Dodda Alada Mara
Dodda Alada Mara, which translates to the Big Banyan Tree, is a botanical wonder located in the quiet village of Kethohalli. This single tree is over 400 years old and has spread its canopy over a staggering 3 acres of land. It is considered one of the largest banyan trees in the world and the seco nd largest in India. Over the decades, the main trunk of the tree succumbed to natural disease, but the tree continues to thrive through its thousands of aerial roots that have now grown into independent trunks. Walking through the fenced area feels like wandering into a dense, mystical forest rather than standing under a single organism. The tree's circumference is over 250 meters, and it currently supports more than 1,300 prop roots. The site is a popular picnic destination for families looking to escape the concrete jungle of Bengaluru. Under the shade of this green giant, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Muneshwara, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. The tree is also a natural habitat for a large population of monkeys, which are a constant source of entertainment and caution for visitors. It serves as an open-air laboratory for botanists and a serene retreat for writers and nature lovers. The area is well-maintained by the horticultural department with paved walkways and seating areas. Despite the loss of its central trunk, the tree remains a symbol of longevity and the cyclical nature of life. Visiting this place offers a profound perspective on the scale of nature compared to human structures. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in biodiversity and the natural heritage of Karnataka.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 Hours.Place Type:
Botanical Garden and Natural Heritage.Entry Fees:
Entrance: Entry is Free for all.
Parking: Minimal parking charges apply for two-wheelers (10 INR) and four-wheelers (30 INR) at the village lot. ...Entrance: Entry is Free for all.
Parking: Minimal parking charges apply for two-wheelers (10 INR) and four-wheelers (30 INR) at the village lot.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive around 9:00 AM to enjoy the cool breeze and avoid the midday sun. ...Regular Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive around 9:00 AM to enjoy the cool breeze and avoid the midday sun.Special Events:
Maha Shivratri: The Muneshwara Temple inside becomes the center of local prayers and festive gatherings during this night.
World Environment Day: Occasional awareness programs and tree plantation drives are organized by local NGOs in the vi...Maha Shivratri: The Muneshwara Temple inside becomes the center of local prayers and festive gatherings during this night.
World Environment Day: Occasional awareness programs and tree plantation drives are organized by local NGOs in the vicinity.Best Photo Spots:
Root Maze: Stand in the center of the dense prop roots to create a photo that looks like a forest.
Entrance Gate: The wide-angle shot of the massive green umbrella from the main road is truly impressive.
Sunlig...Root Maze: Stand in the center of the dense prop roots to create a photo that looks like a forest.
Entrance Gate: The wide-angle shot of the massive green umbrella from the main road is truly impressive.
Sunlight Beams: Mid-morning shots of light filtering through the thick leaves create a dramatic, ethereal effect.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Botanical Stroll: Walk along the designated concrete paths to admire the sheer scale of the aerial roots.
Visit Munisvara Temple: Seek blessings at the small shrine located right under the heart of the tree's canopy.
Nature Photography: Capture the intricate patterns of the gnarled roots and the play of sunlight through leaves.
Picnic Fun: Use the seating benches for a light snack while enjoying the cool, shaded environment.
Monkey Watching: Observe the social behavior of the resident macaques from a safe and respectful distance.
Sketching and Art: Many artists visit the tree to capture its complex and organic structure on canvas.
Educational Trip: Learn about t...Botanical Stroll: Walk along the designated concrete paths to admire the sheer scale of the aerial roots.
Visit Munisvara Temple: Seek blessings at the small shrine located right under the heart of the tree's canopy.
Nature Photography: Capture the intricate patterns of the gnarled roots and the play of sunlight through leaves.
Picnic Fun: Use the seating benches for a light snack while enjoying the cool, shaded environment.
Monkey Watching: Observe the social behavior of the resident macaques from a safe and respectful distance.
Sketching and Art: Many artists visit the tree to capture its complex and organic structure on canvas.
Educational Trip: Learn about the Ficus benghalensis species through the informative boards placed at the entrance.
Information
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Why Famous:
Giant Proportions: One of the largest single-living organisms in the country, spreading across a vast area.
Longevity: With a history of over 4 centuries, it has witnessed the growth of Bengaluru from a small town.
Read MoreGiant Proportions: One of the largest single-living organisms in the country, spreading across a vast area.
Longevity: With a history of over 4 centuries, it has witnessed the growth of Bengaluru from a small town.
Religious Significance: The tree is believed to represent the holy trinity: Brahma (roots), Vishnu (stem), and Shiva (branches).Architecture:
Natural Formation: The architecture is defined by over 1,350 prop roots creating a maze-like structure.
Dimensions: The canopy covers 3 acres and has a circumference of 250 meters.
Heading:Natural Formation: The architecture is defined by over 1,350 prop roots creating a maze-like structure.
Dimensions: The canopy covers 3 acres and has a circumference of 250 meters.
Heading:
Root Depth: Many of the prop roots descend from 15 feet high to anchor into the earth.How To Reach:
By Air: Located about 60 KMS from Kempegowda Airport; it is best reached via the Outer Ring Road.
By Train: Kengeri Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, located about 12 KMS from the tree.
By Road:By Air: Located about 60 KMS from Kempegowda Airport; it is best reached via the Outer Ring Road.
By Train: Kengeri Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, located about 12 KMS from the tree.
By Road: Drive on Mysore Road, take a right at Kumbalgodu Junction, and travel 7 KMS further into the village.
By Local Transport: BMTC bus number 227 runs frequently from KR Market and Kengeri directly to the tree.Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Seasons: November to February is ideal for picnics as the weather is pleasant and the canopy is lush.
Parts of the Day: Mornings are best for bird calls, while late afternoons offer soft lighting for nature photography. ...Seasons: November to February is ideal for picnics as the weather is pleasant and the canopy is lush.
Parts of the Day: Mornings are best for bird calls, while late afternoons offer soft lighting for nature photography.Near Tourist Places:
1. Manchanabele Dam (8 km), 2. Mukti Naga Temple (3 km), 3. Savandurga Hill (22 km), 4. Wonderla (13 km), 5. Art of Living Center (24 km), 6. Janapada Loka (35 km), 7. Ramohalli Lake (2 km), 8. Eagleton Golf Resort (15 km), 9. Ramanagara (28 km), 10. ISKCON Temple (25 km).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Do not carry food in open bags as monkeys are very aggressive and can snatch belongings.
Packing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a water bottle; however, avoid eating inside the fenced area.
Read MoreHealth & Safety: Do not carry food in open bags as monkeys are very aggressive and can snatch belongings.
Packing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a water bottle; however, avoid eating inside the fenced area.
Accommodation: Stay options are available in Kengeri or luxury resorts near the Bengaluru-Mysore highway.
Cash & Connectivity: Cash is preferred at local tea stalls; the nearest ATM is in Kumbalgodu, about 7 KMS away.Reviews
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