Big Banyan Tree Dodda Alada Mara
A 400-year-old banyan tree covering 3+ acres, creating a mesmerizing, forest-like landscape with its vast canopy and aerial roots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Avoid heat & enjoy shade
Big Banyan Tree Dodda Alada Mara
Best Time
Avoid heat & enjoy shade
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 400-year-old banyan tree covering 3+ acres, creating a mesmerizing, forest-like landscape with its vast canopy and aerial roots.
"Step into another world beneath the awe-inspiring canopy of this ancient, sprawling giant."
🐒 Beware of Monkeys!
Keep food items secured and avoid carrying visible snacks to prevent monkeys from snatching them.
🚶♀️ Explore the Roots
Wander beneath the massive branches and discover the intricate network of aerial roots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Big Banyan Tree
Kethohalli Village
A 400-year-old giant covering 3+ acres, its sprawling branches create a forest-like canopy.
Aerial Roots Wonderland
Beneath the canopy
Thousands of aerial roots descend, creating a unique, almost otherworldly landscape to explore.
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Peaceful Nature Escape
Surrounding park area
Enjoy a tranquil walk or relax on available seats, connecting with nature away from city stress.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Respect Nature, Pack Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Dodda Aalada Mara (Big Banyan Tree) - Spread in 3 acres.
🐒 Beware of Monkeys!
Keep food items secured and avoid carrying visible snacks to prevent monkeys from snatching them.
🚶♀️ Explore the Roots
Wander beneath the massive branches and discover the intricate network of aerial roots.
60km round trip to the big banyan tree (outskirts of Bangalore)
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique structure of the tree offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during golden hours.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Small eateries are available, but bringing your own water bottle is always a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Beware of Monkeys!
Keep food items secured and avoid carrying visible snacks to prevent monkeys from snatching them.
🚶♀️ Explore the Roots
Wander beneath the massive branches and discover the intricate network of aerial roots.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique structure of the tree offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during golden hours.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Small eateries are available, but bringing your own water bottle is always a good idea.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring under the tree, so wear comfortable shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Big Banyan Tree for its immense size and the unique, forest-like atmosphere created by its sprawling canopy and aerial roots. It's a peaceful spot for nature lovers and photographers, offering a free escape. However, some note issues with litter and the presence of monkeys, and suggest it's best visited as part of a larger itinerary.
"Dodda Aalada mara or Big banyan tree It’s located in Bangalore. It’s a one of the biggest tree religion Bangalore. It’s located around approximately 3 acre of land and it’s around 400 years old big tree. Very dislocated in Mangalore. People are visiting every day every week. Every time they are visiting and enjoying like anything, even who is coming to the Bangalore for a tourist purpose, they can visit to the Big Aladmara, and they can enjoy the tree. It’s located the village called Ketu Hall in Bangalore. Urban district tree plant covers more than 3 acres of land, and it’s one of the biggest tree in India, sixth largest train in India. entry covers circumstance around around 900 ft.² feet of the surrounding prompts and the trees far away from the Bangalore is nearly around 28 km from the Bangalore, and I will get many places towards Big Banyan from the majestic from the Kengeri and even for the Care market towards Big Ben airy, many pieces are there. Many vehicles are available to go there and visit the tree. Enjoy the trip in according to the history, what they are saying is in 2000, and the main route of the tree was got the diseases so other many branches of the trees you can see there and it looks like a different different branch of the tree. But main main branch of the tree was gone from there disease So it’s nothing but still you can enjoy the tree visited over there in Aalada Mara who are looking for tour to the Bangalore and they wanted to visit Bangalore. Definitely, they can visit to the Big Ben tree and enjoy the tree and they can remember their trip so thanks. Recommend the people who wants to come to the Bangalore. They can come and enjoy the visit of Big Banyan tree."
Krishna “Krishna SEO Expert” SEO Services Bangalore
"Known as Dodda Alada Mara (Big Banyan Tree) in Bangalore
Around 400 years old, spread over 3+ acres
One of the largest banyan trees in India (6th biggest)
Located about 28 km from Bangalore city, in Kethohalli village
Entry: No ticket was asked when we visited, though there’s a ticket counter
Plenty of parking space nearby
Small shops around for snacks & drinks
Peaceful atmosphere, seats available to sit & relax
Great spot for photos and nature walks
Right along the main road, easy to access by vehicles or buses
Interesting fact: the main root died due to disease years back, but the huge branches still spread like a forest
Personally, I’d visit only if I’m already heading somewhere nearby, as it’s not worth a long trip just for this alone. However, it’s still a nice spot for a short visit, especially for nature lovers and locals. You can also plan a trip to nearby Manchenabele Dam along with this or any other place."
