Internationally renowned as a centre for botanical artwork and conservation of plants, Lalbagh is one of the most scenic gardens in the state. Sprawling over an area of 240 acre, the park draws visitors in large numbers with its popular glass house and also serves as a home for as many as 1,854 species of plants. The glass house plays host to the biannual flower show held here as an extension to the Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations. The Lalbagh once served as the private garden of Mysore's ruler Hyder Ali and was initially built in Mughal style over an area of 40 acre. The British transformed the park and gave it its current look. A visit to the park makes for an interesting exploration for tourists.