About

ABOUT

Welcome to the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden (🌿 also known as Pu La Deshpande Udyan) – a serene slice of Japan in the heart of Pune! This beautiful landscape is more than just a park — it’s a celebration of nature, culture, and international friendship 🤝🇮🇳🇯🇵.

📖 Our Story

Inspired by the famous Kōraku-en Garden in Okayama, Japan, this garden was developed as a symbol of the strong cultural ties between Pune and Okayama. Named after the beloved Marathi writer Purushottam Laxman Deshpande (Pu La Deshpande) 🖋️, the garden blends Japanese harmony with Maharashtrian spirit.

🌏 Built in the early 2000s, the garden has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking peace, inspiration, and natural beauty.

🌼 What You’ll Discover

Spread across 10 acres, the garden offers:

🌸 Beautiful seasonal flowers
🌊 Flowing water streams and koi ponds
🌉 Elegant bridges and bamboo groves
🪴 Lush lawns and stone pathways
🧘 A tranquil Zen-style meditation zone

Every corner is designed to reflect the Japanese principle of “wabi-sabi” — finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection.

🎯 Our Mission

Our aim is to:

🌿 Promote eco-conscious living
🤝 Encourage cross-cultural appreciation
🎨 Inspire creativity and relaxation
🧒 Offer a peaceful retreat for all ages

Whether you’re out for a quiet walk, a family picnic, or a moment of mindfulness, the Pune-Okayama Garden is your perfect escape 🌳✨.

📍 Visit Us

 

Located near the bustling Sinhagad Road area, the garden is open daily with affordable entry fees. Special events, nature walks, and cultural programs are hosted regularly — so there’s always something new to experience! 🎎🌱

Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden history

The Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden boasts a history interwoven with cultural exchange and a desire for peace. Here’s a glimpse into its journey:

  • Inspired by Legacy (2006): The story begins in 2006, when the idea of creating a garden symbolizing the friendship between Pune and Okayama, Japan, was conceived. This concept drew inspiration from the magnificent Okayama Korakuen Garden, a 300-year-old testament to Japanese garden design.

  • A Bridge Between Cultures: Construction began, aiming to recreate the essence of Japanese gardens in Pune. The design incorporated natural elements like water features, rocks, and meticulously maintained flora, all arranged to evoke tranquility and harmony. This beautiful space became a bridge between the cultures of Pune and Okayama.

  • Honoring a Literary Legend: After the garden’s establishment, it was named after the revered Marathi writer and humorist, Purushottam Laxman Deshpande, also known as Pu. La. Deshpande. This addition reflects the garden’s significance not just for cultural exchange but also for its contribution to Pune’s artistic landscape.

  • A Flourishing Sanctuary: Over the years, the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden has flourished into a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the serene walkways, admire the meticulous landscaping, and find a moment of peace amidst the city’s energy.