Did you know a garden in the heart of Bangalore was established by Hyder Ali and further expanded by his son, Tipu Sultan? Yes, if you are in Bangalore looking for an oasis within the city, Lalbagh Garden will not let you down. Filled with towering trees and carpeted with grass, this 240-acre land attracts photographers, enthusiasts, and botanists for its iconic Glass House, historical significance, or enriching beauty! So, would you miss a chance to get mesmerized by a stunning haven? In this blog, we delve into the history of Lalbagh Bangalore, things to see, and how to reach Lalbagh. Read to find out!
About Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Built in the 18th century, Lalbagh Garden stands tall with its collection of over 1,000 species of plants from around the world. Once you enter the rich botanical heritage of India, you will find an impressive array of flower beds and long-stretched lawns. The beautiful Glass House, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, hosts biannual flower shows. Beyond satisfying any anthophile with an immense love for rare and exotic flowers, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is home to a tranquil lake and an enchanting bonsai garden.
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History of Lalbagh Garden
With a history of more than 200 years, the garden is a result of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan’s love for plants and flowers. The garden was commissioned by Hyder Ali, then ruler of Mysore, to display the botanical jewels of the area. After Hyder Ali’s demise, Tipu expanded the garden and imported exotic plants from Persia, Afghanistan, and France. Later, during British rule, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden continued to flourish with the emergence of new gardening techniques and added the Glass House to the garden. Over the years, the garden has been playing an integral role in plant conservation, horticultural research, and education.
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Key Attractions at Lalbagh Botanical Garden
The picturesque Lalbagh Park not only attracts visitors to find solace in the lap of nature but also provides a serene environment for anyone to relax in. Being the symbol of green legacy, the garden is a treasure trove for a variety of things to explore.
1. Lalbagh Glass House
Bangalore’s very own Crystal Palace, Lalbagh Glass House, was built in 1989 and revamped in 2004. The beautiful structure gets adorned with exotic and seasonal flowers during Republic Day and Independence Day. If you love mango or jackfruit, the Bangalore Lalbagh Park festivals will never disappoint you.
2. Floral Clock
Have you ever seen an enormous solar-operated dial clock? Gifted by Hindustan Machine Tools, the floral clock at Lalbagh Botanical Garden will leave you in awe. Gardeners intricately decorate the seven-meter dia to represent the hands and numbers. The beautiful timepiece is indeed a testament to technology and nature.
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3. Kempegowda Tower
Sitting atop a 3,000-million-year-old rock formation, the Kempegowda Tower is another attraction at Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Though it looks like a simple tower, the panoramic view will take your breath away. Kempegowda II built this watchtower to mark the boundaries of Bangalore with a four-pillar structure made of granite.
4. Lalbagh Lake
Spanning over an area of 30 acres and being surrounded by lush greenery, the lake is a delight for birdwatchers. Various species of birds flock to the lake situated in Bangalore Lalbagh Park. The large lake is in the southern part and is decorated with walking trails, a mini waterfall, and a bridge.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden Map
Lalbagh Botanical Garden Timings
Open every day of the week, Lalbagh Botanical Garden allows visitors from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. If you are a jogger, you can take advantage of the early gate opening, i.e., 6 o’clock in the morning. Though early mornings are the best for exploring Botanical Garden Lalbagh, you can enjoy the serenity even in the later afternoons.
Places to Visit near Lalbagh Botanical Garden
The strategic location of Lalbagh Garden makes it easier for you to explore the nearby attractions. Following are the popular landmarks near Lalbagh:
1. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, about 4 kilometres away, tells tales of royal history. This two-story palace, built entirely of teak wood, shows off stunning Indo-Islamic architecture. Inside, you will find display rooms with old photos and artefacts. The palace grounds include lovely gardens, and you will need about two hours to explore.
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2. Freedom Park
Freedom Park, a 15-minute drive from Lalbagh, holds an interesting story. This former Central Jail now serves as a public park with a museum about India’s independence movement. Its walking paths and quiet corners make it popular for evening strolls.
3. MTR
MTR Restaurant stands as a culinary landmark near Lalbagh. This famous eatery serves authentic Karnataka food and is known for its South Indian breakfast. Though you might face a wait, the traditional flavours make it worth your time.
4. KR Market
Krishna Rajendra Market, or KR Market, buzzes with life next to Lalbagh’s west gate. As Bangalore’s largest flower and vegetable market, it comes alive in the early morning when fresh flowers arrive. The market offers a real slice of local life, with its narrow lanes packed with vendors and buyers.
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How to Reach Lalbagh Garden, Bangalore
Lalbagh Bangalore is 7 km south of the Majestic area and 38 km from the city airport. You can use the Lalbagh metro on the Green Line and walk for around 100 meters to reach Lalbagh Park. Buses, autos, and cabs are easily available to reach the botanical garden.
Needless to say, Lalbagh Garden Bangalore is not only a beautiful retreat in the bustling city but also living proof of its historical legacy. The garden’s attractions will keep you occupied for the entire day; you can walk on the Lalbagh Heritage Trail or admire the installation, capture the African Baobab tree, etc. Enter “Lalbagh Botanical Garden Mavalli Bengaluru Karnataka – 560004” on the map and start your journey to natural paradise! In case you are new to the Silicon Valley of India and planning to visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, have you sorted out your furniture and appliances? Whether you need a cosy bed or a functional laptop, head to RentoMojo!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is so special about Lalbagh Garden?
Globally acclaimed as a botanical network, Lalbagh Gardens is one of the most scenic spaces. During the festivals, Lalbagh Park gets crowded.
2. Is Cubbon Park larger than Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
No, Cubbon Park is smaller than Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Lalbagh is extended over 240 acres and is crowned with the largest park in Bangalore.
3. Is Bangalore Lalbagh Garden open?
Yes, Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bangalore is open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm daily.
4. Can you take food inside Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
Visitors cannot bring food or beverages inside the garden. However, you can find food stalls outside.
5. What is Lalbagh Garden famous for?
Lalbagh Garden is famous for many things, including the Glass House, diverse botanical collection, Lalbagh Rock, etc.
6. How to reach Lalbagh Botanical Garden by metro?
Take the Green Line of Namma Metro and get down at Lalbagh Metro Station. Follow the exit signage and walk 100 metres to reach the garden.
7. Where is Lalbagh and who started this?
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a historic garden located in the heart of Bengaluru, near the central business district. Hyder Ali established the garden; however, Tipu Sultan developed it later.
8. What are the Lalbagh Lake timings?
Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru, India is open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM, and the lake walk is open year-round. Lalbagh Waterfall is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
9. What is the total area of Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
Lalbagh Botanical Garden covers an expansive area of 240 acres, making it one of the largest botanical gardens in India.
10. When does the Lalbagh flower show take place?
Lalbagh hosts two major flower shows annually. The first one usually takes place in January, celebrating Republic Day, while the second one occurs in August, commemorating Independence Day.
11. Is there parking near Lalbagh?
Yes, there is parking available near Lalbagh Botanical Garden. However, due to its central location, the parking spaces can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
12. How far is Lalbagh Garden from Majestic?
Lalbagh Metro Station connects the Majestic Metro Station via the Green Line of the Namma Metro Network. In addition, Majestic is 4.5 km away from Lalbagh.
13. How many gates are there at Lalbagh Garden?
Lalbagh Botanical Garden features four entry points. The southern gate serves as the main entrance, while the western gate offers another access point. The eastern gate connects to Jayanagar, and the northern gate leads to the iconic glasshouse while also functioning as an exit point from the garden.
