Pu La Deshpande Udyan, also called the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden, is a reminder of the long-standing cultural connections between Okayama, Japan, and Pune, India. This park, which spans over 10 acres on Sinhagad Road, offers tourists a tranquil haven from the rush of the city. It is a harmonic fusion of Indian sensibilities with Japanese aesthetics.
Okayama Friendship Garden: History
The 300-year-old Kōraku-en Garden in Okayama, one of Japan’s most famous gardens, serves as the model for the garden. It was created to represent the camaraderie between Okayama and Pune, and it reflects the aesthetics and values of its Japanese equivalent. The name “Pu La Deshpande Udyan” pays tribute to Purushottam Laxman Deshpande, also known as Pu La Deshpande, the renowned Marathi author and humorist.
Okayama Friendship Garden: Layout
The garden’s layout emphasizes peace, simplicity, and the beauty of nature, all of which are classic Japanese landscaping concepts. The garden is traversed by a gently running canal that draws its water from the neighboring Mutha River. In addition to improving the garden’s visual appeal, this water element gives it movement and vitality.
Visitors follow meandering paths bordered by colorful flowerbeds, well-kept lawns, and creatively trimmed shrubs. The canal is crossed by thoughtfully positioned wooden bridges that provide scenic viewpoints. Notably, it is forbidden to walk on the lawns in order to maintain the garden’s immaculate state and guarantee that everyone can enjoy the beauty.
Okayama Friendship Garden: Flora And Fauna
Many of the plant species seen in the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden are typical of traditional Japanese gardens. The terrain is dominated by evergreen trees and bushes, which stand for tenacity and eternity. In keeping with the botanical choices common in Japanese gardens from the 10th to the 12th centuries, species like pines, willows, and Japanese camellias (including types like Tsubaki and Sazanka) are carefully incorporated.
Vibrant Koi fish inhabit the central pond, which gives the calm setting a lively touch. The serene atmosphere of the park is further enhanced by visitors’ delight at watching these vibrant animals glide smoothly over the crystal-clear waters.
okayama friendship garden photos
1. The grand entrance welcomes visitors with a traditional Japanese-style gate and beautifully landscaped pathways, setting the tone for a peaceful retreat.
2. The garden’s graceful wooden bridges, which provide guests with a lovely perspective of the flowing river and the surrounding lush flora, are among its features.
3. A beautiful pond filled with colorful koi fish, adding movement and vibrancy to the tranquil environment. The pond symbolizes peace and prosperity in Japanese culture.
4. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the beauty of Japanese landscaping on the well-kept walkways and gardens.
5. The garden at sunset transforms into an enchanting sight, with the soft glow of the setting sun enhancing its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance.
What Do The Visitors Say?
With a small admission cost, the garden is open to the public and accessible to a large number of people. Its well-chosen landscapes offer lots of chances for photography, quiet walks, and introspection. Early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when the garden’s beauty is enhanced by the interaction of natural light, the atmosphere is very captivating.
The garden’s amenities have been carefully planned to improve the experience of guests. Although there are places set aside for relaxation, it’s important to realize that some amenities, like restrooms, might not be as plentiful. To guarantee a comfortable visit, visitors are urged to make appropriate plans.
Summary!
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden promotes mutual respect and understanding between Japanese and Indian customs by acting as a cultural bridge.
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