The gardens at Shangri La Botanical Gardens offer a diverse range of flora and fauna that represent the unique ecosystem of Southeast Texas. Visitors can marvel at over 300 plant species in the five formal rooms within the gardens, as well as navigate the four sculpture rooms scattered throughout the property. The gardens are also home to the Nature Center, which is ideal for educational opportunities and up-close encounters with nature.
The Nature Center within Shangri La is truly a sight to behold. The Adams Bayou boat excursions are a must-see as they navigate through educational outposts, a 15-acre beaver pond, and thousands of nesting birds in Ruby Lake. The state-of-the-art bird blind is a popular spot for bird lovers, and the bat house is home to hundreds of bats that are essential to the local ecosystem. Visitors to Shangri La can experience nature in all its glory while learning about the vital role it plays in our daily lives.
The combination of the gardens and nature at Shangri La presents a peaceful and serene oasis for those seeking renewal and retreat. The center is also committed to promoting eco-friendliness as it was the first project in Texas and the 50th project worldwide to earn the U.S. Green Building Council's Platinum Certification for LEED-NC. This certification ensures that the construction of Shangri La reached the highest green building and performance measures.
The Shangri-La Blind is one of the center's most notable features. It is an incredible platform where visitors can observe local wildlife through a shrouded blind. This allows visitors to get up close and personal with local fauna, without disturbing them. The Shangri-La Blind is a perfect example of the commitment to eco-friendliness and the exploration and appreciation of the natural world that Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center embodies.
In conclusion, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a Texas gem that should not be missed. With a diverse array of flora and fauna on display, educational opportunities, and a commitment to eco-friendliness, it is a destination that is truly one of a kind. The grounds are a testament to the natural beauty of our world, and visitors to Shangri La are sure to leave with a renewed sense of awe and appreciation for the world around us.