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60 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore – Bengaluru Travel Guide

If you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore, here is a complete guide to Bangalore prepared by locals to give you a complete experience.

The city of Bangalore is a fascinating melange of experiences. It is a city that has undergone a transformation over the last few of decades. The places to visit in Bangalore are many and offer myriad experiences that range from the spiritual to those that border on the hedonistic. Geographically Bangalore is strategically located in the state of Karnataka, with easy access to getaways within 100 kilometres , and destinations that make for great road trips .

But the city of Bangalore itself offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. Bangalore has its all: temples, gardens, pubs, malls, amusement parks, churches, glitzy restaurants, hole-in-the-wall eateries, iconic hotels, museums, and heritage sites.

Bangalore’s relaxed and old-world charm has been eroded over the years with its emergence as an IT Hub. However, vestiges of that charm still remain in pockets, where time seems to have stood still. Whichever Bangalore you want to experience, this list of places to visit in Bangalore and things to do in Bengaluru is sure to help you curate your own Bengaluru experience.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Bangalore & Top Things To Do In Bengaluru

As kids, we always looked forward to the summer vacations, when we would travel to Bangalore. The place held a special charm: early morning walks in its gardens, walking beneath roads crowned with tree-formed canopies, or breathing in the magical aroma of filter coffee and dosas fresh off the pan.

Bangalore City Map

Click here to know the directions and for getting around Bangalore.

Bangalore for us also included visits to temples, a visit to the Visvesraraya Industrial & Technological Museum, and much more. With the passage of time, places to visit in Bangalore have increased and so also the different amalgam of experiences it offers.

Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore – Top Temples To Visit In Bangalore

Much before the city of Bangalore metamorphosed into the magnet which attracted millions of youngsters with IT dreams, it was known as a city of temples. Every temple small or big, new or old, had its own unique charm. Women selling fragrant flowers and coconuts lined the way to these temples which resonated with the divine sounds of temple bells.

You can feel that old-world charm of the city even today, all you need to do is step into a temple near you. There are over a thousand temples in Bangalore, and wherever you are, you are sure to find one, not far from your location. Here we give you a list of some of the top temples in Bangalore, that are also unique places to visit in Bangalore

Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is a place that is highly recommended for those interested in visiting mysterious temples that pose an enigma. The temple, also known as Gavipuram Cave Temple, is wrapped in intriguing layers of myths, legends, and mysteries. It is one of the oldest temples in Bangalore.

The temple is believed to have its origins dating back to the Vedic period, however, in more recent history, it was renovated by Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore, during the 16th century. The sanctum of the temple is in a subterranean cave and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The unique aspect of the temple is its architectural design. It is built in such a manner that the rays of the sun, strike the Shivalinga during the winter and summer solstice, at a particular time.

The other unique features to look out for in the Gavi Gangadharehwara Temple are the intriguing stone discs that adorn the forecourt of the temple.

Address: 5th Main Road, Gavipuram Extension, Kempegowda Nagar, Bangalore-560019.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.5 Kilometres.

Bull Temple or Dodda Basavanagudi – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Bull Temple is an iconic temple of Bangalore and lends its name to the area it is located in, Basavanagudi. ‘Basava’ in Kannada refers to the massive Nandi statue that is the centre of attraction in the temple, and ‘Gudi’ means temple.

The Bull Temple is unique in that it is dedicated to Nandi, the vehicle of Shiva. It has a colossal monolithic Nandi statue that towers above you. The Bull temple too is believed to have been built by Kempegowda in the 16th century. With a towering height of 15 feet and a length of 20 feet, the seated Nandi is believed to be the largest Nandi statue in the world. The Bull temple is located adjacent to another legendary temple of Bangalore, the Dodda Ganesha Temple.

Notable Feature: During the famous Kadlekai Parishe or Groundnut Fair that is held annually near the temple, the first groundnut harvest is offered to the deity by the farmers.

Address: 235, Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.2 Kilometres.

Sri Dodda Ganapathy Temple – Famous Places in Bangalore

Sri Dodda Ganapathy Temple or Dodda Ganesha Temple stands at a little distance from the Bull Temple. It is a very popular and iconic temple of the city. Celebrities from the film fraternity launching their films, students preparing for exams, proud owners of new vehicles, all make a beeline to this temple to seek the blessings of Ganesha, known as Dodda Ganesha.

‘Dodda’, in Kannada means big, and hence the prefix of, ‘Dodda,’ is added before the name of one of the most popular Gods of the Hindu pantheon. The idol of Ganesha in this temple is a massive monolithic rock shaped like Ganesha, complete with a trunk and pot-belly. It measures 18 feet in height and 16 feet in width and is believed to have self-emanated, or swayambhu .

Though some believe that the temple dates back to the times of Kempe Gowda in the 16th century, another opinion is that the idol of Ganesha could belong to that time, the temple structure is of more recent origin.

Halasuru Someshwara Temple – Top Places To See In Bangalore

Not far from the bustling Central Business District of Bangalore is located an ancient temple with origins dating back to the Chola Period. This is the beautiful Someshwara Temple of Halasuru or Ulsoor. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is believed that major embellishments were done to the temple during the period of the Vijayanagara Empire, under Hiriya Kempe Gowda II. The temple is built in the Vijayanagara Temple Architectural style.

Address: Someshwara Temple Rd, Someshwarpura, Halasuru, Karnataka 560008

Distance From M.G.Road: 2 Kilometres.

Sri Banashankari Amma Temple – Place to Include In Bangalore Sightseeing

This is a very popular temple that stands in the midst of chaotic traffic in the Banashankari area of South Bangalore. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess named Banashankari Amma. The temple sees huge crowds, especially on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, as these days are considered very auspicious for the worship of the deity. The temple was built in 1915, when the idol of the deity was brought from Badami, by a man called Somanna.

Address: Kanakapura Rd, Sarbandapalya, Banashankari Temple Ward, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070.

Distance From M.G.Road: 11 Kilometres.

ISKCON – Must Visit Places In Bangalore

A contemporary temple with state-of-the-art facilities is the Krishna temple built by the International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The ISKCON temple complex includes temples to Radha Krishna, Krishna Balarama, Nital Gauranga. There are smaller temples dedicated to Srinivasa Govinda, Prahlada Narasimha, Hanuman, and Garuda.

Address: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010.

Distance From M.G.Road: 9 Kilometres.

Sri Kadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple – Best Tourist Places In Bangalore

A popular and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands in the vintage locality of Malleshwaram in Bangalore. This Shiva temple is dated to the 17th century. It is interesting to note that the temple was built by Venkoji, who was the brother of the iconic Maratha king, Shivaji. The temple is also known as Kadu Malleshwara temple, and the name of the area is derived from the name of the deity.

Address: 2nd Temple Street, Vyalikaval, Kodandarampura, Malleswaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.6 Kilometres.

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Swamy Temple -One Day Trip Places in Bangalore

A small temple dedicated to Hanuman stood atop a small hillock called Ragigudda, decades ago. At that time there were no steps to reach the temple, and one had to climb up the rocky slopes. With the passage of time, the temple has transformed into a grand temple complex spread over 5 acres and encompassing the hillock.

The temple is teeming with visitors throughout the week, especially on Tuesdays, and Saturdays. Hanuman Jayanthi, the birth anniversary of Hanuman is celebrated in a grand way in the month of December at the temple in Ragigudda.

Address: KSRTC Layout, Jayanagara 9th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.2 Kilometres.

Shrunga Giri Sri Shanmukha Swamy Temple – Places to Visit in Bengaluru

The temple is perched atop a hillock, and its gopuram which consists of the six heads of Shanmukha or Subrahmanya, crowned by a crystal dome, is visible from far. The temple is dedicated to Karthikeya or Subrahmanya, and the most striking feature of the temple is its unique Gopuram. The dome reflects the rays of the sun during the day and is brilliantly illuminated during the night.

Address: BEML, Kempegowda Rd, 5th Stage, RR Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098.

Distance From M.G.Road: 15.1 Kilometres.

Shivoham Shiva Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Shivoham Shiva temple is a contemporary temple that is famous for its 65 feet tall idol of Lord Shiva. The beautiful statue of Shiva seated in a yogic posture was consecrated by the Sringeri Shankaracharya in the year 1995.

Address: 97, HAL Old Airport Road, Kemp fort mall Parking, Ramagiri, Murgesh Palya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560017

Distance From M.G.Road: 6.9 Kilometres.

If you are looking for road trips from Bangalore, click here .

Famous Churches To Visit In Bengaluru – Things To Do In Bengaluru

The history of Christianity in Bangalore can be traced to the 17th century when the now-famous St Mary’s Basilica began functioning in a spartan, thatched hut. The advent of the British further boosted the influence of Christianity in the city. The many beautiful churches that ornament the city are not only architectural wonders, but also a part of its historical legacy. Here are a few of the churches of Bangalore, that you must visit.

St. Mary’s Basilica – Places To Visit In Bangalore

This is a beautiful church that was to first that was the first to become a Minor Basilica in the state of Karnataka. It is one of the oldest churches in Bangalore and is famous for the annual St. Mary’s Feast. The church is a beautiful structure with elements of Gothic architecture, including stained glass windows, Corinthian Capitals, and arches.

Address: MF Norrona St, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.9 Kilometres.

Infant Jesus Church – A Holy Place To Visit In Bengaluru

The Infant Jesus Church is a shrine dedicated to Infant Jesus. The church is very popular with people of all religions, who flock here to offer their prayers and light a candle. The Church is popular as the faithful believe that the Infant Jesus is endowed with miraculous powers.

St. Mark’s Cathedral – Religious Places To Visit In Bangalore

The St. Mark’s Cathedral dates back to over 200 years and is a magnificent structure that has been built in the classic English Baroque style of architecture. The design of the cathedral is modelled along the lines of the famous St. Paul’s Cathedral of London.

Address: 1, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.0 Kilometres.

Historical & Heritage Places To Visit In Bangalore

It is well known that the precursor of Bangalore as we know it was founded by Kempe Gowda within the walls of a mud fort that he built in the 16th century. However, evidence of a thriving settlement in the vicinity has been found that date back to the 9th century.

There are quite a few places of heritage value that a visitor must experience while in Bangalore. Here are some of the places to visit in Bangalore on a heritage trail of the city.

Pancha Linga Nageshwara Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

Not far from the modern IT hub of Bangalore, Electronic City, in the area now known as Begur, exists evidence of the history of the city. The area was once an important centre of the Western Ganga Dynasty and the Chola Kingdom and dates back to the 9th century.

The Panchalingeshwara temple, as the name suggests is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ancient inscriptions, Hero stones, and the remains of a fort have been found here, which are crucial links to the history of the city.

Address: BBMP Office, Begur Main Rd, opposite to Begur, Begur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560068.

Distance From M.G.Road: 12.3 Kilometres.

Vidhan Soudha – A Must-Visit On Your Bangalore One Day Trip

The Vidhan Soudha is an icon of the city of Bangalore. It is the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. The majestic building was completed in the year 1956, and the architectural style of the building is classified as Neo-Dravidian. Its grand eastern facade and columned corridors are a sight to behold. Vidhan Soudha is one of the important landmarks of Bangalore.

Address: Ambedkar Bheedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 3.3 Kilometres.

Freedom Park – Places To Visit In Bangalore

What was once the Central Jail of Bangalore is today converted into a museum and memorial. This place is known as Freedom Park. The Freedom Park is also a venue for organized demonstrations and is located within the Central Business District of Bangalore.

Address: Seshadri Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560009.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.3 Kilometres.

Bangalore Fort – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The seeds of Bangalore City as we know it today was sown by its founder Kempe Gowda, more than 500 years ago. He envisioned an urban trading centre secured by a fort, with eater reservoirs, temples, and other public utilities and markets.

The fort that Kempe Gowda raised was a mud fort. Later on, the mud fort was replaced by a stone fort by Hyder Ali and further enhanced by his son Tipu Sultan. The ruins of the Fort are the only witness to the history of Bangalore.

Address: Krishna Rajendra Rd, New Tharagupet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.2 Kilometres

Bangalore Palace – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Bangalore Palace is an impressive structure with a striking resemblance to the Windsor Castle in England. The palace is another legacy of Bangalore’s colonial past and British architectural design. The construction of the palace was completed in the year 1878. The palace was built by the British for the use of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar and was later expanded and modified by Maharaja Jayachamraja Wadiyar.

The palace is a striking example of the Tudor style of architecture of the medieval age that was prevalent in England and Wales. The palace is a castle, complete with turrets, battlements, and fortified towers. Today part of the palace building and the grounds are used for events like exhibitions and weddings. A part of the palace is open to visitors through a ticketed entry.

Address: Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052.

Distance From M.G.Road: 6.2 Kilometres

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Tipu Sultan Palace stands in the heart of the city and dates back to the year 1791. It is a beautiful structure built profusely with teak wood. It is ornamented with graceful arches, pillars, and balconies.

There is a small museum within the palace that documents the life and times of Tipu Sultan. A notable exhibit is the replica of the famous Tipu’s Tiger, the original is in the Victoria & Albert Museum of London .

Address: Tippu Sultan Palace Rd, Chamrajpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560018.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.6 Kilometres

Mayo Hall – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Mayo Hall is a historic building dating back to 1883. It is a part of the colonial legacy of Bangalore and is a beautiful building with cornices, and pedimented windows interlaced with graceful arches. The building came up as a tribute to Lord Mayo who was the Viceroy and Governor-General during the British Raj.

Originally the building stood in the midst of lush greenery, surrounded by terraced gardens. Today the building bustles with activity as it houses different Government offices and civil courts. A museum is located on the

Address: Mayo Hall, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.1 Kilometres

Attara Kacheri – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Attara Kacheri is a beautiful red building that lies opposite the Vidhan Soudha. It is a historic building that was built in the year 1867. The building now houses the High Court of Karnataka. The magnificent building was earlier the secretariat of the princely state of Mysore.

It was named, “Attara Kacheri”, as the kingdom of Mysore under the Wodeyars, had a secretariat that consisted of 18 departments. The “Attara”, refers to the number 18 in Hindu, while, “Kacheri,” refers to office or department.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Opposite Vidhana Soudha, Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 2.3 Kilometres

Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is a beautiful structure that is more than a century old. It is a standing ode to the memory of Dewan Seshadri Iyer, who is hailed as one of the key builders of Bangalore. The building has an apsidal plan, and its delightful blend of different architectural styles and design elements is really endearing. The beautiful building houses the State Central Library.

Address: Cubbon Park Road Near Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 4.3 Kilometres

Watch Towers Of Kempegowda – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

Kempe Gowda hailed as the founder of Bangalore, had envisioned a modern centre where trade flourished within the city enclosed by a fort. With a view to ensure the security of the city and its denizens, he erected watchtowers or observation points. The main watchtowers were four and these were installed in the four cardinal directions, at what was in those days the boundaries of the city.

Apart from these four, there were other minor watchtowers that were installed at different places in the city. These towers today lie in the heart of the city, many of them are ing good condition, while some are in ruins. Here is the list of the 4 watchtowers of Kempegowda, that you must visit on the heritage trail of Bangalore.

The structure of the watchtowers consists of four pillars crowned with a Gopura, the Kempegowda watchtowers have been immortalized as the emblem of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahangar Palike (BBMP).

Kempegowda Watch Tower In Lalbagh

The tower which must have guarded the southern boundary of the city hundreds of years ago stands on the top of a rocky hillock within the famous garden of Lalbagh in South Bangalore.

Distance From M.G.Road: 4.9 Kilometres

Kempambudhi Lake Watch Tower

The watchtower that once guarded the western-most extremity of the city lies currently in a south-westerly direction and is located near the Kempambudhi Lake in the Chamrajpet area of Bangalore.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.8 Kilometres

Ulsoor Lake Watch Tower

The tower that stood sentinel on the eastern extremity of Bangalore in the days of Kempegowda is located near Ulsoor Lake.

Distance From M.G.Road: 2.2 Kilometres

Mekhri Circle Watch Tower

The tower that guarded the northernmost extremity of Bangalore hundreds of years ago is located near the Mekhri Circle.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.0 Kilometres

If you are looking for a one day trip from Bangalore, click here .

Museums | Art Galleries

Museums are windows to the history and culture of a place. They provide valuable insights that are not only fascinating but also help in a better understanding of a place and its people. Bangalore too has its share of museums that embrace a variety of domains. Here are some of the museum and art galleries in Bangalore that you must not miss.

Government Museum

The Government Museum of Bangalore is one of the oldest museums in India. It was established in the year 1865. The museum houses a rare collection of archaeological artefacts including an inscription in the Halmidi language, which is believed to be the oldest inscription in Kannada.

The Government Museum has 18 galleries that are spread over two floors and dedicated to the exhibition of sculptures, coins, musical instruments, paintings, weapons, neolithic pottery, and much more.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 2.4 Kilometres

Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum

The Visvesraraya Museum is a place that one must visit with kids. It makes for a very engaging and educational experience, as its exhibits make for an interactive introduction to science and technology. The museum has seven permanent galleries. These are Engine Hall, Science For Kids, Space Technology Gallery, Science Park, Electro-Technic Gallery, Fun Science, Biotechnology Gallery, and the BEL-Hall of Electronics.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Near Chinna Swamy Stadium, Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 2.5 Kilometres

Venkatappa Art Gallery

The Venkatappa Art Gallery is a museum and gallery dedicated to art. It has permanent exhibits and is also a place where talented artists can showcase their work. The Venkatappa Art Gallery is a tribute to the memory of the noted painter and Sculptor of Karnataka, Shri K.Venkatappa.

HAL Heritage Centre And Aerospace Museum

A visit to the HAL museum makes for a thrilling experience for kids and also aviation enthusiasts. The museum consists of two exhibition halls. The first hall showcases the history of aviation in India. The second hall is focused on the intricacies of different aero-engines, including the ones used in aircraft like Jaguar, Dornier, etc.

Another interesting aspect of the museum is the outdoor display of aircraft. An experience to look forward to is the simulators that give an experience of being in the pilot’s seat. There is also a library, souvenir shop, and children’s park.

Address: Police Station, Near HAL, HAL Old Airport Rd, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560037. Distance From M.G.Road: 10.4Kilometres

NIMHANS Brain Museum

This is a unique museum located within the premises of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Bangalore. The museum has over 500 brain specimens. These include brains that were afflicted with conditions like cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, etc. Apart from the specimens, there are information kiosks that provide details about various aspects for students and lay visitors alike.

Address: Hosur Main Road, Sattar Layout, Lakkasandra, Laljinagar, Wilson Garden, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560029. Distance From M.G.Road:5 .2 Kilometres

Kempegowda Museum

The Kempegowda Museum is located on the first floor of the historic Mayo Hall building. It is a museum that is exclusively dedicated to the life and times of Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. The museum offers a peep into the Bangalore that existed at the time of Kempegowda. A unique experience is walking on the floor of the museum hall, which consists of a real map of old Bangalore.

Address: Field Marshal Cariappa Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 0.5 Kilometres

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is a complex that consists of art museums, galleries, and archives. It also has a college dedicated to the dissemination of Fine Arts. It is a hotspot of art in Bangalore. The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath showcases the works of artists like Nicholas Roerich, and the collection of art connoisseur H.K.Kejriwal, among others.

There is a gallery dedicated to the traditional Mysore style of Painting, while another gallery is dedicated to leather puppets.

Address: Art Complex, 1, Kumara Krupa Rd, near The Lalit Hotel, Kumara Park East, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 4.6 Kilometres

National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore, is another art hotspot in the city. It is a centre of cultural and artistic activities including art exhibitions, seminars, and symposiums. The gallery also exhibits over 500 paintings of different artists including Raja Ravi Verma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Jaimini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, and others.

Address: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.3 Kilometres

Gandhi Bhavan

The Gandhi Bhavan, Bengaluru, is a museum that is dedicated to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi . The museum is located at a place where Mahatma Gandhi used to take a stroll. The museum houses rare photographs from the life of Mahatma Gandhi and a collection of his letters, apart from other memorabilia and artefacts.

Address: Kumara Park East, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.9 Kilometres

Indian Music Experience Museum

The Indian Music Experience Museum is a one of its kind museum in India. It is touted as the only interactive Music museum in India. It provides a hands-on experience of various music instruments, both from the classic and contemporary genres. The museum promises a unique musical experience to visitors.

Address: Brigade Millenium Rd, opp. Wood Rose Club, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078. Distance From M.G.Road: 11.9 Kilometres

Click Art Museum

This is a trick-art museum or 3D Art Museum similar to the ones you have in Singapore , Hong Kong , and Malaysia . The museum in Bangalore has trick images that include Charlie Chaplin poking your stomach, Mona Lisa pouring you a glass of water, Joker from Batman spraying water, etc. The place is a fun place for kids and families and provides opportunities for clicking some fun photos.

