Best Tourist Park in Kolkata: Top Green Spaces to Explore

Nico Park, situated in Jheel Mill, Sector IV of Bidhannagar, West Bengal, India, was established to draw tourists to the state by offering both family-friendly and educational entertainment. Since its opening on October 13, 1991, it has earned the nickname “Disneyland of West Bengal.” Spanning 40 acres, Nico Park boasts over 35 attractions and welcomes 24 million visitors annually, all while maintaining an eco-friendly environment.

The concept of an amusement park in the Calcutta area emerged during the 300th anniversary of the city’s founding. Rajeev Kaul, the current chairman of the Nico Group, was visiting Disneyland in the US with his family while the state government was organizing the tri-centenary celebrations. Upon his return, Kaul was questioned about his trip to America when his presence was needed for the planning. Allegedly, he responded, “I went to see if I could create a Disneyland here.” What initially seemed like an excuse for his absence turned into reality through a collaboration with the West Bengal government.

Following the initiation of the idea, the West Bengal government and Rajeev Kaul committed to establishing an amusement park in Kolkata. They formed Nico Parks and Resorts Limited (NPRL), a joint venture involving National Insulated Cable Corporation Limited (now Nico Corporation Limited) representing the private sector, and the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation Limited (WBIDC) along with the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited (WBTDC) representing the government. This joint sector company was established on March 17, 1989, and received its business commencement certificate on March 31, 1989. NPRL’s initial mission was to construct a recreational complex on Kolkata’s outskirts, to be owned and managed by the company. The project also benefited from technical guidance provided by Blackpool Leisure and Amusement Consultancy Ltd, UK.

Rajeev Kaul approached Geoffrey Thompson, the owner and managing director of Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach, for financial assistance. Although Thompson did not provide funding, he did offer the expertise of Blackpool Leisure and Amusement Consultancy Ltd, which specialized in land surveying, design, and safety advice. Inspired by the river caves at Blackpool, Kaul incorporated a similar attraction into Nico Park. Years later, impressed by the success of Nico Park, Kaul suggested refurbishing the caves at Blackpool. Thompson agreed to this proposal.

Two years after NPRL was founded, and with an investment of approximately Rs 8 crore, Nico Park launched with 13 rides. Additionally, it upgraded the toy train from the former Jhilmil Park, significantly enhancing it to provide passengers with a comprehensive tour of the entire park.

Nikko Park’s educational entertainment program guarantees that families enjoy themselves while also gaining knowledge. The park’s layout is tailored for educational purposes, featuring numerous informative displays. Each ride entrance includes an explanation of the scientific principles behind its operation. Additionally, the park’s solar energy village demonstrates the use of various renewable energy sources in daily life. Consistent with its eco-friendly focus, Indo American Hybrid Seeds Limited offers a variety of plants for sale and operates a greenhouse within the park.