Name: Kodaikanal
Rating: 3.2

Bryant Park, Kodaikanal Overview

One of the many elements that add to the serenity of Kodaikanal is the infamous Bryant Park. Situated on the eastern side of the Kodai Lake, the park is bejewelled with various species of plants and shrubs. They vary in a range of flowering plants, hybrids and grafts. Once you've had a stroll on the Coakers walk, the pathway will lead you towards the park. It is a popular spot amongst families as they can set up a picnic area in the park and watch their kids run around and tumble in the grass. The park also educates and trains students of Ornamental Horticulture as it is also recognised as a demonstration centre.

Bryant Park is a popular attraction amongst tourists and locals alike. One section of the park is dedicated to an exotic rose garden that prides itself on the unique and rare species grown there. There is also a greenhouse where plants from all around the world thrive. The park also hosts an Annual Horticulture Show that draws gardening enthusiasts and horticulturalists. In the 2017 edition of the show, green roses were the main attraction that drew people from all over the country. Kodaikanal is deemed as one of the most serene places in India and Bryant Park hugely contributes to that title.

Things To See at Bryant Park

Named after the forest officer of Madurai, Mr H.D Bryant, the park is a sprawling botanical garden spread over an area of 20 acres. It is home to over 325 species of trees, shrubs and even cacti. With almost 85 varieties of flowering plants, the park sprawls with colour during the blooming seasons. A eucalyptus tree that dates back to India's First War of Independence in 1857 resides in the park. The greenhouse inside supports an assortment of flowers, ferns and exotic ornamental plants from all around the world.

Along with the old eucalyptus, Bryant Park is also home to an age-old Bodhi tree which draws in religiously inclined locals to the park. The placement of the garden right next to the Kodaikanal Lake provides a very serene experience to the visitors and tourists. The sun rises from the direction of the lake and set right across the park making the attraction a great spot to witness the movements of the sun.

Annual Horticultural Show At Bryant Park

Every year in May, Bryant Park hosts a Horticultural Show. The main aim of the show is to make tourists and visitors aware of the various types of plants, vegetables and shrubs; what their basic requirements are to survive and how they can be maintained. The Deputy Director of Horticulture comes up with a list of exotic plants and shrubs that will be displayed in the upcoming show.

In preparation for the show, the temperatures are closely monitored, the staff is assigned to particular plants and shrubs depending on their complexity and sections of the park are dedicated to specific plant families. This show is one of the most sought after events in the Horticulture society and amongst nature enthusiasts.

Tips For Visiting Bryant Park

1. It is recommended to go in the evening as the sunset time is the best time to visit the park.
2. There are many photo opportunities in the park, so carry your camera.
3. It is a great picnic spot when clubbed along with the Kodaikanal Lake, so pack food and a bedsheet.

How To Reach Bryant Park

The best way to reach Bryant Park is on foot. Once you start walking on the Coaker's Walk, the stroll to the park is an enjoyable experience. You can also hire a cab to the park from your accommodation, which the hotel can arrange for on your behalf.