Lalbagh Botanical Garden Timings, Ticket Price, Entry Gate, Flower Show, Photos, Nearest Metro
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of India’s oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves nature, history, and culture. Lalbagh Botanical Garden Bangalore has a rich history of over 200 years, dating back to the time of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who established and developed the garden. The garden has also been influenced by the British and has seen many important events in Indian history.
In this blog post, I will tell you everything you need to know about Lalbagh Botanical Garden, including its history, location, entry fee, timings, things to see and do, the best time to visit, how to reach, and tips for visiting. Let’s get started!
Consider reading: Lalbagh Flower Show
Lalbagh Botanical Garden Timings
The timings of Lalbagh Botanical Garden are from 9 am to 6 pm for the general public from 5 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm for the walkers. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden is open on all days of the year, including public holidays.
The glass house, the rose garden, the bandstand, the floral clock, the Japanese garden, the bonsai garden, and the horticulture information center are open from 9 am to 6 pm. The lake, the rock, the watchtower, the Kempegowda tower, the lotus pond, the topiary garden, and the nursery are open from 5 am to 7 pm.
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Lalbagh Botanical Garden Ticket Price
The entry fee for Lalbagh Botanical Garden is Rs 25 per person for visitors above 12 years of age. Entry is free for children below 12 years, senior citizens, school students, and differently-abled persons.
The entry fee is also waived for walkers who visit the Lalbagh Botanical Garden in the morning and evening hours. The entry fee is collected at the main gate and the west gate only. The entry fee is used for the maintenance and development of the garden.
Consider reading: Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore Show Timings, Ticket Price, Duration, and Review
Lalbagh Botanical Garden Gates and Overview of Area
- Location: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, situated in the southern part of Bangalore, Karnataka.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden Size: Spans 240 acres.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden Entrance gates:
- East: Main Gate
- West: Gate on Double Road
- South: Gate on Lalbagh Road
- North: Gate accessible from Jayanagar
- Upper Garden Highlights:
- Glasshouse
- Rose Garden
- Bandstand
- Floral Clock
- Japanese Garden
- Bonsai Garden
- Horticulture Information Centre
- Lower Garden Features:
- Lake
- Rock Formation
- Watchtower
- Kempegowda Tower
- Lotus Pond
- Topiary Garden
- Nursery
History of Lalbagh Botanical Garden
The Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a historical and horticultural landmark, was established in 1760 by Hyder Ali, the then-ruler of Mysore. Inspired by the grandeur of the Mughal Gardens in Sira, Hyder Ali initiated this project to create a similar oasis.
The garden’s development continued under the stewardship of his son, Tipu Sultan, who enriched Lalbagh with a diverse array of plants and trees sourced globally. Following the British conquest of Mysore in 1799, Lalbagh came under British supervision. During this period, the garden introduced numerous ornamental and economically significant plants.
Besides its botanical significance, Lalbagh has been a witness to notable historical events. In 1911, it hosted King George V and Queen Mary, marking a significant moment in its history. Additionally, Lalbagh served as the venue for the first session of the Indian National Congress in 1927, highlighting its importance as a center for political and social gatherings.
The garden’s historical narrative also includes the tragic assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984, adding a poignant chapter to its long history.
Things to See and Do in Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Bangalore, offers visitors many experiences. Here are some must-see attractions and activities in Lalbagh:
- Glass House: Modeled after the Crystal Palace in England, the Glass House, built in 1889, is a significant landmark. It hosts biannual flower shows in January and August, showcasing spectacular floral arrangements and themes, drawing visitors globally.
- Rose Garden: This garden boasts over 1500 varieties of roses, including hybrids and heritage breeds. It’s not only a visual treat but also aromatic. A notable feature here is the statue of Queen Victoria, erected in 1899.
- Bandstand: Dating back to 1870, the Bandstand is a charming wooden structure used for music performances. It offers scenic views of the garden, including the Glass House.
- Floral Clock: Near the main entrance, the 7-meter diameter floral clock is a colorful spectacle. Adorned with fairy tale characters like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, it adds a whimsical touch.
- Japanese Garden: A tranquil spot fashioned in the traditional Japanese style, it includes a pond, bridge, waterfall, and rock garden, providing a serene escape.
- Bonsai Garden: Showcasing over 1000 bonsai plants, this garden is a testament to the art of miniature tree cultivation, located near the Double Road gate.
- Horticulture Information Centre: Near the Glass House, this center offers resources on horticulture, including a library, herbarium, seed bank, and workshops.
- Lake: The 45-acre lake in the lower garden is a haven for birds and aquatic life. Visitors can enjoy boating and admire the lake’s fountain.
- Rock: This geological wonder in the lower garden features one of the world’s oldest rock formations. A watchtower built by Kempegowda II provides a panoramic view of Bangalore.
