Step into Nature’s Embrace at Cubbon Park, Bengaluru’s Green Lungs

Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq

Cubbon Park is a sprawling public park in the middle of Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

Established in 1870, the park spans over 300 acres and is known for its lush greenery, diverse plant and animal life, and numerous walking trails.

Cubbon Park was created in the late 1800s, during the rule of the British Raj, and was initially called the ‘Meade’s Park’ after Sir John Meade, who was the acting Commissioner of Mysore in the 1870s.

It was later renamed Cubbon Park in honor of Sir Mark Cubbon, who served as the commissioner of Mysore state for several years and was known for his contribution to the development of Bangalore.

The park was designed by British architect Richard Sankey and has a unique blend of neo-classical and contemporary architectural styles.

It is home to several statues and monuments, including the famous statue of Queen Victoria, which was installed in 1906.

Besides its historical and cultural significance, Cubbon Park is also known for its rich biodiversity.

The park has over 6,000 trees, including many rare and exotic species, and is home to several species of birds and animals.

Whether you want to enjoy a quiet picnic, take a peaceful stroll, or simply relax in nature, Cubbon Park has something to offer everyone.

History

Cubbon Park has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.

The park was initially created in 1870 by Major General Richard Sankey, the then Chief Engineer of Mysore State.

The park was named after Sir Mark Cubbon, the longest-serving commissioner of Mysore State.

At the time of its creation, Cubbon Park covered an area of 100 acres and was designed as a public space for the people of Bangalore.

Over the years, the park has undergone several changes and has been expanded to its current size of 300 acres.

During the early 20th century, Cubbon Park played an important role in the city’s cultural and social life.

It hosted several significant events, including the Bangalore Agricultural and Horticultural Society’s annual flower shows, which people from all over the country attended.

During the British era, the park was also used as a recreational space by British officials and their families.

In fact, the park had a separate section called the ‘Ladies’ Walk,’ which was exclusively reserved for British women.

Today, Cubbon Park is not only a popular recreational space but also an important landmark of Bangalore.

It houses several government buildings, including the High Court of Karnataka, the Vidhana Soudha, and the State Archaeological Museum.

The park also has several statues and monuments, including the Queen Victoria statue.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

• The park is home to over 6,000 trees, including many rare and exotic species. Some of the notable trees include the Silk Cotton tree, the Bamboo tree, and the Indian Coral tree
• The park is home to several species of birds and animals, including parakeets, pigeons, squirrels, and mongooses. The park also has a large population of bats, which can be seen hanging from the trees at dusk
• Cubbon Park has several walking and jogging trails popular with fitness enthusiasts. The most famous trail is the ‘Cubbon Park Loop’ which is a 4-kilometer trail that goes around the park
• The park has several statues and monuments, including the famous statue of Queen Victoria, which was installed in 1906. The park also has a statue of Chamarajendra Wadiyar, the Maharaja of Mysore
• Cubbon Park has several important government buildings, including the High Court of Karnataka, the Vidhana Soudha, and the State Archaeological Museum. The park also has several cultural institutions, including the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain and the Venkatappa Art Gallery
• The park is named after Sir Mark Cubbon, who served as the commissioner of Mysore state for several years. Sir Cubbon was known for his contribution to the development of Bangalore and was a patron of the arts and sciences
• Cubbon Park is a popular venue for cultural events, including music concerts, dance performances, and theater shows. The park hosts several events throughout the year, including the Bangalore Flower Show and the Bengaluru Habba
• The park is a popular destination for picnics and family outings. The park has several picnic spots, including the Band Stand and the Rose Garden, which are ideal for a day out with family and friends
• Cubbon Park is also home to the Bangalore Aquarium, one of India’s largest aquariums. The aquarium houses several species of freshwater fish and has a collection of over 1,000 fish tanks
• The park is a popular photography spot known for its picturesque landscapes and monuments. The park also has several photo opportunities, including the famous statue of Queen Victoria and the iconic red building of the State Central Library

Availability of Guides

Visitors to Cubbon Park can avail of the services of professional guides who can provide a more comprehensive and informative tour of the park.

These guides are available at the park entrance and can be hired for a fee.

The guides are knowledgeable about the history, architecture, and flora and fauna of Cubbon Park and can provide a detailed tour of the park’s various attractions.