Address: Virginia Mall, Varthur Rd, Palm Meadows, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560066. Distance From M.G.Road: 16.1 Kilometres

Gardens | Parks | Aquariums

Bangalore was known as a “Garden City,” and rightly so as beautifully landscaped gardens dotted its perimeter. Though a substantial part of its green cover has been eroded by urbanization, Bangalore still boasts of more than 1,000 gardens big and small, spread across its length and breadth.

These gardens or parks offer a much-needed respite to the locals and tourists alike. Some of the important gardens in Bangalore that must figure in your itinerary are described here.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

The Lalbagh is one of Bangalore’s lung spaces. The garden is spread over a massive area of 240 acres and is a green oasis in the fast-growing urban metropolis. The Lalbagh was conceived by Hyder Ali and was completed by Tipu Sultan. It was enhanced and enlarged later by successive British superintendents. The history of the garden dates back to the 18th century.

The garden is bound by a wall along its perimeter and has four gates. The huge garden encompasses within itself a lake, the famous Glasshouse which is the venue for the famed flower shows during Republic  Day and Independence Day. One of the Watchtowers built by Kempegowda lies within the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Rocks that are believed to be more than 3,000 million years old are also located within the Lalbagh.

Address: Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 4.7 Kilometres

Cubbon Park

The Cubbon Park is another popular lung space in Bangalore. The park was created in the year 1870 across an area that covered 100 acres. Successive expansion of the garden saw it grow in size, and today it covers a massive area of 300 acres. The park has a rich flora with more than 96 species of plants and trees. Many historical buildings are found within the perimeter of Cubbon Park.

The Jawahar Bal Bhavan, a recreational centre for children is located within Cubbon Park. It is one of the best places to visit with kids in Bangalore, and one of the attractions for kids is a toy train.

Address: Kasturba Road, Behind High Court of Karnataka Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 1.7 Kilometres

Bannerghatta National Park

The Bannerghatta National Park includes a zoological garden which is known as the Bannerghatta Biological Park. The place includes a zoo and butterfly park. A Bear rescue and rehabilitation centre is also located within the Bannerghatta National Park.

The main attraction of the park is a guided safari within the National Park. Animals in the park include elephants, deer, Bengal Tigers, leopards, etc. The park is home to more than 100 species of birds. This is one of the best places to visit with children in Bangalore.

Address: Bannerghatta Main Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083. Distance From M.G.Road: 21.3 Kilometres

Bannerghatta Nature Camp

The Bannerghatta Nature Camp is a delightful family getaway in the lap of nature, just on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is ideal for a day trip or even to spend the weekend, waking up to the sounds of nature, and far from the noise of the city. Activities here include a nature walk, safari, and visit to the Butterfly Park. Accommodation is offered in log cabins and tents. It is a resort of Jungle Lodges & Resorts.

Check out our detailed post for activities and packages at the Bannerghatta Nature Camp .

Address: Bannerghatta Biological Park Kaggalipura Road near Hakki-Pikki Colony, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083. Distance From M.G.Road: 24.8 Kilometres

Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park – Places To Visit In Bangalore At Night

This is a beautiful place to visit after sundown. The fountains here come alive in resplendent colours after dark and sway to mesmerizing tunes. The fountains are reminiscent of the more famous dancing fountains of Brindavan Gardens, near Mysore. The landscaped garden has two shows in the evening when the coordinated fountains come alive to the musical rhythm of music and light.

Address: Raj Bhavan Rd, Opposite to Jawahar Lal Nehru Planetarium, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.2 Kilometres

Bugle Rock Park

The Bugle Rock Park is a beautiful garden located adjacent to the Dodda Ganesha and Basava temples. It is located on Bull Temple Road in the Basavanagudi area of South Bangalore. The park is built around a rock formation which like the one inside Lalbagh is believed to be more than 3,000 million years old.

The rock is known as Bugle rock because of an old tradition where a sentry used to stand on the rock and blow a bugle to alert the citizens to be on their vigil.  The park is a peaceful place to spend some time and take a nice walk in the midst of greenery. The park includes a play area for children, an amphitheatre, and statues of eminent luminaries of Bangalore including D.V. Gundappa, and others.

Address: Bull Temple Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560019. Distance From M.G.Road: 7.4 Kilometres

Lakes Of Bangalore

The city of Bangalore was once flush with more than 200 lakes. The numbers have since dwindled, many of the lakes have been gobbled up by urbanization. Here are some of the famous lakes of Bangalore.

Ulsoor Lake – Places To Visit in Bangalore For Couples

The Ulsoor Lake is a place to head to for spending some quiet time while the world goes around in mad circles around you. You can opt for a boat ride in the placid waters of the lake, or just take a stroll around the periphery of the lake.

The lake is located in the Halasuru area of Bangalore and is quite near M.G.Road. It covers an area of 50 hectares and has some islands in the middle.

Sankey Tank – Places To Visit For Couples In Bangalore

The Sankey Tank is a man-made lake that was excavated in 1882. The reservoir was constructed by Col. Richard Hieram Sankey, and hence the name. There is a park on the banks of the lake and boating is an enjoyable activity here. A visit to the lake makes for a relaxed evening in the midst of nature. The lake here is spread over an area of about 15 hectares and is spread over the western suburbs of Malleshwaram, Sadashivnagar, and Vyalikaval.

Theme Parks/Amusement Parks/Planetarium

There is no dearth of entertainment options in Bangalore. There are numerous multiplex theatres, escape rooms, gaming centres, across the city. Here is a list of some of the major theme parks and other entertainment centres of the city.

Wonderla Amusement Park

One of the most popular family getaways near the outskirts of Bangalore is the Wonderla Amusement Park. It is a place that guarantees a day filled with fun and excitement for the entire family. The park has more than 60 different rides that are suitable for different age groups, and include water rides. If you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore for Kids Day-Out then Wonderla is the right place to go.

Address: 28th Km, Mysore Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109. Distance From M.G.Road: 33 Kilometres

Innovative Film City

The Innovative Film City is another family destination on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is a complete entertainment centre and has a wide range of activities to keep the entire family engaged. It has museums that include a Wax Museum, Tribal Museum, Oddities Museum, etc., there are activities ranging from indoor games to water rides, and 3D films, apart from a host of thrilling rides to choose from. Innovative Film City is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore with family.

Address: 24 & 26, Kiadb Estates, Birmangla cross, Bidadi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109. Distance From M.G.Road: 37 Kilometres

Bangalore is a city with temperate weather, both summers and winters are moderate, however, if you want to experience snow in the city, head to Snow City. The place lets visitors experience snow at -5 degrees centigrade. Igloos, snow slides, and snow castles simulate the experience of snow, and you can have some fun and frolic in the snow.

Address: Fun World Complex, Jayamahal Main Rd, opposite TV Tower, J.C.Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560006. Distance From M.G.Road: 5.3 Kilometres.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a must-visit place in Bangalore, especially for children. It consists of a Science Centre for students as well as a planetarium. It has regular shows in Kannada and English that transports visitors to the fascinating world of outer space and gives glimpses of the Solar System and galaxies that are far, far away.

Address: Sri T, Sankey Rd, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.4 Kilometres.

Government Aquarium | Bangalore Aquarium

The Government Aquarium is also known as Bangalore Aquarium is located on Kasturba Road, right next to the entrance to Cubbon Park. The Visweswaraya Museum, Government Museum, and Venkatappa Art Gallery are located quite close by.

The Bangalore Aquarium has a variety of exotic fishes that include Indian Tiger Barb, Hockey Stick Tetra, Angel Fish, Blue and Pearl Gourami, and many others.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.0 Kilometres.

Shopping In Bangalore

Bangalore is a city where shopping is a religion of sorts. The options for shopping are wide.

Things to buy in Bangalore | What to shop in Bengaluru | Souvenirs from Bangalore :

• Sandalwood items
• Mysore Silk Sarees
• Channapatna Wooden Toys
• Rosewood inlay work paintings
• Wooden handicraft items
• Coffee Powder
• Mysore Pak ( sweet )
• Dharwad Peda ( sweet )

You can head to any of the numerous swanky malls that dot the length and breadth of the city, or any of the local shopping areas. But if you want to really experience shopping tinged with the special vibes of Bangalore, then these are the shopping areas that we recommend.

Commercial Street

This is one of the oldest and busiest shopping areas of Bangalore. It is always full of people jostling for space and shopping to their heart’s content. The most popular items on offer on Commercial Street are clothes, footwear, jewellery, and electronic goods. And if you feel the hunger pangs, after hectic shopping, there are many eateries around that serve delicious fare.

Gandhi Bazar

If you want to get a feel of the old world charm of Bangalore, head to Gandhi Bazar, which is a riot of colours with carts overflowing with flowers . It is a great place to shop and drive a bargain or two.

You can shop for flowers, fruits, and vegetables, pooja articles, as well as sarees and other dress materials. The icing on the cake is the legendary eateries located in the vicinity. Shopping or just ambling around Gandhi Bazar is an unforgettable experience.

Malleshwaram Market

Another endearing place that oozes the vintage charm of Bangalore is Malleshwaram. A place that comes alive in resplendent colours with flowers of all shapes and fragrances. A place where shopping rises above the ordinary and literally assumes divine proportion. Head to Malleshwaram market for a shopping experience above the mundane.

Brigade Road

If you are looking for hep and swanky showrooms selling premium brands, then Brigade Road is the place to head to. Cauvery Emporium on M.G. Road at the beginning of Brigade Road is a place where you can buy handicrafts of Karnataka. And if you are feeling thirsty or hungry, there are plenty of up-market cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the vicinity.

Restaurants & Eateries In Bangalore

Bangalore offers an eclectic mix of options when it comes to food. You can choose from a mind-boggling range of international cuisine, Pan-Indian cuisine, or explore the wonders of Karnataka cuisine. If you are feeling hungry, you are sure to find a bite at arm’s length, wherever you are in the city. You can grab a bite at any of the hundreds of Darshinis (self-service eateries), that dot the city or choose to head to an upmarket cafe.

Some of the best things to taste and not to miss in Bangalore | Famous Bangalore Food/Snacks :

• Filter Coffee
• Masala Dosa
• Bisebele Bath
• Obattu ( Puran poli ) ( Kayi Holige – Coconut Holige and Bele Holige – Dal Holige )

We serve here some of the famous restaurants of Bangalore that are quintessential to the Bangalore experience.

Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR)

The restaurant is one of the oldest and most iconic of Bangalore’s eateries. It was started in 1924 and has been dishing out delicious local fare to an egalitarian clientele, ever since. The original restaurant is located right opposite the Lalbagh Gate.

The restaurant now has branches in other parts of the city, but the experience of eating in this restaurant that retains its vintage charm is a different experience. When you are at the restaurant, do not forget to bite into its Rawa Idli, which is its own invention.

Address: 14, Lal Bagh Main Rd, Doddamavalli, Sudhama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027. Distance From M.G.Road: 4 Kilometres.

Vidyarthi Bhavan

A restaurant that dates back to pre-independence days and was founded in the year 1943 is the unassuming Vidyarthi Bhavan. It is a restaurant tucked away behind a pavement flush with flower sellers in Gandhi Bazar. It is known for its mouth-watering Masala Dosas, which have acquired legendary status over the years.

Address: 32, Gandhi Bazaar Main Rd, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 7.8 Kilometres.

Mahalakshmi Tiffin Room

You are likely to pass this restaurant without even a second glance as you walk across the D.V.G. Road in Basavanagudi. However, if it is a weekend, the motley crowd waiting on the pavement for the restaurant to open is sure to pique your attention.

The restaurant is very close to Vidyarthi Bhavan and has its own loyal set of clients who swear by its Masala Dosas and Idlis. The restaurant retains its old-world atmosphere with its flooring and wooden furniture, as well as a menu scrawled on a blackboard. The restaurant has been serving its customers since 1926.

Koshy’s Parade Cafe

Another iconic restaurant that defines the cosmopolitan character of Bangalore is Koshy’s, located at a prime location of the city. The restaurant started as a bakery in 1940 and became a restaurant in 1952. The restaurant serves a wide range of national and international cuisine.

Address: DVG Road, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 6.8 Kilometres.

VV Puram Food Street

If you are looking for a food adventure in the evening, you must head to VV Puram, where the evening sees the birth of what is popularly known as Food Street. The night is filled with the aroma of food wafting from the many stalls that line both sides of the street.

You can experience the pleasures of local delicacies like Masala Dosas, to Chats, and exotic concoctions made of Gulkand, butter, and cut fruits. There is a mesmerizing smorgasbord of food to entice and seduce the palate.

Address: Vishweshwarapura, Shankarapura, Bengaluru 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 6.2 Kilometres.

Central Tiffin Room

A famous restaurant in the charming Malleshwaram area of Bangalore, Central Tiffin Room, popularly known as CTR, was started in the year 1920. The restaurant is now known as Sri Sagar Hotel. The restaurant serves an awesome breakfast and its Masala Dosas served with dollops of butter are all the rage. For locals, a visit to CTR is almost a daily religious ritual.

Address: 7th Cross Rd, Malleswaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003. Distance From M.G.Road: 5.9 Kilometres.

Bangalore Quick Facts

• The city of Bangalore is spread over an area of about 741 square kilometres
• Bangalore is a cosmopolitan city, and the languages spoken are Kannada, Hindi, English, Telugu, Tamil, and other Indian languages
• The currency is INR. and credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, digital forms of money transfer like PayTM, Google Pay, and others too are widely accepted
• Bangalore weather is pleasant throughout the year and you can expect rains in the months of May, June, and July, as well as in the winter months on account of the returning monsoons
• The population of Bangalore is about 1.2 crores

Getting To Bangalore

• Bangalore is the capital of the Southern Indian state of Karnataka
• Bangalore is well connected by road, rail, and air to different parts of India
• Bangalore is an international destination and is well connected to major cities of the world

R eaching Bangalore By Air

The city of Bangalore is served by the Kempegowda International Airport, which is about 37 kilometres from M.G.Road. The airport is connected to all major cities and towns of India, like Delhi , Ahmedabad , Kochi , Chennai, Goa , Mumbai , etc. It is also connected to major international destinations including Dubai, Paris , Colombo, Malaysia , Bangkok , etc.

R eaching Bangalore By Rail

Bangalore is a major railway junction that connects the city to places across the length and breadth of the country. There are many trains that originate and terminate in Bangalore. The main railway station is the Bangalore City Railway Station known as Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) station.

R eaching Bangalore By Road

Bangalore is well connected by the road network to other places within the state, as well as other states of India. KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation), has buses plying to locations across the state and beyond. The main KSRTC Bus Terminal is located in the Majestic area of the city, while there are satellite bus terminals at Mysore Road, Shanthinagar, etc.

If you are planning a trip to Bangalore in Karnataka , India then you can book a cheap flight through TripAdvisor or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline right here. If you are planning a road trip check out the options by self-drive car or cab or bus.

Getting Around Bangalore

Getting around Bangalore is easy and convenient, though you would need to factor in traffic delays, especially during peak hours, and in the commercial areas. The options for getting around Bangalore are as under:

• Namma Metro, depending on your destination, as only a few phases of the Metro is operational
• BMTC ( Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses ferry people to all nooks and corners of the city, it has ordinary buses as well as air-conditioned Volvo buses in its fleet, you can also opt for a day-pass that allows you to travel for the entire day on any route
• You can opt for app-based cab services like Uber, Ola, etc.
• You can also opt for the ubiquitous green and yellow autorickshaws which are also available app-based services
• You can also use environment-friendly options like app-based two-wheeler services
• To get a feel of the city and exercise your limbs you can walk around the city

Where To Stay In Bangalore

Bangalore is an international city and has a host of accommodation options to choose from. These depend on your budget and preference. You can choose from Uber-Luxury star hotels, resorts, or budget hotels, across the city.

You can book hotels in Bengaluru  ( Bangalore ) or resorts in Bengaluru (Bangalore) through,  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and save a lot by getting the best savings on booking your stay.

Bangalore FAQ

What are the top attractions to visit in Bengaluru? Bangalore has many attractions, from temples to gardens to heritage sites. Some of the top attractions are Vidhan Soudha, Bangalore Palace, Lal Bagh and the different temples and gardens of the city.

What are the best places to visit in Bangalore? Vidhan Soudha, Tipu Summer Palace, St Mary’s Basilica.

What are the top sightseeing places in Bangalore? The top sightseeing places in Bangalore are Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Bangalore Palace, Vidhan Soudha, Ulsoor Lake.

Which are the places to visit in Bangalore with family in the evening? Bangalore is a city of gardens and lakes, and these are great places to spend the evening with your family. Lal Bagh, Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, and Sankey Tank, are some of the places to head to in the evenings.

Where can I take my parents to Bangalore?

Bangalore is a city of temples, you can visit some of the famous temples of Bangalore like the Bull Temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, or Ragigudda Hanuman Temple. Many of the churches and gardens like Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh, also are great places to take your parents to.

Where can I spend a day in Bangalore? Bangalore has a lot of places to spend a day, from museums to gardens to theme parks. You can also head to a theme park like Wonder La or Innovative Film City for a full day outing.

Which place is best for a family trip in Bangalore? Visvesvaraya Museum, HAL Museum, Wonder La Amusement Park, Innovative Film City, Government Aquarium, Planetarium, and Bal Bhavan, are some of the places to visit and enjoy with family.

What are the most popular things to do in Bengaluru with children? Visvesvaraya Museum, HAL Museum, Wonder La Amusement Park, Innovative Film City, Government Aquarium, Planetarium, and Bal Bhavan, are some of the places to visit and enjoy with children.

We hope you liked our complete guide to Bangalore that covers the places to visit in Bangalore for curating a typical Bangalore experience. Do let us know if you need any further information about Bangalore from locals, that go beyond this Bangalore travel blog post. We hope you find the place to head to in Bangalore, whether you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore with friends or the best places to visit in Bangalore for couples.

Please do subscribe to our blog for more interesting and informative content, and follow our journey on our social media channels.

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17 thoughts on “60 best places to visit in bangalore – bengaluru travel guide”.

I was in Bangalore for around years and completed my post graduation there. Your list reminds me of so many amazing places that we have visited. And also there are so many that are yet to be explored. Would do soon. Thank you for the list.

Loved this post.✌. Bangalore has many places of tourist interest that guarantee an enjoyable time. But through your blog, I can say that Banglore has something for everyone. I have visited Banglore 4yrs back but 60 best places impossible to cover in one time 🙆‍♀️. Worth visiting again.

Wow this is so amazing and excited about it. I don’t visit place that. I am glad to know you shared that 60 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore and Bengaluru Travel Guide. I really loved it. Thanks for sharing.

I have spent 8 years in Bangalore, and this post brings back all those memories of visiting most of these places in Bangalore. Though, few I missed visiting from the list, but my favorite were visiting Bull Temple, Ragigudda Temple, MG Road, Cubbon park, Lalbagh, etc.

This is exhaustive and detailed places to visit. A complete guide.

I never knew that there are so many places to explore in teh city of Bangalore. In my visit to Bangalore I will take help of your post for preparing the itienary for sure.

I visited Bangalore very briefly for a business trip in 2019. And I didn’t get to see much, but I was staying near the St Marks Cathedral, so had a glimpse of that. Then walked around Cubbon Park. Now, all the others are on list, should I ever go again.

Wow!!! That’s quite a lot to comprehend but very informative as well. I didn’t know Bangalore have tons of amazing places to visit. As this Pandemic starts to fold off and we get to see more light with leisure travelling, this articles would come really handy on choosing a place to go to. Amazing writing! Take care of your body and it will take care of you. Make sure to do your Self-Care daily!😉www.mommywithagoal.com

I’ve visited most places that you’ve listed here especially the ones under the eatery section. Love the comprehensive list. Will check out the rest

That is such a wonderful list of places to visit in Bangalore. I am glad that I had been to many of these places when I used to stay in the city.

Wow! It is a big list of places to visit. The temples and the museums fascinates me a lot. Thank you for sharing.

Bangalore is often spoken about for the cosmopolitan lifestyle but such culturally rich monuments and places are often ignored.

Wow it seems like we haven’t seen India at all. So much to see in Bangalore alone. Proud of our nation

Wow such culturally rich places to visit. Never ever would think that there is another side of the save

Banglore is a beautiful place indeed. I have stayed in Bangalore for nearly an year but I now realise that I missed visiting so many good places. Will visit soon.

Very nice , informative and complete post. U have covered every possible aspect needed by a new traveller.

