The center of attraction of this place is the four hundred acre picturesque lake with various kinds of boating facilities like paddle boats, shikaras etc. A unique attraction is the newly installed hovercraft. Various water sports like water scooter, para-sailing etc., houseboats and a floating restaurant will add to the splendour of this paradise in the near future. It was opened on Jan 1st 1876, by the Prince of Wales. There is a separate reptile house and a children's zoo.
Migratory birds find sanctuary on a small lake in the zoo every winter.
The gardens are open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Nicco Park - Nicco Park is situated at Salt Lake. This amusement park is the Disneyland of West Bengal, with a variety of unusual games and rides. The River Cave ride is the latest addition and is the only of its kind in this part of the world. The Park is open to the public from 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. everyday during the winter and 11.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. everyday during the rest of the year.