Lalbagh Garden is a renowned botanical garden located in the heart of Bangalore, India. Also known as Lalbagh Botanical Garden, it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering a serene escape from the bustling urban life.
This blog will cover details about this garden, the Annual Flower shows, important visit points and needless to say, ample pictures and videos from my past visit.
About Lalbagh Garden
Lalbagh Gardens, sprawling across 240 acres, stands as a historic botanical sanctuary with roots dating back to the 18th century. A visit to this iconic place is a must when in Bangalore, offering an ideal setting for various activities such as walking, jogging, catering to botanists, nature enthusiasts, and those passionate about nature photography.
Walking/Jogging
The majority of visitors, particularly before 9 am, arrive at Lalbagh Gardens for walking, jogging, chit chat with friends and the opportunity to breathe in the fresh air. Adding to the experience, vendors often set up stalls to offer coffee or tea, providing a much-needed energy boost after a morning stroll.
During the early hours until 9 am, the garden buzzes with people engaged in brisk walking. For those exploring the outer periphery on foot, the journey covers a distance of 4 to 5 kilometres, making it a delightful and refreshing experience.
Events
The Lalbagh Garden hosts two primary events:
- Flower Show: A bi-annual extravaganza that is further elaborated in the latter part of this blog.
- Mango Mela: Taking place during the summer months, this event sees farmers gathering to showcase and sell a diverse array of mango breeds.
Why Lalbagh Garden is close to my Heart?
Around two decades ago, on my birthday, a close friend surprised me with plans to take me somewhere special. He insisted that I accompany him without asking any questions. Setting out at 5:45 am, he led me to Lalbagh. As a nature enthusiast, I was captivated by the charm of this place. Over the following 3 to 4 hours, we thoroughly explored every nook and cranny.
Since that memorable day, Lalbagh has become a regular destination for me. I have cherished memories of driving approximately 12 kilometers on weekends, solely to revel in a leisurely walk within the serene surroundings of Lalbagh.
Places to Visit within Lalbagh Garden
- Glass House: This iconic structure serves as the venue for the Annual Flower Show.
- Lake: The picturesque lake within Lalbagh adds to the natural beauty of the garden. Complete with a charming bridge and a delightful waterfall, the lake offers a serene atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy feeding fish with bread crumbs and other treats from the bridge, creating a captivating spectacle as the colorful fishes eagerly consume their meals.
- Hilltop View: For a panoramic experience, head to the small hilltop within Lalbagh. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, providing a unique perspective of the garden.
- Floral Clock: Lalbagh boasts a distinctive floral clock, a horticultural marvel. This is one attraction where people throng to take pictures
- Cactus House: One can find a diverse collection of cacti is showcased. This area is a fascinating stop for plant enthusiasts.
You could find the views of Lalbagh Garden and these place in the below picture gallery.
Bi-Annual Flower Show
The renowned Lalbagh Flower Show, held biannually, draws in enthusiasts, floriculturists, and tourists. The event coincides with Republic Day in January and Independence Day in August. Each flower show revolves around a distinct theme, with corresponding decorations adorning the iconic glasshouse.
When to go?
- To avoid the large crowds, it’s advisable to steer clear of weekends and holidays.
- The concluding day, too, tends to be crowded as people rush to catch a glimpse of the show.
- Opting for the first or second day is recommended for a more immersive experience, as the flowers are freshest, and their fragrance is most enchanting during this time.
Other Attractions
The flower show includes an array of stalls and makeshift museums, enriching the overall experience. Attendees may also find workshops on establishing terrace gardens, and a variety of food stalls are available to satisfy your appetite.
It makes for an ideal half-day outing with family and friends. Having personally attended most of the flower shows between 2012 and 2017, I can attest to the charm and vibrancy of this captivating event. Below are some of the pictures made during the past flower shows.
Picture Gallery
Click on any thumbnail picture and use the slider option to view higher resolution pictures of all the images. You could even Zoom on the images or get a Slide show view.
Video Gallery
Conclusion
Lalbagh Gardens stands not only as a testament to Bangalore’s rich historical tapestry but as a vibrant haven where nature and heritage harmoniously coexist. From the enchanting Glass House hosting the Annual Flower Show to the tranquil beauty of the lake, the panoramic views from the hilltop, the intricate Floral Clock, and the diverse wonders housed within the Cactus House, Lalbagh Gardens is a treasure trove for every nature enthusiast.
As I reminisce about my own experiences and the countless memories forged within this botanical paradise, I encourage you all to visit this place and not the miss the bi-annual flower show.
