Chennai, known for its rich cultural heritage and history, is home to the beautiful botanical garden known as Semmozhi Poonga. Established in 2010 by the Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu, Semmozhi Poonga offers a serene retreat amidst the bustling city of Chennai. It spreads over 20 acres and houses an impressive variety of flora, with over 500 species of plants, including medicinal herbs, aromatic plants, and exotic flowers.
Semmozhi Poonga was officially inaugurated by then chief minister Dr. M. Karunanidhi, and it was the city's first botanical garden. The site of the park was once the location of a historic bungalow belonging to the governor of Chennai. The transformation of this area into a botanical haven was an initiative to enhance greenery and serve as an educational hub for botany enthusiasts, students, and researchers, and to encourage eco-tourism in the heart of Chennai.
The garden is meticulously planned and features well-manicured lawns, themed gardens, such as the fern garden, butterfly garden, and the aromatic herb garden. A major highlight is the exotic display of orchids. Moreover, the park includes several water bodies, a duck pond, and an artificial waterfall, which adds to its beauty and is a home to various aquatic species.
With the growing awareness of the importance of sustainable tourism, Semmozhi Poonga plays a crucial role in educating tourists on the importance of flora and creates an eco-friendly tourist spot in the heart of an urban center. It has become a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful enclave. Birdwatching and photography workshops often take place, leveraging the park's natural beauty and biodiversity.
In recent years, the popularity of botanical gardens like Semmozhi Poonga has been on the rise, as tourists look for green spaces within urban landscapes, a trend driven by the desire for relaxation and wellness-oriented travel experiences.
The garden is accessible to the public and charges a nominal fee for entry. It is open every day except for Tuesdays and is a splendid place to witness the diversity of plant life and to spend a day engulfed in nature's beauty. The best time to visit the park is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant, and one can fully enjoy the walkways and exotic plant species without the afternoon heat.
Semmozhi Poonga stands as a testament to Chennai's commitment to preserving green spaces and promoting environmental education, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
The botanical garden is strategically located in the city center at the Cathedral Road-Chamiers Road junction, which is well-connected to various parts of the city. Visitors can easily reach Semmozhi Poonga via public transport, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. For those driving, there is ample parking space available.
The garden is equipped with various amenities, including restrooms, a cafeteria offering refreshments, sitting areas, and guided tour services that indulge the visitors in the fascinating details about the different plant species and the park's conception.
In summary, Semmozhi Poonga continues to play a significant role in Chennai's tourism scene, offering an educational and recreational space that appeals to tourists of all ages and interests.
