Sri Chamarajendra Park, better known as Cubbon Park, covers about 300 acres in central Bengaluru, beside the Vidhana Soudha and the High Court. Paths run under gulmohar, oak and cassia trees, past bamboo groves, a lotus pond and a musical fountain. Heritage buildings stand inside the grounds, among them the red State Central Library, the Attara Kacheri and the Government Museum. Walkers and joggers come early, families come for the toy train and boating, and Sundays bring concerts, yoga and a small farmers market.
From Meade's Park to Cubbon Park
The park's official name is Sri Chamarajendra Park, but almost everyone in Bengaluru calls it Cubbon Park. It began as a smaller garden of about 100 acres, first known as Meade's Park. It was later extended to roughly 300 acres, which is about 120 hectares, and renamed in honour of Cubbon.
The park is more than 150 years old and is kept by the Department of Horticulture. It lies in the Central Administrative Area of the city. The Vidhana Soudha and the High Court stand next to it, and other institutions sit on its edge and within its grounds.
Statues are scattered along the paths, among them Chamarajendra Wodeyar, Queen Victoria and Sir Mark Cubbon.
Trees, water and quiet corners
Around 6,000 trees and plants grow here, native and imported. Gulmohars, oaks and cassia line the main pathways, and the stone walkways wind between lawns, flower beds and rock outcrops. The bamboo groves are among the most photographed spots, and the park is a common backdrop for portrait and pre-wedding photography.
Named features include the lotus pond, the musical fountain known as the Dancing Fountain, the bamboo grove nook, Ringwood Circle and the bandstand. Flower shows are held during festivals. In the evening the pathways are lit, and early morning light through the canopy is a favourite time for photographers.
The park is also a daily exercise ground. Joggers, walkers and cyclists use it from early morning, and families bring food for picnics on the lawns.
Buildings and museums in the grounds
The Attara Kacheri, a historic building, stands within the park, as does the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Library, the red Gothic-style State Central Library. Its colour makes it easy to spot among the greenery.
The Government Museum was established in 1865 and is one of the oldest museums in India. Its collection includes stone age relics and sculptures from the Hoysala, Chola and Kadamba periods. The Venkatappa Art Gallery is part of the same complex. An aquarium in the park keeps a wide range of indigenous and exotic fish, and it is counted among the larger aquariums in India.
Just outside the park, on Kasturba Road, the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum is a science museum that suits children.
With children, with dogs, on Sundays
Jawahar Bal Bhavan is the children's area, with a mini amusement park, a small trampoline and the Putani Express toy train, which runs through the park. There is also a boating area. A separate inclusive playground is designed for children with special needs. There are open spaces for badminton, and the park has basketball, volleyball and tennis courts. Children under 10 can enter certain areas free of charge.
Dogs are welcome. Owners gather with their pets on Sunday mornings from 8 a.m., and the park has a dog area.
Sunday is the busiest day. With vehicles kept out, the park hosts cultural performances, concerts, fun runs and yoga, and a small farmers market.
Getting there
The park is about 2 km from the city centre and is reached along Kasturba Road. Cubbon Park metro station is just outside, and MG Road and Vidhana Soudha stations are also nearby. BMTC buses run through the area.
There is paid parking as well as free and paid street parking. The entrance, restrooms and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
What is the difference between Cubbon Park and Sri Chamarajendra Park?
They are the same place. Sri Chamarajendra Park is the official name, and Cubbon Park is the name most people use.
How big is Cubbon Park?
It covers about 300 acres, around 120 hectares. It began as a garden of about 100 acres and was extended later.
How do I get to Cubbon Park by metro?
Cubbon Park metro station is just outside the park. MG Road and Vidhana Soudha stations are also close.
Are rides and boating included in the park visit?
No. Boating, the toy train and the amusement rides need separate tickets, with different prices for adults and children. Carry cash.
Can I bring my dog to Cubbon Park?
Yes. The park has a dog area, and dog owners gather there on Sunday mornings from 8 a.m.
