With a striking collection of rare medicinal plants, the Ekamra Van in the city is a one-of-its kind garden nurtured over a derelict site in the Old Town area. Situated amid the heritage sites of the city and located on the Western bank of the Bindusagar tank, the garden was opened for public in 2009. Today it houses over 200 significant medicinal plants.
Built by traditional craftsmen from the famous Raghurajpur Crafts village and Buddhist site Lalitgiri, the aesthetic design of the garden is enchanting. Ekamra Van, created by the Forest Department, has a heritage feel to it since it has been built with the natural stones that is common to the hundreds of monuments of the area the garden is situated in. It is a bright example of urban heritage conservation since it was renovated not to look out of place but in continuity with the sites in its neighbourhood. Managed by the Ekamravan Medicinal Plant Garden Society, this garden has a nursery that popularises the medicinal herbs by raising and selling saplings and plants with healing properties.
Timings |
During winters 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM During summers 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
---|---|
Dos and Dont's | Littering not allowed. |
Must See | Striking view of Lingaraj temple across the Bindusagar Lake, representation of seat of Lord Lingaraj through Shiva Pindi, depiction of stories through animal figurines, spice herbs used for local cooking etc. |
Entry fee |
Rs. 2 per person For children below 5 years entry is free For school students with prior intimation from the school head, entry is also free
|
Parking | Limited |