Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, Bhubaneswar

Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a sprawling 500-acre botanical park established in 1985 and managed by the Regional Plant Resource Centre. Named after the ancient name for Bhubaneswar, "Ekamra Kshetra," meaning "The Land of Mango Trees," it is the largest botanical garden in the city and a prominent green space blending conservation, education, and recreation.

The garden features specialized sections including a vast cactus garden with over 1,000 species housed in a pyramidal glasshouse, an orchid house, rose garden, bonsai garden, and a fruit orchard. It also has a 45-acre man-made lake with boating facilities that attract migratory birds in winter. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a children's play area, and a musical fountain, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and researchers.

Besides being a scenic and tranquil retreat, Ekamra Kanan hosts annual flower shows and educational events promoting plant biodiversity and environmental awareness. Its location near the Chandaka forest adds to its natural appeal, offering an immersive experience in nature within the city. The garden is open daily with nominal entry fees and is best visited between October and March for pleasant weather and vibrant blooms.