provide information on different plants, mobile apps for self-guided tours, and social media campaigns promoting the diversity of plant life within the gardens are ways the Botanical Gardens keep up with the latest trends in tourism.
Moreover, the Government has been making continuous efforts to improve the infrastructure and facilitate ease of access. Improving pathways, signage, rest facilities, and the introduction of battery-operated vehicles for sightseeing within the premises are notable enhancements aimed at making the gardens more tourist-friendly.
In terms of the latest tourism development, the pandemic's impact on global travel has resulted in a spike in domestic tourism. Locals are rediscovering the Botanical Gardens, often keen on open-air destinations that allow for social distancing.
The Botanical Gardens in Kolkata, with their unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and scientific importance, continue to be a cornerstone in both the tourism sector of West Bengal and in the field of botanical research. They symbolize the harmony between humanity and nature and stand as a testament to India's rich botanical heritage.