Bangalore is such a beautiful place… So many places to explore. This is very helpful travel guide for all. Thanks for sharing.

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Places To Visit In Bangalore

Top hotel collections.

5 Star Hotels

Nearby Resorts

Must Visit Places in Bangalore

Cubbon Park

Wonderla Amusement Park

Vineyard Tour

• Filter (104)
• Art Gallery (19)
• Garden & Park (14)
• Amusement & Theme Park (7)
• Forts & Palaces (7)

8 km from city center 1 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in : Jayanagar

Lalbagh botanical garden is home to numerous birds and wildlife and has a lake. It is popular for flower shows conducted here during Republic Day and Independence Day week. There is also a bonsai garden, topiary garden, lotus garden and rose garden inside.

2. Church Street

1 km from city center 2 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

About 750 m long, Church Street in Bangalore is one of the busiest and most beloved streets, named after St. Mark’s Cathedral. It is lined with gift shops, music shops, bookstores, restaurants and cafes, some of them being the oldest in the city, all selling a wide variety of products and tasty treats. There are days when artists set up shop out on the streets and sell their work that includes paintings, photo frames, posters and handmade items. There are arcades for children and adults to play at and tattoo parlours too.

3. Bannerghatta National Park

23 km from city center 3 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located 22 km away, the Bannerghatta National Park is a sanctuary for a large variety of flora and fauna. The main attractions here are an aquarium, a zoo, a Children's park, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park and a Prehistoric Animals' Park. It is also popular for hiking and trekking.

4. Bangalore Palace

3 km from city center 4 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in : Malleshwaram

The majestic Bangalore palace is a royal palace known for its architecture with beautiful carvings both inside and outside. It is owned by the Mysore Royal family. The sprawling grounds around the palace is ideal for a picnic.

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Best selling coorg holiday package from bangalore, historical hampi tour from bangalore, unforgettable ooty honeymoon package from bangalore, fun getaway from bangalore to mysore and ooty, essence of karnataka in 5 days, 5. cubbon park.

1 km from city center 5 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in : Central Bangalore

Cubbon Park is the most famous attraction in Bangalore. In addition to being a natural sightseeing destination, Attara Kacheri, Cubbon Park Museum, Bangalore Aquarium and Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park are also situated here.

6. ISKCON Temple, Bangalore

6 km from city center 6 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

ISKCON Bangalore is one of the largest Krishna Hindu temples in the world. The cultural complex accommodating dedicated deities of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda and Sri Prahlada Narasimha.

Top Hotels In Bangalore

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7. Wonderla Amusement Park

26 km from city center 7 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Wonderla is the best amusement park in Bangalore. It houses water, roller coaster rides, a Ferris wheel and some VR experiences.

8. Nandi Hills

45 km from city center 8 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Situated about an hour and a half from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a majestic trekking destination, roughly resembling a sleeping bull. It is a favorite among Bangaloreans for early morning drives to catch the sunrise.

9. Innovative Film City

29 km from city center 9 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Innovative Film City is an Indian movie theme park, popular for a day trip. It houses amusement park rides, museums, adventure sports among other things.

10. Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace

3 km from city center 10 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Tipu Sultan Palace was the summer residence of Tipu Sultan. It is now converted into a museum and is famous for its Indo-Islamic architecture consisting of ornamental frescoes, magnificent arches, protruding balconies and brilliant motifs. It is located inside the Bangalore Fort.

11. National Gallery Of Modern Art, Bangalore

2 km from city center 11 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

National Gallery of Modern Art is a two-storeyed museum based in a colonial-style residential building. It showcases the cultural ethos of India from periods as early as the 18th century. There is also a huge auditorium, a charming cafeteria, and a reference library here.

12. Commercial Street

2 km from city center 12 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Commercial Street is the oldest and busiest shopping place in Bangalore. It is famous for clothes, jewellery, electronics, footwear and local food joints.

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13. Art of Living International Centre

19 km from city center 13 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located 21 kms southwest of Bangalore on Kanakpura Road atop Panchagiri Hills, Art of Living Centre is the headquarters of the spiritual, cultural organization Art of Living Foundation, established by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

14. Vidhana Soudha

1 km from city center 14 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Vidhana Soudha houses the State Legislature and the Secretariat of Karnataka. Popularly known as the 'Taj Mahal of South India', it is one of the most magnificent buildings in the city. It is illuminated on Sunday and public holidays.

15. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

2 km from city center 15 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a popular attraction in Bangalore. The Sky Theatre is its main attraction which imitates the way the sky looks to us. There is also a mirror dome show, a science park, and a special programme conducted here first Sunday evening of every month.

16. Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum

0 km from city center 16 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum houses machines and artefacts related to science and technology. There are also interesting shows and the "Science for Kids" centre here. It is a fun place to visit with kids.

17. Ulsoor Lake

3 km from city center 17 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Constructed by Kempe Gowda II in the 2nd century, this lake was earlier known as Halsur or Alasur. Although not fit for swimming, boating can be enjoyed at the lake.

18. Shiva Temple, Bangalore

7 km from city center 18 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in : Indiranagar

The Shiva Temple of Bangalore is considered one of the most beautiful Shiva temples in India. It is landmarked by a huge white monolith of Lord Shiva in a an artificial pool of water and Himalayas all around.

19. UB City Mall

0 km from city center 19 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in the CBD (Central Business District) in Bangalore, this luxury mall is the one-stop destination for all your high-end brand needs. It is home to all the luxury beauty, shoes, jewellery, bags and fashion brands from all around the globe.

20. MG Road, Bangalore

2 km from city center 20 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

MG Road is one of the most popular shopping and entertainment hubs in Bangalore. It runs from Trinity Circle to Anil Kumble Circle. Items such as traditional handicrafts, silk, sarees and cutlery and bone china are available here. MG Road is also popular for pubs and nightclubs.

21. St. Mary's Basilica Bangalore

2 km from city center 21 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

St. Mary's Basilica is the oldest church in Bangalore and is the only church in the state that has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities it holds during the St. Mary's Feast, in September each year.

22. Indian Music Experience

9 km from city center 22 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Spread across 50,000 square feet, the Indian Music Experience in Bengaluru is the first interactive music museum of the nation that is most innovatively disrupting the conventional notion of museums among visitors. The Museum exhibits everything about Indian music under a single roof, right from classical to folk, regional and Bollywood.

23. Chunchi Falls

71 km from city center 23 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Chunchi Falls is a 50-ft high waterfall fed by the river Arkavati. It is a popular day trip from Bangalore, perfect for a family picnic. There is a watchtower on the way to falls offering a stunning view. Swimming is prohibited in the falls.

24. Fun World, Bangalore

4 km from city center 24 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Fun World Amusement Park is one of the most popular amusement parks in Bangalore. It houses various rides, roller coaster, Ferris wheel, bumper cars and a food court.

25. HAL Aerospace Museum

10 km from city center 25 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in : Marathahalli

HAL Aerospace Museum is India's first aerospace museum. It houses a display of various aircraft and helicopters, Aircraft engine models, Flight simulators, a mock Air Traffic Control Tower and exhibits of Indian aviation history.

26. Go-Karting, Bangalore

17 km from city center 26 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Go-karting is the most breathtaking activities available at many places in Bangalore, which can be enjoyed with family and friends.

27. Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley)

33 km from city center 27 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Muthyala Maduvu, popularly known as Pearl Valley, is a picnic spot and day trip from Bangalore. The main attraction here is a waterfall. It is also popular for trekking.

28. Bull Temple

4 km from city center 28 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

This temple is one of the oldest in Bengaluru, and is dedicated to Nandi, the bull who is the wagon of Lord Shiva.

29. Sankey Tank

5 km from city center 29 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Sankey Tank is a manmade lake, spread across an area of 37.5 acres near Vyalikaval, Malleshwaram and Sadashivanagar. The Maurya Sankey Boat Club offers guests a wide variety of boat rides, for example, rowboats, pedal boats and motorboats.

30. Devanahalli Fort

33 km from city center 30 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Known for its historical significance and archaeological brilliance, Devanahalli Fort is located 35 kms north of the city of Bangalore. Lately in ruins, the fort once was the birthplace and residence of the great warrior Tipu Sultan.

31. Maha Bodhi Society Temple

2 km from city center 31 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

A recent addition to the temples of Bengaluru, this one houses a library with a sprawling collection of texts and books on Buddhism and is constantly the hub of a number of spiritual retreats and lectures.

32. Cycling

3 km from city center 32 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Outskirts of Bengaluru are a cyclist's delight. One can rent a cycle from the multiple cycle groups available here such as Namma Cycle, Bums on the saddle, Bike Zone etc.

33. Bangalore Aquarium

1 km from city center 33 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in Cubbon Park, the Bangalore Aquarium is the most famous and largest aquarium in Bangalore and the second-largest in India. It offers on display a variety of ornamental and exotic cultivable fishes including Siamese Fighters, Catla, Freshwater Prawns, Goldfish, Red Tail Shark and many others.

34. Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple

6 km from city center 34 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Temple is dedicated to the Hindu God- Hanuman. It also houses a Shivalinga and beautiful shrines of Ram, Sita and Lakshman.

35. Venkatappa Art Gallery

0 km from city center 35 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in the premises of Karnataka Government Museum, Venkatappa Art Gallery situated on Kasturba Road, Cubbon Park flaunts over 600 paintings. Named after the most famous artist of Bangalore city - K. Venkatappa, the gallery houses resplendent works of other renowned artists as well.

36. Vineyards in Bangalore

36 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Discover the magic of winemaking in the heart of India's tech city with vineyard tours in Bangalore. These picturesque vineyards in Bangalore offer not just scenic beauty but also a deep dive into the art of wine creation. Whether you're a connoisseur or just curious, a vineyard tour in Bangalore promises an experience that tantalizes both the palate and the soul.

37. Halasuru Someshwara Temple

3 km from city center 37 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located in the suburbs of Halasuru (Ulsoor) in Bangalore, Halasuru Someshwara Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. Built in around the 12th and the 13th centuries by the Hoysalas, the temple is now managed and maintained by the Endowment Department of the Karnataka government.

38. Snow City

4 km from city center 38 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Snow City is a unique, one of a kind amusement located in JC Nagar in Bangalore. Covered in artificial snow and generously sprinkled with snow animal sculptures, toys and igloos, the theme park is a popular destination for the city folks especially the kids. Besides, the park also has a plethora of swings and slide for the children and a gorgeous snow castle.

39. Big Banyan Tree

23 km from city center 39 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

The Big Banyan Tree or locally called as the Dodda Alada Mara is a 400 year old banyan tree in the village of Kethohalli near Bangalore. Sprawling over a vast 3 acres of land, the tree is one of the largest of its kind.

40. Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park

2 km from city center 40 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Created in 1995 by B. N. A. Technology Consulting Limited, Hong Kong, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain is probably the most technically advanced and one of the biggest artificially created fountains in India. Located on T. Chowdaiah Road, the enthralling fountain has been based on multimedia technology, MIDI interfaces and hardware architecture.

41. Siddara Betta

82 km from city center 41 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Siddara Betta is a popular tourist attraction in the Tumkur district of Karnataka immersed in rocky boulders, temples and caves with an elevation of 1700 feet. The hillock is popular amongst trekkers and spiritual seekers alike, with one of the main attractions of the hill being the Lord Shiva temple enclosed in a cave that sees a fair number of devotees throughout the year.

42. Quad Biking

45 km from city center 42 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Quad Biking in Bangalore can be experienced either near Kanakpura Road or near Nandi Hills with the help of a company Dirt Mania. These Quad Bike Rides can cost somewhere from INR 500 to 5000 depending upon the Track, Trail and the length.

43. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

47 km from city center 43 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is almost 16 kilometres from the town of Kanakapura is a great trekking destination for a day trek. It is one of the highest hills in the neighbouring area and also houses a temple devoted to Lord Rangaswamy that is constructed under a large white granite monolith.

44. Avalabetta

68 km from city center 44 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Avalabetta often called as “Nandi Hills without the crowd” is a perfect place to relish the same scenic beauty as the Nandi Hills but without the commotion. Standing on the top of the hill, you can witness the magical view of lush green trees and variegated rocky terrain which is spread out profusely.

45. Manchanabele Dam

30 km from city center 45 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Manchanabele Dam is built on the water of the tranquil Arkavati River. It is replete with cool and clear water and is also surrounded by lush green trees in small hills. The panoramic views of the sky and the earth can be best observed during sunrise or sunset.

46. Skandagiri

51 km from city center 46 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

If you thought that trekking is an activity only to be done in the morning, you are certainly wrong. Skandagiri, a hilltown near Bangalore, gives you the opportunity to trek and explore the hills in the night while the moon is casting its light. Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga or Kalavara Betta is at an elevation of 1450 meters surrounded by the Nandi Hills. The hill has a ruined fort on the way which makes the night trek even more interesting by adding the element of horror. And the best part is that you can spend the night at the hilltop under the star. Not to forget the bonfire that is especially lit for the trekkers to sit around and enjoy the warmth.

47. Bananthimari Betta

51 km from city center 47 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Located at a distance of 3 kms from the town of Kanakapura near Bangalore, Bananthimari Betta is a twin hillock surrounded by lush green fields with patches of flowers and rocky surface in turns. The beautiful valley in between is laden with an emerald velvetine grass cover and through it flows the most quaint and beautiful stream ever.

48. Doddamakali

84 km from city center 48 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Situated at a distance of about 132 kms from the city of Bangalore on 6 kms from Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp, Doddamakali is a living example of pristine rustic charm and idyllic sylvan setting. The place makes for an ideal weekend getaway away from the hustle bustle and chaos of the city amidst natural surroundings and euphoric atmosphere.

49. Devarayanadurga

61 km from city center 49 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

Devarayanadurga or DD Hills which translates to “the fort of God” is a tranquil hill station located near Tumkur district in the state of Karnataka. Situated at an elevation of 4000 ft, Devarayanadurga is a perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore to live among the trees and visit the beautifully crafted temples.

50. Kanakapura

51 km from city center 50 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

In the state of Karnataka a beautiful city is nestled amongst trees and rivers which is great for a weekend getaway. Kanakapura is rich in heritage and culture. This place is a hidden gem bountiful in greenery and waterfalls. A few days in this wonderful and picturesque place will leave you rejuvenate.

51. Ranga Shankara

7 km from city center 51 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

If you’re the kind who prefers watching live performances over a drama, then this is the place for you. Situated in JP Nagar, this is one of the places to visit in Bangalore with friends where the theatre lovers head to catch up on some drama from across the globe. So, book those tickets and go enjoy a beautiful and affordable evening and get one of the best Bangalore experiences.

52. Smaaash, Bangalore

3 km from city center 52 out of 104 Places To Visit in Bangalore

If you've not yet visited Smaaash, you've been missing on a lot of fun. Smaaash is gigantic gaming and activity arena. Kids, adults, everyone will fall in love with this place the moment they step in. You can put your bowling skills to use, get lost in the world of VR Games, hop on the go-karts, shoot some hoops in arcade games, and what not. You can also unwind and grab a beer or two with your buddies. Tip: The prices here are towards the costlier side. Make sure to plan accordingly not to burn a hole in your pocket.

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The Ultimate Bangalore Travel Guide (2024)

Explore the vibrant charm of India’s Information Technology (IT) capital with our comprehensive Bangalore travel guide. Immerse yourself in the dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity as you navigate through the bustling streets and serene corners of the “Garden City.” Uncover hidden gems, from iconic landmarks to offbeat attractions, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this South Indian metropolis.

Have you ever observed how frequently people recommend places outside Bangalore when discussing things to do in the city ? A significant majority, around 60 to 70%, tend to do so. This inclination stems from the fact that despite Bangalore offering many activities, many residents prefer venturing beyond the city limits on weekends. However, Bangalore is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. In this post, delve into an elaborate travel guide that unveils the myriad attractions and activities within the city.

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Ultimate Bangalore Travel Guide

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Where is Bangalore?

Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, stands proudly as the capital city of Karnataka, India. It has become a bustling hub for the country’s Information Technology (IT) industry, earning various monikers such as the City of Lakes and the Garden City. The city’s landscape is dotted with numerous lakes, accentuating its natural beauty and earning it the title of the City of Lakes. Amidst the lush greenery and vibrant culture, Bangalore is renowned for its dynamic night scene, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Recognised as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore has a thriving IT sector has played a pivotal role in the country’s technological advancement. The city’s skyline is adorned with the headquarters of numerous multinational corporations, reflecting its status as a global IT destination. Beyond its technological prowess, Bangalore embraces a rich culture, blending tradition with modernity.

As day turns to night, the city comes alive with diverse entertainment options, from lively pubs and clubs to cultural events and music festivals. Bengaluru’s allure extends beyond its technological prominence, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and cultural charm that captivates visitors and residents alike.

How to Get to Bangalore?

There are four ways one can get into Bangalore city.

Being the epicentre of the IT industry, Bangalore serves as a pivotal hub for air travel, hosting the Kempegowda International Airport . This airport, operating internationally for various airline providers, features two domestic terminals, namely T1 and T2. Situated approximately 35 kilometres from the heart of Bangalore city, it efficiently connects the region to domestic and international destinations.

Indigo stands out as one of the preferred airlines for those seeking budget-friendly domestic travel options. The airline’s cost-effective approach provides a reliable choice for travellers exploring domestic routes from Bangalore.

As passengers navigate the Kempegowda International Airport, they can access the convenience of domestic terminals T1 and T2, enhancing their overall travel experience. Whether embarking on business ventures or leisurely escapades, the accessibility and diverse airline options from Bangalore’s airport make travel seamless and efficient.

India boasts one of the most efficient railway systems globally, with an extensive network connecting major cities and towns nationwide. Securing train tickets for your journey is convenient through the Indian Railways, and bookings can be easily facilitated via the official IRCTC website.

This streamlined online platform ensures a hassle-free experience for travellers exploring India’s diverse landscapes and vibrant destinations by train. Embrace the convenience of the well-connected railway system, offering a reliable and accessible mode of transportation to traverse the length and breadth of the nation.

Regular bus services efficiently link Bangalore to cities like Hyderabad , Chennai, Kochi , and other towns. Securing bus tickets for your desired routes is straightforward through the Redbus website. This user-friendly platform simplifies the booking experience, allowing travellers to conveniently plan their journeys and explore the connectivity offered by the extensive bus network connecting Bangalore to different regional destinations.

Bangalore enjoys excellent connectivity through well-maintained national highways, facilitating smooth travel. The roads surrounding the city are in impeccable condition, making it effortless to drive into Bangalore from other cities. Whether embarking on a road trip or commuting for business or leisure, the robust road infrastructure ensures a comfortable and efficient journey into the heart of Bangalore. Explore the convenience of well-connected highways, allowing seamless access to and from the city for a hassle-free travel experience.

How to Get to the City from Bangalore Airport?

There are two transportation options for commuting between Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore Airport) and various locations in the city:

By Airport Shuttle

The most economical mode of transportation to reach the airport is through the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) airport shuttles, known as Vayu Vajra. These buses, equipped with Volvo services, operate across 11 routes and have frequent pickups from various key bus stops in Bangalore. For the latest and most accurate schedule information, passengers can refer to the official BMTC website.

The fare for a single journey between the Airport and Majestic is approximately INR 270.

Below are the timings from the Kempegowda bus stop:

The fastest option is a taxi, and both Ola and Uber services are permitted within the airport premises. These ride-hailing services are more cost-effective compared to other taxi providers.

Meru Airport cabs are readily accessible and have a more extensive fleet, making them a convenient choice. Having experimented with various transportation options, I have developed a preference for Meru Airport cabs.

This choice stems from the fact that buses tend to consume a significant amount of time, and there can be instances where Uber/Ola cab drivers decline trips, leading to potential confusion and inconvenience. In my experience, Meru Airport cabs offer a more reliable and hassle-free mode of transportation to and from the airport. The fare for a trip to the airport typically ranges from INR 1200 to 1500 per ride.

For solo female travellers or parents journeying during unconventional hours, choosing Go Pink cabs, driven by female operators, is a viable option. I recently utilized Go Pink cabs and found them reliable, secure, and dedicated to providing complete protection to female passengers. It’s important to note that the fares for these cabs are slightly higher than regular Meru Cabs. You can conveniently hail them from the exact locations as Meru Cabs, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for female passengers.

For complete information on how to get around Bangalore, read Transport in Bangalore .

Where to Stay in Bangalore?

Being one of India’s prominent cities, Bangalore offers many accommodation choices , catering to various budgets, including both economical and luxurious hotels, especially for families .

