Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty? If yes, then Smriti Van is the perfect destination for you. Smriti Van is a biodiversity forest in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, that offers a serene and scenic environment for visitors to enjoy.
Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a romantic soul, Smriti Van has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Smriti Van, covering its history, segments, things to do, nearby attractions, and more. Read on to discover why Smriti Van is one of the best places to visit in Jaipur.
History of Smriti Van
Smriti Van, which means “memory forest” in Hindi, was created in 2001 as a tribute to the victims of the Gujarat earthquake that killed over 20,000 people. The forest was developed by the Rajasthan government with the help of the royal family of Jaipur, who donated the land for the project.
The forest was designed by the renowned architect Charles Correa, who envisioned it as a place of peace and harmony. Smriti Van is not only a memorial, but also a conservation project that aims to preserve and promote the biodiversity of Rajasthan. The forest hosts over 100 species of plants and trees, as well as a variety of birds and animals. Smriti Van is a living testament to the resilience and compassion of the people of Rajasthan.
Segments of Smriti Van
Smriti Van is divided into 11 segments, each with its own theme and significance. The segments are named after different aspects of nature, such as Vrindavan, Shanti Van, Gulab Van, etc. Here is a brief description of each segment and what you can expect to see there:
Vrindavan:
This is the first and the largest segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 10 hectares. Vrindavan is dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Hindu god of love and joy. The segment features a beautiful temple of Radha-Krishna, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. Vrindavan is a popular spot for couples and families, who come here to enjoy the romantic and spiritual atmosphere.
Shanti Van:
This is the second segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 8 hectares. Shanti Van means “peace forest” in Hindi, and it lives up to its name. The segment is a tranquil and serene place, where you can meditate, relax, and connect with nature. Shanti Van has a large pond, where you can see lotuses, ducks, and fish. The segment also has a meditation hall, where you can practice yoga and mindfulness.
Gulab Van:
This is the third segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 6 hectares. Gulab Van means “rose forest” in Hindi, and it is a paradise for flower lovers. The segment has a rose garden, where you can see over 50 varieties of roses, ranging from red, pink, white, yellow, and more. The segment also has a fountain, where you can enjoy the soothing sound of water. Gulab Van is a delight for the senses, and a perfect place to take pictures and selfies.
Champa Van:
This is the fourth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 5 hectares. Champa Van means “magnolia forest” in Hindi, and it is a fragrant and refreshing place. The segment has a magnolia garden, where you can see and smell the white and yellow flowers that bloom throughout the year. The segment also has a bamboo grove, where you can walk and listen to the rustling of the leaves. Champa Van is a place to rejuvenate and invigorate yourself.
Amaltas Van:
This is the fifth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 4 hectares. Amaltas Van means “golden shower forest” in Hindi, and it is a bright and cheerful place. The segment has a golden shower garden, where you can see the yellow flowers that hang from the branches like curtains. The segment also has a sunflower field, where you can see the smiling faces of the flowers that follow the sun. Amaltas Van is a place to feel happy and optimistic.
Kachnar Van:
This is the sixth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 3 hectares. Kachnar Van means “orchid tree forest” in Hindi, and it is a colorful and vibrant place. The segment has an orchid tree garden, where you can see the purple, pink, and white flowers that resemble orchids. The segment also has a butterfly garden, where you can see the fluttering and dancing of the butterflies. Kachnar Van is a place to admire and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Kadamb Van:
This is the seventh segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 2 hectares. Kadamb Van means “rain tree forest” in Hindi, and it is a cool and shady place. The segment has a rain tree garden, where you can see the large and spreading trees that provide shade and shelter. The segment also has a picnic area, where you can sit and enjoy the breeze and the birdsong. Kadamb Van is a place to relax and unwind.
Ashok Van:
This is the eighth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 1.5 hectares. Ashok Van means “sorrowless forest” in Hindi, and it is a calm and soothing place. The segment has an ashoka tree garden, where you can see the evergreen and everblooming trees that symbolize happiness and hope. The segment also has a sculpture garden, where you can see the artistic and creative works of local artists. Ashok Van is a place to heal and inspire yourself.
Neem Van:
This is the ninth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 1 hectare. Neem Van means “neem tree forest” in Hindi, and it is a healthy and beneficial place. The segment has a neem tree garden, where you can see the medicinal and miraculous trees that have been used for centuries for various purposes. The segment also has a herbal garden, where you can see and learn about the different herbs and plants that have healing and curative properties. Neem Van is a place to nourish and nurture yourself.