They can also customize the tour according to the visitors’ interests and preferences.

Apart from professional guides, Cubbon Park also has volunteer guides who offer free guided tours of the park.

These volunteer guides are trained by the Department of Horticulture and understand the park’s history and biodiversity well.

Visitors can also opt for audio guides available for rent at the park entrance.

These audio guides provide an audio tour of the park, with information on its history, architecture, and flora and fauna.

Overall, visitors to Cubbon Park have several options when it comes to availing of the services of guides.

Cubbon Park has something to offer everyone, whether you want a professional, volunteer, or audio guide.

Cubbon Park Timings

Cubbon Park is open to the public every day of the week, including weekends and holidays. The park has fixed timings for entry and exit, which are as follows:

• Entry timing: 6:00 AM
• Closing timing: 6:00 PM

Visitors are allowed to enter the park anytime between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM but are required to exit the park by 6:00 PM.

The park is closed to the public after 6:00 PM, and entry is not permitted until the next day.

It is important to note that these timings are subject to change and may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

It is always advisable to check the park timings before planning a visit.

Best Time to Visit Cubbon Park

The best time to visit Cubbon Park is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is cool.

During this time, the park is lush green, and the trees are in full bloom, making it an ideal time for nature lovers and photographers.

Another good time to visit Cubbon Park is during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the park receives heavy rainfall and the foliage is at its greenest.

However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rains and muddy walking trails during this time.

It is advisable to avoid visiting Cubbon Park during the summer months, from March to May, as the weather is hot and dry, and the park may not be as lush and green as during the other seasons.

Additionally, visitors should consider visiting the park on weekdays, when it is relatively less crowded and quieter compared to weekends and public holidays.

Overall, the best time to visit Cubbon Park depends on individual preferences and interests.

Visitors should consider the weather, season, and their own schedules before planning a visit to the park.

Cubbon Park Aquarium

The Cubbon Park Aquarium, also known as the Bangalore Aquarium, is located inside Cubbon Park and is the second-largest aquarium in India.

(Source: News Karnataka)

The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life and freshwater fish and is a must-visit for anyone interested in aquatic life.

The aquarium has several tanks and pools that showcase different fish species, including rare and exotic ones.

Some notable attractions of the aquarium include the large shark tank, the turtle pool, and the octagonal fish tank.

Apart from fish, the aquarium also houses a small museum that showcases the history of fishkeeping and aquariums in India.

The museum has several displays of antique aquarium equipment and fish specimens and provides a fascinating insight into the evolution of aquariums.

Aquarium Timings

The aquarium is open to the public every day except on Mondays and national holidays.

The timings of the aquarium are as follows:

Entry timing: 10:00 AM

Closing timing: 5:30 PM

Visitors are allowed to stay inside the aquarium for up to one hour and are required to wear masks and maintain social distancing inside the aquarium.

Overall, the Cubbon Park Aquarium is a must-visit for anyone interested in marine life and aquatic ecosystems and is a great educational experience for children and adults alike.

How to Reach Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park is located in the heart of Bangalore city and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Visitors can reach the park by taking a taxi, an auto-rickshaw, or driving their own vehicle.

The park is located near the State Central Library, and there are several parking lots near the park for visitors to park their vehicles.

Public transport is also a convenient option to reach Cubbon Park.

The nearest metro station is the Cubbon Park Metro Station on the Bangalore Metro Purple Line.

Visitors can walk or take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the metro station to the park.

Several buses also pass through the park, and visitors can get down at the Cubbon Park bus stop.

For visitors traveling by train, the nearest railway station to Cubbon Park is the Bangalore City Railway Station, about 4 km away.

Visitors can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the railway station to the park.

Reaching Cubbon Park is relatively easy, and visitors can choose a mode of transportation based on their convenience and budget.

Whether traveling by private vehicle, public transport, or taxi, visitors can easily enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Cubbon Park.

Photos of Cubbon Park

Nearby Attractions

Cubbon Park is surrounded by several attractions that visitors can explore during their visit.

One of the most popular attractions near Cubbon Park is the Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka.

The building is an architectural marvel and is illuminated every Sunday evening, making it a popular spot for photography.

Another popular attraction near Cubbon Park is the Bangalore Palace.

