Located on a 1.25‑hectare site near Alibaug, India, the Shapurji Palanji Native Biodiversity Garden was created to celebrate and safeguard the region’s natural heritage.
The garden is divided into 17 themed sections that highlight a rich variety of native plants and wildlife, including medicinal species, orchids, ferns, and bamboo. It also features a vertical garden, a wetland ecosystem, and a sacred grove. Visitors are invited to wander through the grounds and discover the unique flora and fauna of the area.
Key Features:
- Themed Zones: More than 61,000 plants from 600 native species are cultivated across 17 dedicated sections, each focusing on a particular aspect of biodiversity—such as medicinal plants, butterflies, or wetland habitats.
- Sustainable Design: The garden has been thoughtfully planned with environmental considerations in mind, utilizing renewable energy, a drip‑irrigation system, and pathways designed to be accessible for people with disabilities.
- Conservation Focus: Every element of the garden is devoted to preserving and showcasing local plant and animal life.
Educational Purpose:
The garden serves as an educational hub for over 7,100 students from 155 schools, fostering awareness about biodiversity and the need for conservation.
Visitor Engagement:
Having welcomed more than 12,000 visitors, the garden supports local tourism by offering an opportunity to explore varied ecosystems and learn about native plants and animals.
Community Participation:
Managed by a trained team of local residents, the garden also generates revenue through plant sales and tourism-related activities.
Sustainable Practices:
Sustainability is at the core of the garden’s operations, aiming for financial independence through diverse income streams.
Expansion Plans:
The Shapurji Palanji Group intends to partner with government agencies to develop similar native biodiversity gardens throughout the country.