The prime areas for accommodation in Bangalore are MG Road, Cunningham Road, Commercial Street, and Ulsoor. Positioned at the city’s centre, these locations ensure convenient accessibility to other attractions. Notable options for consideration include Taj Westend Bengaluru or Jayamahal Palace Hotel , providing a diverse range of amenities and services for a comfortable stay.

I suggest considering the luxurious Taj Westend Bengaluru , a 5-star hotel on Race Course Road, The Oberoi , ITC Gardenia , Four Seasons on Bellary Road, Hyatt Centric on MG Road , and the historic Jayamahal Palace Hotel near the Cantonment railway station for a premium stay.

Alternatively, for those seeking budget-friendly accommodations, Zostel Indiranagar is a recommended option.

Best Time To Travel to Bangalore

Bangalore, with its moderate climate, can be visited throughout the year.

• Winter (October to February) is generally considered the best time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant. This is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Summer (March to June) can be warm, but Bangalore’s elevation provides relief compared to other parts of India. It’s a good time for those who enjoy sunny weather. February and March emerge as an ideal period to witness the vibrant hues of Bangalore, with flowers, including Pink Trumpets , blossoming across the city, adding a burst of colour to the landscape.
• Monsoon (July to September) is the rainy season. Bangalore experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The city turns lush green, and the weather is relatively cool.

Overall, October to February are often recommended for a pleasant visit to Bangalore.

Number of Days Required for Bangalore

Bangalore beckons with many activities and diverse attractions, ranging from the advancements of the IT industry to the serenity of religious temples. To truly capture the city’s essence, a minimum of 3 days is recommended, providing a glimpse of its multifaceted charm. Extending your stay to 5 days allows for a more comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of all Bangalore offers.

Suppose time is a constraint; fear not! For those with just a day to spare, I recommend perusing my post One Day in Bangalore for the perfect itinerary to make the most of your brief visit.

Bangalore Travel Guide: Places To See and Things To Do

Beyond the renowned aspects of weather, pubs, traffic, and IT, Bangalore holds a rich tapestry of history and culture. For a comprehensive understanding before planning a visit, here are the top 10 things you need to know about Bangalore .

For a delectable culinary adventure, dive into Bangalore’s food guide if you’re a food enthusiast.

Before exploring the landmarks, take note of the following:

• Religious Places: Ensure to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
• Photography Rules: In India, there are specific rules for taking pictures. Always check with security guards or staff before capturing photographs.
• Security Awareness: Beware of pickpockets and safeguard your belongings.
• Wildlife Interaction: Refrain from feeding wildlife, especially monkeys.
• Kindness to Animals: Be considerate towards stray animals .
• Littering: Avoid littering and maintain cleanliness at all places.
• Night Safety: Exercise caution at night. Opt for proper booking providers like Go Pink Cabs, Uber or Ola rather than hailing taxis or auto-rickshaws on the streets.
• Public Transportation: Utilize metros as they offer a safer mode of transportation.

Famous Landmarks of Bangalore

Bangalore fort.

Constructed in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I , the founder of Bangalore, the Bangalore Fort initially took the form of a mud fort. Situated near the KR Market metro station, just a few hundred meters away, the fort is easily accessible by metro train.

Visitors can explore the historical site without incurring any entry fee. The fort is open for visitation from Monday to Saturday, with operational hours from 10 AM to 6 PM. This schedule provides ample time for individuals to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural significance encapsulated within the Bangalore Fort.

Bangalore General Post Office (GPO)

Serving as the primary post office in the city, the Bangalore General Post Office (GPO) operates as the head office and is situated in the area with the pin code 560 001.

It’s essential to note that the Bangalore GPO is a functional office. Visitors are welcome to explore the premises without needing an entry ticket, providing a glimpse into the city’s operational hub of postal services.

Bangalore Palace

The Bangalore Palace stands as the city’s foremost landmark and ranks among the top attractions in Bangalore. Completed in 1878, this architectural marvel is crafted in the Tudor Revival style.

For those eager to explore, the Bangalore Palace welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. A ticket must be purchased, obtainable at the palace entrance to enter. The pricing is as follows:

• INR 225 for Indian nationals.
• INR 450 for Foreign nationals.

Chitrakala Parishath

Adored by art enthusiasts, Chitrakala Parishath is an art museum and gallery. The complex houses 18 galleries that regularly host engaging exhibitions.

Opening its doors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, Chitrakala Parishath invites visitors to immerse themselves in artistic splendour. An entry fee of INR 50 per adult is applicable for admission, providing access to the vibrant world of creativity within the premises.

Government Museum

As one of India’s oldest museums and the second oldest in South India, the Government Museum boasts a rich legacy since its establishment in 1865. Its collection features a diverse array of archaeological and geological artifacts.

The museum warmly welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. An entry fee of INR 10 per adult grants access to this treasure trove of historical and geological wonders.

HAL Aerospace Museum

Founded in 2001, the HAL Aerospace Museum is India’s premier aerospace museum, making it a must-visit attraction in Bangalore.

Operating daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, the museum invites enthusiasts to explore its exhibits. For admission, there’s an entry fee of INR 50 per adult, with an additional charge of INR 20 for camera usage, allowing visitors to capture memories of their aerospace journey.

Established in 1884, the High Court of Bangalore functions as an operational judicial court.

Important Note: The High Court is a functioning government office. Visitors are advised to approach with respect and adhere to the guidelines regarding permissible activities within the premises.

Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain

Unveiled in 1995, the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain is India’s pioneer in computerized fountain parks.

Operating hours for the fountain park are as follows:

• Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM and 5 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Tuesday: 10 AM to 4 PM and 5 PM to 6:30 PM.
• Closed on Mondays.

Admission to the park requires an entry fee of INR 30 per adult.

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

Opened in 2009, the National Gallery of Modern Art is a distinguished art gallery housing exquisite paintings by eminent artists such as Raja Ravi Varma , Jamini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, and more.

The museum welcomes visitors during the following hours:

• Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
• Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

For admission, the entry fee is INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreigners.

Planetarium

The Planetarium holds a special place in my heart as my favourite spot in Bangalore. Operated by the Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE), it serves as a planetarium with captivating shows and functions as a science centre.

Opening its doors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM on Tuesday to Sunday, the Planetarium offers a fascinating experience. However, it is closed on Mondays. The entry fee for adults is INR 75, providing an affordable opportunity to explore the universe’s wonders.

Rangashankara

Rangashankara , a renowned theatre in Bangalore, is the premier venue for witnessing exceptional plays. Established in 2004 by the esteemed Kannada film star Arundathi Nag, Rangashankara has become a cultural hub for theatrical performances.

For information regarding ticket prices and timings, it is advisable to check the details specific to each play, as they may vary based on the production.

Sandesh Museum, a Museum of Communication

Sandesh Museum is a dedicated repository chronicling the evolution of Indian communication throughout history. Nestled on Museum Road, this museum finds its abode in a heritage building dating back to 1804.

Visitors can explore the museum’s treasures from 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Saturday. It’s worth noting that there is no entrance fee, providing an open invitation to delve into the fascinating journey of Indian communication.

State Library

Situated within Bangalore’s Cubbon Park is the State Library, a historic edifice constructed in honour of the longest-serving Dewan of Mysore.

The library operates from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, with closure on Mondays. Notably, there is no entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore the library’s rich heritage without cost.

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace

Constructed in 1791, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace served as the summer residence for the ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan. The palace is a splendid representation of Indo-Islamic architectural style and a testament to historical grandeur.

Open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, visitors can explore the palace. Admission fees are INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals. While still cameras incur no additional charge, a video camera requires a separate ticket of INR 25 and the need to obtain permission.

Vidhana Soudha

Serving as the seat of the bicameral state legislature of Karnataka, Vidhana Soudha was built in 1956, showcasing the distinctive Mysore Neo-Dravidian architectural style.

The Vidhana Soudha welcomes visitors for external viewing from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. While there is no entry ticket for tourists, access to the interior is granted only with permission or for individuals engaged in government-related activities.

Fun Activities

Amoeba is an exciting entertainment complex in the heart of Bangalore. It serves as a trendy hangout spot where individuals can indulge in activities like pin-bowling and various other forms of entertainment.

Fly a Plane

Embarking on Microlight flying at Jakkur is an essential experience for anyone in Bangalore. The small aircraft accommodates only two individuals – the pilot and the co-pilot.

This thrilling experience comes with a cost of approximately INR 3500 (USD 50). For bookings, you can contact them via their Facebook page, “Microlight Flying Adventures.”

Fun World , located in the Palace Grounds of Bangalore, is an amusement park featuring a variety of rides and a water park.

Entry tickets range from INR 499 to INR 999 per adult. Conveniently, tickets can be purchased online for a hassle-free experience.

Meet Locals

The streets are brimming with adorable locals and furry companions. Make sure to pause and greet one of them, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the affectionate response you receive.

Do you love wildlife and want to volunteer in Bangalore? Then you must spend a day or two at the Bear Rescue Centre in Bannerghatta .

Bangalore is adorned with abundant street art, enhancing the city’s aesthetic appeal. These captivating artworks can be discovered throughout the city, with street art in Malleshwaram being a particularly picturesque location. Other notable spots to explore vibrant street art in Bangalore include Church Street and MG Road.

Religious Places

Dodda ganapathi temple.

Devoted to Lord Ganesha, the Dodda Ganapathi Temple stands as one of the most renowned religious sites in Bangalore .

The temple welcomes visitors daily from 6:30 AM to 1 PM and 4:30 PM to 8 PM.

Iskcon Temple

Nestled on the west side of Chord Road, the Iskcon Temple in Bangalore is a revered sanctuary dedicated to the divine couple Radha and Krishna. This iconic temple stands as a testament to spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.

The tranquil ambience of Iskcon draws devotees and visitors alike. The temple provides serenity and prayer by opening its doors on weekdays from 7:15 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 8:20 PM. During weekends, the temple extends its hours, welcoming devotees from 7:15 AM to 8:20 PM.

As you enter the premises, the divine atmosphere envelops you, creating a space for contemplation and connection. The temple’s architecture blends traditional and modern elements, making it a spiritual centre and an architectural marvel.

Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple

The Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a captivating and ancient religious site in Bangalore’s Malleshwaram area.

This serene temple invites devotees to offer their prayers during specific hours. It opens from 6 AM to 11 AM, providing a tranquil morning setting for worshipers. In the evening, the temple reopens from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, allowing visitors to experience the spiritual ambience as the day draws closer.

The Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple serves as a place of devotion and carries the weight of history, offering a glimpse into Bangalore’s cultural and religious heritage. Amidst the bustling city, this sacred sanctuary provides a serene retreat for those seeking solace and connection with the divine.

St Andrew’s Church

Situated on Dickinson Road, St Andrews Church is a significant landmark in Bangalore, embodying the rich history of Presbyterian worship. Consecrated in 1866, this architectural marvel was initially called St. Andrews’s Kirk. The church derives its name from the patron saint of Scotland, adding a touch of historical and cultural significance to its identity.

St. Andrews Church is a testament to the enduring legacy of Christian worship in Bangalore. The structure seamlessly blends architectural elegance with a spiritual aura, creating a sanctuary for locals and visitors.

As you step onto the hallowed grounds, the church’s neo-Gothic design and intricate detailing captivate the eye. The tranquil ambience within the church walls provides a space for reflection and prayer, allowing individuals to connect with their faith in a serene environment.

Preserving its historical charm, St. Andrews Church continues to be a revered place of worship, inviting individuals to delve into its heritage and partake in the spiritual journey it offers to those who seek solace and communion.

The Shiva Temple

Constructed in 1995, the Shiva Temple proudly hosts the most giant Shiva statue in Bangalore, towering at an impressive height of 65 feet, symbolizing a beacon of hope. Renowned sculptor Kashinath meticulously crafted this monumental representation.

Unlike conventional opening hours, the Shiva Temple opens its gates to devotees and visitors around the clock, making it accessible 24 hours a day. This perpetual availability allows individuals to immerse themselves in prayer and contemplation at any time that suits them.

Adding to its accessibility, the temple graciously welcomes everyone without imposing an entry ticket. This inclusive approach encourages people from all walks of life to experience the spiritual ambience and marvel at the majestic Shiva statue within the temple premises.

Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple

Tucked away as a hidden gem in Bangalore, the Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple in Malleshwaram unveils a unique charm—having been concealed under sand until its recent excavation.

The temple opens its doors daily, allowing visitors to discover its historical allure. Operating hours extend from 7:30 AM to noon and resume from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This schedule offers ample opportunities for devotees and curious explorers to witness the beauty and sanctity of the temple.

The Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple not only stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage but also invites individuals to delve into the mystery and significance beneath its sacred grounds. A visit to this temple promises spiritual enrichment and a fascinating glimpse into the historical layers that make Bangalore unique.

Public Parks and Lakes

Bangalore is affectionately called the “City of Lakes” owing to the plethora of picturesque lakes that grace its landscape.

Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park , also recognized as Sri Chamrajendra Park, is a historic gem in Bangalore. Renowned as one of the city’s iconic destinations, it offers an ideal setting for a tranquil morning or afternoon amidst nature.

Opening its gates daily, Cubbon Park invites visitors from 6 AM to 6 PM. This expansive timeframe allows individuals to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings and lush greenery that define the park’s charm. Whether seeking a peaceful stroll, a leisurely break, or a moment of reflection, Cubbon Park stands as a welcoming haven within the bustling cityscape of Bangalore.

Hebbal Lake

Established in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, Hebbal Lake emerges as a splendid locale for witnessing breathtaking sunsets and observing the diverse avian species of Bangalore. Located approximately 13 kilometres from the Majestic bus stop, the lake beckons nature enthusiasts and sunset admirers alike.

Hebbal Lake graciously welcomes visitors from 7 AM to 8 PM, providing a generous timeframe to relish the natural beauty and serenity it offers. Whether it’s a stroll along the lakeside or a moment of birdwatching tranquillity, Hebbal Lake is a delightful destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Lalbagh , a botanical garden in Bangalore, derives its name from “Red Garden” and “Beloved Garden” in literal translation. Lalbagh is home to over 1000 species of plants and is a verdant haven for nature enthusiasts.

The botanical garden hosts two yearly flower shows, showcasing the vibrant blooms that grace its landscape.

Open to the public from 8 AM to 6 PM, Lalbagh provides a serene retreat for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of its diverse flora.

An entry fee of INR 20 per person is applicable to explore the botanical wonders within. This nominal fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of Lalbagh, ensuring that it remains a cherished botanical gem for generations to come.

Sankey Tank

Established in 1882 by Co. Richard Hieram Sankey, Sankey Tank is a picturesque lake in Malleswaram and Sadashivnagar’s suburbs. Renowned for its scenic beauty, it has become a popular destination for morning jogs and evening strolls.

While enjoying the natural surroundings, it’s essential to exercise caution regarding snakes. Having personally encountered one during an evening walk, I advise being vigilant and refraining from causing harm to these creatures. Generally, if left undisturbed, snakes will not pose a threat.

Sankey Tank welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 8 PM, providing ample time to relish its tranquillity. Boating is available for those seeking a more adventurous experience, and boats can be conveniently hired at the park. This additional activity adds to the charm of Sankey Tank, making it a versatile and enjoyable destination for nature enthusiasts.

Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake, a historical reservoir, served as the centrepiece of the British-built cantonment town and stands as one of the largest lakes in Bangalore.

Open to the public daily, Ulsoor Lake welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 8 PM, offering a serene environment to enjoy its historical significance and natural beauty. The only exception to its regular schedule is Wednesday. Whether for a peaceful morning stroll, a leisurely afternoon, or a delightful evening outing, Ulsoor Lake provides a scenic retreat in the heart of Bangalore.

Shopping and Street Markets

As per Mercer’s 2020 Cost of Living survey , Bangalore has secured the position of the fourth most expensive city in India. It’s crucial to be aware that shopping in the city may not come at a cheap price.

Commercial Street

Commercial Street, also known as “Comm Street,” stands out as one of the most renowned shopping destinations in Bangalore. The street’s allure lies in the vibrant colours of jewellery and clothing, captivating shoppers’ attention.

This bustling street is dedicated to many shops, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for those seeking a diverse and exciting shopping experience.

Malleswaram Market

Malleswaram represents a neighbourhood steeped in the heritage of born and bred Bangaloreans, belonging to the vintage era of old Bangalore.

The bustling shopping centre at the 11th cross of Bangalore within Malleswaram is a vibrant hub teeming with numerous street vendors, offering a lively and diverse shopping experience.

Jayanagar 4th Block

The Jayanagar 4th Block shopping complex is a trendy destination for shopping and food. Explore this vibrant complex for an enjoyable street shopping experience.

Shopping Centres and Malls

Bangalore boasts numerous shopping centres and malls with many brands and large stores. Visiting these malls is recommended if you’re searching for standardized prices and quality branded items.

It’s important to note that haggling is not customary in these shopping centres and malls. The prices are generally fixed, offering a convenient and straightforward shopping experience for those seeking branded products.

Discover Bangalore by Walk

Exploring the suburbs and areas of Bangalore is best done on foot, allowing for a more immersive experience. Numerous walks are available, covering heritage and history trails. Bengaluru Prayana , an initiative led by my friend and me, is dedicated to guiding tourists and locals through regular weekend walks, delving into trails that offer insights into the rich culture and history of the city.

Gallery Walk between the Trinity Circle and Church Street

Embark on a picturesque journey of discovery by taking a leisurely walk between Trinity Circle and Church Street in Bangalore. This enchanting stroll spans 2.5 kilometres, allowing you to savour the experience relaxedly.

Commencing from Trinity Circle and culminating at Church Street, this delightful walk unveils the beauty of Bangalore’s museum and gallery offerings. The 2.5-kilometre route is marked by a seamless blend of cultural and artistic treasures, creating an enriching experience for those participating in this exploration.

• Starting Point : Trinity Circle.
• Finishing Point : Church Street.
• Total Distance : 2.5 kilometres.
• Grade : Very easy.

The walk, graded as “very easy,” caters to all levels of walkers, ensuring that individuals of varying fitness levels can enjoy it. With each step, you’ll witness the vibrant tapestry of Bangalore’s cultural heritage, making this short journey a captivating and accessible excursion for locals and visitors alike. So, set forth from Trinity Circle and meander along this scenic route, immersing yourself in the cultural gems that unfold until you reach the charming destination of Church Street.

Walk Covering the Three Churches of MG Road

Embark on an effortless journey exploring the three churches near MG Road with a relaxed walk suitable for experienced and inexperienced walkers alike. This stroll requires minimal time, making it accessible for everyone.

Commencing at Trinity Church and concluding at St. Andrew’s Church, this 2.2-kilometer route encompasses the graceful beauty of Holy Trinity, East Parade, and St. Andrew’s Churches. Designed as a “very easy” walk, it caters to individuals of varying walking abilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

• Starting point : Trinity Church.
• Finishing point : St Andrews Church.
• Total distance : 2.2 kilometres.

As you set out from Trinity Church, meander through the enchanting path, absorbing these three churches’ tranquil ambience and historic charm. The brief yet enriching journey promises a glimpse into the architectural marvels and an opportunity to delve into the spiritual heritage embedded in these sacred sites. So, lace up your walking shoes, start from Trinity Church, and embrace the ease of this delightful exploration until you reach the serene destination of St. Andrew’s Church.

Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road and Brigade Road Night Walk

Engaging in a stroll along MG Road and Brigade Road used to be my cherished post-work activity on Friday nights. The lively streets pulse with energy as the city awakens, with crowds revelling in the weekend and the vibrant nightlife.

Note: Exercise caution, especially if walking alone, particularly during nighttime.

Walk between Malleshwaram and MG Road

Among the various walks, this stroll is slightly longer but promises a rewarding experience with abundant sightseeing opportunities. The journey from Malleshwaram to MG Road encompasses numerous landmarks and heritage buildings, providing a rich cultural exploration.

Commencing at Malleshwaram and concluding at MG Road, this 13-kilometer walk is graded as “moderate,” making it suitable for those seeking a more extended yet manageable journey. As you embark on this immersive experience, you’ll encounter the historic gems and architectural wonders that define Bangalore’s heritage.

• Starting point : Malleshwaram .
• Finishing point : MG Road.
• Total distance : 13 kilometres.
• Grade : Moderate.

So, commence your walk from the vibrant streets of Malleshwaram and let the journey unfold, offering a delightful blend of cultural richness and scenic beauty until you reach the bustling destination of MG Road.

Is Bangalore Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Bangalore is a notably safe city in India for solo female travellers. Nonetheless, exercising caution and staying aware of your surroundings, particularly during nighttime, is crucial. Avoid hailing auto rickshaws or taxis without prior online booking for night rides. Always ensure that a friend or family member is informed about your location and plans, enhancing your overall safety in the city.

