What are the best parks in Bangalore?

Renuka Prasad

| 13-02-2024

Introduction:

Bangalore, the vibrant Silicon Valley of India, is not only renowned for its IT prowess but also for its lush greenery and beautiful parks that provide a welcome escape from the urban hustle. In this article, we delve into some of the best parks in Bangalore, each with its unique history, features, and significance. From the historical Lalbagh Botanical Garden to the sprawling Cubbon Park and the wildlife haven of Bannerghatta Biological Park, these green spaces offer a diverse range of experiences. Let's explore their stories, exclusive features, and the vast areas they cover, making them integral parts of Bangalore's cultural and natural landscape.

1. Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lalbagh,_Bengaluru-5.jpg

Significance: Lalbagh was commissioned by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, in the 18th century. Later, his son Tipu Sultan completed the development under the guidance of British horticulturist John Cameron. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India.

Area Covered: Lalbagh spans an extensive 240 acres.

Daily Footfall (As of May 1, 2017): The footfall at Lalbagh has have 2,500-3,500 per day.

Exclusive Feature: Lalbagh is home to the Glass House, inspired by London's Crystal Palace. It hosts the biannual Lalbagh Flower Show, a spectacular display of flowers and plants.

Fame: Known for its diverse flora, the centuries-old Lalbagh is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a hub for horticultural education.

2. Cubbon Park

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cubbon_Park-Bangalore.jpg

Significance: Cubbon Park was designed by Sir Mark Cubbon, the then Commissioner of Mysore, and it was later named after him. It was initially created in 1864 and has since been a central hub for greenery and recreational activities in Bangalore

Area Covered: Cubbon Park extends over 300 acres of land.

Exclusive Feature: Cubbon Park houses the State Archaeological Museum, Attara Kacheri (High Court), and the Vidhana Soudha. It's a green lung for the city amidst historical and government buildings.

Fame: Renowned for its vast green spaces, walking paths, and historical monuments, Cubbon Park is a popular spot for joggers, walkers, and nature lovers.

3. Bannerghatta Biological Park

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bannerghatta_National_Park_%28Bannerghatta_Biological_Park%29.jpg

Significance: Bannerghatta Biological Park was established in 2002. It was initiated to be a biological reserve for the conservation of wildlife and provides a natural habitat for animals.

Exclusive Feature: The park offers a safari experience where visitors can witness wildlife in a naturalistic setting, including lions, tigers, and bears.

Fame: Bannerghatta Biological Park is famous for its efforts in wildlife conservation and provides an immersive experience for visitors to learn about various species.

Area Covered :

Bannerghatta Biological Park
Land area	65,127.5 acre (260.51 km2)
No. of animals	2388
No. of species	137
Annual visitors	1,616,130 (FY 2019/20)

4. Kanakapura Road Art of Living International Center

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sri_Sri_Sri_Ravishankar_Ashram.jpg

Significance: The Art of Living International Center is a spiritual retreat founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The center, amidst nature, provides a serene environment for meditation, yoga, and wellness.

Exclusive Feature: The center boasts a serene lake, meditation halls, and the Vishalakshi Mantap, a meditation hall for silence programs.

Fame: Known for promoting wellness and spirituality, the Art of Living International Center is a retreat for yoga, meditation, and stress relief.

Area Covered: 65 acres

5. Bugle Rock Park

Image Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/62346822@N02/5684110434/

Significance: Bugle Rock Park is known for the massive rock formation called Bugle Rock. It was developed by Kempe Gowda II, the founder of Bangalore, and the area served as a watchtower during his rule.

Exclusive Feature: Bugle Rock, a massive rock formation, has a natural lookout that offers panoramic views of Bangalore.

Fame: The park is famous for the unique geological formations and its historical significance as a watchtower during Kempe Gowda's rule.

Area Covered: Bugle Rock Park 16 Acres

6. M. N. Krishna Rao Park

Image Source: https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/111363044439172019982

Significance: M. N. Krishna Rao Park, also known as Basavanagudi Park, was named after the philanthropist M. N. Krishna Rao. It has a musical fountain and is a popular spot for locals.

Exclusive Feature: The park houses a musical fountain that adds to the recreational experience for visitors.

Fame: Known for its peaceful ambiance, the park is a popular spot for locals seeking a calm retreat and families enjoying the musical fountain.

Area Covered: M. N. Krishna Rao Park covers 25 acres

7. Sankey Tank Park

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sankey_Tank,_Bangalore.jpg

Significance: Sankey Tank, an artificial lake, was constructed by Col. Richard Hieram Sankey during the British rule. The surrounding area is developed as a park and is a favorite among joggers and nature enthusiasts.

Exclusive Feature: Sankey Tank itself, an artificial lake, is the primary feature, surrounded by walking paths and greenery.

Fame: Known for its scenic beauty and boating facilities, Sankey Tank Park is a favorite among nature lovers and joggers.

Area Covered:

Sankey Tank

Surface area	15 ha (37.1 acres)
Max. depth	9.26 m (30.4 ft)
Shore length¹	1.7 km (1.1 mi)

8. Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park

Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:National_Military_Memorial_and_Indira_Gandhi_Musical_Fountain_39.jpg

Significance: The park is home to the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, one of the largest musical fountains in India. It was developed by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) and is a popular spot for evening entertainment

Exclusive Feature: The park houses the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, one of the largest in India, featuring synchronized music and water displays.

Fame: Known for its iconic musical fountain, the park provides a unique and entertaining experience for visitors.

Area Covered: 16 acres

I'm at Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park in Bangalore, Karnataka https://t.co/gCUfL7G0Rs pic.twitter.com/7egTBUckn1
— Gowrav Shenoy (@gshny) July 25, 2015

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bangalore's parks stand not just as green retreats but as testaments to the city's rich history and commitment to preserving nature. Lalbagh Botanical Garden, with its British-era Glass House and diverse flora, continues to captivate visitors. Cubbon Park, a creation of Sir Mark Cubbon, seamlessly blends greenery with historical monuments. Bannerghatta Biological Park, a haven for wildlife conservation, offers a unique safari experience. The Art of Living International Center provides a spiritual escape, Bugle Rock Park echoes the city's heritage, and M. N. Krishna Rao Park offers a harmonious blend of music and nature. Sankey Tank Park, with its artificial lake, and the iconic Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park add to the city's charm. As Bangaloreans and visitors alike continue to enjoy these parks, they play a crucial role in fostering a connection between urban life and the tranquility of nature.