It was Hyder Ali, who was inspired by the Mughal Gardens (a style of gardens that were built by the Mughals) to first set up Lal Bagh. Today, the centuries-old garden is one of Bengaluru's favourite lung spaces. Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, as it is officially called, is more than just a lung space to many. It's where you head to see the spectacular flower shows that happen during Independence Day and Republic Day. It's where many Bangaloreans probably had their first picnics, garden dates, and romances. It's also where if you have moved to the city recently will go to pick up plants for your house from the horticulture department's plant store. Oh and, of course, season's first mangoes as well. Lalbagh is a space that keeps giving.
But let's look at Lalbagh a little deeper because, in the 240-acre space that makes this garden, there's so much for you to do. Irrespective of which of the four entrances you come in through, you will naturally make your way to the centre, where the Glass House is located. Fun fact, the Lalbagh Glass House is inspired by the iconic Crystal Palace that once stood in Hyde Park, London. It's where all the flower shows are held. As you meander through the park, you'll find yourself near the Lalbagh Lake which features a mini waterfall and walking trails. You'll often find joggers in the mornings and evenings here.
Another fun fact we learnt from the horticultural staff during our visit a while back is that several trees in the park are at least a couple of centuries old. In fact, according to the boards we spotted (and confirmed by the Karnataka Tourism website), the garden is touted to have India's largest collection of tropical plants and sub-tropical plants. The Kempegowda Watchtower is another landmark that people visit. It's said to be have built by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bengaluru. The Lalbagh Rock, which almost everyone who's ever visited the park has climbed, is said to be over 3,000 million years old. You can find people here taking pictures.
You can spend an entire day here and not get tired because there's so much to see — the Bonsai Garden and Hibiscus Garden are our favourites. Oh, and there are plenty of vendors selling snacks and juices, so even if you didn't bring anything, you can munch on corn on the cob to cotton candy.
How To Get To Lalbagh
The best way to reach Lalbagh is by Namma Metro as there's a metro station right next to the park.
Lalbagh Visiting Hours
Lalbagh is open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM. Entry is free during early morning and late evening -- 6 to 9 AM and 6 to 7 PM. Other times you'll have to pay INR 30 to get in.