- Kempegowda Tower: Standing atop the rock, this tower is one of four marking Bangalore’s historical boundaries. The tower is a significant historical landmark.
Best Time to Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh Botanical Garden, an enchanting retreat in Bangalore, offers diverse attractions throughout the year. However, certain periods stand out as ideal times to visit:
- January and August: These months are special due to the biannual flower shows at the Glass House. These shows are a visual feast, presenting an array of flowers, plants, and creative themes. They draw considerable crowds, including tourists and locals, eager to experience this floral spectacle.
- November to February (Winter): The winter months are characterized by pleasant, cool weather, making it a comfortable time for visitors. The garden’s lush greenery is at its peak, and it’s an excellent season for birdwatching, with many migratory birds gracing the lake and trees.
- March to May (Summer): Although warmer, summer brings the garden to life with the blooming of roses, orchids, bougainvilleas, and other summer flowers. The lake’s boating and fountain activities are particularly enjoyable during this season.
While Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a year-round destination, the best times to visit are January and August for the flower shows, November to February for cool weather and birdwatching, and March to May for summer blooms and lake activities.
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How to Reach Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Reaching Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bangalore is convenient, with several transportation options available:
- By Metro: The Lalbagh Metro Station, part of the Namma Metro’s Green Line, is the closest metro stop. Situated approximately 500 meters from the garden’s main gate, the metro offers a quick and efficient way to travel from various parts of the city.
- By Bus: For those preferring bus travel, the Lalbagh Main Gate Bus Stop on Double Road is the nearest stop. It’s well-served by numerous BMTC buses, linking the garden to different city areas. Buses offer an economical and comfortable mode of transport.
- By Auto/Taxi: Auto rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the metro station and bus stop, providing a flexible means of reaching the garden. While convenient, they may be more expensive, especially during peak hours or in traffic.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is accessible by metro, bus, auto-rickshaw, and taxi, catering to various preferences. The metro is the fastest, buses are the most economical, and autos/taxis offer flexibility.
Consider reading: Bangalore Metro Green Line Timings and Station List
Tips for Visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden can be a delightful experience with proper planning. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:
- Plan Your Visit: Given Lalbagh’s vastness and numerous attractions, it’s wise to plan your visit ahead. Decide on the sections you wish to explore and allocate time accordingly. Check the garden’s official website for updated information on timings, entry fees, events, and facilities.
- Carry Water and Snacks: Exploring the garden can be exhaustive, so it’s advisable to carry water and snacks. Stay hydrated and energized, but remember to dispose of waste responsibly in the provided dustbins.
- Comfortable Attire: Anticipate a lot of walking, sometimes on uneven terrain. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. For sun protection, consider a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Adhere to Rules: Lalbagh is a place of natural and historical value. Respect this by following the garden’s rules, such as not picking flowers, harming plants, feeding animals, playing loud music, smoking, or littering. Be courteous to staff and fellow visitors.
For a pleasant and smooth visit to Lalbagh Botanical Garden, plan your trip, carry essentials like water and snacks, dress comfortably, and respect the garden’s rules and regulations.
Final Thoughts on Lalbagh Botanical Garden Bangalore
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a gem of Bangalore, and a must-visit for anyone who loves nature, history, and culture. It is a place where you can see a variety of plants and flowers, admire the architectural and artistic structures, witness historical and cultural events, and relax and rejuvenate in the green and serene environment.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a place that will leave you spellbound and enchanted, and make you fall in love with Bangalore. I hope this blog post has given you a glimpse of the beauty and charm of Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and inspired you to visit it soon. Thank you for reading, and happy exploring!
FAQs on Lalbagh Botanical Garden Bangalore
What time is Lalbagh Botanical Gardens open today?
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is open to the general public from 9 am to 6 pm, while walkers can access it from 5 am to 9 am and again from 4 pm to 7 pm. The garden remains open every day of the year, including public holidays.
What is the entry fee for Lalbagh Botanical Gardens?
Visitors above 12 years of age are charged an entry fee of Rs 25 per person to enter Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Entry is complimentary for children under 12 years, senior citizens, school students, and differently-abled individuals.
What is the specialty of Lalbagh?
Lalbagh’s specialty lies in its diverse collection of over 1,000 plant species and its heritage trees, some over a century old. This 240-acre botanical garden in south Bangalore is famous for hosting spectacular biannual flower shows and its historical connection to city founder, Kempe Gowda, through an adjacent watchtower.
Is food allowed inside Lalbagh?
Visitors are not permitted to bring their own food into Lalbagh Botanical Garden to maintain cleanliness and protect the park’s environment. However, there are several food and beverage stalls available just outside the garden’s entrance for visitors’ convenience. Enjoy the local cuisine there before or after your garden visit.
