Around the World in 80 Gardens Season 1 Episode 3 India

In "Around the World in 80 Gardens" season 1 episode 3, host Monty Don visits India to explore the country's unique and diverse plant life and analyze how it has contributed to the cultural landscape of the region. From the lush landscapes of Kerala to the bustling streets of Mumbai, Monty takes viewers on a journey through India's most iconic gardens and parks.

The episode begins in the southern state of Kerala, known for its serene backwaters and tropical forests. Monty explores the meandering waterways of Alappuzha and the lush plantations of Kumily, where he encounters a wide array of exotic species, including the towering, thousand-year-old jackfruit tree and the fragrant pepper vine. He also delves into the region's rich cultural heritage, visiting a traditional spice farm where he learns about the medicinal properties of ginger and turmeric and their use in Ayurvedic medicine.

Monty then travels north to Mumbai, the bustling city known for its vibrant street life and historic buildings. Here, he visits the Hanging Gardens, a hillside park perched atop a reservoir that offers sweeping views of the city skyline. Monty admires the formal flowerbeds and the towering trees, including the banyan tree, which is revered by Hindus as a symbol of immortality. He also explores the city's famous Crawford Market, a vibrant hub of commerce where exotic fruits and flowers are sold alongside more mundane items.

Next, Monty heads to Delhi, the capital city of India, where he visits the Mughal Garden, a stunning example of the formal garden style that was popular in the 17th century. Here, he marvels at the intricate water features and the geometric patterns of the plantings, which include fragrant jasmine and bright marigolds. Monty also meets with a local nursery owner who specializes in rare and unusual plant species, highlighting the importance of preserving India's horticultural heritage.

Finally, Monty pays a visit to the Taj Mahal, the iconic mausoleum that is considered one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces. Here, he explores the formal gardens that surround the structure, which were designed to represent the Islamic idea of paradise on earth. Monty admires the symmetry of the plantings and the fragrant flowers that bloom around the reflecting pool, including white water lilies and Persian roses.

Overall, "Around the World in 80 Gardens" season 1 episode 3 provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India and its horticultural traditions. Monty Don's journey through the country's gardens and parks showcases the incredible diversity of plant life in the region, as well as the ways in which it has been woven into the fabric of Indian culture and society.