Gulab Bagh and Zoo

Gulab Bagh, also known by its historical name Sajjan Niwas Garden, is a significant public space located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It stands as the largest garden within the city, encompassing approximately 100 acres of land. Established in 1887 by Maharana Fateh Singh, the garden is renowned for its extensive collection of rose flowers, from which it derives its name, "Gulab Bagh," meaning "Rose Garden." Beyond its horticultural beauty, Gulab Bagh also houses a zoological park, making it the fourth oldest zoo in the region.

History and Development

The foundation of Gulab Bagh was laid in 1887, with a vision to create a substantial garden and recreational area. Maharana Fateh Singh appointed T.H. Story, a horticulturist from Madras, in 1882 to oversee the stocking of the garden with medicinal plants. The garden was initially planned on 66.5 acres and featured a wide variety of trees, meticulously labeled with their Hindi, English, and scientific names. A notable feature was a pond where the Victoria water lily was cultivated. The garden also served as a venue for flower and vegetable shows, the first of which was organized by Maharana Fateh Singh in 1888.

Key Attractions and Features

Gulab Bagh is a vibrant hub with numerous points of interest. The zoological park, though described as relatively small, offers enjoyment for children with glimpses of animals like tigers and bears. The Saraswati Library, originally the Victoria Hall Museum established in 1887 by Maharana Fateh Singh, is the first museum in Rajasthan and now houses over 32,000 books. The garden also includes the Navlakha Mahal, a site significant to the Arya Samaj movement, and a large artificial water body known as Kamal Talai. For leisure, a toy train, named Luv Kush Railway Station, meanders through the park, open to visitors of all ages. An acupressure park, Miraj Jyotish Upvan, is also present, featuring therapeutic tiles and various plants.

Historical Significance and Accessibility

The garden holds historical importance, marked by the placement of a statue of Queen Victoria, later replaced by one of Mahatma Gandhi after India's independence. The Victoria Museum, inaugurated by Lord Lansdown, contained rare artifacts and manuscripts. Gulab Bagh is centrally located in Udaipur, easily accessible from areas like Surajpole and Udiapole. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, attracting a considerable number of visitors daily. Its proximity to other attractions like Pichola Lake and the City Palace complex further enhances its appeal as a key landmark in Udaipur.