Empress Garden Flower Show 2026: Pune’s Iconic ‘Buds ’n’ Blooms’ Opens Jan 23; Tribute to Dr. Madhav Gadgil
Pune is all set to transform into a floral wonderland as the historic Empress Botanical Garden prepares to host its signature annual event, the Empress Garden Flower Show 2026, starting Friday, January 23.
Popularly known as ‘Buds ’n’ Blooms’, the five-day exhibition is a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and environmental calendar. This year, the show carries a special significance as it is dedicated to the memory of the legendary environmentalist and Padma Bhushan awardee, Dr. Madhav Gadgil, an honorary member of the Agri-Horticultural Society of Western India.
Pune Flower Show 2026 Dates and Inauguration
The exhibition will be formally inaugurated on January 23 at 12:00 PM by Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar. Following the ceremony, a special tribute meeting will be held to honor Dr. Gadgil’s lifelong commitment to preserving India’s ecological heritage.
For the general public, the Empress Garden Flower Show 2026 dates are from January 23 to January 27. On the opening day, the doors will open at 1:00 PM, while for the remaining four days, visitors can enjoy the displays from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Massive Floral Display: 3 Lakh Plants and Japanese Ikebana
Organized by the Agri-Horticultural Society of Western India, this edition of the show aims to surpass last year’s record-breaking footfall of 70,000 visitors. The grounds will feature nearly three lakh flowering and decorative plants.
Key highlights for Buds ’n’ Blooms Pune 2026 include:
- Japanese Ikebana: Intricate flower arrangements showcasing the art of minimalism and harmony.
- Bonsai Collection: A stunning display of mature bonsai trees, some aged between 30 to 40 years, nurtured by local specialists.
- State-wide Participation: Nursery owners and horticulture experts from Kolhapur, Sangli, Nashik, and even Andhra Pradesh will showcase rare species.
- Competitive Categories: Enthusiasts will compete in categories ranging from fruit and vegetable displays to decorative potted plants.
Activities for Kids and Gardening Enthusiasts
The event is designed to be more than just a visual treat; it is an educational hub. Over 800 students from various schools have already participated in drawing and handwriting competitions themed around environmental awareness.
For those looking to enhance their own green spaces, the show features 45 to 50 gardening stalls. These will offer a wide range of seeds, saplings, high-quality fertilizers, and modern gardening equipment, making it a one-stop shop for Pune’s horticultural community.
Visitor Guide: Timings, Location, and Entry Fee
Located in the heart of the city at Camp, the Empress Garden offers a serene escape.
- Venue: Empress Botanical Garden, Near Race Course, Camp, Pune.
- Entry Fee: Typically ranges between ₹20–₹25 for adults and ₹10 for children (Parking is separate).
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best photography lighting and cooler temperatures.
Whether you are a professional botanist or a family looking for things to do in Pune this weekend, the 2026 flower show promises an immersive experience of nature’s beauty and a fitting tribute to a giant of Indian ecology.
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