Cubbon Park, Bengaluru – Discovering the Green Gem of Bangalore: A Journey Through Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park is a prominent landmark in the heart of Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, India. Established in the year 1870, it was named after Sir Mark Cubbon, who served as the British Commissioner of Mysore from 1834 to 1861. The park covers an area of around 300 acres and is one of the largest green spaces in the city.

Cubbon Park was created in the memory of Sir Mark Cubbon, who was instrumental in the development of Bangalore during the British rule. It was designed by Richard Sankey, the Chief Engineer of Mysore, and was initially named as ‘Meade’s Park’ after Sir John Meade, the acting Commissioner of Mysore in the 1870s. Later it was renamed as ‘Cubbon Park’ to honor Sir Mark Cubbon. The park was initially spread over 100 acres but was expanded to its current size in the early 1900s.

Cubbon Park is a lush green space with a vast expanse of trees, bushes, and shrubs. It is home to more than 6,000 trees, including many exotic and rare species such as the Silk Cotton Tree, Indian Coral Tree, and the Bamboo Grove. The park also has a rich collection of flora and fauna, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. One can spot several species of birds, butterflies, and small animals in the park.

The park also houses several government buildings, including the High Court of Karnataka, the Vidhana Soudha (the seat of the state legislature), and the Secretariat. These buildings are known for their stunning architecture and serve as important landmarks in the city.

Another notable feature of Cubbon Park is the Venkatappa Art Gallery, which is located within the park premises. The gallery is named after K. Venkatappa, a renowned Indian artist who is known for his landscape paintings. The gallery showcases the works of various Indian artists and hosts several exhibitions throughout the year.

Cubbon Park also has a library, known as the State Central Library, which was established in the year 1915. The library houses a vast collection of books, newspapers, and magazines, and is a great place for book lovers to spend their time.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Cubbon Park is during the winter months, between November and February when the weather is pleasant and cool. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm every day and is an ideal place to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is mild.

Activities:

Cubbon Park offers several activities for visitors of all ages. One can take a leisurely walk or jog on the walking trails that crisscross the park. There are several gardens within the park, including the Rose Garden, the Bal Bhavan Garden, and the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, which offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. The park also has several playgrounds, including a skating rink, a toy train, and a children’s play area. The Bandstand in the park is an iconic spot where several cultural events are organized, including concerts, plays, and dance shows. The park also has a few museums and art galleries that showcase the culture and heritage of Bangalore.

Distance:

Cubbon Park is located in the heart of Bangalore, adjacent to the MG Road and Kasturba Road. It is easily accessible from all parts of the city and is just a few kilometers away from the main railway station and the bus terminal. The park is around 34 km away from the Kempegowda International Airport.

In conclusion, Cubbon Park is a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city of Bangalore. It is an ideal place to escape from the chaotic city life and enjoy the beauty of nature. With its rich history, diverse flora and fauna, and several activities, Cubbon Park is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.