By Abigail Sylvester
As someone who proudly calls Bengaluru home, I find something magical about the pop of greenery amid swathes of concrete. Often hailed as the ‘Garden City of India,’ my city is home to gems such as Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and the serene Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
One of the Oldest Bengaluru Parks is Lalbagh Botanical Garden. It dates back to the 18th century and showcases the best of Bengaluru’s rich horticulture. I love their stunning flower show, held twice a year on the occasion of Republic Day and Independence Day. The highlight: Indian monuments recreated fully from flowers! Lalbagh also hosts an annual fair to support local businesses. Some of the best things to buy here are ready-made snacks, handicraft items, millet and native vegetables. Local farmers also sell flower and fruit seeds and offer advice on how to grow them yourself.
Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park sits in the heart of the city, so you can easily reach here by metro. It has stunning marble statues of figures like Queen Victoria and various structures that date back to the British era. The Park, an important heritage site, is a haven for joggers, artists seeking inspiration and families enjoying picnics. I love Sunday mornings in Cubbon Park when the action is in full swing. You have book and poetry club meetings, pet meet & greets and early morning yoga clubs. It is a unique experience for anyone from outside the city.
Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park
Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park in Bengaluru is a unique experience, especially for first-timers. It is a lovely place to unwind, especially in the evening when a musical fountain show takes centre stage. Surrounded by greenery, the park invites visitors to enjoy walks amidst nature, and have picnics in the shade of its trees. The highlight here is the fountain show, where water, lights, and music blend, creating a magical experience for all ages. Families often gather here to witness this display, making it a perfect spot to soak in the beauty of nature within Bengaluru’s busy city life.
These Bengaluru parks aren’t just spaces for leisure; they are a testament to Bengaluru’s commitment to preserving its green cover amid rapid urbanisation. In the heart of India’s Silicon Valley, these parks serve as reminders of the city’s roots as the ‘Garden City.’ They are not just places to visit but an integral part of Bengaluru’s identity.
Also see : Inside China’s Lovely Panda Park