Closing Notes

Nestled among India’s most enchanting cities, Bangalore beckons with its allure and abundant offerings. Beyond being a mere transit hub, it is a city deserving your time and exploration. This comprehensive Bangalore travel guide encompasses all the essential information to enhance your experience in this vibrant city. Should you have any further inquiries or seek personalized insights, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] . Happy exploring!

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• 30 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore In 2024 That Will Make You Fall In Love With The City

23 Mar 2023

Bangalore, popularly known as the ‘Garden City’ represents a rich cultural heritage of the past era combined with modern and high-tech facilities. Experience the amalgamation of both of them on your visit to Bangalore, the south Indian city. The friendly climatic scenario offers a pleasant stay condition that makes your journey a worthwhile one. Offering several amusement parks to heritage buildings, the city is a traveler’s paradise. Let us have a look at some of the best tourist places to visit in Bangalore that make up for the city’s heritage and pride.

30 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore In 2024

Looking for the most interesting avenues in Bangalore to explore? Here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Bangalore in case you are planning to trip with friends, family, or even solo. Make sure you include them all in your holiday itinerary.

• Bangalore Palace
• Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
• Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens
• Nandi Hills
• Cubbon Park
• National Gallery Of Modern Art
• Ulsoor Lake
• Government Museum
• Vidhana Soudha
• Krishna Rajan Market
• Devanahalli Fort
• Janapada Loka
• Sankey Tank
• Venkatappa Art Gallery
• Attara Kacheri
• Wonder La Water Park
• Commercial Street
• ISKCON Temple, Bangalore
• Innovative Film City
• Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
• Grips Go Karting
• Shiva Temple
• Bangalore Aquarium
• HAL Aerospace Museum
• Lumbini Gardens
• Bannerghatta National Park
• UB City Mall
• St. Mary’s Basilica

1. Bangalore Palace

Image Credit: Bikashrd for Wikimedia Commons

Built by Chamaraja Wodeyar in the year 1887, Bangalore Palace is an inspired design by England’s Windsor Castle and is one of the best tourist places in Bangalore. The evocative palace comprises fortified arches, towers, Tudor-style architecture, and green lawns along with sophisticated wood carvings in the interior. It is where the royal family still resides at the present. This Tudor-style architectural creation is nothing less than an epitome. The palace has earned foundations that have been attributed to the Wodeyars of Mysore.

Location: Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru Timings: Sunday to Monday from 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM Entry Fee: INR 230 for Indians, INR 460 for foreigners

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2. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace

Image Credit: Dineshkannambadi for Wikimedia Commons

Located in the most crowded market area, Tipu Sultan Fort ideally represents the artistic talent which thrived in the past and is among the most fascinating Bangalore tourist places. The ‘Rashk-e-Jannat’ is the summer heaven of the ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan. The ruler is largely celebrated for the heroics across the battlefield. With a large appetite for art and culture, the palace is a typical example of the architecture and features sturdy columns along with motifs. A perfect example of Indo-Islamic architecture, the palace is the perfect example of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Location: Albert Victor Road, Bangalore Timings: Monday to Sunday, 8.30AM – 5.30 PM Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians and INR 200 for foreigners

3. Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens

Image Credit: AmanDshutterbug for Wikimedia Commons

This botanical garden is one of the most alluring places to visit in Bangalore, and perhaps all of India. Built by Haider Ali, the garden was later modified by Tipu Sultan. The garden comprises a glass house which was inspired by the London Crystal Palace. Wonderfully spread across a huge land of 240 acres, the garden has a large variety of 1800 species of plants, trees and herbs.

Location: Mavalli, Bangalore Timings: Monday to Sunday, 6.00 AM to 7.00 PM Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 15 for children

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4. Nandi Hills

Image Credit: Sarangib for Pixabay

A perfect location to be one with nature, the hills are located 60kms away from the city, which makes it an ideal destination if you are preparing a list of places to visit in Bangalore within 100 kms. One the most popular viewpoint in Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one among the renowned places to visit in Bangalore for couples. With river Arkavathi and Palar originating from the hill area, it was later named after the famous Nandi Temple and was situated at the top of the hill. Situated at a height of 1478 above the sea level, it offers a pleasant climate.

Location: Chikkaballapur district Timings: Open all days Entry Fee: No entry fee

5. Cubbon Park

Situated over a sprawling 300 acres of land, the park was constructed by Richard Sankey. This massive green park along with well-maintained lawns deserves a special mention. Offering statues of famous personalities, the park is one among the popular places to visit in Bangalore with friends.

Location: Kasturba Road, Behind High Court of Karnataka Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bangalore Timings: Open on all days Entry Fee: No entry fee

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6. National Gallery Of Modern Art

Image Credit: Rameshng for Wikimedia Commons

The National Gallery for Modern Art, a collection of 500 paintings and a must visit for history lovers. Housing the works of popular artists including Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and others, the gallery is a heaven for art lovers.

Location: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar, Bangalore Timings: Monday to Sunday, 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 1 for children, INR 150 for foreigners

7. Ulsoor Lake

Image Credit: Ali Rizvi for Wikimedia Commons

The picturesque lake is spread over an area of 125 acres and is located in the heart of the city. Constructed by Kempegowda II, the lake offers boating facilities that are provided by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation. A walking track situated around the lake is among the several places to see in Bangalore.

Location: Ulsoor Lake, Halasuru Timings: 5.00 am until 7.30 pm Entry Fee: No entry fee

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8. Government Museum

Image Credit: PP Yoonus for Wikimedia Commons

Built in the year 1886, the museum houses a few rare collections and represents multiple periods. 18 galleries in the museum comprise antique jewellery, Neolithic finds of varied civilizations and many others. Serving as one of the most famous places to go in Bangalore, the museum is a must-visit.

Location: Kasturba Road, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bangalore Timings: 9.30 am – 5.00 pm Entry Fee: INR 15 (Indians), INR 250 (foreigners)

9. Vidhana Soudha

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One of the best examples of Indo Saracenic and Dravidian architecture, Vidhana Soudha is a popular landmark in the Garden City. Its foundation stone was laid by Jawaharlal Nehru in the year 1951 and was finally completed in the year 1956. The largest legislative building in India, is situated close by to Cubbon Park that offers the opportunity to tourists to visit the two popular Bangalore sightseeing places at a go.

Location: Vidhana Soudha, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar Timings: Monday-Friday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Entry Fee: prior permission is required

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10. Krishna Rajan Market

Image Credit: HiteshHtSharma for Pixabay

The evergreen and vibrant local market is not only a traveller’s delight but also a treat for the photographers. The place offers a strikning flower market that offers a variety of spices, fresh produce and copper items which makes it one of the most famous markets in Bangalore . If the colourful senses appeal to you, this market is the place to be. Visit the place during the early morning and experience the colourful market scenario swarmed with crowd.

Location: New Tharagupet, Bengaluru Timings: Morning hours Entry Fee: No entry fee

11. Devanahalli Fort

The archaeological site was built by a scion of the popular Morasu Wokkalu family by the name Mallabairegowa. The fort was initially in turmoil since its inception days due to falling into the clutches of multiple rulers and is known for being one of the famous places in Bangalore. This greatly explains the fortification that features heavy masonry along with huge bastions. Also, it is pretty easy to get to this fort since so many famous homestays in Bangalore are located near it.

Location: Devanahalli, Karnataka Timings: Open 24 hours Entry Fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: 8 Places To Visit In Bangalore In June

12. Janapada Loka

Image Credit: Gopal Venkatesan for Wikimedia Commons

Janapada Loka, the folk world in Kannada offers a folk setting and is one among the several touristy places in Bangalore offering mimics the traditions and culture of the land. The establishment features an amalgamation of 5,000 folk artists which represents the varied cultures of the state. Janapada Loka offers subdivisions such as Chitra Kuteera and Loka Mahal.

Location: Bangalore-Mysore Highway, State Highway 17, Ramanagar District Timings: Closed on Tuesdays, 9.00 AM – 5.30 PM Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, and INR 5 for children

13. Sankey Tank

Image Credit: Eric Phelps for Wikimedia Commons

A huge man-made tank located in West Bangalore, serves as one of the popular landmarks of the present. While the construction took place in the year 1882 during the wake of the Great Famine of 1876-78, the tank was built to be the solution for water scarcity. The periphery offers a well-lit walkway along with benches for visitors to stroll and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Location: Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram Timings: Open all days, 6.00 AM to 8.00 PM Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children, INR 20 for boating

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14. Venkatappa Art Gallery

Image Credit: Ananth Subray for Wikimedia Commons

The art gallery was built to commemorate the demise of the popular artisan of Karnataka, K. Venkatappa. The museum displays a sprawling gallery filled with the collections and watercolour works on display. The prestigious display offers an archaeological museum which is a home to several artifacts comprising of significant historical value.

Location: Kasturba Road, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM Entry Fee: 10 INR for adults and 5 INR for children

15. Attara Kacheri

Image Credit: Polytropos-Commons for Wikimedia Commons

The entrance of Cubbon Park houses the eye-catching red coloured building that was built under the reign of the ruler, Tipu Sultan. Located opposite to Vidhana Soudha, the State Central Library Building is one among the unique places to visit in Bangalore. The highlight of the museum comprises a collection of artefacts along with stone carvings that were created back in the 12th century.

Location: Dr Ambedkar Veedhi Opposite to Vidhana Soudha Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM Entry Fee: No entry fee

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16. Wonder La Water Park

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Adventure on your mind? Take your family to Wonderla Bangalore, one of the best amusement parks and places to see in Bangalore. Luring in a large influx of youngsters and families year-round, this park is perfect for those who wish to experience an adrenaline rush in a world-class waterpark that is safe and inexpensive at the same time. The high-thrill dry rides of this park are the star attraction here, but it’s also famous for its numerous water rides and shows, and there are about 60 of such rides that you can enjoy here!

Location: 28th Km, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109 Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: Starting at INR 700

17. Commercial Street

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If shopping is what drew you to this city, then you must visit Commercial Street, which is known to be one of the best places in Bangalore for shopping and dining. Situated in the Central Business District of Bangalore, this long street houses a number of small-scale shops, thrift stores, as well as high-end boutiques to cater to both budget shoppers and those looking for a lavish retail experience. Whether you’re looking for branded fashion or just some silk sarees from a local store, you’ll find it all here. And when you’re tired of shopping, you can sit at one of the streetside eateries and gorge on a plate or two of street food in Bangalore.

Location: Commercial Street, Tasker Town, Bengaluru 560001, India Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Entry Fee: Nil

Suggested Read: 2 Days Trip From Bangalore

18. ISKCON Temple, Bangalore

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Tucked in the Rajajinagar area of Bangalore, ISKCON Temple is among the most revered temples in India dedicated to Lord Krishna. This particular shrine is under the guidance of Madhu Pandit Dasa and also happens to be a cultural complex rather than just a place of worship. Known to be one of the most respected Bangalore tourist places, it is also famous for its active involvement in social causes and its contribution to helping people rediscover spirituality and foster growth.

Location: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010 Timings: 7 AM – 8:30 PM Entry Fee: Nil

19. Innovative Film City

The Innovative Film City in Bengaluru happens to be a famous Indian theme park situated in Bidadi, which is just an hour’s drive away from the main city of Bangalore. One of the most popular places to visit near Bangalore, this place is spread over an enormous area of over 58 acres and is a great place for someone who wishes to see the magical world of cinema up close. Other than behind the scenes tours and visits to famous sets, this place also has plenty of avenues to shop, eat, and simply walk around and explore.

Location: 24 & 26, Kiadb Estates,birmangla cross, Bidadi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109 Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM Entry Fee: Starting at INR 600

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20. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

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Administered by the Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE), the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is among the most intriguing and enlightening places to see in Bangalore for not just space enthusiasts, but for anyone with a keen mind. This popular attraction is visited by kids, teachers, as well as people fascinated by astronomy and space in large numbers courtesy its interactive ways of learning and imparting knowledge which are rather fun and interesting. You can know everything from how stars are formed to what black holes are in the most exciting ways through the use of multimedia techniques, making it one of the best places to explore in Bangalore.

Location: Sri T, Sankey Rd, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001 Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM Entry Fee: INR 60

21. Grips Go Karting

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There’s more to the Garden City than meets the eye. It has an adventurous side that not many know about. Grips Go Karting is one such fantastic place here that offers go-karting to adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies in a fun and safe environment. Racing enthusiasts can just pick a car of their choice and try their skills at one of the most famous adventure sports in Bangalore all at a very nominal fee. There is a range of karts available here, including those with a motorless mode. Other wonderful tourist places in Bangalore for this activity are Race-Race Gokarting, E-Zone Club, and Patel Karting. You can also try your hand at bowling and paintball here.

Location: Survey No. 68, Mysore Rd, Anchepalya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560074 Timings: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM Entry Fee: Starting at INR 150

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22. Shiva Temple

Considered to be one of the most spectacular Shiva temples in India , Shiva Temple attracts numerous visitors every day and is among the top religious places to visit in Bangalore with family. Home to stunning statues of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathi, this temple is a major source of attraction devotees coming from near and far to offer prayers and seek blessings at this temple. The best time to visit the Shiva Temple is around the festivals like Diwali and Shivratri when the temple premises are decked up in glittering lights winking at passersby and becomes the host of folk dance and music.

Location: Banashankari, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070 Timings: Open 24X7 Entry Fee: INR 150

23. Bangalore Aquarium

Image Credit: Needpix.com

Situated in Cubbon Park, Bangalore Aquarium is among the most famous places to visit in Bangalore as well as the second-largest aquarium in the country. Built in 1983, this scenic aquarium has a range of ornamental and exotic fish on display, the likes of which include Siamese Fighters, Freshwater Prawns, Catla, Red Tail Shark, Goldfish, and many more. This diamond-shaped building has over 80 tanks in total where people can observe bizarre varieties of aquatic flora and fauna like eels, horsefish, tiger fish, angelfish, pearl gourami, moon tail, and more.

Location: Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001 Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM Entry Fee: INR 15

Suggested Read: 19 Ancient Temples In India

24. HAL Aerospace Museum

Image Credit: Shovon76 for Wikimedia Commons

HAL Aerospace Museum holds a prestigious place in the list of the major places to see in Bangalore. Established with an aim to educate the masses on important aspects like the journey of HAL, which is among Asia’s largest and most crucial aeronautical companies, this museum is an eminent attraction for young minds as well as those fascinated by India’s achievements on the astronomical front. It talks of the giant leaps that Indian aviation has taken in commercial aspects as well as for the defense sector.

Location: Near HAL Police Station, HAL Old Airport Rd, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560037 Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Entry Fee: INR 50 (free for kids)

25. Lumbini Gardens

Image Credit: Marinaphotographyhenna for Wikimedia Pixabay

This spectacular public park is located on the banks of the Nagawara Lake in Bangalore and is believed to be dedicated to Lord Buddha. While it is not as famous as other parks across South India, it is a treat to the eyes nevertheless and one of the must-visit places in Bangalore. It’s a great place Complete with a kid’s park, boating club, attractive fountains, stunning statues, and some rare plants that add a touch of beauty to its serene landscape. Whether you choose to take a boat ride with bae or just a refreshing morning walk in its green environs, you’ll end up falling in love with this verdant space!

Location: Outer Ring Rd, Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045 Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Entry Fee: INR 50

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26. M.G. Road

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Bangalore sightseeing is incomplete without paying a visit to M.G. Road there. Perhaps one of the busiest roads there in Bangalore, this destination is the hub for all the recreational and commercial activities that the younger crowds of Bengaluru indulge in. This one-stop destination is perfect for a weekend shopping spree. From traditional handicrafts to cutlery, from silk sarees to bone china sets, there’s everything and anything that can be found here. There are also plenty of fantastic restaurants that serve drool-worthy dishes!

Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Shivajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001 Timings: Sunday to Monday from 11.00 AM to 1.00 AM Entry Fee: None

27. Bannerghatta National Park

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Located a couple of kilometers on the outskirts of Bangalore is the Bannerghatta National Park that is a significant part of Bangalore sightseeing . There is a large variety of flora and fauna that can be witnessed in this destination. Spreads over an area of 104.27 sq km, this National Park is also the first ever butterfly park of the country that was established back in 1971. From a zoo to a forest division, from an aquarium to a crocodile farm, this Reserve Forest has plenty to see and be experience!

Location: Bannerghatta Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083 Timings: Wednesday to Monday from 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM, closed on Tuesdays Entry Fee: INR 80 for Indians, INR 400 for foreigners

Suggested Read: 20 Offbeat Places Near Bangalore

28. UB City Mall

Image Credit: Kailash Naik for Wikimedia Commons

For those of you who seek for high-end brands and wish to indulge in some luxury shopping, head to the UB City Mall. This Mall is located in the Central Business District of Bangalore and is spread over a whopping 13 acres of land. From high-end shopping of clothes to ultra-fine dining, this mall offers extensive options to keep ourselves entertained and content. Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Estee Lauder, and Canali are a few of the top brands that this mall has to offer. It is the top Bangalore point of interest for those seeking to get some retail therapy.

Location: 24, Vittal Mallya Rd, KG Halli, D’ Souza Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001 Timings: Sunday to Monday from 11.00 AM to 11.30 PM Entry Fee: None

29. Play Arena

Image Credit: Playarena

Play Arena is located a little far from the central part of Bangalore, but it is one of the most interesting Bangalore point of interest . This destination is a perfect spot to visit for everyone from adults to the little ones. Play Arena is all about offering you various sports and arcade games to keep you entertained throughout the time you are there. Table tennis, go-karting- bowling, archery, and the arcade video games are just a few examples of what to expect when you visit this destination.

Location: Silverwood Regency Apartment, No. 75, Central Jail Road Opp Near Total Mall, Sarjapur Main Rd, Kasavanahalli, Karnataka 560035 Timings: Sunday to Monday from 6.00 AM to 9.30 PM Entry Fee: No entry fee. Cost of games vary.

Suggested Read: Go Karting In Bangalore

30. St. Mary’s Basilica

Image Credit: Tinucherian for Wikimedia Commons

Another Bangalore point of interest is the centuries old St. Mary’s Basilica in the city. This Basilica was built back in the year 1882 and is now the oldest church covering the floors of Bangalore. This is the finest example of the architecture from the medieval times. The towering facade, massive windows made of glass, and the serene vibes of this church are worth experiencing. This church has the capability of sending one back to the colonial era. There are masses and elaborate feasts that take place in September each year and attract devotees from all over the city. 

Location: Msgr. F. Noronha Road, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051 Timings: Open 24 hours Entry Fee: None

Further Read: Solo Trip Near Bangalore

We hope that the article of ours excites you to head over to one of the most popular metropolitan cities of the country. We assure you to come back with an enriching and fulfilling experience after witnessing these places to visit in Bangalore. Book a trip to Bangalore to view the alluring tourist places as mentioned above. We promise you a memorable experience while exploring the Garden City.

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Cover Image Credit: Pixabay

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bangalore

What are the most popular tourist spots in Bangalore?

The city offers quite a few tourist spots and some of the most popular sightseeing places in Bangalore include Cubbon Park, Lalbagh Garden, Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore Palace, Nandi Hills, Vidhana Soudha, and many others.

What food is Bangalore famous for?

Some of the food items that are famous in Bangalore include Bisi Bele Bath, Mangalorean Fish Curry, Masala Dosa, and Maddur Vada.

What should I not miss in Bangalore?

There are so many places to visit in Bangalore. Some of the best places to visit in Bangalore in one day include Nandi Hills, Bannerghatta National Park, Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, Commercial Street, and the National Gallery Of Modern Art.

What is the ideal time to visit Bangalore?

Although Bangalore offers a pleasant climate all year round, the best time to visit the city is during the winter seasons that comprise the months October to February.

How can I spend two days in Bangalore?

Some of the best places to visit in Bangalore for 2 days are: 1. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: witness the Indo-Islamic architecture 2. Cubbon Park: for relaxing 3. Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens: explore the historic wonders 4. Bangalore Palace: for a royal vibe. 5. Ulsoor Lake: for boating and a peaceful stroll.

Is Nandi Hills a hill station in Bangalore?

Yes, Nandi Hills is a hill station and among the top 10 places to visit in Bangalore. It offers an average temperature of 23-40 degrees Celsius in the summers. The best time to visit the hills is during the sunrise to experience the view.

What sweet is famous in Bangalore?

Mysore Pak, although originated in Mysore (near Bangalore) is one of the preferred sweets in Bangalore.

What are the popular modes of public conveyances in Bangalore?

