Tucked away in Sector-5, Panchkula, Haryana, the Dr. J.S. Sarkaria National Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden and Research Centre is Asia’s most extensive outdoor cactus garden and a hidden treasure for plant enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists. Spanning seven acres, this vibrant sanctuary houses over 3,500 species of cacti and succulents, showcasing biodiversity, conservation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a botanist studying rare plants or a curious visitor, the Cactus Garden offers an enriching experience.
Established in 1987 and opened to the public in 2004, the Cactus Garden was the vision of Dr. J.S. Sarkaria, a dedicated botanist committed to preserving rare and endangered cacti and succulents, particularly those native to India. His efforts transformed this seven-acre space into a global leader in succulent conservation.
A Tribute to Dr. J.S. Sarkaria
On this, the 21st anniversary of his passing in 2025, we honour the remarkable legacy of Dr. Jagdish Singh Sarkaria, the visionary botanist who gifted the world Asia’s most extensive cactus garden in Panchkula. Dr. Sarkaria departed on August 15, 2004, at 85, leaving a flourishing testament to his passion for succulent plants.
Dr. Sarkaria’s dedication to the Cactus Garden was profound. As its founder and curator, he devoted countless hours in the greenhouses, nurturing rare cacti with unwavering care until his final days. His love for these plants was so deep that he requested his ashes be scattered within the garden, intertwining his spirit with the vibrant blooms he cherished and honouring Sikh traditions with immersion at Kiratpur Sahib. Each cactus flower that blooms today is a living tribute to his tireless devotion.
Before his botanical journey, Dr. Sarkaria was a distinguished surgeon in Punjab, a testament to his versatility and commitment to excellence. His shift to cultivating succulents was not merely a career change but a calling that showcased his boundless curiosity and love for nature. The Cactus Garden, a masterpiece of biodiversity, reflects his extraordinary vision and continues to inspire all who walk its paths.
Dr. Sarkaria’s life—marked by dedication, passion, and an enduring love for his craft—remains a beacon for future generations. His garden, filled with rare and beautiful plants, is a legacy that will forever echo his remarkable spirit.
The Cactus Garden
The Cactus Garden is a botanical treasure trove with 272 Mammillaria species, 160 thriving outdoors. It boasts an impressive collection, including the complete genus Caralluma, a rare Indian succulent, alongside species like Aloe speciosa, Aloe ferox, and Mammillaria. The garden’s focus on protecting endangered species sets it apart. Many plants here are integral to traditional Ayurveda and Unani medicines, underscoring their medicinal value. From prickly pears to barrel cacti, the collection highlights the resilience of plants thriving in harsh conditions, serving as a vital resource for conservation and education.
The garden’s story began in 1987 when Dr. Sarkaria, alongside Tarsem Lal, donated an initial collection of 500 plants to lay its foundation. Tarsem Lal was a passionate plant enthusiast and former IAS officer of the Haryana cadre who played a key role in shaping Panchkula’s landscaping and the Cactus Garden’s development.
Over the years, Dr. Sarkaria’s role as founder and curator helped the garden grow into a sprawling sanctuary. He designed the garden’s layout and contributed a significant collection of cacti, succulents, and a unique bonsai section featuring succulent and non-succulent plants. His profound contributions led the Haryana Government to rename it the Dr. J.S. Sarkaria National Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden and Research Centre in 2008.
Beyond the garden, Dr. Sarkaria’s legacy endures as a founder of the National Cactus and Succulent Society, fostering a plant-enthusiast community and researchers dedicated to botanical study and conservation.
A Botanical Wonderland
Strolling through the Cactus Garden feels like entering a desert oasis. It’s thoughtfully designed seven-acre landscape includes nine glasshouses that protect delicate species such as Haworthias, Aloes, and Gasterias. These climate-controlled environments showcase plants from diverse regions, including India, Arizona, and Mexico. The bonsai section, donated by Dr. Sarkaria, adds an artistic flair with miniature succulents and other plants crafted in various styles.
More than a display, the Cactus Garden is a living laboratory. Researchers utilise its vast collection to study plant taxonomy, conservation techniques, and medicinal properties. Plants for purchase allow visitors to bring home a piece of this botanical wonder, fostering interest in succulent care and conservation.
Conveniently located near Chandigarh, the garden is easily accessible and affordable, with a nominal entry fee. Open daily with seasonal hours, it comes alive each March during the annual cactus show, a vibrant event that attracts plant enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. This showcase of cacti and succulents offers opportunities to learn from experts and celebrate these unique plants.
The garden is perfect for a leisurely visit with its serene environment and educational displays. Whether marvelling at the spiky beauty of barrel cacti or admiring intricate bonsai, visitors of all ages will find something to captivate them.
A Hub for Research and Education
The Cactus Garden is a beacon of conservation and research. Its extensive collection, including rare Indian succulents, draws botanists and researchers studying plant adaptation and medicinal uses, such as Aloe ferox. The glasshouses provide controlled environments for experiments, while the annual cactus show fosters collaboration among scientists and enthusiasts.
The garden serves as an educational hub for the public, highlighting cacti and succulents’ ecological and cultural significance. Their resilience and contributions to traditional medicine inspire a deeper appreciation for biodiversity.
A Legacy
The Dr. J.S. Sarkaria National Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden and Research Centre is a testament to Dr. J.S. Sarkaria’s vision and dedication. His contributions—from founding and designing the garden to donating plants and leading conservation efforts—have made it a world-class institution. It continues attracting global attention as a vital research resource and a delightful tourist destination.
Whether you’re a plant lover, a curious traveller, or a researcher seeking rare species, this Panchkula gem is a must-visit. It’s a place where nature, science, and beauty converge, reminding us of the importance of preserving our planet’s incredible biodiversity.
