Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park, officially known as Sri. Chamarajendra Park, stands as an historic and vibrant lung space situated in the very heart of Bengaluru. Located strategically in the Central Administrative Area, it provides a serene, sylvan backdrop to prominent state buildings such as the majestic Vidhana Soudha (State Legislature building) and the Attara Kacheri (High Court Buildings). This expansive park also hosts numerous other organizations along its periphery and within its grounds, making it a pivotal green oasis amidst the bustling cityscape.

The park boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years, having been established in 1870 by Sri John Meade, the then acting Commissioner of Mysore. Its vast and verdant landscape was meticulously conceived by Major General Richard Sankey, who served as the Chief Engineer of the State at that time. Initially named "Meade's Park" in honor of its founder, it was later renamed Cubbon Park. Over the decades, the park underwent continuous development and enhancements, with new structures and features added to its charm. In 1927, to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Sri. Krishnaraja Wodeyar's rule in Mysore State, the park was officially bestowed with its current formal name: "Sri. Chamarajendra Park." Today, its administration and maintenance are diligently managed by the Department of Horticulture, under the vigilant eye of the Deputy Director of Horticulture (Cubbon Park).

Envisioned initially as a public park spanning approximately 100 acres, Cubbon Park has expanded significantly over the years. It is characterized by its predominant green expanse, thoughtfully interspersed with a few concrete buildings housing governmental and other organizational offices. The park features a network of motorable roads, facilitating vehicular movement for light motor vehicles, alongside numerous well-laid walking paths that crisscross the area. It admirably functions as a vital nature public park, dedicated to preserving the environment and its lush greenery. As a major lung space for Bangalore, it serves as a cherished destination for early morning walkers, joggers, and naturalists eager to study its diverse plant life in a tranquil setting.

Visitors to Cubbon Park are greeted by an abundance of plant wealth, featuring a remarkable collection of both indigenous and exotic botanical species. The park is home to approximately 68 genera and 96 species, totaling around 6000 plants and trees. Development and planting initiatives are undertaken with a scientific approach, ensuring the park maintains its original splendor. Notable indigenous species include Artocarpus, Cassia fistula, Ficus, and Polyalthias, while exotic varieties such as Araucaria, Bamboo, Castanospermum australe, Grevillea robusta (Silver Oak – notably the first oaks introduced to Bangalore from Australia, found near the tennis pavilion), Milletia, Peltophorum Schinus molle, Swietenina mahagoni, and Tabebuia sp. enrich its botanical tapestry. Additionally, a profusion of ornamental and flowering trees further enhances the park's aesthetic appeal.

Beyond its natural beauty, Cubbon Park is dotted with numerous important locations, structures, and statues that add to its allure. Highlights include the formal gardens with terraces flanking a central promenade from the Museum building to the High Court, and a beautiful terrace garden leading from the Attara Kacheri towards the East, which houses a historic bandstand. The Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, now functioning as the City Central Library building, is an artistic marvel, complemented by a spectacular rosary in front. Other captivating spots include the Ringwood circle, lotus pond, and bamboo grove nook. The park is also famous for its picturesque tree avenues, such as Araucarias with Canna beds, Swietenias, Java fig, Polyalthia, and chestnut trees. Inside and along its periphery, one can find the High Court Buildings, Indira Priyadarshini Children’s Library, Government Museum, Art Gallery, Aquarium, YMCA, Jawahar BalBhavan, and a Tennis Pavilion. Magnificent statues commemorating historical figures like Queen Victoria (1906), King Edward VII (1919), Major General Sir Mark Cubbon, Rajya Dhurandhara Sir K. Sheshadri Iyer (1913), and Sri. Chamarajendra Wodeyar (1927) further enhance the park's historical significance and appeal as a well-known tourist attraction. Additionally, the park's precinct integrates the beautifully landscaped gardens of Vidhana Soudha and Raj Bhavan, along with the captivating LRDE Dancing Musical Fountain, which offers unique binary-controlled shows set to Indian and Western musical themes every evening, except on Mondays and the second Tuesday of the month.