- From city centre
- ~6 km · 20–35 min
- Best months
- Nov–Mar
- Best hours
- First light to about 9 am
- Entry
- Ticketed
- Habitat
- Garden & park
- Birds listed
- 12
How to get there
South of the centre near Basavanagudi. Use the Lalbagh Main Gate (Double Road) or the West Gate; the nearest metro stop is Lalbagh on the Green Line.
Best time to visit
Best: November to March. Time of day: First light to about 9 am, and again in the last hour before closing.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
12 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).
Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird
About Lalbagh Botanical Garden
A 240-acre garden with century-old trees, a lake with small islands and open lawns. It is the easiest place in Bengaluru to build a first life list because the birds are used to people.
History
Laid out in 1760 under Hyder Ali and developed by Tipu Sultan, who brought in plants from many countries. The British added the Glass House in 1889, modelled on London's Crystal Palace. Kempegowda's watchtower on the rock inside marks the old city's boundary.
Flora
Over 1,800 plant species including very old rain trees, silk cotton and ficus. The Glass House hosts the Republic Day and Independence Day flower shows.
Fauna
Squirrels, flying foxes roosting in the big trees, butterflies and plenty of reptiles. Fish in the lake feed cormorants and herons.
Nearby places
- Cubbon Park~6 kmAnother big green patch with a different mix of birds.Birding guide →
- Bull Temple, Basavanagudi~2 kmOld Nandi temple on a rocky hill.
- Vidyarthi Bhavan~2 kmFamous for its masala dosa; go after the morning walk.
- Madivala Lake~7 kmA bigger lake with waders in winter.Birding guide →
Tips
- Go on a weekday morning; weekends fill up with walkers by 8 am.
- Park or use the metro: parking near the gates fills early.
- Carry a light lens or binoculars; the birds are close, but the canopy is tall.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden for birds?
November to March. First light to about 9 am, and again in the last hour before closing.
What is the entry fee for Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
Small ticket; recent listings show about Rs 25 for adults and free for young children, but sources differ. Flower-show days cost more. Timings: Usually 6 am to 7 pm.
Which birds can I see at Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
Regularly reported birds include Spotted owlet, Coppersmith barbet, White-cheeked barbet, Purple-rumped sunbird, Rose-ringed parakeet, Black kite, Spot-billed pelican, Little cormorant. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Lalbagh Botanical Garden?
South of the centre near Basavanagudi. Use the Lalbagh Main Gate (Double Road) or the West Gate; the nearest metro stop is Lalbagh on the Green Line. It is about 6 km from central Bengaluru (20–35 min depending on traffic).
More birding spots
Reviewed 2026-11-04. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.