26 May,2017 03:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Krutika Behrawala
Stare in the face of one of the world's largest bat species and gaze at exotic trees on a weekend nature trail in Rani Bagh
Did you know that Veermata
Jijabai Udyan in Byculla, popularly known as Rani Bagh, is home to 853 plant species, including Queen's Flower, the state flower of Maharashtra? Or that a huge colony of Indian Flying Fox, India's largest bat species, resides on the premises?
This Sunday, discover the 154-year-old green lung, covering 53 acres and the only heritage botanical garden in Mumbai, through a Bat And Tree Walk organised by BNHS. The two-hour trail will be conducted by Asif Khan, associate officer - programmes at the organisation. "Originally, the botanical garden was located in Sewri. It was developed by the Agri-Horticultural Society of Western India. Being far from the city, that land was converted into a cemetery, and a new botanical garden was set up in Byculla. Plants were shifted here in 1861," informs BNHS team member Vandan Jhaveri.
ON: May 28, 8.45 am
MEETING POINT: Exit Gate, Rani Bagh, Byculla (E).
CALL: 22821811
COST: Rs 200
NOTE: Carry water in non-disposable bottles. Plastic bags and food are not allowed in the premises
3,213 Number of trees in Rani Bagh
