Near Bangalore Big Banyan Tree
Bangalore city is often called a Botanist’s dream come true. This claim is best substantiated by The Big Banyan Tree, a marvel bestowed by nature in the city’s outskirts. Spread over 5 acres, the Big Banyan tree is nearly 400 years old and is an excellent specimen of nature’s bounty! Taking a walk alongside the labyrinth of roots and relaxing in the cool shade is my idea of a good weekend break from the chaos of modern city living!
The Big Banyan Tree is situated in Kethohalli village, 28 kilometers from Bangalore. It is maintained by a public sector bank and is now popularly called Dodda Alada Mara Udyanavana or the Big Banyan Tree Garden.
The main tree has over the years spread out with several prop roots as is typical of the Ficus Benghalensis species. While some of the prop roots have died down, new ones are still growing from the healthier branches.
While talking about the Big Banyan Tree, it will be of interest to look at the etymology of the word “Banyan”. The tree got its name from “Banias” or Indian traders who relaxed under its shade and displayed their wares! From 17th century onwards English writers began to refer to the tree as Banyan Tree. Daniel Defoe featured it in his 1719 novel where Robinson Crusoe made his home in a Banyan Tree, as those with a good memory will recall from their school days!
While at the Big Banyan Tree, take the path along the roots on the pathway that leads to the prop root and can even walk in and out of the tree. In-fact, several feature films have been shot on this location with the hero and heroine walking in and out of the tree! Keep a look out for birds like the Drongo, Hoopoe, Doves and Pirnia. Several families of Monkeys have also made the Big Banyan Tree their home, a fact you will realize if you happen to carry any food items in your person!
It is believed that the Big Banyan Tree symbolizes the holy trinity of Hindu Gods. The root, stem and branches represent Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva respectively. The Banyan Tree has its place in Buddhism as well as Lord Buddha attained his enlightenment under a Bodhi Tree which is also a Banyan Tree of the species Sacred Fig.
You can also visit a temple of Lord Munisvara inside the Big Banyan Tree complex. Interestingly, this shrine was placed after the main trunk collapsed a few years ago.
Mukti Naga Temple is another interesting place to visit on your way back from the Big Banyan Tree. The temple houses a giant idol of Lord Subramania in Serpent form. If you have an unfilled wish, all you need to do is to make 9 rounds around the ant hill and a legend promises its fulfillment in 90 days time!
Getting There
Take the Mysore Road and take a deviation to the right at Kumbalagod junction soon after Kengeri. The Big banyan Tree will be 7 kms down the road.
Or take Magadi Road and turn left when you see the board for Big Banyan Tree located between Tavarekere and Chennenahalli. Carry on for 6 kms and you will find the Big Banyan Tree.
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