Horticulture Department to launch guided walks in Lalbagh and Cubbon Park in Bengaluru

In an effort to familiarise the people of Bengaluru with the flora and fauna of the city’s lung spaces, the Horticulture Department is going to launch guided walking tours in Cubbon Park and Lalbagh. A trial walk was conducted in Cubbon Park on July 14 morning.

The walking tours will be called ‘Cubbon Walks’ and ‘Lalbagh Walks’, and will consist of a group of 20 people per walk. While Cubbon Walks is expected to be launched in two weeks’ time, Lalbagh Walks will be launched after the Independence Day flower show.

“Many people in Bengaluru know that there are thousands of trees in Cubbon Park and Lalbagh, but are not aware of their significance scientifically, taxonomically, historically or even religiously in some cases. These spaces are homes to a large variety of flora and fauna, including ants and termites of various species. Trained naturalists will be provided microphones to conduct these walks and they will provide information to the walkers about all of these aspects,” M. Jagadeesh, Joint Director, Parks and Gardens, Horticulture Department told The Hindu.

The trial walk on July 14 was taken by senior officials of the Horticulture Department, including the Secretary to Government Shamla Iqbal and Director D.S. Ramesh and a group of naturalists, between 8.40 a.m. and 9.40 a.m.

The Department plans to introduce an online booking system for those who wish to participate in the walks to book their slots.

“For now, we want to begin the walk in Cubbon Park during weekends in groups of 20 each. Eventually, as more people get roped in, based on demand, we will increase the slots. The ticket costs are yet to be determined,” Mr. Jagadeesh said.

While there are many private walking tours being conducted, especially in Cubbon Park, the officials say that they felt the need to put in place an official walking tour with accurate information.

Regular visitors of the green spaces appreciated the initiative.

“I visit Cubbon Park and Lalbagh at least once a month for a morning walk. While I pay attention to the boards put on many trees, an expert providing a detailed explanation will help me understand it better. Even if there is a small cost involved, I would not mind as it would be some thing I would only do once,” said Shruthi R.G., an engineer from Chikkalasandra.