The popular modes of conveyances in Bangalore include bus, auto, Ola and Uber services. Tourists can easily roam around the city on a bus with the help of a pass that offers special benefits for a day.

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Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Cosmopolitan Bengaluru (formerly Bangalore) is one of India's most progressive and developed cities, blessed with a benevolent climate, a modern metro system, and a burgeoning drinking, dining and shopping scene. Its creature comforts are a godsend to the weary traveler who has done the hard yards off the beaten track, and it's a great city for mixing with locals in craft-beer joints or quirky independent cafes. Though there are no world-class sights, you'll find lovely parks and striking Victorian-era architecture.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Bengaluru (Bangalore). Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cubbon Park

In the heart of Bengaluru’s business district is Cubbon Park, a well-maintained 120-hectare garden where Bengaluru’s residents converge to steal a moment…

National Gallery of Modern Art

Housed in a century-old mansion – the former vacation home of the raja of Mysuru – this world-class art museum showcases an impressive permanent…

Krishnarajendra Market

For a taste of traditional urban India, dive into the bustling, gritty Krishnarajendra Market and the dense grid of commercial streets that surround it…

Opera House

Recently restored to its former glory thanks to the financial might of Samsung, the British-era Opera House has been transformed into a temple of tech,…

HAL Aerospace Museum & Heritage Centre

For a peek into India’s aeronautical history, visit this wonderful museum past the old airport, where you can see some of the indigenous aircraft models…

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

A superb gallery with a wide range of Indian and international contemporary art, as well as permanent displays of Mysuru-style paintings and folk and…

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Spread over 98 hectares of landscaped terrain, these expansive gardens were laid out in 1760 by famous ruler Hyder Ali. As well as amazing centuries-old…

Janapada Loka Folk Arts Museum

A worthwhile stopover between Bengaluru and Mysuru, this museum is dedicated to the preservation of local rural culture. It has a wonderful collection of…

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Experience the real India

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Places to Visit in Bangalore in 1 Day: How to Spend 24 hours in Bangalore + Itinerary

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This Bangalore itinerary lists all the places to visit in Bangalore in 1 day.

Bengaluru , popularly known as Bangalore is the capital city of Karantaka , a state in Southern India. Bangalore is also called the " Silicon Valley of India " thanks to the IT hub in the city. Not just that, Bangalore is home to some of the best colleges in India as well as some leading organisations. However, there's a softer side to this city. Bangalore is also famously known as the " Garden City " due to the vast, well-kept gardens scattered across the city. There are also a multitude of great cafes and restaurants in Bangalore. Apart from all this, Bangalore has some iconic sights such as the Vidhan Soudha and Bangalore Palace. So if you're looking to explore the city, here's a list of the top Bplaces to visit in Bangalore in 1 day.

Pin This One Day Bangalore Itinerary!

Can You Spend Just 1 Day in Bangalore?

So the question remains - is it possible to spend only 1 day in Bangalore? How can I spend 1 day in Bangalore? How many days do I need to visit Bangalore?

The answer to all your questions lies in this Bangalore itinerary and travel guide. Not only will you see how to spend 24 hours in Bangalore but also discover the best places to eat in Bangalore and the best hotels in Bangalore.

So yes, even though it is possible to cover all the things to do in Bangalore in one day , if you have the option of spending the weekend here or a few more days then you will definitely find more things to do here.

Places to Visit in Bangalore in 1 Day - A One Day Bangalore Itinerary

While Bangalore may not be a place you'd want to spend many days in, but it's certainly a good place to visit on a weekend for even for one day. This Bangalore itinerary tell you all the places to visit in Bangalore in 1 day. But if you have more time, you can visit some of the other places here or even do a quick day trip to Mysuru.

1. Cubbon Park

Start your one day in Bangalore by taking an early-morning stroll in Cubbon Park . Among the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll find this expansive area to be relaxed and calming. Here you’ll find people running, doing yoga, walking their dogs and even cycling. It’s great to see a whole bunch of people with varied interests coming together with one common intent - to relax and maintain their fitness. Granted that my image of Cubbon park doesn't look that appealing but trust me, this Bangalore park is better than my shoddy image of it.

Here is a complete guide to Cubbon Park - one of the best places to visit in Bangalore in 1 day.

2. Vidhan Soudha

Vidhan Soudha, an iconic landmark of Bangalore is just a short walking distance from Cubbon Park and one of the best places to visit in Bangalore in 1 day. Not only is it the state legislature of Karnataka, it is also the largest one in India. Vidhan Soudha in Karnataka is the epitome of grandeur. As a matter of fact, it costs 20 million rupees to maintain it’s splendour annually. Just opposite to this marvel lies the High Court of Karnataka, another beautiful building.

Must Read: How to Spend 2 Days in Gokarna

3. Breakfast at Little Green Cafe

It’s no doubt that there’s no shortage of awesome cafes in Bangalore. Because I had limited time and I wanted to visit one of the top instagrammble cafes in Bangalore, I walked toward Little Green Cafe. Because this cafe is a 15 minute walk from the Vidhan Soudha , you will save time when you have just one day in Bangalore.

From the minute I walked in, I fell in love with everything from the decor, the lights, the table tops, the cutlery to the extensive breakfast menu. I went for the Namaste Omelette , which was prepared in the Indian style using tomato, chillies and onions. It came with large toasts, a crunchy salad and grilled tomato. Everything on the plate was hearty and delicious. I honestly wish I could’ve come back here for lunch. In any case, there’s always a next time.

4. Bangalore Palace

Next stop is another iconic sight in Bangalore which can't be skipped from the places to visit in Bangalore in one day - the Bangalore Palace . Now, I felt the camera fees for the palace were a little steep. I bought a ticket for myself and paid a fee for just my DSLR camera, not my phone camera, which brought my total upto almost 1000 rupees.

Coming to the palace itself, the Bangalore Palace grounds were well-kept and gave away a great view of the palace. The tickets purchased can be used to access the grounds, the inside of the palace as well as a Bangalore Palace audio guide . The guides were insightful and gave away details about the palace, it’s residents and guests. Be sure to keep your ticket safe until the end of the visit since the staff does random checks at various points in the palace.

5. Tipu Sultan's Palace

After lunch, head to Tipu Sultan Palace which used to be the summer residence of Tipu Sultan , the ruler of the Kingdom Mysore during the 1700s. The rooms in the ground floor of the palace contain relics and pictures depicting Tipu Sultan and his reign. While the palace isn’t much and can be covered within 10-15 minutes, it’s just one of those Bangalore attractions which can’t be skipped and so I have included it in my 1-day Bangalore itinerary.

Must Read: Hampi Itinerary for 2 Days

6. Lalbagh Botanical Garden

A visit to Bangalore will be incomplete if you haven’t visited one of the many Bangalore gardens. After all, Bangalore is known as Garden City for good reason. Take a leisurely evening stroll in one of the most popular gardens in Bangalore - Lalbagh garden. Make sure you visit the beautiful glass house which hosts flower shows twice a year. Not just that, there’s also a lake which you just can’t miss!

7. Indiranagar

Now that you’ve covered the most important sights in Bangalore, it’s time to let down your hair and experience the Bangalore nightlife. Indiranagar is undoubtedly the most happening place in Bangalore . It’s flooded with all the biggest stores, some of the best cafes in Bangalore and of course, great pubs. So pick your poison and have a gala in this fantastic area because Indiranagar is the best place to end your one day in Bangalore.

Must Read: Top 8 Instagrammable Spots in Delhi

8. Dinner at Truffles

No trip to Bangalore will be complete without paying a visit to what is one of the best cafes in Bangalore. Truffles, located in Indiranagar, as mentioned earlier, is famous for its burgers and cold coffees . I had the cheese burger and asked for a brownie points cold coffee to go with it. The coffee came with a whole brownie, pulled apart into pieces and a giant scoop of vanilla ice-cream, topped with some chocolate sauce. That one coffee was way too delicious and way too much for one person. The burger had fantastic flavour and the potato chips were yum. Without a doubt, it’s one of the must visit places in Bangalore.

Must Read: A Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

Where to Stay in Bangalore

Being a big city, Bangalore has a range of accommodations. Whether you're looking for a budget stay or a five star hotel, you will find plenty of places to stay in Bangalore. Take a look at my best picks below.

Find hotels in Bangalore on Booking.com

Hostels in Bangalore

If you're on a budget or simply looking to meet spirited people who are also visiting Bangalore, then consider booking a hostel in Bangalore. Having stayed in one myself, I can highly recommend Zostel Bangalore.

Zostel is a chain of backpacker hostels in India and their rooms, vibe, crowd and hospitality is always amazing. To top it off, Zostel Bangalore is located in the lively Indiranagar area , which is where all popular retsaurants, cafes and pubs in Bangalore are located. So it's safe to say that you will have a great time here!

Check Availability at Zostel Bangalore on Booking.com

Regenta Inn, Indiranagar - Budget Stay in Bangalore

A budget hotel set in Indiranagar Bangalore, Regenta In offers all the best amenities and clean rooms at budget-friendly prices. Apart from being close to a lot of cool places to see in Bangalore, they even offer a free breakfast comprised of both Indian and Continental dishes.

Check Availability at Regenta Inn on Booking.com

Country Inn and Suits by Radisson, Bengaluru

If you're looking for a more upscale and comfortable place to stay in Bangalore, then this is the hotel for you. Apart from being located close to Bangalore Palace , they even offer a " day-use room " where you can book a room for a few hours to rest if you're not staying overnight. Moreover, they offer lots of amenities, complimentary breakfast , a gym , restaurant , bar and parking among othe things.

Check Availability at Country Inn and Suites by Radisson on Booking.com

La Marvella

Boasting of a swimming pool , gym , restaurant , buffets and amazing rooms , La Marvella is a top choice of places to stay in Bangalore. Conveniently located close to all top companies as well as sightseeing spots in Bangalore, this hotel is a great choice or both business as well as personal trips.

Check Availability at La Marvella on Booking.com

Day Trips from Bangalore

Bangalore, the IT hub of India, has a number of young, dynamic people living and working here. So it is only natural that they would need to take a break and look for day trips or weekend getaways from Bangalore .

Even if you are just visiting Bangalore and happen to have more than just one day in Bangalore, I suggest that you take a getaway to one of the many beautiful places near Bangalore.

Goa is the ultimate beach destination in India and the best day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. If you have more than one day in Bangalore, then you've got to visit Goa! You can rent a car and drive the 560 km distance or find an overnight sleeper bus.

Once in Goa, you can party in North Goa or if you're looking for serenity and something offbeat then consider visiting the many beautiful beaches in South Goa . Whatever you choose to do, you will never run out of fun things to do in Goa. In any case, because I lived in Goa for 14 years, take a look at my insider's travel guide to Goa to help plan your perfect Goa trip.

2. Kodaikanal

If you take the overnight sleeper bus from Bangalore late in the evening, then you will find yourself in beautiful Kodaikanal early in the morning. Known as the 'Princess of Hill Stations', the town is nestled in the western ghats of India.

Apart from a lake, many churches and food joints, there are many things to do in Kodaikanal in 2 days , making it the perfect day trip from Bangalore.

Anywone living in or visiting India, especiall the Southern half of India, is well aware of this place. Gokarna is a small temple and beach town on the western coast of India, very close to Goa.

Apart from  Hindu temples, there are many beaches in Gokarna. In fact, a Gokarna 5 beach trek is one of the best things to do here. And just like Kodaikanal, Gokarna is also an overnight journey from Bangalore.

4. Pondicherry

No visit to Southern India would be complete if one did not visit Pondicherry - a former French colony that still retains the architecture and food culture of its colonisers.

You will find many overnight buses to Pondicherry from Bangalore and arrive there early in the am. There are many things to do in Pondicherry that are too much to mention here and so I have written a detailed Pondicherry itinerary and travel guide that you can refer to and plan your getaway from Bangalore.

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I followed this itinerary exactly – except Indiranagar. I had a nice day. If I was doing again I’d skip the Sultans place. Long drive (only cause traffic is ridiculous) – not really worth it! Enjoyed the Palace and botanical gardens and dinner at Truffles. Thanks!

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Bangalore Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know Before You Go

Soltan Frédéric/Getty Images

Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is another Indian city that's undergoing a change back to its traditional name, Bengaluru. It's a contemporary, fast growing and prosperous city that's home to India's IT industry. Many multinational corporations have set up their Indian head offices there. As a result, the city is full of young professionals and has a vibrant air about it, with a flourishing pub culture.

There's been a huge population growth in Bangalore in recent years. About 12.5 million people now live there, making it India's fourth largest city after Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Although Bangalore isn't regarded as a must-visit tourist destination in India, many people like the city because of its greenery and interesting buildings. Unfortunately, some its appeal has been lost to growing traffic congestion and garbage disposal issues though.

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

Find out what to know before you go in this Bangalore travel guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Due to its elevation, Bangalore is blessed with relatively pleasant climate. Daytime temperatures remain fairly constant, between 26-29 degrees Celsius (79-84 degrees Fahrenheit), for most of the year. The temperature usually only exceeds 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the hot summer months from March to May, when it can reach around 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters in Bangalore are warm and sunny, although the temperature does drop at night to around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter mornings can also be foggy. September and October experience the most monsoon season rain.
• Language: Kannada and English. Hindi is also widely spoken.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours. Bangalore does not have Daylight Saving Time. Read more about India's time zone.
• Getting Around: The new Bangalore Metro train, Uber and Ola Cabs have revolutionized transport in the city. Previously, getting around the city could be challenging, as taxis are only available by prior booking and auto rickshaws are notorious for trying to cheat tourists. Read more about transport options in Bangalore .
• Travel Tip: Stay in the Central Business District to avoid getting stuck in traffic jams.

Getting There

Bangalore has a brand new international airport that opened in May 2008. However, it's located 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the city center. The travel time to the airport is between one and two hours, depending on traffic. Read more about Bangalore airport .

Bangalore City railway station receives long distance trains from all over India. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Bangalore .

Neighborhoods in Bangalore

Bangalore's Central Business District is situated around M.G. Road, which extends east from Cubbon Park and the imposing neo-Dravidian-style Vidhana Soudha (seat of the Karnataka government). It includes UB City , the city's biggest luxury commercial development project that's become a hot place to shop, dine, and party.

Koramangala in south Bangalore and Indiranagar in east Bangalore are other hip and stylish neighborhoods renowned for their nightlife, restaurants, and pubs.

Malleswaram, in northwest Bangalore, dates back to the 1890s and is one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. It's a great place to explore on foot, as it has well-maintained sidewalks (a rarity in India!).

Bangalore's main IT hub is located in Whitefield, about 20 kilometers (18.6 miles) east of the city center. However, this rapidly evolving neighborhood has also become an upmarket residential district with gated communities, spacious villas and luxury apartments.

Things to Do

The city's parks and gardens are a big attraction. Bangalore also has some insightful walking tours for those interested in history and heritage.

Check out these top tourist places to visit in Bangalore and top temples and spiritual places in Bangalore.

If you feel like venturing further afield, there are also some popular tourist places near Bangalore.

Where to Eat and Drink

If you love beer, you'll love visiting the many brew pubs and sampling craft beers. The Biere Club near UB City is Bangalore's first microbrewery. However, arguably, better beer can be found nearby at Arbor Brewing Company (India's first American-style craft brewery) on Brigade Road in Ashok Nagar, and the Bier Library in Koramangala.

Foodies won't be disappointed either. Head to these iconic Indian cuisine restaurants in Bangalore for all budgets.

Where to Stay

Luxury travelers will be pleased to know Bangalore has some fabulous five-star hotels, ranging from colonial to chic, and they're among India's finest. These ones are all located in areas handy for sightseeing. Purple Lotus is a modern boutique hotel in the heart of the action. Electric Cats is a cool place to stay for backpackers and budget travelers.

Culture and Customs

Bangalore was founded in 1537 by a local chieftain, who upon being given the land by a Vijaynagar emperor, built a mud fort and temple there. Over the years, the city has undergone a massive transformation. Its earlier days saw it passed from ruler to ruler, until the British Raj took hold of it and located their south Indian administration there in 1831. The British constructed considerable infrastructure. After India gained independence, Bangalore grew into an important center for education, science, and information technology.

Bangalore is a relatively safe Indian city and organized crime is almost non-existent. The city is also quite liberal in its attitude compared to many Indian cities, resulting in better treatment of women and less staring. However, be careful of pickpockets in tourist areas. You may also be approached by men to pose for selfies, which you can refuse if you don't feel comfortable.

The usual tourist scams also operate in Bangalore, but again, to a lesser extent than in many other Indian cities. Overall, Bangalore is a friendly city to visit.

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Kate Abroad

2 Days in Bangalore Itinerary [2024]

Wondering what to do with 2 days in Bangalore? This article has you covered with a 2 day itinerary for Bangalore plus tips on where to stay and how to get around.

Bangalore, my home city, is usually used as a transit city before heading to other places in the southern part of India .

The city known as the Garden City and City of Lakes has plenty of things it can offer to its visitors.

About Bangalore

Officially known as Bengaluru, Bangalore is the capital city of Karnataka state in India.

Known for its perfect weather throughout the year, Bangalore is also the Information Technology (IT) capital of the world.

The city is beautiful and pleasant the entire year and was once known as a retirement city.

Things to see in Bangalore in 2 Days

Microlight flying.

An amazing experience to have in Bangalore is the Microlight Flying. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, the Microlight Flying is flown in Jakkur Aerodrome.

The pilot takes you in a small flight where you get the aerial views of North Bangalore.

Bangalore Palace

Reminding its visitors of the rich culture and history, Bangalore Palace was purchased by the Maharaja of Mysore, Chamarajendra Wadiyar in 1884.

Built in Tudor and Scottish Gothic architectural styles, the Bangalore Palace is known for its detailed and intricate ceilings and glass windows.

The palace is open Tuesday to Sunday between 10 AM and 5:30 PM.

Government Museum

Located part of the Cubbon Park, the Government Museum has artefacts that date back to the 1 st  and 2nd centuries.

Spread across two floors, the museum is the second oldest museum in South India. There are many exhibits related to history, geology among others that display sculptures, paintings, and artefacts.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday between 10 AM and 5 PM.

Kadu Malleshwara Temple

Dating back to the 17 th  century, Kadu Malleshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Malleshwara.

One of the oldest areas Malleshwaram in Bangalore is named after the deity of this temple. This temple is an ancient temple that is built in the Dravidian Style.

The temple is open in the morning from 7 AM to 12 PM, and in the evening from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Spread over 240 acres of land, Lalbagh Botanical Garden has a history of more than 200 years.

Completed by the Ruler of Mysore Tipu Sultan, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the popular public parks in Bangalore.

The park is open every day between 6 AM and 7 PM and is usually filled with joggers and walkers.

Vidhana Soudha

Vidhana Soudha  is Bangalore’s pride and traveling to Bangalore is incomplete without a visit to this amazing structure.

Completed in 1956, Vidhana Soudha was designed by India’s renowned architect Kengal Hanumanthaiah. It is the seat of Karnataka State Legislature.

You can only see Vidhana Soudha from the outside and visitors are not allowed inside unless they have permissions from Karnataka Government.

Cubbon Park

Built in 1870, the Cubbon Park is spread across 300 acres in the heart of Bangalore city. It is officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park.

The park is open every day between 6 AM and 6 PM and has many entry and exit points. You can visit the park anytime during the day as it is pleasant with lots of trees and green spaces.

Bangalore 2 Day Itinerary

Here is the perfect itinerary that you can follow for 2 days in Bangalore:

Day 1: Explore the Heritage

Morning – microlight flying.

Start your day off with an adventurous flight at Jakkur Aerodrome. This is the best way to get a bird’s eye view of the busy city. This is perfect during the morning as you get to see the early morning scenes of the city.

Sometimes depending on the weather and with pilot’s permission, you can also copilot the small plane that is used for the microlight flying.

After the flight, make your way back to Sadashivnagar where you can have your brunch at one of the cafes. I recommend trying Just Be café that has unconventional and organic breakfast options.

Afternoon – Bangalore Palace

In the afternoon, visit Bangalore’s royalty at Bangalore Palace. It is a great place to delve into the city’s royal history and appreciate the architecture.

It is advisable to take the audio tour to listen to the stories and information.

Note that part of the palace is still used as a royal residence and visitors are not allowed.

You need at least 2 to 3 hours at the palace. 

Evening – Kadu Malleshwara Temple, Brigade Road, and Church Street

Before visiting the Kadu Malleshwara Temple, have an authentic South Indian dish Benne Dose (butter pancake) at CTR Shri Sagar in Malleshwaram. This fast-food joint is one of the most famous places to have Benne Dose.

