Bhubaneswar, Jan. 4: Flower lovers in the city are making a beeline for the Raj Bhavan.

The governor's residence today opened its garden and lawns to visitors for its annual flower show.

Around 34 varieties of flowers in varied shapes, sizes and colours will greet the visitors till January 22.

Large and small varieties of French marigold and other seasonal blooms such as dianthus, chrysanthemums, zinnias and gerberas drew the maximum crowd on the first day. Children and youngsters, however, flocked to the cactus, bonsai and orchid houses. Other varieties such as petunia, salvia and roses are also on display.

Around 500 visitors thronged the venue today.

The garden is open to the public between 3pm and 5pm every day.

When tired of walking, visitors could sit down and relax in the huge lawns situated near the musical fountain complex.

Other special attractions are the two deer parks on either sides of the garden. Currently, there are over 400 deer in the parks.

For 24-year-old Mansi Sahu, the first visit to the park was memorable. "I had never seen some of the flowers before. It was a thrilling experience," she said.

"I have been coming to the garden for the last six years. The atmosphere here is really peaceful," said Ramakant Barik, a visitor.

In two days, the fishpond will also be opened to the public. The colourful fish collection will be an added attraction.

Horticulturists are, however, a tad disappointed by this year's flower show at Raj Bhavan. Flowers are less this year, they said.

"The weather in the city has not been conducive. It has been fluctuating. Lack of sunlight and untimely rainfall has contributed to the less blooming of flowers this year," said assistant horticulturist at the Raj Bhavan Basant Padhi.

From next year, visitors would be welcomed with two artificial waterfalls that are going to be set up inside the garden premises. Two more fountains are also going to come up.

"Work would begin after January 22. We are hopeful of finishing it by the end of March," said Padhi.

The authorities are expecting a lot of people to visit the Raj Bhavan. The highest footfalls are expected during the weekends. Security has been tightened for the show.