The garden was initially commissioned by the British colonial administration as a supply source for the military front.
The hanging cottages were designed to simulate the experience of living within the forest canopy, a unique architectural feature in the Araku Valley.
The garden maintains a specialized nursery for rare species of orchids and medicinal plants found in the Eastern Ghats.
The layout incorporates stone walkways that are intentionally integrated into the existing slope of the landscape to prevent soil erosion.
The park serves as a conservation area for several species of indigenous butterflies and moths native to the high-altitude valley environment.
Padmapuram Gardens is a botanical park located in the Araku Valley of Andhra Pradesh, originally established in 1942 to supply vegetables to soldiers during World War II. The garden is famous for its unique tree-top huts, known as hanging cottages, which are perched six to ten feet above the ground and available for overnight tourist stays. The grounds feature a diverse collection of colorful flower beds and life-sized statues positioned throughout the landscape. A toy train track circles a portion of the garden, providing a transit option for visitors traversing the hilly terrain. The garden serves as a vital horticultural hub for the region, housing a variety of exotic plant species and a dedicated rose garden. It is situated at an elevation that keeps the local climate cool, making it a distinct contrast to the plains of Andhra Pradesh. The park serves as an educational site for botany, showcasing both local and imported ornamental flora.
The elevated viewing deck near the main entrance offers a panoramic view of the hanging cottages and the central flower displays.
Reserve the hanging cottages well in advance as they are a popular and limited accommodation option.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip as the paths can become slippery after the frequent local rainfall.
Carry a light jacket even during the summer months due to the significant temperature drop at the valley's altitude.
Do not rely on private transport apps for return trips; arrange for a taxi or local driver to wait for you at the gate.
Avoid picking flowers or walking on restricted garden beds; maintain a quiet tone to respect the local wildlife.
