Padmapuram Gardens

From vegetable plot to garden

Padmapuram was laid out in 1942 to grow vegetables for soldiers during the Second World War. After the war it became a horticultural nursery and training centre, and over time it turned into Araku's public garden. It covers about 26 acres, a couple of kilometres from the bus stand.

What is there

Terraced flower beds and a rose garden fill the centre, surrounded by orchards and tall trees including pine and eucalyptus. Plants are sold at the nursery if you want to take something home. A small toy train runs a loop around part of the grounds, which children enjoy. The best-known feature is the tree-top cottages, rooms built on platforms about three metres above the ground among the trees, which can be booked as places to stay.

When to go

The flower beds are fullest in the cool months, from about November to February. Late afternoon is the pleasant time: the light softens, the heat has gone, and there are benches in shade. In the monsoon the garden is green but paths can be muddy.

How long to spend

An hour covers the main beds, the train and a slow walk under the trees. Families with small children can easily spend longer. Entry is ticketed at a small fee, and there may be a separate charge for the toy train.

Getting there

An auto or taxi from town is the easiest way. Combine it with the Tribal Museum and coffee museum in the same afternoon, and finish with coffee in town.

Staying in the tree-top cottages

The cottages are simple and popular, more for the experience than for comfort. Book in advance for winter weekends, check what is included, and remember that nights in the trees get cold.