Located in the heart of South Bengaluru, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the most iconic green spaces in India. Sprawling over 240 acres, this beautifully maintained garden is not just a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, but also a treasure trove of history, botany, and architecture. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or a curious traveler, Lalbagh has something to offer everyone.
🌸 A Glimpse into History
Lalbagh was originally commissioned in 1760 by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, and was later expanded by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden was inspired by the Mughal-style gardens of Sira and was designed to house exotic and native plant species. During British rule, Lalbagh underwent further development, and in 1889, the stunning Glass House was constructed — modeled after the Crystal Palace in London.
Today, the garden is managed by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, and remains a key landmark that showcases the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
🌳 Highlights of Lalbagh Botanical Garden
🏛️ The Glass House
The centerpiece of Lalbagh, the Glass House hosts the famous biannual flower shows on Republic Day and Independence Day. These vibrant events attract thousands of visitors and showcase stunning floral arrangements.
🪨 Lalbagh Rock
One of the oldest rock formations on earth, the Lalbagh Rock is over 3,000 million years old and is classified as a National Geological Monument. Climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Bengaluru city.
🌲 Kempegowda Watchtower
Perched on the Lalbagh Rock, this historic watchtower is one of the four towers built by Kempegowda II, the founder of Bengaluru, to demarcate the city’s original boundaries.
🌼 Specialty Gardens
Lalbagh features several themed gardens that offer a delightful experience:
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Bonsai Garden
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Topiary Garden
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Rose Garden
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Lotus Garden
Each one is carefully curated with plant varieties and displays that are both educational and visually appealing.
🌺 Other Attractions
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Floral Clock
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Tree Fossil
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Chamaraja Wodeyar Statue
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Tree Sculpture Zone
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Japanese Decorative Monument
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Silk Cotton Tree
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Maharaja Statue
🦆 Lalbagh Lake & Waterfall
A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery attracts several bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching and peaceful walks. There's also a small artificial waterfall nearby, perfect for photography.
💡 Visitor Information
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Entry Fee: ₹50 per adult
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Buggy Ride (Optional): ₹100 per person
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Car Parking Fee: ₹60
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Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
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Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the flower shows (January & August)
📸 Travel Tips
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Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
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Carry water, especially if you're planning to walk through the entire garden.
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Don’t miss the view from the top of Lalbagh Rock — it’s one of the best photo spots in the garden!
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Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore comfortably.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is more than just a public park — it’s a living museum of plants, a piece of Bengaluru’s history, and a quiet retreat for nature lovers. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor to the city, a stroll through Lalbagh is a refreshing and rewarding experience.
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