Odia Banglorean
"Dodda Alada Mara is a beautiful tourist attraction and a great spot for a one-day trip or picnic with family and friends. It’s an ideal place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature, offering a very peaceful and calming environment. Nature lovers and photographers will especially enjoy this spot, as it provides plenty of opportunities for capturing stunning natural clicks. The huge banyan tree spread across a wide area is truly mesmerizing to see. Overall, it’s a serene and refreshing place, perfect for spending quality time away from the city’s stress."
Swathi Sudhakar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Banyan Tree (Dodda Alada Mara) is located about 28 km from Bangalore city. You can reach it via Kengeri or Kanteerava Studio. Many vehicles and buses are available from Majestic and other parts of Bangalore.
Yes, there is plenty of parking space available nearby for both cars and two-wheelers, making it convenient for visitors arriving by private vehicles.
While some visitors have inquired about cycling, it's a significant distance from the city. If you're an experienced cyclist, it's possible, but be prepared for a 60km round trip and consider road conditions outside the city.
Hiring a taxi or using ride-sharing services are popular options for a comfortable day trip. Local buses are also an economical choice.
Yes, local buses frequently ply towards the Big Banyan Tree from major hubs like Majestic, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Big Banyan Tree park is free. While there might be a ticket counter, visitors generally report no fee is charged for entry.
The Big Banyan Tree is typically open daily from early morning until around 6:00 PM. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tree.
Since there is no entry fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit anytime during the operational hours.
The park generally closes around 6:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to ensure you have enough time to explore before closing.
Yes, you can visit on weekends, but expect larger crowds compared to weekdays. For a more peaceful experience, weekdays are recommended.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can walk beneath the massive canopy, explore the unique aerial roots, relax on the available seats, and take plenty of photos. There's also a temple inside the park.
Absolutely! The sheer scale and unique structure of the Big Banyan Tree make it a fantastic spot for nature photography. Early morning or late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.
Yes, basic amenities like restrooms are available on the premises for visitor convenience.
Take your time to walk around and under the sprawling branches. The aerial roots create a maze-like effect, offering a unique exploration experience.
Yes, it's a great spot for a picnic with family and friends. The peaceful atmosphere and ample space make it ideal for a relaxed outing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small shops and eateries located outside the park selling snacks like corn and other local treats.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea, especially if you want more variety or have specific dietary needs. Just remember to clean up after yourself.
You'll find local snacks and beverages. It's a good place to grab a quick bite or refreshments after exploring the tree.
No, there are no formal restaurants inside the park itself, but small vendors are usually present outside.
While there are vendors, it's wise to be cautious with your own food. Keep it secured to avoid attracting monkeys.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere and avoiding harsh midday sun.
Its immense size, sprawling canopy, and intricate network of aerial roots provide unique and dramatic photographic subjects.
Photos capturing the vastness of the canopy from below, or close-ups of the aerial roots, are particularly popular.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale, while a macro lens can be used for detailed shots of the roots and foliage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There's a temple within the park, which can be a point of interest for some families. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for a picnic, so packing some favorite snacks and drinks is a good idea. The free entry and ample parking add to the convenience for family visits.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness, or use a macro lens to focus on the textures of the roots and leaves. The park setting also allows for shots that incorporate the natural environment. Be prepared for potential crowds during peak times, but early or late visits can offer more solitude for capturing the perfect shot.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Peace Seekers
Take your time to wander through the shaded areas, observe the diverse plant life, and simply soak in the peaceful ambiance. It's a place to de-stress and recharge, offering a refreshing break from urban life. The lack of entry fee makes it an accessible natural retreat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living Legend: History and Growth
An interesting historical note is that the main trunk of the tree reportedly suffered from a disease around the year 2000, leading to its demise. However, the vast network of branches and aerial roots continued to thrive, giving the impression of a sprawling forest rather than a single tree. This unique characteristic makes it a fascinating subject for visitors interested in botany and natural history.
Today, Dodda Alada Mara is a protected natural monument and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to marvel at the sheer scale and longevity of a single organism. The surrounding area has been developed into a park, providing amenities for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Visitor Experience and Community Insights
Practical advice from the community emphasizes the importance of visiting during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photos. While the entry is free, some visitors have noted that trash can be an issue, urging others to be mindful of their waste and help keep the area clean. The presence of mischievous monkeys is a recurring theme, with warnings to secure food items to prevent them from being snatched.
Many reviews suggest that while it's a beautiful spot, it might not be worth a long trip solely for the tree itself unless you're already in the vicinity or planning a combined trip to nearby attractions like Manchenabele Dam. However, for a short, relaxing outing or a picnic with family and friends, it's highly recommended.
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