Jamshedpur, Jan. 23: Surya Mandir in Sidhgora has a new look. After prayers, devotees can grab a cup of coffee, get a bite and a boat ride before heading home.

Former finance minister and BJP legislator Raghubar Das today inaugurated the park at the temple. The sprawling park has well-trimmed grasses, fountains, chairs and boating.

“The park is a gift to the city. The occasion is unique as this year is Tata Steel’s centenary and the city is also celebrating it,” Das said while addressing a gathering at the inaugural function.

He said that about Rs 1 crore was spent to develop the park and provide all these facilities. The state tourism department had sanctioned Rs 67 lakh for the park while the rest of the amount was given from the local MLA’s fund.

Spread over five acres, the park has a variety of plants. But the centre of attraction in the park is the fountain installed at the middle of the park. Numerous recreation facilities such as swings and seesaws have been put up for the children who would visit the park.

The project is a brainchild of Das.

The construction work of the park was completed in nine month. A private firm from Ranchi was entrusted the job of developing the park adjacent to Surya Temple.

Das said an entry fee of Rs 2 for adults and Re 1 for children has been fixed.

The entry fees collected from visitors would be utilised for maintaining the park, which would be open from 9am to 9pm.

Other attractions at the park include artificial mountains and waterfalls.

A café has also been constructed inside the park so that visitors could enjoy snacks, coffee and tea.

Four boats have been deployed at the pond on the park premises. Two more boats would be introduced soon.

A boat ride would cost Rs 10. A two-seat and a four-seat boat are available for boating now.

Das said proper lighting arrangements have been made at the park for the convenience of visitors during night.

Surya Mandir was constructed five years ago, again due to the efforts of Das. The temple was constructed with funds collected from residents.