Brindhavan gardens, Mysore, India

The Brindavan Gardens is a garden located in the Mandya District of the state of Karnataka, India. It lies adjoining the Krishnarajasagara dam which is built across the river Kaveri. Located at a distance of 19 kms from Mysore City Center are the Brindavan Gardens of Mysore. The gardens are built across river Cauvery and below Krishnaraja Sagar Dam (also known as Kannambadi) which is in itself a magnificent example of engineering and a major tourist attractions. The dam was built by Sir M. Vishweshwariah in 1924 whereas the Brindavan Gardens were built by Sir Mirza Ismail.

Its symmetric design and terrace gardens clustered around topiaries, pergolas and gazebos instantly become a favourite among travellers. The illuminated dancing fountains on the northern side of the Brindavan Gardens are surely one of the many highlights of this place. A beautiful orchestrated show with colorful lights, music and harmonious coupling of water can be seen after sunset. The show is made more dramatic with laser lights.

The garden has a botanical park as well as fountains. Boat rides in the lake can also be enjoyed here. Fruit orchard and horticulture farms are situated adjoining to the Brindavan Gardens. Best time to visit the garden is after sunset as one can view the fountain show and enjoy a pleasant evening.

History of Brindavan Gardens

The Brindavan Gardens are built in the complex of Krishnaraja Sagar Dam (KRS Dam) which is in Srirangapatna taluk of Mandya district. Sir Mirza Ismail, the then Diwan of Mysore wanted to enhance the beauty of the area around KRS Dam. Therefore, the construction was started in the year 1927 by the Department of Horticulture and was completed in 1932. Built across the prominent river Cauvery, the designs of Brindavan Gardens have been inspired by the breathtaking Shalimar Bagh of Kashmir which were created in the ancient Mughal Style. Now, the garden is maintained by Cauvery Irrigation Department, Government of Karnataka.

Structure of Brindavan Gardens

The entire Brindavan Garden, spread over an area of 60 acres, is divided into four parts. The first part is the main gate area which is inspired by the design of India Gate, New Delhi. It is flanked by mesmerizing rose gardens on either side. Also, vast lawns, flowerbeds and hedgerows are impressively maintained. A 2-km path takes you inside the main garden. 

The North Vrindavan is the most alluring part of the garden as it consists of four verdant terrace gardens. Each of them has colourful flowers, decorated hedges and ornamental trees. Another striking feature of this part is the various fountains lightened up with different colours. The musical fountain show in the evening is worth admiring. 

The South Vrindavan is equally beguiling. You can see plants like Bougainvillea, allamanda and Cypress on the slopes of the terrace gardens. This part also has a glass house which has ornamental plants available for sale also. Beside the South Vrindavan, there is a Children's Park which provides a nice place for kids to enjoy and have fun. Since River Cauvery flows between the North Vrindavan and South Vrindavan, a long bridge connects the two parts. Also, boating facility offered by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation is available in the serene waters of the river.

Brindavan Gardens Light Show & Musical Fountain

The main attraction at the Brindavan Gardens in Mysore happens to be the beautiful array of musical fountains. Coupled with laser lights, these fountains are synchronised to music and go live at the time when the garden is lit up. The flow of water is digitally controlled, which in turn operates an aquatic organ. The pressure from the nearby dam fuels these fountains to put up a colourful display for the visitors, who can also visit a rain shelter and a gallery. The songs played range from soulful instrumental to patriotic songs. 

On weekdays, you will get to enjoy the scintillating show for one hour from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM while on weekends, the show extends with one hour and the timings are 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Brindavan Gardens At Night

The beauty of Brindavan Garden rises to a next level during the evening hours. The footpaths are lightened up with colourful lights. You will find yellow lamps glowing under the trees which makes the entire garden look magnificent. Also, bangles of different bright colours which glow in the dark are sold. The crowd also increases as people flock to watch the most-awaited fountain show. While some people enjoy an evening stroll, there are star-gazers also, lost in nostalgia.

Brindavan Gardens Horticulture Farms

Brindavan Garden also has two beautiful horticulture farms. The Naguvana Horticulture Farm, located near the main gate, covers an area of 30 acres. It houses different types of plants and it has the Horticulture Training Centre of the Department of Horticulture which trains the local youth. The other farm is the Chandravana Horticulture Farm, which is smaller comparatively and is situated in the heart of River Cauvery. It covers an area of approximately 5 acres. Succulent mango trees and coconut trees are grown here.

Open:Every Day

Visiting Timings: 0600 Hrs to 2000 Hrs

Music Fountain Show Timings:Mon to Fri : 1830 Hrs to 1930 Hrs Sat & Sun : 1830 Hrs to 2030 Hrs

Visiting Charges:Children (Aged 5 to 15 Years) : 5 INR Adults (Aged 15 Years and above) : 15 INR

For kids also, the garden has exciting swings and rides. In the evening, the well-synchronised and lively fountain show with music looks stunning and is completely a stress-buster. This is not the end! Boating in the tranquil waters of River Cauvery is another way to relax and rejuvenate here. Brindavan Gardens is a perfect place to rewind and have ultimate fun with your family. Come and fall in the lap of nature to admire the beauty of it and to detox yourself.

How to Reach Brindavan Gardens

Brindavan Garden is located on the KRS Dam Road near the town, Mandya. The distance between the Mysore city and Brindavan Garden is around 21 Km. Regular buses operated by state government ply from the city?s bus stand to the garden. It takes around 15 minutes by bus. However, you can take an autorickshaw or a taxi also.