Gardens symbolize tranquility, vibrant color, and a soothing escape from the noise, pollution, and crowd of urban life. In today’s increasingly polluted cities, these green spaces act as the “lungs of the city,” playing a critical role in improving air quality and offering citizens a refreshing respite. From ancient royal gardens to modern botanical marvels, gardens in India reflect the country’s deep-rooted appreciation for nature, aesthetics, and wellness.
For centuries, the legacy of Indian royalty has influenced garden design, resulting in stunning layouts inspired by Mughal, Persian, and European styles. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or someone just looking to unwind, these gardens in India offer a perfect getaway.
1. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Srinagar
Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, near Dal Lake in Srinagar, the Tulip Garden is the largest of its kind in Asia. Spread over 30 hectares, this terraced garden blooms with over 70 varieties of tulips, along with daffodils, hyacinths, and ranunculus. The garden becomes a vibrant paradise during the Tulip Festival held in April. The best time to visit is from March to May.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (daily)
2. Yadavindra Gardens, Pinjore (Haryana)
Built during the reign of Aurangzeb, Yadavindra Gardens—also known as Pinjore Gardens—are classic Mughal-style gardens located along the Ambala–Shimla Road. These seven terraced gardens are decorated with water channels, fountains, arched doorways, and lush greenery. Annual festivals like Baisakhi, Mango Mela, and the Pinjore Heritage Festival enhance its cultural charm.
Timings: 7 AM – 10 PM (daily)
3. Mughal Gardens, Delhi
Situated within the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex, the Mughal Gardens of Delhi open to the public during February and March each year. Inspired by Mughal and English landscaping traditions, the garden features geometric layouts, flowing water channels, medicinal plants, and over 250 varieties of roses and tulips. A bonsai garden, cactus garden, and musical fountain also add to its uniqueness.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4 PM (when open to the public seasonally)
4. Brindavan Gardens, Mysore (Karnataka)
Located adjacent to the Krishnarajasagara Dam, the Brindavan Gardens cover 60 acres of beautifully landscaped terraces. The garden is famous for its musical fountain shows, manicured lawns, pergolas, and boating facilities. With over 100 plant varieties and an orchard nearby, it’s one of the most vibrant gardens in India.
Timings:
- Weekends: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Weekdays: 7 AM – 7:55 PM
5. Hanging Gardens, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
Situated atop Malabar Hill, the Hanging Gardens (Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens) overlook the Arabian Sea and offer panoramic sunset views. Known for their hedges shaped like animals, colorful flower beds, and a floral clock, these gardens provide a serene green pocket in the heart of bustling Mumbai. It’s a favorite among morning walkers and yoga enthusiasts.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM (daily)
Read more – 8 Best Things to Do in Bengaluru to Enjoy the Wonders in the Garden City
6. Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore (Karnataka)
One of the most famous botanical gardens in India, Lal Bagh is known for its tropical plants, flower shows, and ancient rock formations believed to be over 3,000 million years old. The garden spans 240 acres and houses rare trees, a lake, glasshouse, and bird species like kingfishers and pelicans. Major flower shows are held on Republic Day and Independence Day.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM (Monday–Saturday)
7. Government Botanical Gardens, Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
Located on the slopes of Doddabetta Peak, Ooty’s Botanical Garden covers over 55 hectares and is maintained by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department. Divided into several themed sections, the garden features more than 1,000 plant species, including exotic herbs, Italian-style flower beds, and 20-million-year-old fossilized tree trunks. The Ooty Flower Show in May is a major attraction.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (daily)
8. Nek Chand Rock Garden, Chandigarh
One of the most unique gardens in India, the Rock Garden in Chandigarh is a marvel of creativity and sustainability. Founded by government official Nek Chand, this 40-acre space is built entirely from industrial and domestic waste. It features over 2,000 sculptures made from scrap materials and is visited by thousands daily. It’s more than just a garden—it’s a cultural landmark.
Timings:
- October to March: 9 AM – 6 PM
- April to September: 9 AM – 7 PM
9. Chaubatia Gardens, Ranikhet (Uttarakhand)
Set near Ranikhet in the Kumaon region, Chaubatia Gardens are famous for apple orchards and panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi. Spread over 600 acres, this lesser-known gem is rich in rhododendron, cedar, and pine trees. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature trails and fresh local produce like honey and fruit juices.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM (daily)
10. Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)
One of the oldest and grandest Mughal gardens in India, Shalimar Bagh sits along the banks of Dal Lake. Known as the “Crown of Srinagar,” it features classic Persian-style architecture, cascading water channels, and floral pavilions. Originally adorned with oil lamps, the garden now hosts seasonal blooms that create a colorful, immersive experience.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (Closed on Fridays)