Karnataka > Bangalore > Lalbagh
 Hyder Ali laid out this famous botanical garden and his son added horticultural wealth to them by importing trees and plants from several countries. The garden today houses over 1000 species of flora which include rare and enchanting collection of tropical plants, trees and herbs. The Glass House, modelled along London's Crystal Palace, is the center of attraction in this 2400 acre park. Bi-annual flower shows attracting participants from all over India is held in the Glass House. In July, 2003 it was decided that the Department of Horticulture and Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) would jointly take up the development of Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens.
Lalbagh is currently under the aegis of the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka. The Directorate is housed amidst the splendid environs of the botanical garden. Today it has been an internationally renowned centre for scientific study of plants and botanical artwork and also conservation of plants. Formal and informal styles dominate the garden in perfect harmony, which is a testimony to the beauty of nature. The garden extends lush green paradise with an area of 240 acres in the heart of the city. Nearly 673 genera and 1,854 species of plants are found in Lalbagh. The collection of the plants has made it a veritable treasure house of plants.
The Lal Bagh. A meticulously cared for garden located on the southern fringes of the city. Throughout its 97 ha (240 acre), there are lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and stone formations that date back over 3.0 billion years. Described as the most romantic garden in India, it was laid during the 18th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. There is a small entrance fee after 9AM. A flower show is held during the week preceding Indian Independence day (August 15) and Republic day (January 26) in the Glass House. This flower show features exquisite flowers and patterns designed by the experienced gardeners of Lalbagh. Beware the tour guides, especially if you come in with a taxi driver. ALWAYS negotiate the tour price for the party at the outset. Otherwise, you will be charged a hefty fee at the tour's conclusion. Tour guides are not necessary. The structure was completely renovated and inaugurated by SM Krishna on Jan 15, 2004. Renovation details:
- Cost Rs 5 crore
- Renovation time 3 months
- Glass: 60,000 tonnes, 3505 unbreakable panes
- 1,000 sq mtrs of galvanised steel
- The 2.75 sq mts Glass House sandblasted using 75 microns of Zinc Chromide to prevent rusting.
- 325 gutters constructed along the eduges to drain out water.
- Silicon gel 1,577 litres
- Foundation stone laid by Diwan of Mysore Sir Mirza Ismail restored
- 75 lunx of illumination work done and special lighting that saves 40% energy put up inside
- New benches made of cast iron with wooden frames constructed
|
