New Delhi, 14^th March, 2021: People from all age groups were seen enjoying the last day of 34^th edition of the Garden Tourism Festival making it a huge hit among Delhiites. Many took it as an opportunity to experience #ColorsofNature in the great outdoors. This was the very first event hosted by Delhi Tourism after the pandemic hit, therefore many were excited to experience the festival.

The event was inaugurated by Shri. Manish Sisodia, Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister & Minister of Tourism, Govt of Delhi on 19^th February, 2021. He had stated that “in a post lockdown city, we wish to bring the many hues and shades of Mother Nature to fore for all its visitors, keeping in mind the safety of all. Every pathway is adorned with brightly coloured flowering plants, and each weekend evening scheduled for mesmerizing cultural performances, and educational workshops. This Year’s GardenTourismFestival is truly unique.”

Hon’ble Chief Secretary, Govt of Delhi, Shri Vijay Kumar Dev, also visited the concluding weekend congratulating the participants on their incredible support to this festival in Delhi.

On popular demand the festival was extended to 14^th March, 2021.

Over the three weeks, visitors were seen experiencing the floral arrangements, and unique displays of hanging baskets, dahlias, cut flowers, recycled floral display and tray gardens. Many were keen on gaining experience to create their own home gardens and were seen interacting with buyers at the Garden Bazaar while purchasing products.

Students from the Department of Women and Child Development also visited the festival and were seen enjoying a Dog Show organized by Delhi Police along with other cultural performances. They were amazed to see the variety of flowers at showcase. Delhi Police's All Women Pipe Band also graced the occasion with a stellar performance. Visitors were in awe to see their discipline and spirit.

The venue, Garden of Five Senses spread over 20 acres of land is a unique place appealing to the five senses. With sculptures like Prayer of Peace, Tree of Infinite Knowledge, Wind Chime, Five Senses through Five Seasons dotting the lush green expanse, Garden of Five Senses is the largest collections of public art in the Capital.

The festival over the years has become the biggest flower show in the capital as participants include the horticulture departments of MCD (East, South, North), NDMC, CPWD, DJB, DDA, Northern Railways, Noida Authority, DLF Mall of India, IP University, NSUT, Kota House, Mr. Somik Das, Romai Nursery, Alic Biotech Pvt. Ltd, Mohanti Green Wall Solutions, Komar Mangalam Birla, Aga Khan Trust and Culture, Adobe Systems Pvt Ltd. and many leading nurseries etc. A large variety of seasonal and exclusive flowers are displayed and competitions will be held in various categories. Special cultural programmes have been organized to entertain the visitors and create a festive atmosphere. A variety of food stalls and several amusement facilities for children are a part of the Garden Tourism Festival.

Shri Ravi Dadhich, General Manager, DTTDC, acknowledged and thanked all the supporters and participants at the closing ceremony on Sunday, 14^th March, 2021.

In order to revive tourism in the city, Delhi Tourism had modified this event in order to extend the experience to more visitors. This enabled guided movement adhering to all the norms of COVID-19 guidelines. COVID Test facility was also made available at the entry to ensure visitor’s safety.

Many visitors tapped on the digital payment facility and purchased tickets online before visiting ensuring cashless transactions. The event was hosted on Paytm Insider by Delhi Tourism to offer online bookings this year.