I remember long time back, while speaking about Bengaluru, my friend Uma reminiscenced about her regular walks in LalBagh, amongst the majestic trees and the peaceful ambience. So when my classmates from school had to decide a meeting point in Bengaluru, Lalbagh became our destination.

I bought my entry ticket and walked in to find lot of work going on… potted plants being transported in large vehicles and getting placed at various corners, as if they were preparing for some dignitary’s welcome. As my friends were still on the way, I had some time to explore the place by myself. It was a pleasure to click pictures and watch youngsters relaxing in the lawns. Just few minutes ago, I was standing in the scorching sun amidst the chaos of the big city that is Bengaluru. But here amidst these gigantic trees, it was quiet, cool, and peaceful. Thanks to the founders and the caretakers of this bagh, these trees are being protected from you-know-who. The shade was so welcoming, I saw a young man, walk in, sat by himself on a bench… much respite from the chaos outside and inside (perhaps)too.

I knew Lalbagh is huge, found on net it is spread over 240 acres !! Also found on net that the Flower show is being held from Jan 18th to 28th … So that was the reason for all the gahma gahmi.

Padma reached soon but Chand was late.. then called in to say she has parked her car and is walking thru the gate. That is when we realized the car parking is at another gate and we had to walk towards that gate. As we walked, we saw more of the flower pots being arranged and then we arrived at the Glass house (built by British) and saw a flurry of activity there .. it was a no entry zone! All we could do was peep, gaze at the amazing hues, colors of flowers, decorations, and click standing out, and around.

We had walked towards the northern gate which is near the Glasshouse, and also has exit from the garden. Chand had walked more than a kilometer she said, to reach the Glass house!!! We saw all kinds of activities here.. even a girl dancing, to make a reel!!! Here we saw lot of battery run vehicles ferrying tourists. On checking, the vehicles would start from a point near the northern gate, charged rs 100 and gave a 40 minute ride, the driver being the guide too for the park. We were lucky as this ride service stops after 5 pm, we managed to get the tickets for the ride, and were shown special features of Lalbagh. It was so endearing to know a Mango tree planted by Tipu Sultan, standing for the last three centuries, still bearing fruits!!! We saw 140 ft tall X-mas tree, a sausage fruit tree- a medicinal plant, among others. There is a huge library within – but it is meant for Botany students only. Horticulture department has a huge office too inside the park. I did envy those people who got into the department… lucky ones to have to work here.

Lalbagh has four gates (north, south, east and west). If going by own vehicle, the parking is near gate 2, or the north gate), entry can be done here, else thru the Main entrance. Regular entry ticket is rs 30/- but now for the flower show days the entry charge is rs 70/-.  The southern gate is the main gate. The eastern gate is close to Jayanagar and The western gate is close to Lalbagh metro station.

Anyone who is currently visiting Bengaluru, do find time to explore this treasure cove.