Lloyd Botanical Garden: A Himalayan Floral Sanctuary
Discover Himalayan flora at Darjeeling's historic Lloyd Botanical Garden, a serene sanctuary of diverse plant species and natural beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Darjeeling, West Bengal, the Lloyd Botanical Garden offers a captivating glimpse into the botanical richness of the Himalayas. Founded in 1878 as an annex to the Calcutta Botanical Garden, this 40-acre sanctuary was established to preserve and display plant species from the Himalayan region and other parts of the world. The garden was named after William Lloyd, who gifted the land for its creation. The garden is divided into three sections, each showcasing a unique collection of flora. The upper section features indigenous Himalayan plants like oak, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendrons. The middle section boasts ferns, conifer trees, and alpine collections, along with a conservatory housing cacti and orchids. The lower section displays a variety of exotic plants from around the globe. Visitors can explore diverse plant species, including a prehistoric Ginkgo Biloba tree and a medicinal garden with plants from the Eastern Himalayan region. The garden's orchidarium is home to around 2,500 orchids, representing about 50 different varieties. With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse collection, the Lloyd Botanical Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden is large and situated on a slope.
- Visit during the blooming season (spring/early summer) to see the rhododendrons and orchids in full splendor.
- Check the garden's opening hours, as they may vary seasonally.
- Explore all three sections of the garden to experience the full diversity of plant life.
A brief summary to Lloyd Botanical Garden
- 27W8+422, Darjeeling, Chauk Bazaar, West Bengal, 734101, IN
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Chowk Bazaar taxi stand, the Lloyd Botanical Garden is within walking distance. Head down Victoria Road towards the Eden Sanatorium (Saheed Durga Mall District Hospital), and the garden entrance is located just below the hospital. The walk is moderately steep.
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Public Transport
Shared taxis and jeeps are readily available in Darjeeling and can drop you off near the entrance of the Lloyd Botanical Garden. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Eden Sanatorium or the Chowk Bazaar taxi stand, from where you can walk to the garden. Shared taxi fares within Darjeeling start from ₹10-₹20.
