While many stories of development are being told on the completion of 25 years of the formation of the state of Uttarakhand, there is also a story that has brought fame to the land of the Devbhoomi across the world. The achievements of the Research Branch of the Uttarakhand Forest Department over the years are among these.
Over the years, this branch has taken steps towards the conservation of flora, insects, and biodiversity that have become exemplary not only in the country but also globally. Whether it's the Gymnosperm Garden, Lichen Garden, Moss Garden, Forest Healing Center, and Miyawaki Forest, these have not only become models of environmental conservation but are also centers of eco-tourism, education, and research. These achievements have drawn praise from Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, and departmental ministers alike.
Uttarakhand's Green Innovation Center:
Orchid Conservation Center, Mandal (Chamoli)
North India’s largest orchid museum, spread across Chamoli’s Mandal Valley, is home to 80 native orchid species. The orchid trail and nursery serve both as a conservation effort and a tourist attraction.
Moss Garden, Nainital
India’s first dedicated moss garden, spread over approximately 10 hectares in Khurpatal, preserves 107 species of bryophytes, two of which are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.”
Lichen Garden, Munsyari (Pithoragarh)
The world’s first lichen garden, which protects 85 species, features an interpretation centre that beautifully illustrates the history and ecological importance of lichenology.
Cryptogamic Garden, Devvan (Chakrata)
The country’s first cryptogamic garden protects more than 130 species, ranging from algae to fungi and lichens. It serves as a living laboratory for research amid natural forests of pine and oak.
Himalayan Spice Garden, Ranikhet
Fragrant with mountain spices, this garden is home to rare species such as black cumin, jakhia, timur, and jambu. An interpretation center dedicated to the history and processing of these spices has also been established here.
Forest Healing Center, Ranikhet
This center promotes both physical health and mental peace. Through activities like forest bathing and tree hugging, it helps people reconnect with nature. It beautifully blends Japanese Shinrin-yoku techniques with Indian traditions.
Alpine Medicinal Garden, Auli
A conservation center for high-altitude medicinal plants, protecting rare species such as Nagchatri, Jatamansi, and Atis. Most of these are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Pollinator Park, Haldwani
The country’s first pollinator park, home to more than 100 species of butterflies, insects, and birds that interact with flowers. Its aim is to promote ecological balance and highlight the importance of pollination.
Fernery, Ranikhet (Almora)
India’s largest open-air fernery, preserving more than 160 species of ferns, including both medicinal and edible varieties.
Ficus Garden, Lalkuan (Nainital)
The country’s largest Ficus Garden, with 104 species, is a unique example of the diversity within aerial plants.
Gymnosperm Garden, Uttarkashi
The country’s first Gymnosperm Garden, where 39 species are preserved. The interpretation center here tells the story of the evolution of these ancient plants.
Bird and Butterfly Gallery, Dehradun
This gallery, located in Jolly Grant, has become a center of attraction for nature lovers. It showcases rare information on 10 bird species and 105 butterfly species.
Ramayana, Mahabharata, Buddha, and Bharat Vatika, Haldwani
These four gardens, established in the Biodiversity Park of Haldwani, are a confluence of Indian culture, literature, and biodiversity. The Ramayana Vatika displays 139 plant species, the Mahabharata Vatika has 37 species, the Buddha Vatika features trees associated with the three stages of life, and the Bharat Vatika showcases the state trees of all Indian states.
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