₹167 Cr Semmozhi Poonga Set to Transform Coimbatore’s Urban Landscape

Semmozhi Poonga in Coimbatore is set to become one of Tamil Nadu’s landmark urban green spaces, bringing together recreation, culture and technology in a single, carefully planned campus. The ₹167.25-crore project has been developed on 45 acres at the Central Prison Grounds in Gandhipuram, right in the heart of the city, and is scheduled to be inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on November 26.

According to officials, Semmozhi Poonga has been designed to offer a mix of open space, curated gardens and modern public amenities. A 1,000-seat convention centre within the campus is expected to host cultural events, conferences and public gatherings, adding a civic and economic dimension to what is primarily a recreational project. A striking artificial hill formation greets visitors near the entrance, with trees planted along the slopes and animal figures carved into the landscape, creating a strong visual identity for the park.

One of the key attractions is a series of 23 themed gardens, with saplings sourced from Rajahmundry to ensure diversity and better climate suitability. Dedicated zones have been set aside for growing around 100 varieties of roses, making the park a potential favourite for nature lovers and photographers. Sculptures of the Kadai Ezhu Vallalgal, the last seven celebrated patrons of the Sangam age, add a cultural and historical layer, connecting visitors to Tamil heritage.

The park also features an open-air theatre, play areas for children, lawns, a maze-style play zone formed with trees, and seating spaces spread across the campus. A six-lakh-litre fountain is under construction and is expected to become a major visual highlight. To enhance visitor convenience, a digital ticketing system and an information-and-map website integrated with the Namma Kovai Citizen app are being readied, allowing visitors to plan their visit, navigate the park and book tickets online. Once fully opened, Semmozhi Poonga is expected to significantly boost urban recreation and tourism in Coimbatore.