Overview of the Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden, officially known as the National Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden and Research Centre, is located in Panchkula, near Chandigarh. It was established to preserve endangered cacti and succulents and promote awareness among tourists and researchers. Spanning seven acres, it is Asia’s largest outdoor garden dedicated to these plants, featuring over 2,500 species.
Unique Features and Collections
The garden is home to a vast collection of Indian succulents, many of which are rare and endangered. Notably, it includes a complete collection of the Caralluma genus, native to India. Three greenhouses support controlled plant growth. Many of the species have medicinal value and are used in Ayurveda and Unani medicine.
Visiting Information
The garden is open daily with seasonal timings:
- April to September: 9 AM – 1 PM & 3 PM – 7 PM
- October to March: 9 AM – 1 PM & 2 PM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per person
