Would you believe us if we told you that there’s a real forest in the city? Hidden in plain sight is the Doresanipalya Forest off Banneghatta Road. The nearly 90 acre campus, a.k.a the JP Nagar Reserve Forest functions as a research station for many forest department factions (like Environmental Policy and Tiger Research) and used to be a part of the Bannerghatta National Park a couple of decades ago.
It opens for a total six hours a day, once in the morning and evening and is great for what experts are now calling “forest bathing” because of the rich green cover and a wide range of tree species. With both a cement road, and small trails for those of you who like to walk on the road less taken, that double up as cycling trails! Being a research station, all the tree species are labelled, so it’s a great place for kids (or budding environmentalists) if you’re looking for something fun and educational. Butterfly and bird enthusiasts will also spot a few uncommon ones that come out in the early mornings.
The facility also has an outdoor badminton court, volleyball court and what we think is a cricket pitch (we’re assuming, because we saw people play). While they aren’t pet friendly, there are a whole bunch of dogs and puppies frolicking, but we recommend you use your discretion before petting them. The forest is open to the public between 5:30 - 9:00 AM and 4-6:30 PM every day. Do remember to wear your mask and maintain social distance while you enjoy the greenery.
