Saramsa Garden is also known as "Ipecac Garden". The garden was established by the Forest Department of the government of Sikkim in the year of 1922. The reason behind setting up of the garden was to supply to the needs of the British officers as well as the former Namgyal Royal ancestors. Afterwards it began cultivating the medicinal plant "ipecacuanha". However, later the cultivation of the medicinal plant was stopped and the garden was developed for picnic purpose. The garden is famous for its wide range of beautiful orchid species that blossom there.
Location of Saramsa Garden
The Saramsa Garden is located about 14 kilometres from Gangtok Town and near Ranipool. It is located in Gangtok, the capital of the Indian state of Sikkim.
History of Saramsa Garden
The Saramsa Garden was established in 1922 by the Sikkim Forest Department. From 1922-1954, the Forest Manager reared the garden as his indulge project with powerful involvement in beginning of plants. At first it was established with the main reason of growing different fruits like pineapple, guava, varieties of oranges and lychee for the British Political officer and the Palace.
The tradition of growing fruits continued until 1940, after which the Forest Department pioneered ipecacuanha from Zohore in Malaysia. However, the farming of ipecacuanha was stopped in 1970. In 1975, the garden was converted into an orchidarium for growing diverse sorts of orchids. The majority of plants were introduced from 1975 till 1980. In 2008 the garden hosted the International Flori Show, an occasion endorsed by the Government of Sikkim to promote the area as a centre of floriculture.
Arrangements of Saramsa Garden
Numerous developments have taken place in the garden over the years. A contemporary Convention Centre has been built in the garden which can provide lodgings to 500 persons. The garden has some sections known as blocks. The stunning range of colourful flowers and the lush greenery hold the attention of the visitors. The garden has a big green house, which preserves wide range of orchids. Saramsa Garden at Sikkim is one the best picnic spots in the north eastern region that is set in the lap of nature. Tourists visiting the garden enjoy themselves in the soothing temperate climate. The garden is located in the midst of colourful flowers and greenery. The scenic beauty of the place attracts the attention of many tourists and picnickers. People visiting this garden can also gain knowledge about different plants.
The beautiful Saramsa Garden also has a large green house which houses and preserves various species of orchids and other temperate plants. Many small faunas like beautiful butterflies can be seen here hovering on the trees and plants. The most popular of them is the Golden Birdwing that is found here in abundance. Saramsa Garden also provides space for recreational activities like playing sports such as volleyball and football. Tourists can enjoy a day here with their family and friends.
Visitng information of Saramsa Garden
The Saramsa Garden of Sikkim is well connected with all modes of transport. It is accessible from Gangtok through any local mode of transport. The nearest airport to the exquisite garden is the Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. One can also take a connecting flight from this airport to Gangtok. The nearest railway stations to the Saramsa Garden are the New Jalpaiguri station and Siliguri station. Tourists can also take a trip to Gangtok through jeeps, cars or bus from Gangtok. The journey by bus offers some breath taking view of the snow capped Himalaya Mountains and the surrounding scenic beauty and greenery.
