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Anshuman
Natural Historian's Paradise.
SKVBR Botanical Garden or Kothaguda Botanical Garden is a rarity for a city too hung up on its huge malls, posh areas and numerous artificial amusement and themed parks. Surprisingly it does not suffer from neglect that haunts so many of the other government undertaking. Instead it is very well tended, and is an example of how the eco-tourism properties need to be developed and maintained.
We had been to Mahavir Harina Sanctuary and it was so frustrating to find out that cameras were not allowed inside. To make matters worse the tour of the sanctuary had been like a safari where we were confined within a car. We expected some more of the same when we reached the Botanical Gardens.
However, the Kothaguda Botanical Garden is run far more professionally. 10 Rupee entry fee was a throwaway, and for carrying cameras you had to shell out an additional 50 rupees. Considering that it was a clear written policy there were no issues about this.
The botanical garden is spread over 128 acres of reserved forest area in Kothaguda (just a couple of kilometers off Madhapur). The garden is a mix of developed and wild landscape. The land marking the entrance have been converted into sprawling gardens surrounded by select tree species and fauna. The garden also has an artificial lake at its center.
The area which has not been developed is even more interesting as it is a dense forest with lot of wild shrubs and trees. I was accompanied by enthusiasts who were interested with insect and bird life. The look of pure excitement when they entered the untended part was (as Mastercard says) priceless.
The garden also doubles up as a hot spot for lovebirds. :) With no one to disturb them, except occasional eccentric nature lovers, its not hard to see why.
I was thoroughly impressed with the way the Kohtaguda Botanical Garden have been developed. I would love to return to the garden preferably early morning. An ideal getaway for nature lovers and lovers.