Built in 1887, the palace is a beautiful example of Tudor-style architecture and houses a museum showcasing the history of Mysore’s royal family.

Visitors can also explore the palace grounds and gardens spread over 454 acres.

The Government Museum, located near Cubbon Park, is also a popular attraction among visitors.

The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, coins, paintings, and artifacts from various civilizations.

The museum also has a section dedicated to natural history, including a stuffed animal and bird collection.

Visitors can also explore the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, about 3 km from Cubbon Park.

The garden is spread over 240 acres and has a vast collection of plants and trees from around the world.

Visitors to Cubbon Park have several nearby attractions to explore, each offering a unique experience and a glimpse into the history and culture of Bangalore.

Restaurants Near Cubbon Park

There are several restaurants near Cubbon Park that cater to different tastes and budgets.

One of the most popular options is the iconic Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR), about 2 km from Cubbon Park.

MTR is known for its authentic South Indian breakfast dishes, including masala dosa, idli, and vada.

Koshy’s is another popular restaurant and cafe located near Cubbon Park.

Koshy’s is located on St. Mark’s Road, about 1.5 km from Cubbon Park, and serves a mix of Indian and European cuisine, including breakfast dishes, sandwiches, burgers, and steaks.

For those who prefer international cuisine, several options are also available.

The Hard Rock Cafe, located about 1.5 km from Cubbon Park, is a popular destination for burgers, sandwiches, and other American-style dishes.

The restaurant also has a bar and often hosts live music performances.

Visitors looking for Italian cuisine, Toscano is about 2.5 km from Cubbon Park and is known for its gourmet pizzas and pastas.

It’s a bit on the expensive side, but it is an excellent option for those looking for a fine dining experience.

Visitors looking for more affordable options can try the numerous street food stalls near the park.

These stalls offer a variety of local delicacies, including chaat, bhel puri, and dosas.

Overall, visitors to Cubbon Park have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to dining.

Whether looking for traditional South Indian dishes, international cuisine, or street food, there is something for everyone near the park.

Cubbon Park Parking

Cubbon Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and parking can be challenging.

However, there are parking options available for two-wheelers and cars.

Two-Wheeler Parking

For two-wheelers, there are designated parking areas located near the park entrance.

These parking areas are managed by the Bangalore City Traffic Police and charge a nominal fee of Rs. 10 – 20 per hour.

Visitors are advised to park their vehicles only in designated areas and avoid parking on the street, which can lead to fines and towing.

Car Parking

For cars, several parking options are available in the vicinity of Cubbon Park.

The nearest parking lot is located on Kasturba Road, which charges Rs. 10 per hour.

Private parking lots near the park entrance charge higher fees, ranging from Rs. 50-100 per hour.

Some private parking lots may offer discounts for longer parking durations or during off-peak hours.

It is recommended to arrive early to secure parking near the park entrance, especially on weekends and holidays.

It’s important to note that parking fees are subject to change and may vary based on demand.

Visitors are also advised to keep small change or exact change handy as many parking lots may have little change available.

Cubbon Park Police Station

The Cubbon Park Police Station is located within the premises of Cubbon Park in Bangalore, Karnataka.

It is a crucial law enforcement agency that provides security to visitors and maintains law and order in the park.

The police station has a 24-hour emergency helpline number that visitors can call in case of any security concerns or incidents of theft, lost property, or medical emergencies.

Visitors can also approach the police station for general assistance, such as directions or information about the park.

(Source: The Hindu)

In addition to regular patrolling, the police station conducts regular safety and awareness campaigns to ensure visitors enjoy the park in a safe and secure environment.

The police station is equipped with CCTV cameras that monitor the park’s activities and ensure that any suspicious activity is immediately reported to the authorities.

Visitors are advised to cooperate with the police personnel and follow the park rules and regulations to ensure a pleasant experience.

In case of any security concerns or incidents, visitors are encouraged to approach the police station for assistance.

Cubbon Park Library (Central Library)

The Cubbon Park Library, also known as the Cubbon Park Central Library, is a public library within the park in Bangalore, Karnataka.

The library was established in 1914 and is considered one of the oldest public libraries in the city.

The library houses a vast collection of books, periodicals, and journals in various languages, including English, Kannada, Hindi, and Tamil.

It also has a dedicated section for children’s books and rare books.