Once you have had the dose, walk up to the Kadu Malleshwara Temple. This temple is one of the oldest temples of Bangalore. Here you can admire the architecture and pay respects to Lord Shiva.

The temple is a place of worship and so dress modestly and leave your footwear outside.

Make your way to Brigade Road post visiting the temple. Church Street is just perpendicular to Brigade Road. Brigade Road and Church Street are filled with many restaurants, cafes, pubs, and bars. Unwind your day with a drink or two at one of the pubs on Brigade or Church Street.

Day 2: Explore the Temples and Museums

Morning – lalbagh botanical garden.

Start your day by eating a delicious South Indian breakfast at Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR). MTR is another local and old fast-food joint just adjacent to Lalbagh Botanical Garden.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a place to walk and stroll admiring the green space of Bangalore. There are plenty of things to see and do at the park and you will need at least 2 hours.

The park also has a lake that is perfect for bird watching and photography.

Afternoon – Vidhana Soudha

Once you are done with Lalbagh Botanical Garden, take a metro to Vidhana Soudha. The architectural marvel of Vidhana Soudha is something to really look forward to in Bangalore.

Even though you cannot go inside Vidhana Soudha, you can still take pictures and admire its beauty from the outside. 

From Vidhana Soudha, walk to Cunningham Road to have your lunch. Cunningham Road has many restaurants catering to all cuisines. One of the best ones is Infinitea, famous for its variety of tea and pastas.

Late Afternoon and Evening – Government Museum, Cubbon Park and UB City

After lunch, walk back to Cubbon Park and head straight to Government Museum. The museum is an amazing place to learn and see the history of the city. Its beautiful and totally worth the visit. Spend at least 2 hours here.

Then walk around Cubbon Park during sunset. It is magical and very pleasant to stroll among the old trees.

End your day and the trip at UB City located on Vittal Mallya Road. UB City is a shopping centre with elite and branded shops. It also has many fine dining restaurants such as Toscano or Sanchez. 

How to Get to Bangalore

Even though Bangalore is well connected by road and public transportation like the trains and buses, the easiest and quickest way to get to Bangalore is by flying into Kempegowda International Airport.

The airport is one of the major airports in the country and has connectivity with many cities from around the world.

From the airport, you can either take a taxi or a bus to get to the city.

How to Get Around in Bangalore

One of the other things Bangalore is known for is its bad traffic. Be prepared for intense traffic in Bangalore. With plenty of cars and two wheelers, you can expect a lot of traffic jams. Bangalore has four modes of public transportation:

• Buses operated by Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC).
• Auto Rickshaws.

The best and convenient way to travel between places is by taking a metro.

Where to Stay in Bangalore

Bangalore is a metropolitan city with lots of accommodation options. With budget hostels to 5 stars, the city is perfect for all kinds of travellers.

• Luxury Hotel – You can consider staying at the Taj Westend Bangalore , which is one of the  best hotels for families in Bangalore .
• Mid-range Hotel – If you are looking for something more affordable, then you can stay at The Chevron Brigade near Brigade Road in the city.
• Hostel – But if you are a budget traveller or a backpacker, then consider Zostel located in Indiranagar.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bangalore

Bangalore has perfect weather throughout the year. But the best time to visit is during the winter and spring seasons which are between November and March. And if you are visiting Bangalore during the month of February, do not forget to attend the biennial  Aero India Show Bengaluru , Asia’s largest air show.

You can see Bangalore’s significant landmarks in 2 days but you will want at least 3 to 4 days to explore all of the highlights of Bangalore.

Absolutely! Bangalore is a blend of modern technology with traditional customs and culture. The city has many years of history and is well known in the world for delivering IT services. Not just the weather, but there are many reasons why you should visit Bangalore.

Bangalore is blessed to have many hills and lakes around. There are plenty of ruins of forts on these hills that can easily be one day hikes from Bangalore city.

More India Travel Guides

If you’re planning a trip to India then check out these other guides for inspiration and tips:

• 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India to Visit
• 2 Days in Varanasi Itinerary  
• Complete Guide to Chand Baori Abhaneri Step Well

Raksha Nagaraj is an avid traveler who is based out of Bangalore in India. Through  Bengaluru Prayana , meaning journey in Bengaluru in Kannada language, she promotes Bangalore / Bengaluru as a tourist destination.

Asia Travel Resources

• Book trains and buses through 12.go Asia to avoid queues at the station
• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book day tours and tickets for attractions on Klook
• Save on Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore attractions with a Go City Pass
• Sort your currencies in one place with a Wise multi-currency card

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Bangalore Itinerary: how to spend one day in Bangalore

This post is a Bangalore itinerary about how to spend one day in Bangalore. Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is the capital of the Indian state of Karnatak a and one of the largest cities in South India.

Bangalore has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century when it was a small village. During the British colonial rule in India, Bangalore became an important center for the British army and saw significant development. After India gained independence, Bangalore transformed into a major center for science, technology, and aerospace industries.

Nowadays, Bangalore is a very modern and progressive city famous for its information technology and known as the Silicon valley of India. 

Why visit Bangalore

Bangalore might lack any big tourist attractions, but it is a pleasant city to spend some time in. First of all, Bangalore is less chaotic and hectic as some other big Indian cities like Delhi or Jaipur . Second of all, Bangalore is a green city full of lush gardens and beautiful parks. At last, Bangalore’s higher elevation means a moderate climate. 

Bangalore is also a very dynamic city with a young population. As a result, the city has lots of trendy cafes, beer pubs and a great choice of restaurants. As Bangalore attracts people from all over India, you can find every regional cuisine there is. 

With a few historic sights and lots of culture and food, Bangalore is definitely worth a visit. In this post I will explain the best way to spend one day in Bangalore.  

A one day in Bangalore itinerary

Spending one day in Bangalore is enough to see the city’s attractions and include some of it’s best culinary experiences. Bangalore is a great city for those that love food. In this one day Bangalore itinerary I will focus mostly on South Indian cuisine, but you should know that in Bangalore you can get anything you want. 

If there is one reason to spend more than one day in Bangalore, it is the food. Ever wanted to try Gujarati or Bengal cuisine? There will be a restaurant in Bangalore for sure. And if you are tired of Indian food and want something else. Bangalore has that too. 

I personally love the tastes of South India that are so different from the north. Bangalore is a great city to explore the variety that exists in South Indian cuisine and therefore I will share the best places to try some of my favourite South Indian dishes in Bangalore. 

Breakfast at Airlines Hotel

There are so many great breakfast places in Bangalore that it will be hard to say what is the best. My personal favourite is a South Indian breakfast of Idli Vada with sambar . Airlines Hotel is conveniently located near Cubbon Park where you can start your one day Bangalore itinerary

Cubbon Park

The best place to start your one day Bangalore itinerary is the greenery of Cubbon Park. This park is 150 years old and is home to hundreds of plants and flower species. It is very popular among Bangaloreans and you can join the locals on their early morning walk. 

Cubbon park is a gentle introduction to Bangalore and is centrally located near some of the most popular shopping streets like MG road and Brigade road. The park has a colonial history and is surrounded by other british era historic buildings such as the vidhana soudha, the high court and the library.   

Nearest Metro station : Cubbon Park or Ambedkar Vidhana Soudha

If you leave Cubbon park at the southern entrance near Kempegowda tower and the Hudson Memorial church it is a 30 minute walk to the Raja market. The biggest reason to visit this bustling part of Bangalore is to see the famous flower market. 

KR Market is a multi floor building where almost every vendor at the ground floor sells flower garlands. It is a fragrant and colorful sight that is best seen from above. Personally, I always love the hustle and bustle from the markets in India and this was one of my favourite places in Bangalore.

I decided to walk from Cubbon Park to the KR market. You can also opt to take the metro or an uber. If you plan on taking an uber you should take into account that the Raja market area is a labyrinth of narrow and crowded streets that are hard to navigate for vehicles. 

Walk : 30 minutes from Cubbon Park

Nearest Metro station : Chickpet

Jamia Masjid

South of the KR market along busy NR road and SJP road is the muslim area of Bangalore. A great place to explore on foot. As a non vegetarian it is in the muslim areas that I often find the best meat curries and kebabs and Bangalore also did not dissapoint in that regard.  

At first sight the area around NR road is not very scenic, but look closely and you will find some interesting muslim shrines and several mosques. At last, the jamia masjid is hard to miss. This is the largest mosque in Bangalore and can accommodate up to 10,000 devotees.

The mosque is quite impressive. It was designed by an architect from Hyderabad and is made from white marble from Rajasthan. There are special prayers on the death anniversary of Tipu Sultan when thousands of people gather at the mosque

Walk : 10 minutes from KR flower market

Bangalore Fort

Bangalore Fort is one of the oldest structures in Bangalore. It’s history goes back to Kempe gowda. A chieftain from the Vijayanagara empire, the same empire famous for the magnificent ruins of its capital Hampi . 

Kempe Gowda is the founder of Bangalore and was the first to build fortifications. His vision was to develop a new city that would equal Hampi. The original Bangalore fort was from mud with a trench and nine entrance gates.  

In 1758 Hyder Ali, the ruler of the kingdom of Mysore , captured Bangalore. He decided to renovate the fort and strengthen it with stone. His son Tipu Sultan further extended the fort and even built a summer palace. 

He could only enjoy his palace in Bangalore for a short while as the British army took hold of Bangalore fort in 1791. Now all that remains is the Delhi gate and some parts of the thick fortress walls. 

Walk : 10 minutes from Jamia Masjid or flower market

Nearest Metro station : Krishna rajendra market

Tipu Sultan’s Summer palace

A 7 minute walk down the road from the Bangalore Fort is Tipu’s Sultan summer palace. This short walk gives you an idea how large the Bangalore Fort was as the palace was once within its walls. 

Tipu Sultan’s summer palace was built completely from teak wood, just like his summer palace in Srirangapatna. Tipu Sultan was known as the tiger of Mysore and fought several wars against the British army. He was eventually killed by the British in his fort in Srirangapatna in 1799. 

The small, but beautifully decorated palace also has a small museum about Tipu Sultan and his achievements. 

Walk : 7 minutes from Bangalore Fort

Lunch at Vidyarthi Bhavan

After a long morning of walking and sightseeing it’s time for lunch. The South Indian restaurant of Vidhyarti Bhavan is on the way between Tipu Sultan’s palace and Lalbagh botanical garden. It’s the perfect lunch stop, not only because of its location, but most of all because of its excellent butter masala dosas. 

Dosas are south indian rice pancakes and they are one of my favourite lunch dishes when in South India. Vidhyarti Bhavan has served them for more than 75 years now. Many say they are the best you can get in Bangalore. The benne dosas are indeed very delicious and a must try.    

Walk : 10 minutes from National College Metro station, 30 minutes from Tipu Sultan’s palace (best to take the metro from Krishna rajendra market to national college metro and then walk, or take an uber). 

Nearest Metro : National college (green line)

Lalbagh Botanical garden

After a full stomach you can choose to either walk 20 minutes to Lalbagh garden or take an uber. Lalbagh garden is even older than Cubbon park. It was Hyder Ali that planned the botanical garden, but like the renovation of the Bangalore Fort it was Tipu Sultan that finished it. 

Tipu Sultan wanted it to be like the Mughal gardens from Persia that also adorned many of the Mughal architecture in places like Delhi and Agra . He imported plants and trees from different countries. 

When the British Army took over Bangalore they also took over the management of the garden. They planted more trees and added a bandstand as well as a glass house. 

Nowadays the garden is a very popular place for Bangaloreans and tourists. Although there are still bonsai, rose and lotus gardens, other parts feel more like a huge park with walkways and vendors selling cold drinks and snacks. Nevertheless it is a very nice place to hang out in Bangalore  

Walk : 30 minutes from Vidhyarti bhavan (consider uber)

Nearest Metro : Lalbagh (green line)

Bangalore Palace

Bangalore palace. I am still not sure whether I liked it or not. I thought it was a weird structure that seemed out of place even in a city as eclectic as Bangalore. 

The massive palace grounds were bought by the Mysore Royal Family that wanted to have a place to stay for the Maharaja prince that was going to Bangalore for his education. 

In 4 years they built a somewhat pompous palace. Apparently the building was inspired by Windsor castle in England which explains the towers. Part of the palace is open to visitors. 

Inside you can visit an open courtyard on the ground floor. A decorated staircase with paintings leads to the yellow Durbar hall. The interior sometimes reminded me a bit of Mysore Palace because of the use of bright colours and pillars.  

The palace is still in the hands of the Mysore royal family. To earn money the palace also has an attraction park for kinds. Besides a well mainted small garden, most of the public grounds are neglected and only occasionally used for public events. 

Nearest Metro : there is not really a nearby metro station within walking distance, best to take an uber. 

Dinner at Mavalli tiffin room

Mavalli tiffin room (MTR) is Bangalore’s oldest and most famous restaurant. It is so popular that it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. There are several branches in Bangalore and they even went abroad to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Dubai. 

The restaurant at Lalbagh is where it all started in 1924. The menu is mostly South Indian dishes, but with some local specialities and inventions. Apparently Rava idli was a MTR invention during World War 2 when rice was in short supply. 

MTR is the best place to try food from Karnataka. One of their specialties is Bisibele bath. A rice dish with lentils, vegetables, nuts and spices. You can’t really go wrong with a South Indian thali either. 

Nearest Metro : there are several branches throughout Bangalore. Close to Bangalore Palace is Namma MTR

More than one day in Bangalore

What if you have more than one day in Bangalore? Although with this Bangalore itinerary you have seen most of what the city has to offer there are also a number of day trips you can take. One of the most popular day trips is to the scenic Nandi hills or the ancient temple complex in Lepakshi.  

Bangalore itself also has a number of museums and temples that are not included in this itinerary. It would take years to visit all of Bangalore’s temples. Some noteworthy temples are the new and impressively large ISKCON temple, the Nandi temple with a large statue of the nandi the bull and the Kote Venkateshwara temple, the oldest temple in the city. 

One day in Bangalore travel tips

Where to stay in bangalore.

Where to stay in Bangalore depends a lot on how long you will stay in the city. If you are staying only one day in Bangalore I would choose a central location. Bangalore is a big city and with the congested traffic it is very easy to underestimate the time it takes to get around. 

Locul central is close to Cubbon Park and is a clean and professional hostel if you don’t mind staying in a dormitory. Locul uptown from the same owner is near Bangalore palace and has both dormitories as well as private rooms.

Because of my internship I had to stay for extended times in Bangalore. A great budget option that was not too far from the place I worked was the Little blue window hostel at BTM lay-out. A safe neighbourhood with lots of restaurants and trendy cafes.

Other safe neighbourhoods with great facilities for long term stays are Koramangala and Indiranagar.  

How to get around in Bangalore

The thing I remember most from Bangalore is the traffic. When I was in Bangalore I travelled every day from my hostel to the office. On the map it only looked like a small distance, but it almost took me an hour by bus. It probably would have taken the same amount of time if I had simply walked. 

If you have only one day in Bangalore you should take this into account. Getting around Bangalore isn’t always easy and might take longer than you expect. I also have good news though. The best tourist attractions are not that far from each other. 

This one day Bangalore itinerary can almost all be done on foot. Otherwise it is just a short uber ride to the next place. Only Bangalore palace is a bit out of the way and would probably involve the typical Bangalore traffic experience.  

The Bangalore metro, or Namma metro started in 2011 and is a great way to dodge the crazy Bangalore traffic. Most central locations and tourist sights are within walking distance of a metro station. So far there is a green line and a purple line. 

My recommendation is to travel by metro if you can. It is a safe and quick way to get from A to B.

Uber and Ola

Uber is a good way to get around in Bangalore for short distances. India has its own similar business called Ola cabs that is even more popular. The good thing about both Ola and Uber is that it is cheaper than a tuk tuk and you do not need to negotiate the price. Both offer a pool option in which you share your ride with others that makes it even more affordable.

Ola also has a tuk tuk option that is one of the best and most affordable ways to travel for shorter distances. I never had to wait long for an Ola or Uber to come and most of the time when I ordered the pool option I had no other passengers.

I travelled a lot by bus in Bangalore, but it honestly took me a while to figure things out. If you are staying only one day in Bangalore I can’t really recommend taking a bus. Because of the traffic they are slow and the timings on google maps aren’t always right. I sometimes had to wait a long time for the right bus to arrive. 

How to get to Bangalore

Bangalore is a city that has great connections by trains and buses from all over India. Convenient night trains run to Hampi, Chennai and Goa , but you can go as far as Mumbai and Delhi if you want to.  

You can check the train time tables and book your tickets online directly through the Indian railways (IRCTC). Unfortunately this is not always a straightforward process. For a small extra fee you can use 12goAsia or Makemytrip . 

When to visit Bangalore

The best time to visit Bangalore is from September till March when the climate is pleasant with cool and dry conditions. During these months, temperatures average between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

In April and May it starts to get very hot in Bangalore. June is the start of the monsoon season when the city experiences heavy rainfall, providing a welcome relief from the hot and humid conditions.

Sustainable Travel in Bangalore

Bangalore is a very green and clean city compared to other Indian cities. Tourism is growing though and has both positive and negative impacts. Traveling sustainably in Bangalore, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try South Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. South Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Bangalore has a well-developed public transportation system. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka with a Hindu majority. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Kannada, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a Bangalore itinerary on how to spend one day in Bangalore contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

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14 Fascinating Things To Do In Bangalore

Let’s explore this welcoming and pleasant city which offers numerous things to do for pleasure and adventure.

Welcome to Namma Bengaluru the land of opportunities and yummy Masala Dosas, yes you heard it right. The garden city has a charm that no one can escape. Whoever visits Bangalore falls in love with its pleasant weather, delightful vibe, and amazing tribe. Bangalore City is home to 1.4 crore people which includes native Bengalureans, and people from all parts of India, and the world. The city has a lot of things to offer to help you escape from the stress and boredom of the mundane life.

Well, ironically, Bengaluru is the IT capital of India and you can find a lot of people from all walks of life and professions tip-toeing in the city making their way through the fast-paced lifestyle yet the place has a lot of unexplored, quiet, pleasant places, lots of activities and things to do in Bangalore where people can go relax and rejuvenate themselves. 

Table of Contents

14 Top Things To Do In Bangalore

Have you been wondering what to do in Bangalore for a long time? In this article, you will get to know all the best things to do in Bangalore. From exploring its lip-smacking masala dosas to adventurous outings in the city outskirts, we have got it all covered for you.

1. Take A Walk At Lal-Bagh Botanical Garden

This place is one of the most famous in Bangalore. Take a walk at the Lalbagh Botanical Garden and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. As you stroll along the winding paths, you’ll be greeted by a stunning collection of exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees. Admire the symmetrical design of the famous glasshouse, which resembles the Crystal Palace in London. Don’t miss the Lal Bagh flower show which is held twice a year, one in January close to Republic Day and the other in August, close to Independence Day. 

Over 65 species of flowers, including orchids, begonias, and carnations, will be on display during the flower show. Various exotic blooms from New Zealand, Holland, America, and more create this international medley. Also, you get to see around 50-60 native Karnataka flower species and 20 temperate varieties from Ooty displaying Indian flora richness.

Location: Mavalli, Bengaluru

Timings: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)

Entry Fee : Adults – INR 25, Children – Free, Camera – INR 60

2. Enjoy Shopping At Commercial Street

Commercial Street is one of the most lively and high-spirited shopping hubs of Bangalore. Shopping here for jhumkas, necklaces, bangles, cute tops, footwear, and discounted dresses is one of the most fun things to do in Bangalore for young girls and working ladies. Take a walk amidst the many shops with their plentiful offering of clothing, accessories, electronics, and so on. It is a shopaholic’s haven to buy most of the things at economical prices.

Location : Shivaji Nagar, Bangalore

Book Now: Full Day Private City Tour of Bangalore

3. Trek To Nandi Hills

Hop on a stimulating trek to the Nandi Hills located on the outskirts of the city and enjoy amazing views of the hilly area. This place is a top attraction and a trek here is one of the most preferable things to do in Bangalore . Youngsters, adventure enthusiasts, and couples prefer to go to this place to enjoy the scenic view of the sunrise adorned by clouds surrounding the hills.

Feel the cool breeze while going uphill and enjoy the tranquility that one gets close to nature and get an escape from the hustle-bustle of the city. The Nandi Hills is truly one of the best tourist places in Bangalore.

