**Eco Park Kolkata**, also known as **New Town Eco Park**, is a large urban park located in **New Town**, Kolkata, West Bengal. It is one of the city's most popular recreational spaces, offering a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is designed to promote environmental awareness and provide a green space for relaxation, leisure, and outdoor activities.
### **Key Features of Eco Park Kolkata:**
1. **Vast Green Space**:
- Eco Park spans over **480 acres**, making it one of the largest urban parks in India. It is a lush, green space with a wide variety of plants, trees, and water bodies.
- The park is designed with a focus on sustainability, featuring large open lawns, eco-friendly landscaping, and various water features like lakes and artificial rivers.
2. **Themed Zones**:
Eco Park is divided into several **themed zones**, each offering different experiences for visitors:
- **Eco Island**: The central feature of the park, accessible by a boat ride, where visitors can explore a beautiful artificial island surrounded by water.
- **Heritage Zone**: A zone showcasing replicas of famous landmarks and structures, including **Bengal's traditional hut**, **Sunderbans**, and **Rajarhat's culture**.
- **Adventure Zone**: A space for thrill-seekers, featuring activities like **zip-lining**, **go-karting**, **rock climbing**, and more.
- **Butterfly Garden**: A peaceful area that attracts various species of butterflies, providing an opportunity for nature lovers to explore.
- **Boating Zone**: Visitors can enjoy **boating** in the large water bodies within the park, either through paddle boats or motor boats.
- **Jogging Tracks**: The park has well-maintained jogging tracks and cycling paths for fitness enthusiasts.
3. **Recreational Activities**:
- **Cycling and Walking**: The park offers bicycles for rent, and there are numerous walking and jogging tracks, making it a great spot for fitness activities.
- **Boating**: A popular activity, especially at **Eco Island** and the central water body, where visitors can enjoy serene boat rides.
- **Bird Watching**: The park's lush greenery and proximity to water attract various bird species, making it a great place for bird watchers.
4. **Children's Park**:
- The park also features a **Children's Park** with various play equipment, making it a family-friendly destination. There are slides, swings, and other outdoor play areas for kids.
5. **Cultural Events and Festivals**:
- Eco Park hosts various cultural events, music festivals, art exhibitions, and eco-friendly initiatives throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for locals and tourists alike.
- The park organizes **eco-awareness programs** to promote sustainable living and environmental conservation.
6. **Food and Dining**:
- There are multiple eateries and food stalls within the park that serve snacks, meals, and beverages. Visitors can enjoy local Bengali delicacies, fast food, and international cuisine.
- The **Eco Cafe** is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the park’s beautiful surroundings.
7. **Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives**:
- The park has been designed with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. Efforts are made to use renewable resources, and many of the park's features are built using recycled and eco-friendly materials.
- The park is also working towards creating an awareness of **green living** and sustainability among visitors through various activities and educational programs.
### **How to Reach Eco Park Kolkata**:
- **By Metro**: The nearest metro station is **New Town** (Kolkata Metro's East-West Corridor), from which visitors can take a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the park.
- **By Road**: Eco Park is well-connected by road to various parts of Kolkata. The park is located near **Rajarhat** and can be accessed via **EM Bypass**.
- **By Taxi/Auto**: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from various parts of the city to Eco Park.
### **Timings and Entry Fees**:
- **Timings**: Eco Park is generally open every day from **12 PM to 8 PM**. However, some attractions inside the park may have different timings.
- **Entry Fees**: The entry fee for the park is generally **₹30-₹50** per person, with additional charges for certain activities like boating, cycling, or using the adventure zone.
### **Conclusion**:
Eco Park Kolkata is a perfect destination for those seeking a break from the urban chaos, offering a blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to enjoy peaceful walks, engage in adventure sports, or simply unwind in a green setting, Eco Park provides an ideal escape for visitors of all ages. It’s an example of how urban spaces can be transformed into sustainable, environmentally-friendly parks that offer recreational opportunities and promote eco-awareness.