(Source: Pinterest)

Visitors can browse the library’s collection and access reading material in a peaceful and serene environment.

The library also hosts regular cultural and literary events, including book readings, workshops, and exhibitions.

It provides local and regional writers with a platform to showcase their work and interact with readers.

Membership to the park library is open to all and is free of charge.

Visitors can register themselves and borrow books for a period of two weeks.

The library also offers facilities such as photocopying, printing, and scanning for a nominal fee.

The Cubbon Park Library is a popular destination for book lovers and is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

It is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm except for Wednesdays and public holidays.

Cubbon Park Entry Fee

Cubbon Park, one of the most popular attractions in Bangalore, is a public park and therefore does not have an entry fee.

Visitors can enter the park free of charge and enjoy the lush greenery, scenic paths, and various attractions within the park, including the aquarium, museums, and library.

However, some of the attractions within the park, such as the aquarium and the museums, have a separate entry fee.

The entry fee for the aquarium is INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children, while the entry fee for the museums ranges from INR 10 to INR 20, depending on the museum.

Visitors can also opt for guided tours within the park, which the Cubbon Park Walkers’ Association provides.

The fee for the guided tours is mentioned above, under Availability of Guides, and is used for the upkeep and maintenance of the park.

Overall, entry to Cubbon Park is free, making it an affordable and accessible destination for people from all walks of life.

Visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty, stroll along the pathways, and explore the various attractions without worrying about any entry fee.

Cubbon Park Museum

Cubbon Park in Bangalore has several museums showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and history.

These museums are great places for those interested in learning more about Bangalore’s past and present.

One of the popular museums in the park is the Government Museum, also known as the Karnataka State Museum.

The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from various eras, including sculptures, coins, inscriptions, and paintings.

It also has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including stone sculptures from the Indus Valley Civilization, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Hoysala Empire.

Another museum is the Venkatappa Art Gallery, named after the famous artist K. Venkatappa.

The gallery showcases his artwork, along with works of other artists, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs.

The museum also hosts various exhibitions and art events throughout the year.

Apart from these, there is also the Philatelic Museum, dedicated to the history of stamps and philately.

It features a collection of rare and unique stamps from around the world, along with displays that educate visitors about the history and significance of stamps.

The museums in Cubbon Park offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and history.

They are a great place to spend a few hours exploring and learning and are a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts visiting Bangalore.

Cubbon Park Map

Below is the layout map to the park for your convenience:

(Source: Department of Horticulture)

Cubbon Park Toy Train

Cubbon Park is a popular destination for families and children, thanks to its various attractions, one of which is the toy train.

The Cubbon Park toy train is a fun-filled attraction that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the park’s lush greenery.

The toy train runs on a track about 1.2 kilometers long and takes visitors through some of the park’s most popular attractions, including the rose garden, bamboo grove, and aquarium.

The train ride lasts around 10 to 15 minutes, and the train moves leisurely, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

(Source: Bangalore Mirror)

The Cubbon Park toy train timings are usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the train runs throughout the day at regular intervals.

Visitors can purchase tickets for the toy train ride at the ticket counter near the park entrance.

The ticket cost for the toy train ride is nominal, making it an affordable and enjoyable activity for families and children.

Finally, the toy train is a must-try attraction for families and children visiting the park.

It offers a fun-filled ride that takes visitors through some of the park’s most scenic spots, providing an enjoyable experience.

Cubbon Park Opening and Closing Time

Cubbon Park is a popular park in Bangalore that offers visitors a beautiful green space to explore and relax.

The Cubbon Park opening time is from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays.

Visitors can explore the park’s many attractions during these hours, such as the beautiful walking trails, landscaped gardens, and historic buildings.

It’s worth noting that certain areas within the park may have their own timings.

For example, the Cubbon Park aquarium is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the Toy Train operates from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Additionally, the Cubbon Park library has its own timings and is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends.

The Cubbon Park closing time is at 6:00 PM when the park’s gates are closed to visitors.

It’s recommended that visitors arrive early in the day to enjoy the park’s offerings fully and to avoid the crowds that tend to gather later in the day.

If you’re planning to visit during a weekend or a public holiday, arriving early is advisable to avoid any traffic congestion and secure a good parking spot.

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