Semmozhi Poonga - Chennai, Tamilnadu

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

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Semmozhi Poonga, meaning “Classical Language Park” in Tamil, is Chennai’s first botanical garden, a 20-acre green oasis located on Cathedral Road in the heart of the bustling city.

Opened to the public on November 24, 2010 by then-chief minister Dr. M. Karunanidhi, it was built at a cost of ₹8 crore (₹80 million) by the Tamil Nadu Government’s Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering Departments to honor the World Classical Tamil Meet. 

The garden hosts over 500 plant species plus 80 existing trees, some over 100 years old, and features 22 themed sub-gardens including medicinal, herbal, bonsai, aromatic, rock, and exotic gardens with plants imported from China and Thailand. A serene man-made duck pond, well-maintained lawns, flowerbeds, a tree court, and a mural walk enhance its tranquil atmosphere, offering nature lovers and families a peaceful escape with children’s play areas and open seating.