The Big Banyan Tree is a famous tourist attraction in Bangalore. The Big Banyan Tree, as the name indicates is a huge banyan tree. It is located at Ramohalli. The picnic spot lies at a distance of 28 kms from Bangalore and is also known as Doda Aladha Mara or Dodda Aladha Mara. The tree is famous in and around the area and is spread across 3 acres. It is more than 400 years old and has a huge circumference of more than 250 meters.
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore Quick Facts
- Location: Kethohalli village, 28 kilometers from Bangalore (MAP)
- Opening Hours:30 AM – 6 PM
- Ideal for: Picnic
- How Old is the Tree: 400 years old
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore: 400 Years of Legacy
This single tree is one of a kind and that is what makes it popular in and around the city. It has been standing for more than 400 years, which is why the roots have altered and the single tree looks like many trees. Ramohalli is located on the Bangalore-Mysore road and is easy to reach.
The Big Banyan Tree is the largest banyan tree in the State of Karnataka and is the fourth largest Banyan Tree in the Country. The canopy of the tree constantly widens over the years and it has been a witness to the development of the Country over the years. The place has now become popular and is a tourist attraction.
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore. Image courtesy Sreejithk2000
The most important thing about the Big Banyan Tree is the soil underneath which has remained consistent over the years. Many students of botany take a deep interest in the study of this tree and visit the tree to experiment and research. It is an ideal picnic spot and is easy to reach as well. The tree is covered with fencing on all sides and because of the shade, there is always a cool atmosphere present around the scenic area.
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore. Image courtesy Avoid simple2
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore – A Tourist Hub
There is a Shiva temple located near the tree and it is also believed that the tree has divine powers. The horticulture department looks after the tree and takes initiatives to conserve it. Apart from botany students, many tourists come here to take a look at the tree. Families visit the tree to spend time in this peaceful place as well as spiritually inclined individuals who seek peace in the calm and serene region. A variety of bird species reside in the tree and it is also home to many monkeys. It can be easily reached by the well-connected road network from Bangalore or Mysore.
Families visit the tree to spend time in this peaceful place as well as spiritually inclined individuals who seek peace in the calm and serene region. A variety of bird species reside in the tree and it is also home to many monkeys. It can be easily reached by the well-connected road network from Bangalore or Mysore.
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The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore: How to Reach
The Big Banyan Tree is located at a distance of 28 kms from Bangalore and is situated on the Bangalore – Mysore Road. To reach the picnic spot at the Big Banyan Tree follow the road to the right at the Kumbalagod junction on Mysore road. Travelling 7 kms on this narrow road leads up to the famous tree.
The place is easily accessible by road. Public transportation buses carry tourists from Bangalore to the picnic spot. Taxis and autos can be hired to reach the tree. Travelers can also reach the spot on their private vehicles.
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore. Image courtesy Sreejithk2000
The Big Banyan Tree Picnic, Bangalore: What to Carry
While on a trip to the Big Banyan Tree do not forget to carry sunglasses, caps and other things which you might need while sitting there in the open. Make sure to carry plastic covers in case you are carrying food from home. This is to avoid the harassment from the monkeys.
Restaurants around The Big Banyan Tree
Food and water are available at the picnic spot at Big Banyan Tree. The Tourism department runs a restaurant at the spot that offers food and water to the visitors. But it is better to carry food and water from home. There are a few small shops that sell tea and snacks but no other big restaurants are available at the spot.
The Big Banyan Tree, Bangalore. Image courtesy Nymishanandini
Care for the Trees
Some insensible people have carved graffiti on this beautiful tree. Try to avoid such acts at all costs, as it is really sad to see a heritage being destroyed by the mindless acts of human beings. Do not litter the picnic spot at the Big Banyan Tree and throw the empty packets, etc. at the proper specified place.
Tip for the Travelers
The tree is an aged one and hence, some of its branches require support. So, it is in the best interest of the travelers or tourists to not venture very close to such branches.
A Word of Caution
Monkeys roam around the place abundantly. So, it is wise to avoid roaming around with food items in hand or to cover the food products, else they may attract the monkeys’ attention.