Coimbatore residents, the wait is finally over! The city’s much-anticipated Semmozhi Poongabotanical garden has been inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, marking a new chapter for the city’s recreational and environmental landscape.
A Dream Fulfilled: The Legacy Behind the Semmozhi Poonga Park
Spanning a massive 45 acres on the former central prison grounds in Gandhipuram, this Rs 208.6-crore project is more than just a park; it is the realization of a vision first announced in 2010 by Stalin’s father. This new landmark is set to become a cherished spot for families and friends to unwind and connect with nature.
A Botanical Wonderland: What to Explore
The main attraction is undoubtedly the sprawling botanical garden, which is a treasure trove of biodiversity. It features 23 meticulously designed themed gardens, including:
- Rock Garden
- Flower Garden
- Aroma Garden
- Bamboo Garden
- Water Garden
- Herbal Garden
- Pollinator Garden
These gardens are home to over five lakh plants from more than 2,000 species, including several endangered, red-listed, and critically endangered varieties like hildegardia populifolia and bentinckia condapanna.
Innovation Meets Nature: IoT and Future Plans
The park isn’t just about natural beauty; it’s also a hub of modern environmental science. Project architect Roopmathi Anand highlighted the use of Internet of Things (IoT)-based devices to monitor soil conditions (moisture, temperature, NPK levels) in sensitive areas like the rose garden.
The park’s design is guided by six core concepts: conservation, restoration, education, recreation, wellness, and environmental awareness.
Exciting future plans are already in the works for the second phase, including:
- Orchids and a wetland garden
- A scrubland and a nutrient garden
- A whimsical fairy tale garden
Corporation commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran also announced future entertainment additions such as an AI-based game center and a 12D theatre. The government museum will also be relocated to the park’s ticket counter building.
Coimbatore Semmozhi Poonga – Entry Fee Information
While the park was inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on November 25, 2025, it will not be open to the general public immediately.
- Public Access Date: The park will be open to the public starting from December Mid, 2025. (Due to some incomplete work)
- Visitor Timings: The operating hours have been set from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
- Entry Fees:
- Adults: ₹15.
- Children: ₹5.
- Monthly Jogging/Walking Pass: ₹100.
- Yearly Subscription: ₹1,000.
- Parking: Ample parking is available for free, with space for over 1,000 cars and 1,052 two-wheelers.
Key Features and Facilities
The 45-acre park is designed for multiple uses, combining recreation, education, and entertainment.
- Themed Gardens: Explore 23 distinct botanical gardens, including a rock garden, flower garden, aroma garden, bamboo garden, and a pollinator garden.
- Plant Diversity: The park is home to over five lakh plants from more than 2,000 species, including endangered ones like bentinckia condapanna and hildegardia populifolia.
- Modern Amenities:
- IoT Monitoring: Sensitive gardens use IoT-based devices to monitor soil health (moisture, temperature, nutrients).
- Accessibility: The park includes disabled-friendly ramps, a gym, and play areas.
- Food Court: A food court and canteen facilities are available on-site.
- Photography: Standard camera fees are ₹50, while professional short film and movie shooting require special daily permits and fees.
Future Developments
The development is ongoing, with more features planned:
- Technology: An exclusive mobile application is being developed. It will allow visitors to scan QR codes on nameboards to get information about the specific plants from a “speaking firefly” feature.
- Entertainment: Plans are in place for an AI-based game center and a 12D theatre.
- Heritage Preservation: In the second phase, the existing prison cell and the manually operated oil press used by freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram Pillai will be restored as heritage monuments.
- Convention Centre: A 1,000-seat convention center is currently under construction.
Stay Tuned: App and Visitor Information
To enhance the visitor experience, an exclusive mobile application is under development and will be available on the Play Store. This app will allow visitors to scan QR codes on nameboards, with a “speaking firefly” providing detailed information about the flora. Assistant horticulture officers will also be on hand to guide and educate visitors.
Important Note: The final entry fees, parking fees, and official visitor timings are yet to be decided and will be announced following an upcoming council meeting.
Get ready, Coimbatore! Semmozhi Poonga is set to be a magnificent addition to our city, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, education, and modern innovation.
