Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a 240-acre garden in Mavalli, south Bengaluru, laid out in the 18th century by Hyder Ali and expanded by Tipu Sultan. Its paths lead past old trees, flower beds, a lake, a rose garden, bonsai displays and the Glass House, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace. Come for a quiet walk, to explore the plant collections or to photograph the grounds. The garden is large, so plan for plenty of walking; an electric buggy can help you cover more of it.
A garden begun by Hyder Ali
Lalbagh Botanical Garden began in the 18th century as a garden commissioned by Mysore ruler Hyder Ali. His son, Tipu Sultan, expanded it and introduced plant species brought from abroad, including from Persia, France and Arabia. The garden’s name means “red garden” and is associated with its roses.
Today the grounds cover 240 acres in Mavalli, south Bengaluru. The planting includes tropical and subtropical species, flower beds and old trees. Lalbagh is also used for botanical study and plant conservation, giving the garden a purpose beyond its paths and lawns.
The Glass House and flower shows
The Glass House is one of Lalbagh’s best-known landmarks. Its design was inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, and it was conceived as a place for horticultural exhibitions. The garden holds flower shows there twice a year, around Independence Day on 15 August and Republic Day on 26 January. During these events, floral displays bring a different focus to the building and its surroundings.
Allow time to walk around the Glass House as well as inside the wider garden. The grounds also include a rose garden, bonsai displays, a topiary park and a lotus pond. Displays and blooms change with the season, so the garden can feel different from one visit to the next.
Planning your walk
Lalbagh is large enough that a walk between its sights can take time. Set a few priorities before entering, particularly if you want to see the Glass House, lake and specialist garden sections in one visit. An electric buggy is another way to cover more of the grounds; it may suit visitors who prefer to limit their walking.
The lake and the area near the waterfall are among the garden’s quieter scenic stops. A hill near the main gate is also noted for views over the city around sunset, reached by a short uphill walk. Vendors along the slope sell fruit and drinks. For a cooler, less crowded walk, plan to arrive early in the morning. Follow posted rules and leave the plants and grounds undisturbed.
Häufige Fragen
How long should I spend at Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
Allow around two to three hours for a walk through some of the garden. The grounds cover 240 acres, so a longer visit gives you more time to reach its different sections.
What can I see at Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
The garden has a Glass House, rose garden, bonsai displays, topiary park, lotus pond and lake, as well as old trees and flower beds.
When are the flower shows at Lalbagh?
Flower shows are held twice a year at the Glass House, around Independence Day on 15 August and Republic Day on 26 January.
Is Lalbagh Botanical Garden accessible for wheelchair users?
The garden lists a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom and parking. The grounds are extensive, so consider how much walking your visit will involve.
