On 15th October, 2013, I visited the very popular Big Banyan Tree (aka Dodda Alada Mara in Kannada) which is located a little off Mysore Road, in Ramohalli (near Bangalore, India).
En route, I noticed the milieu change from a concrete jungle in the city to a much greener environment as I approached the village area. Bangalore is called "Green City", but is it one? Once I reached my destination, I was welcomed into the 3 acre space by quite a few cheeky monkeys scrambling up the tree with food given by visitors.
As I walked on, I came across bushes and flowers here and there, surrounding the tree.
The tree is four hundred years old, heritage and very fascinating. It is the fourth largest banyan tree in Asia after the biggest in Andhra Pradesh, second and third biggest in Kolkata and Chennai respectively. What is most interesting is how the tree has managed to survive even after the main root succumbed to natural diseases. The aerial roots appear to have their very own way of twining around the bark and going into the ground below. The widespread branches provide a very cool and shady atmosphere to just sit, relax and let your thoughts flow.
Despite the efforts put in to preserve the tree, many inconsiderate people have damaged it by carving graffiti on it, swinging on the roots, pulling out leaves and littering around it. It is a shame to see people destroying one of nature's most beautiful creations. Preserving such a national treasure is the duty of the country's citizens and we must take pride in doing so.
On the whole, the Big Banyan Tree is a wonderful place to visit as a tourist for a two or three hour getaway, and it would be an even better place if people visiting this place put in more effort to preserve this natural beauty.
Directions to reach Dodda Alada Mara:
By Road: From Bangalore towards Mysore
Ha ha Nice Pics and Very informative post. Thanks for info.
ReplyDeletebangalore Online Cabs