Mysuru’s Lingambudhi Botanical Garden, a stunning addition since its 2023 inauguration, has quickly become a star attraction for Dasara visitors. This year, its impressive 75-foot-high viewpoint tower has opened to the public for the very first time, offering breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, visitors can directly observe Lingambudhi Lake, a thriving sanctuary for over 190 species of birds. The Horticulture Department is even planning to add telescopes to further enhance the birdwatching experience for everyone.
“The viewpoint tower is already a huge hit with tourists,” says M. Jagadeesh, Joint Director of Horticulture (Parks and Gardens) at Lalbagh Botanical Garden. He notes that the park is increasingly drawing visitors specifically for its incredible birdwatching opportunities. With approximately 194 species, including both resident and migratory birds from India and beyond, the skies and waters of Lingambudhi are a spectacle year-round. Enthusiasts, armed with binoculars, can easily spot magnificent birds like the Hornbill, Minivet, Malkoha, White and Brown Morph Asian Paradise Flycatchers (APFC), Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Brahminy Kite, Ibis, various ducks, Coots, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, and the Greater Coucal. This fusion of a botanical garden and a thriving bird sanctuary truly makes Lingambudhi a unique natural haven.
Adding to its charm, the garden features a distinctive aquatic pond that acts as a natural haven for migratory birds, including doves. This special pond is home to an impressive collection of up to six rare lotus species, gathered from various parts of India, creating an ideal habitat for diverse aquatic birds. The department is also exploring plans for an additional dedicated birdwatching tower, aiming to further enrich the experience for both seasoned ornithologists and casual visitors, solidifying the park’s status as a premier Mysuru attraction.
A Dazzling Flower Show
This Dasara, the garden is proud to present its second annual flower show, a grand display made possible by a government investment of ₹25 lakh. Running daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., this year’s exhibition boasts an incredible 1,200 species of flowers, beautifully illuminated with special lighting well into the evening. Beyond the main show, the park delights with several themed sections, including a breathtaking rose garden featuring 80 distinct varieties such as miniature, standard, and hybrid tree roses. The open butterfly park is equally enchanting, hosting a vibrant array of butterflies drawn to its 34 different flowering plants, including species like Mexican Butterflyweed, Chinese Violet, and Madagascar Butterfly Bush, providing both sustenance and a breeding ground.
Recognizing that many tourists are traditionally accustomed to the annual flower show at Kuppanna Park, officials are working to raise awareness about Lingambudhi’s spectacular display. Informative boards have been strategically placed at key Dasara venues, bustling traffic intersections, and other crowded areas throughout Mysuru. Each board features a convenient QR code, allowing visitors to easily scan and access a map, ensuring they can effortlessly find their way to this remarkable garden.