Landscaping of Hindu religious sites
Traditionally, Hindu temples were located on hills, forests, or riverbanks. Hindu temples are generally associated with trees like Ficus benghalensis, Ficus Religiosa, Aegle marmelos, Azardirachta indica, Temple Tree, Bauhinia spp, etc., Herbs like Vinca rosea, Nerium spp etc. closely associated with temples since time immemorial. Mixed fragrance, flowers and litter on the ground provide a pleasant experience for the pilgrim or tourist.
But contemporary gardeners and landscapers do not appreciate this aspect when they attempt gardening in these places, which have become mass pilgrimage and tourist centers in modern times, it is very poor compared to lawns and plants.
Asymmetry should be the rule when designing gardens near these temples.
The most depressing aspect of modern temples: They have no space for gardening, so where there is enough space for gardening, care must be taken not to place tile or concrete all over the floor that touches the tree bases. Also scientifically, the base of the tree must have enough surrounding soil for water or manure and for aeration.Apart from these, the surrounding soil or that under a tree has its own microclimate that supports a particular flora and fauna. the floor without tiles as much as possible.
Small patches of herbs such as Ocimum, Vinca, Jasmine can be grown for daily use for pilgrims’ needs to pray to the god. Another beautiful attraction for the temple garden can be an artificially created pond for the cultivation of nelumbium spp, which is considered the flower associated with the gods. .
The lawn should be selected so that the grass species are tolerant to the shade of the trees and avoid designing open lawns with few plants … try to intersperse the lawn with trees planted randomly between them.
The asymmetrical style and large representation of trees is ecologically significant as these are home to and harbor numerous birds and other organisms. Birds like parrots, cuckoos, woodpeckers, and occasionally monkeys, squirrels all add to a natural feeling and oneness with nature.