You don’t need to go to Japan or South Korea to marvel at the vistas of the cherry blossom season. Nor do you have to travel to Rajasthan to visit the legendary “Pink City” Jaipur.
Down south, spring time creates its own “Pink City” over the months of February and March. That’s Bangalore we are talking about. This beautiful ‘city of gardens’ has become a wonder world of pink blooms of Tabebuia avellanedae, which, loosened by the gentle breezes, are cascading down on pavements and buses, gardens and side streets.
Introduced in the city by the British the “Trumpet Tree,” is a flamboyantly ornamental tree native to Brazil, South America and the Caribbean. Even a single blossoming Tabebuia tree is resplendent–and a line-up–absolutely spectacular!
Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh are the top favourites for this theatrical display. These city lungs are where Bangalore’s citizenry gathers in throngs to gaze upon the towering pink trumpet trees, ablush with clusters of trumpet-like flowers in all their splendour.
Head for the 4th Block in tranquil Jayanagar where the tree-lined avenues offer a lavish display of pinks in varying hues. Even some of the by-lanes are carpeted with the pink blossoms. Cut through the chaos of Marathahalli to delight on the floral explosion of the pink palette at AECS Layout. Venture into the rather dismal expanses of the Silk Board junction and Kundanahalli Gate and there’s a surprise waiting for you in the lavish display of Tabibuea blossoms in the canopy of tree cover.
Grab a picnic basket and spend a lazy day at Benniganahalli Lake, soaking in this springtime treat. You can also take the long road to Yelahanka to savour the traditional Sakura-like vibe of cherry blossom time.
Since the blossoming time is so short, you really must make the most of it. Across the city you’ll find plenty of instagrammable moments in the company of these blooms that can brighten up even the dullest day.