What’s the oldest botanical garden in India?

India is home to some of the world’s richest biodiversity, with countless species of plants, flowers, and trees that flourish across its diverse landscapes. Among the many green spaces that protect and showcase this natural heritage, the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden in Howrah, near Kolkata, West Bengal, holds a special place. Established in the late 18th century, it is the oldest botanical garden in India, and one of the most significant in Asia.

Origins and History

The garden was founded in 1787 by Colonel Robert Kyd, a British officer of the East India Company, who envisioned creating a space that would study and cultivate plants of economic and medicinal value. Initially called the Company Bagan (Company’s Garden), its purpose was not just ornamental but highly practical: to explore plants that could benefit trade, agriculture, and medicine in colonial India.

Over time, the garden evolved into a living laboratory for plant research, contributing to the introduction of tea cultivation in Assam and cinchona (a source of quinine) in India—both of which played crucial roles in the country’s economic and medical history.

A Living Treasure of Biodiversity

Spread over 273 acres, the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden is home to more than 12,000 living plants and thousands of dried plant specimens in its herbarium. It houses rare and exotic species collected from across the globe—tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions alike. The garden’s extensive collection makes it not just a green sanctuary but also a treasure trove of scientific and botanical knowledge.

The Iconic Great Banyan Tree

Perhaps the most famous resident of the garden is the Great Banyan Tree, often described as a wonder of the natural world. Estimated to be over 250 years old, this single tree spreads across more than 3.5 acres and has more than 3,700 aerial roots. To the casual visitor, it appears like a dense forest, but in reality, it is one tree with a massive canopy that provides shade to countless creatures. The Great Banyan has even outlived the original avenue roads of the garden, becoming a symbol of resilience and continuity.

Contribution to Science and Education

The garden has been a hub for scientific study for over two centuries. Botanists and researchers from around the world have visited it to study plant taxonomy, cultivation techniques, and environmental conservation. It also played a role in shaping modern Indian science, which is why it was renamed after Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, a pioneering Indian scientist renowned for his groundbreaking work on plant physiology.

Tourist Attraction and Green Haven

Today, the garden serves not only as a research center but also as a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers. Visitors come to stroll through its lush avenues, witness exotic species, and marvel at the Great Banyan Tree. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life of Kolkata while providing a glimpse into the natural wealth of India.

Conclusion

The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden is much more than India’s oldest botanical garden—it is a living museum of plants, a cradle of scientific discovery, and a symbol of India’s enduring relationship with nature. Established over two centuries ago, it continues to inspire researchers, travelers, and environmentalists alike, proving that a garden is not just a place of beauty, but also of knowledge, history, and cultural pride.