Aravali Van:
This is the tenth segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 0.5 hectare. Aravali Van means “Aravali mountain forest” in Hindi, and it is a rugged and adventurous place. The segment has a rock garden, where you can see the different types of rocks and minerals that are found in the Aravali range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. The segment also has a cactus garden, where you can see the different types of cacti and succulents that can survive in harsh conditions. Aravali Van is a place to explore and challenge yourself.
Smriti Van:
This is the eleventh and the final segment of Smriti Van, covering an area of 0.5 hectare. Smriti Van is the heart and soul of the forest, where you can see the memorial and the museum that commemorate the victims of the Gujarat earthquake. The segment has a wall of names, where you can see the names of the people who lost their lives in the tragedy. The segment also has a museum, where you can see the photographs, artifacts, and stories that depict the impact and the aftermath of the earthquake. Smriti Van is a place to remember and honor the departed.
Things to Do in Smriti Van
Smriti Van is not just a place to see, but also a place to do. There are many activities and experiences that you can enjoy in Smriti Van, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some of the things that you can do in Smriti Van:
Birdwatching:
Smriti Van is a haven for bird lovers, as it hosts over 50 species of birds, such as peacocks, parrots, pigeons, kingfishers, owls, and more. You can spot and identify the different birds that visit the forest, and listen to their melodious and varied calls. You can also take pictures and videos of the birds, and share them with your friends and family. Birdwatching is a fun and relaxing activity that can help you connect with nature and appreciate its diversity.
Cycling:
Smriti Van is a great place for cycling, as it has well-maintained and smooth paths that run through the forest. You can rent a bicycle from the entrance of the forest, and explore the different segments at your own pace. You can also join a guided cycling tour, where you can learn more about the history and significance of Smriti Van from an expert. Cycling is a healthy and enjoyable activity that can help you exercise and energize yourself.
Jogging:
Smriti Van is a perfect place for jogging, as it has fresh and clean air that can refresh and invigorate you. You can jog along the paths that surround the forest, and enjoy the scenic and serene views. You can also join a jogging club, where you can meet and interact with other joggers who share your passion. Jogging is a beneficial and rewarding activity that can help you improve your fitness and mood.
Meditation:
Smriti Van is an ideal place for meditation, as it has a peaceful and harmonious environment that can calm and soothe you. You can meditate in the meditation hall, where you can practice yoga and mindfulness. You can also meditate in any of the segments, where you can find a quiet and comfortable spot. Meditation is a powerful and beneficial activity that can help you reduce stress and improve your well-being.
Photography:
Smriti Van is a photogenic and picturesque place, as it has a variety of landscapes and elements that can capture your attention and imagination. You can take photos and videos of the forest, the flowers, the birds, the sculptures, and more. You can also take selfies and portraits of yourself and your companions, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Photography is a creative and enjoyable activity that can help you express yourself and share your experiences.
Nearby Attractions of Smriti Van
Smriti Van is not only a place to visit, but also a place to explore. There are many other attractions near Smriti Van, that you can visit and enjoy. Here are some of the nearby attractions of Smriti Van:
Albert Hall Museum:
This is one of the oldest and most famous museums in Jaipur, located about 4 km from Smriti Van. The museum showcases the rich and diverse culture and history of Rajasthan, through its collection of paintings, sculptures, weapons, textiles, jewelry, and more. The museum also has a beautiful and majestic building, inspired by the Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 40 for Indians and Rs. 300 for foreigners.
Birla Mandir:
This is one of the most popular and sacred temples in Jaipur, located about 5 km from Smriti Van. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu gods of wealth and prosperity. The temple is made of white marble, and has a stunning and elegant design. The temple is also known for its spectacular views of the city, especially at night when it is illuminated by lights. The temple is open from 6 am to 12 pm and from 3 pm to 9 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Central Park:
This is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Jaipur, located about 6 km from Smriti Van. The park is a green and pleasant oasis in the middle of the city, where you can enjoy nature and recreation. The park has a large lawn, a musical fountain, a jogging track, a bird house, and more. The park is also home to the tallest flagpole in India, which hoists the national flag. The park is open from 5 am to 9 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Smriti Van is a must-visit place in Jaipur, as it offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Smriti Van is a biodiversity forest that combines nature, culture, and history, and provides a variety of activities and attractions for everyone. Whether you want to relax, explore, or learn, Smriti Van has something for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Smriti Van today, and discover why it is one of the best places to visit in Jaipur.
