Translating roughly as the Red Garden, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens offers a radiance enjoyed by travellers and city dwellers alike. Laid right across the Mavalli district of Bengaluru, this colorful landscape is home to the famous Lalbagh Glass House, which lies right in the heart of the green sprawl. Inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, the striking design was originally used to house exotic flowers unaccustomed to the Indian climate, but now accommodates the occasional flower show. Guided tours are available but for a relaxing afternoon in the sun, a leisurely stroll, a good book, and a picnic might be just the ticket.
National Gallery of Modern Art
Hidden away off Sankey and Cunningham roads is Manikyavelu Mansion, a former holiday home of the Mysore royal family that’s currently crammed full of treasured Indian artwork. With a selection of pieces produced prior to independence on show in the Old Wing and a gallery of post-independence work displayed throughout the New Wing, a wander around this stately old residence makes for an illuminating trip through Indian history. In addition to a well-stocked permanent collection, the museum welcomes a diverse range of exhibitions throughout the year.
Cubbon Park
Like the world-famous parks that decorate London, Cubbon Park is billed as a ‘lung’ area of the metropolis and can be found at the core of the main business district. A 15-minute walk from Sir M Visvesvaraya Metro Station, the park is an ideal spot for taking in some gorgeous greenery during your visit. Cubbon – named after 19th-century British commissioner Sir Mark Cubbon – is great for keeping in shape with a memorable run or brisk walk, or simply moseying through some pretty scenery. You can enter via M.G. Road, Hudson Circle, Kasturba Road, and Ambedkar Veedhi Road. The attractive State Central Library sits adjacent to the park.
