Semmozhi Poonga Botanical Garden – Entry Fee, Timings, History & Visitor Guide
Positioned as a flagship green asset in the heart of Chennai, Semmozhi Poonga Botanical Garden delivers a balanced blend of heritage, biodiversity, and urban leisure. Designed as a long-term ecological investment by the Government of Tamil Nadu, the garden continues to be a high-footfall destination for residents, tourists, and creative professionals alike.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Name | Semmozhi Poonga Botanical Garden |
| Location | Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Established | 24 November 2010 |
| Inaugurated By | Dr. M. Karunanidhi |
| Meaning of Name | “Semmozhi” – Classical Language (Tamil) |
| Total Area | 20 Acres |
| Governing Authority | Government of Tamil Nadu |
| Managing Department | Horticulture & Agricultural Engineering Department |
| Key Attractions | Exotic plants, rare species, medicinal & aromatic herbs |
| Oldest Trees | Over 100 years old |
| Ideal For | Morning walks, sightseeing, photography, film shoots |
| Popular With | Tourists, botanists, joggers, filmmakers |
| Environment | Well-maintained urban green space |
| City Significance | First botanical garden of Chennai |
About the Garden
Amid Chennai’s fast-paced urban ecosystem, Semmozhi Poonga functions as a strategic green refuge. Spread across 20 acres, the botanical garden houses exotic flora, rare plant species, medicinal and aromatic herbs, and landscaped walking trails. It has become a preferred destination for morning walkers, botanists, photographers, and filmmakers, reinforcing its multi-dimensional appeal.
Maintained by the Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, the garden reflects disciplined urban planning with a sustainability-first mindset.
🏛️ History & Legacy
The name “Semmozhi Poonga”, meaning Classical Language Park in Tamil, underscores its cultural positioning. The garden was inaugurated on 24 November 2010 by the former Chief Minister Dr. M. Karunanidhi, with an investment of ₹80 million.
Key historical milestones:
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Originally part of an 18-acre lease held by hotelier K. Krishna Rau, who established the iconic Woodlands Drive-In Hotel in 1962.
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The premises later hosted major events, including the Chennai Book Fair (1982).
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Following the restaurant’s closure in 2008 and subsequent High Court intervention, the land was transferred to the state.
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In 2009, the Supreme Court approved the botanical garden project.
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The garden was formally developed in 2010 with Rajendra Associates as consultants.
Today, the site preserves over 80 mature trees, some exceeding 100 years of age, making it both an ecological and historical asset.
📌 Why Visit Semmozhi Poonga?
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Central Chennai location with serene surroundings
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Rich collection of rare and medicinal plants
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Ideal for morning walks, photography, and film shoots
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A well-governed, professionally maintained botanical space
Themed Garden to Watch
| Themed Garden | Description |
|---|---|
| Classical Forest | Features plants referenced in Tamil Sangam literature, many of which are endemic and endangered, reinforcing cultural and botanical heritage. |
| Flower Forest | Showcases vibrant seasonal flowers with changing color palettes across the year. |
| Peaceful Forest | A quiet, contemplative zone designed for inner reflection and mental calm. |
| Pollen Forest | Focuses on pollination ecology, promoting awareness on attracting bees and butterflies and their role in biodiversity. |
| Water Forest | Dedicated to aquatic and semi-aquatic plants capable of thriving in water-based ecosystems. |
| Rock Garden | Displays drought-resistant plants adapted to rocky terrains and low water availability. |
| Ainthinai Forest | Symbolizes the five Tamil Sangam landscapes—Kurinji, Mullai, Marutham, Neithal, and Palai. |
| Herbal & Medicinal Garden | Curated collection of traditional medicinal plants used in indigenous healing systems. |
| Health Forest | Features plant systems linked to wellness, fitness, and healthy living. |
| Western Ghats Biological Region | Houses rare plant species from the Western Ghats, highlighting one of India’s richest biodiversity hotspots. |
🎟️ Ticket Price Table
| Category | Ticket Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Adult | 75 |
| Child | 40 |
| Walker Pass | 500 |
⏰ Timings Table
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
🚗 Parking Fees Table
| Vehicle Type | Parking Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Two-Wheeler | 20 |
| Auto Rickshaw | 50 |
| Car | 100 |
| Van | 100 |
| Bus | 200 |
Semmozhi Poonga / Park
Semmozhi Poonga Botanical Garden stands as a textbook example of how legacy land can be repurposed into a high-impact public asset—delivering environmental value, cultural continuity, and visitor satisfaction in equal measure.
Location & Contact
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Address: Cathedral Road, Teynampet, Ellaiamman Colony, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600086, India
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Phone: 081899 41695
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Access: Easily reachable from central Chennai; well connected by road
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Tixora –
Good parking facility for two wheelers and few cars
Tixora –
Beautiful place, I highly recommend this location for good photo shoots.
Tixora –
Peaceful place , good atmosphere, food and drinks price are slightly higher.
Tixora –
The park has an artificial duck pond, and boasts around 22 exclusive gardens.
Tixora –
Despite the number of visitors, the place felt neglected and did not live up to the hype. The entry fee of ₹75 for adults feels overpriced
Tixora –
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