Bangalore is known as the city of Gardens because of abundance of green areas and gardens within the city precincts. Lalbagh Botanical Gardens are counted among the best botanical gardens in India. This garden was the result of the Hyder Ali’s passion for greenery. Ruler of Mysore during 18th century, Hyder Ali commissioned the gardens. The garden is adorned by many beautiful structures inside it which include a glass house where annual flower show is held, a lake, and an aquarium.

Though building of the garden was commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 but it was his son, Tipu Sultan, who completed it. Located in the southern part of Bangalore, Lal Bagh Gardens are spread over an area of 240 acres. Besides its beauty, garden is an important venue for organizing annual flower shows, especially the one held on republic Day.
The huge variety of flowers in Garden is comprised of more than 1000 species. The main eye catcher of the garden is the Glass House which is modeled like the Crystal Palace of London. Inspiration behind the Bangalore Botanical Gardens was Hyder Ali and his son made it precious by adding priceless horticultural wealth. He imported exotic trees and plants from the various countries of the world. It is this garden which got first lawn clock in India and is home to largest collection of plants in the entire subcontinent. Some trees in the garden are 100 years old.

Originally Lalbagh was designed like the Mughal gardens which were very famous at that time. Some rare species of trees were brought from as far as France, Persia and Afghanistan. Aesthetically designed garden has flowerbeds, lawns, lotus pools, fountains. One more attraction in the garden is the Lalbagh Rock which is about 3000 million years old. Garden surrounds one of the cardinal towers erected by Kemepgowda II.

An entry fee of Rs.10 is charged here but in the morning, from 6 A.M. To 9 A.M. and in the evening from 6 P.M. 7 P.M., entry is free for the benefit of joggers and fitness freaks.

Other famous gardens in Bangalore include Cubbon Park and Kariappa Memorial Park.