Baldha Garden

Baldha Garden is one of the oldest and most botanically significant living heritage treasures in Bangladesh, nestled in the historic neighbourhood of Wari in Old Dhaka. Established between 1909 and 1940 by the cultured zamindar Narendra Narayan Roy Chaudhury of the Baldha estate, the garden was lovingly curated with hundreds of rare, exotic plant and tree species gathered from over fifty countries across five continents.

Covering approximately 3.15 acres, the botanical sanctuary is divided into two distinct walled enclosures: 'Cybele' and 'Psyche.' Cybele, named after the ancient Greek earth mother, features majestic century-old baobabs, rare cactus collections, towering cycads, rock gardens, and an open-air sun-dial. It was here that Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore was captivated by a rare African camellia, inspiring his famous romantic poem 'Camellia.'

The adjoining Psyche enclosure houses tranquil water lily ponds, sunken fern houses, orchid collections, and the famed Victoria Amazonica — the giant Amazon water lily whose enormous floating leaves can support the weight of a small child. The historic 'Joy House' and the ornamental 'Shankhanidhi' pond add architectural charm to the lush foliage.

Now maintained by the Forest Department, Baldha Garden serves as a peaceful green oasis amidst the bustling energy of Dhaka, offering botanical students, photographers, and heritage enthusiasts an enchanting escape into nature.

Narendra Narayan Roy Chaudhury, an avid botanist, traveler, and patron of arts, devoted his personal wealth to creating this world-class living plant museum at his Wari estate.

During his 1926 visit to Dhaka, poet Rabindranath Tagore stayed near the garden and regularly strolled through its paths, drawing creative inspiration from its exotic blossoms.

In 1962, the Government of East Pakistan assumed management of the garden under the Directorate of Forests, ensuring its scientific conservation and public accessibility.

November to February: Cool, dry season with comfortable walking conditions and blooming seasonal flowers.

March to May: Spring and early summer; orchids and tropical trees enter active flowering stages.

June to September: Monsoon season; giant Amazon lilies are in their prime growth, though rain showers occur.