Location : 61 km from Bangalore

Timings : 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

4. Have A Blissful Time At ISKCON Temple

The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore brings peace & divinity required for all the people who visit here. Visiting this temple is one of the most popular things to do in Bengaluru as people from all parts of Bangalore prefer to visit here at different times of the year to catch a glimpse of the deities Lord Krishna and Sri Radha. Have a great time at the temple by participating in the temple’s rituals and the devotional bhajans. The majestic design and the delicate carvings of the temple devoted to Radha Krishna are a thing to admire.

Enjoy the vegetarian meals that the restaurant at the temple has to offer since you will have a wide selection of Indian traditional dishes. Delve into the deep-rooted cultural legacy of India by pursuing captivating ceremonies like the Bhajan, Kirtan, and other devotional music performances. Moreover, tour the gift store imbued with spiritual books, typical costumes, accessories, and other items.

Location : Chord Road, Rajajinagar

Timings : 4:15 AM to 5:00 AM, 7:15 AM to 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

5. Picnic At Cubbon Park

Have a fun picnic at Cubbon Park, one of Bangalore’s largest green lungs located in the city center. Include this wonderful place in your Bangalore city tour Itinerary. You can relax in the middle of lush green lawns and play some outdoor games with your buddies. Also, the joyride on the toy train will take you back to your childhood days and is one of the must-do things in Cubbon Park. You can also explore the beautiful statues in and around the park, visit the Cubbon Park aquarium, and even witness the Dancing Musical Fountain. You can also enjoy some street food delicacies while you enjoy at the park. Location : Kasturba Road, Behind the High Court of India

Timings : 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

6. Eat Out At The Food Street, VV Puram

Satiate your taste buds at the famous Food Street of VV Puram, Bangalore. Indulge in a gastronomic treat with the different street food stalls that the locals offer—starting from dosas, chaats, faloodas, and much more. This street is a foodie’s paradise and a one-stop destination for all kinds of cuisines. 

Location : VV Puram, Bengaluru

Timings : 12.30 PM to 1:00 AM

7. Explore The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

If you’re a science junkie then let your curiosity about the cosmos be fuelled to full intensity and your knowledge expand on the mysteries that the universe holds at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium. You can explore shows based on our Solar system, Gravity, space, etc., It can be an educative as well as an awe-inspiring experience. This is among the top activities in Bangalore irrespective of age or background, who doesn’t like a touch of science right?

Location: Sankey Road, High Grounds, Bangalore 

Timings: Every Day 10:00 am – 5:30 pm (Except Mondays and second Tuesdays)

8. Spiritual Retreat At The Art Of Living International Center

There is one rule in this place, you can bring your worries with you but, you have to drop them all off before leaving. Isn’t it such a wonderful rule? Well, this place welcomes you with its magical serenity and quiet splendour. The lush green trees and the pleasant breeze add to the magical touch of this place.

You can meditate at the Vishalakshi Mantap or go for an ashram bus tour that takes you to all the must-visit places in this wonderful spiritual center. Also, relax at the Gurupaduka Vanam gazing at the sunset with the water fountain adding to the beauty of this place. You can also enroll yourself here for a three-day meditation and breath-related workshop which leaves you with a fresh mind and a peaceful life.

Location : 21st Km, Kanakapura Road, Udayapura

Timings : 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

9. Hot Air Balloon Ride At Jakkur

Set your spirits soaring as you ascend the horizon with hot air ballooning from Jakkur, Bangalore. Get eye-level captures of the cityscape and landscape set around. This ride will take you to a height of 250 feet above the ground which will give you a picturesque view of the outskirts of Bengaluru. You can get a bird’s eye view of all the lakes, forests, and valleys and an adventure that will give you memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Location: Jakkur, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Timings: 5:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.

10. Safari At Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta National Park is a treasure trove for those looking for adventure in nature’s lap and wildlife. This is one of the best places for sightseeing in Bengaluru. Begin your journey through the park on a safari filled with excitement. While on safari, you may be lucky enough to get a sight of the majestic cats such as lions, tigers, and elephants up close.

Furthermore, the Park consists of a mystical Butterfly Garden, where you can lose yourself in a vibrant world of a variety of butterflies. Take a stroll out in nature at this Park to enjoy all its complex biodiversity as well as its beautiful plants. You can also visit the park’s zoo, which houses a diverse range of species, allowing you to get up close and personal with them.

Location: Bannerghatta Rd, Bannerughatta

Timings: 9.30 AM to 5 PM (Tuesdays it’s closed)

Entry Fee: INR 80 per person for adults and INR 40 per person for children

11. Boating At Ulsoor Lake

Enjoy boating at your leisure on the calm waters of Ulsoor Lake, one of the most beautiful things to do in Bangalore. Hire a paddleboat or rowboat and drift along the lake with the calm water and greenery lining the banks. It’s a perfect place for a peaceful and relaxing time and also a great place to hang out for couples. 

Location : Halasuru, Bengaluru city

Timings : Every day (except Wednesday): 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

12. Visit Vidhana Soudha

Admire its imposing decorated building with a rich overlay of carved arches and other decoration features. The Vidhana Soudha building is one of the most famous things in Bangalore with decorated gardens that will be pleasing to your eye. It is a culturally and historically important landmark showing the legacy of Bangalore. It is a State assembly where proceedings by the MLAs and MLCs take place. The public is allowed inside the Vidhana Soudha during the assembly proceedings if they produce a copy of their identity.

Location: Ambedkar Bheedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bangalore.

Timings: Every day 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Closed on weekends and holidays.

13. Exploring Snow City In Bangalore

Come and explore this winter paradise located at Jayamahal Road which is spread over an area of 12,500 square feet. Snowball fighting, snow slides, and even skiing in the specially created artificial snow are fun, and exciting and are incomparable with anything on a hot day in the city. The snow doesn’t melt as the temperature is maintained constantly at -5 degrees Celsius to make sure the snow doesn’t melt. In addition to slides, games, and a 9D cinema hall, Snow City has snow mountains that make it truly unique.

Location : Jayamahal, Fun World Complex, Opposite TV Tower, J.C. Nagar

Timings : 10:15 AM. – 8:00 PM

Entry Fee : INR 650/- per person

14. Have A Peaceful Time At Pyramid Valley

The Pyramid Valley is spread over 28 acres and hosts the largest pyramid structure built exclusively for meditation to go deep within one’s self. Have a relaxing and rejuvenating time at this famous spiritual center on Bengaluru city’s outskirts. If you’re a peace lover then this is a must-visit place to be in solitude and to have a soothing & healing experience of the mind, body, and soul. You can also attend talks, workshops, and training that are conducted in state-of-the-art facilities on the campus.

Location: Sadanandanagar, Bennigana Halli, Bengaluru

Timings: 6:00 AM. – 8:00 PM

Also Read: From Blossoms to Bloom, The Best Time to Visit Bangalore

A rainbow of experiences & amazing things to do in Bangalore is woven into a kaleidoscope of colors that meet, mingle, and paint the rich canvas of this dynamic city in every manner. From the thrilling hills of Nandi Hills and Skandagiri to the bustling streets of Commercial Street and the food streets of VV Puram, the city of Bangalore’s attraction lies in its diverse range of charms. Whether it’s for the exhilaration of climbing Ramanagara or the peace that comes with visiting the Art of Living International Center, there is a haven for every soul. From the other-worldly allure of Lalbagh Botanical Garden to the heavenly marvels of the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore provides many opportunities to awaken the senses and heal the spirit. Amidst the hustle and bustle, Bangalore still looks like a city of stunning contrasts where older and new are blended into an eclectic mix, inviting people to take part in this endlessly blooming tapestry of experiences, each more interesting than the other.

Here are some romantic things to do in Bangalore: take a walk in Lalbagh Botanical Garden, drive up to Nandi Hills for a beautiful sunrise, rent a pedal boat and enjoy a romantic boat ride on Ulsoor Lake, plan a picnic in Cubbon Park, and enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the many top-floor restaurants in Bangalore. Some of the alternatives proposed are a trip to an art museum or gallery, and spoiling yourselves by having a spa treatment or massage for couples.

Looking for exciting things to do in Bangalore with your friends? I suggest you head to the Wonderla amusement park for a vibrant day and the city’s lively nightlife is suffused with places like MG Road and Koramangala. Also, you can try various adventure sports like go-karting or rock climbing, visit an escape room to unravel your mental skills or attend a live music event at famous places like Hard Rock Cafe and The Humming Tree. These are just a few interesting activities and attractions; yet, this is by no means a full list as there is more than this for everyone.

Navigating Bangalore becomes smooth as different modes of transport are readily available in the city. Namma Metro reduces the hassle of travel, bridging different destinations. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) runs a big fleet of buses that tries to reach every quarter of the city. Auto rickshaws are a first choice for comfortably short distances, while Ola and Uber, app-based taxi services offer a choice that is convenient and reliable transportation. The other option of hiring cars or motorbikes is also a choice for those who tend to find more flexibility. Yet, traffic during rush hours must be taken into account while you’re selecting the time for your commute in Bangalore.

Big baniann tree also good place to visit

Yes, it is, we have mentioned it in our other article https://travel.earth/11-unusual-places-to-see-in-bangalore/

Halsur Someshwra temple is also one of the historical temple.

Sad guru Shri Saibaba ashram in Whitefield

Grete Nandi Hills in the outskirts like national park

Rajrajeshwri temple in rajrajeshwari Nagar

Pyramid valley in Kalakaua road

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The political hub of the region, Bangalore is a world apart from the rest of the state and in many ways India ’s most Westernised urban centre. The charming, verdant “Garden City'' of just over 600,0000 people at Independence has been completely transformed by the technology boom into both a trendy business hub and a bustling, smog-choked megalopolis of nearly twelve million. Signs of the West are thick on the ground: big-brand fashion stores and branches of CCD or Barista on nearly every corner; an international airport and ultramodern metro (still far from completion); and legions of hard-working, free-spending young adults.

The best travel tips for visiting Bangalore

Best things to do in bangalore, best areas to stay in bangalore, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit bangalore, how many days do you need in bangalore, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Despite its lush environs and cosmopolitan air, Bengaluru’s few attractions are no match for those elsewhere in the state.

That said, it’s an efficient transport hub, well served by plane and bus, and paired with first-rate shopping, dining and nightlife. It has a calendar packed with big-ticket events in music, dance, art, literature, theatre or folk arts, this vibrant city can still deliver a few days’ respite from south India’s more taxing inconveniences.

The centre of modern Bengaluru lies about 4 km east of Kempe Gowda Circle (and the bus and railway stations), where you’ll find most of the midrange accommodation, restaurants, shops, tourist information and banks, although Indiranagar further east is the up and coming area for leisure.

Leafy Cubbon Park, and its less than exciting museums, lie on its eastern edge, while the oldest, most “Indian” part of the city extends south from the railway station, a warren of winding streets at their most dynamic in the hubbub of the City and Gandhi markets.

Bengaluru’s tourist attractions are spread out: monuments such as Tipu’s Summer Palace and the Bull Temple are some way south of the centre.

Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore © Shutterstock

From Cubbon Park, a well-maintained 120-hectare garden in the heart of the city, to the world-class National Gallery of Modern Art and atmospheric temples, here are the best things to do in Bangalore.

#1 Chill out at Cubbon Park

A welcome green space in the heart of the city, shaded by massive clumps of bamboo, Cubbon Park is entered from the western end of MG Road, presided over by a statue of Queen Victoria.

Several prominent historic landmarks are located within its sprawling expanse, including the State Central Library, one of the oldest and largest in the country, housed in the impressive red Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the colonnaded, red-brick High Court of Karnataka (Attara Kacheri), while the famous Chinnaswamy cricket stadium and domed St Mark’s Cathedral sit nearby.

#2 Delve into the prehistoric artefacts of the Government Museum

The poorly labelled and maintained Government Museum features prehistoric artefacts, Vijayanagar, Hoysala and Chalukya sculptures, musical instruments, paintings and Deccani and Rajasthani miniatures.

It includes the adjacent Venkatappa Art Gallery, which exhibits twentieth-century landscapes, portraits, abstract art, wood sculpture and occasional temporary art shows.

#3 Visit Vidhana Soudha, India’s largest civic structure

Built in 1956, Bengaluru’s vast State Secretariat, Vidhana Soudha, is the largest civic structure of its kind in the country.

Kengal Hanumanthaiah, chief minister at the time, wanted a “people’s palace” that, following the transfer of power from the royal Wadiyar dynasty to a legislature, would “reflect the power and dignity of the people”. In theory its design is entirely Indian, but its overall effect is not unlike the bombastic colonial architecture built in the so-called Indo-Saracenic style.

#4 Wander the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Inspired by the splendid gardens of the Mughals and the French botanical gardens at Puducherry in Tamil Nadu, Sultan Haider Ali set to work in 1760 laying out the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, 4km south of the centre.

Originally covering forty acres, just beyond his fort – where one of Kempe Gowda’s original watchtowers can still be seen – the gardens were expanded under Ali’s son Tipu, who introduced numerous exotic species of plants, and today they house an extensive horticultural seedling centre.

The British brought in gardeners from Kew in 1856 and built a military bandstand and a glasshouse, based on London’s Crystal Palace, which hosts wonderful flower shows. Now spreading over 240 acres, the gardens are pleasant to visit during the day, but tend to attract unsavoury characters after around 6pm.

Great sunsets and city views can be had from the central hill, which is topped by a small shrine.

#5 Check out Tipu’s Summer Palace

Just southwest of the crowded City Market (aka KR Market), near the fairytale like Jama Masjid – whitewashed and rambling and still in regular use – lies Tipu’s Summer Palace, a two-storey, mostly wooden structure built in 1791.

Similar in style to the Daria Daulat Bagh at Srirangapatna, the palace is in a far worse state, with most of its painted decoration destroyed.

Next door, the Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple, dating from the early eighteenth century, was built by the Wadiyar rajas.

#6 Be wowed by the Bull Temple

Lying 6 km south of the Kempegowda Bus Station, in the Basavanagudi area, Kempe Gowda’s sixteenth-century Bull Temple houses a massive monolithic Nandi bull, its grey granite made black by the application of charcoal and oil.

The temple is approached along a path lined with mendicants and snake charmers; inside, for a small donation, the priest will offer you a string of fragrant jasmine flowers.

Don’t miss the Dodda Ganesha Temple, featuring a mammoth monolith of Ganesha, 5.5m tall and 5m wide, below the Bull Temple.

#7 See the gold-plated dome of Sri Radha Krishna Mandir

Some 8 km north of the centre lies ISKCON’s (International Society of Krishna Consciousness) gleaming temple, a hybrid of ultramodern glass and vernacular south Indian architecture.

Also known as Sri Radha Krishna Mandir, it’s a huge, lavish showpiece crowned by a gold-plated dome.

Barriers guide visitors on a one-way journey through the well-organised complex to the inner sanctum, an octagonal hall resplendent with colourfully painted ceilings and golden images of the god Krishna and his consort Radha.

Collection points throughout and inescapable merchandising on the way out are evidence of the organisation’s highly successful commercialisation.

#8 National Gallery of Modern Art

Set in a former Wadiyar mansion, the beautifully designed and laid out National Gallery of Modern Art (one of three in India – the others are in Delhi and Mumbai) is a fabulous repository of 17,000 paintings, sculptures and graphic prints capturing Indian art from the early eighteenth century to present times.

Bangalore Palace is a famous iconic landmark in Bangalore City, India © Shutterstock

From the upscale and cosmopolitan vibes of Indiranagar and Koramangala to the serene and green surroundings of Jayanagar and Malleshwaram, Bangalore offers a range of options for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the city.

Around Central Bus Stand

Due to the great number of business visitors it receives, Bengaluru offers a wealth of upmarket lodgings, as well as serviced apartments. Decent budget accommodation is also available, mostly concentrated around the Central Bus Stand and railway station.

Subedar Chatram Road

There are few good cheap digs, but most hostels can be found along Subedar Chatram Road.

Indiranagar

This upscale neighbourhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes, and boutiques. It offers a wide range of accommodations and is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring other parts of the city.

Koramangala

Another popular residential and commercial area, Koramangala is known for its bustling food scene, shopping malls, and entertainment options. It has a mix of budget and luxury accommodations and is well-connected to other parts of the city.

MG Road/Brigade Road

Located in the heart of the city, MG Road and Brigade Road are bustling commercial areas with a variety of hotels and guesthouses.

Known for its tree-lined streets and quiet residential areas, Jayanagar is a peaceful neighbourhood with a range of accommodation options .

Browse the best hotels in Bangalore.

Bengaluru’s profusion of cafés and restaurants makes up for its deficit of tourist sights with a gastronomic variety unparalleled in south India.

Drinking alcohol does not have the seedy connotations it does elsewhere in India; you’ll even see young Indian women enjoying a beer with their mates.

While some prefer an elegant tipple in five-star hotels, it’s the latest crop of microbreweries serving craft beer that are now all the rage. Here’s where to go.

MG Rd, Indiranagar and Koramangala

Around MG Rd, and in Indiranagar (east of the centre) and the southeastern suburb of Koramangala, pizzerias, burger chains, ritzy ice-cream parlours and gourmet restaurants stand cheek by jowl with regional cuisine from cuisine from Andhra Pradesh , Tamil Nadu , Kerala , Bengal and Punjab , besides Mumbai chaat cafés and snack bars.

Stand-up local eateries called darshinis are popular for a quick bite.

Brigade Rd, Residency Rd and Church St

A night on the town generally kicks off with a bar crawl along the old colonial quarter of Brigade Rd, Residency Rd and Church St, which are lined with scores of swish pubs.

Cubbon Park in Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

While Bangalore's traffic can be challenging, there are multiple transportation options available to help you get around the city. From utilising the metro or ride-hailing services, here’s how to do it.

Bengaluru’s extensive bus system radiates from the Kempegowda Bus Station near City railway station. Most buses from platform 17 travel past MG Rd.

Along with regular buses, BMTC also operates a deluxe express service, Pushpak, on a number of set routes as well as a handful of night buses.

Other important city bus stands include the City Market Bus Stand at Kalasipalayam near the railway station, and Shivaji Nagar to the northeast of Cubbon Park.

In June 2017, the first phase of Bengaluru’s Namma Metro was completed. The east– west Purple Line links the main train and bus stations (via City Railway and Majestic stations) with points east including Cubbon Park, MG Road and Indiranagar.

The north–south Green Line travels south via Yeshwantpur before intersecting with the Purple Line at Majestic and continuing south via Chikpete, KR Market and Lalbagh.

Payment is by single-use tokens or Varshik smart cards, which give a slight discount.

By auto-rickshaw

The easiest way of getting around is by metered auto-rickshaw, which can now even be summoned by app (mgaadi.com).

Most meters do work and drivers are usually willing to use them, although you will occasionally be asked for a flat fare, especially during rush hour.

You can book chauffeur-driven cars and taxis through several agencies including EZI Drive or Carzonrent or use Ola or Uber.

Lalbagh Botanical Park, Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

The best time to visit Bangalore is winter (October to February). Due to its elevation, Bangalore enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, but these months offer cooler temperatures and lower humidity, creating a more pleasant environment for exploring.

During this period, the weather in Bangalore is comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 28°C (82°F). This makes it an excellent time to venture out and discover the city's parks, gardens, and outdoor attractions without feeling overly hot or sweaty. While occasional drizzles may occur, the overall weather remains enjoyable.

Summer (March to May) can be hot as temperatures soar to 36°C (97°F) or higher. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, and the city tends to be crowded during the summer vacation period.

Bangalore also experiences the monsoon season from June to September, characterised by heavy rainfall.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Most, if not all, can be seen on a half-day tour, but if you explore on foot, be warned that Bengaluru has some of the worst pavements in India. To fully immerse yourself in the city, allocate 3 days for exploration.

On day 1, begin with the magnificent Bangalore Palace and then head to Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Lastly, explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. Wander the bustling markets of Chickpet and Commercial Street for delicious street food at night.

Dedicate day 2 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, where you can learn about astronomy and marvel at the wonders of the universe. For a hands-on experience, head to the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on science and technology. Afterward, find solace in the serene surroundings of Cubbon Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city.

On Day 3, escape to the tranquil Nandi Hills, a scenic hill station that offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Alternatively, explore the historic town of Srirangapatna, known for its ancient temples and palaces that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

With the busiest airport in south India, some travellers will fly into Bangalore but most arrive by train.

Bengaluru International Airport is 35 km northeast of the city in Devanahalli. It’s the busiest in south India and the most spacious in the country, with top-notch facilities.

Until the much-discussed high-speed rail link is up and running, you can get into the city by Meru Airport Taxi or efficient a/c Vayu Vajra bus.

Bangalore is well connected by train to all parts of India. Bangalore City railway station is west of the centre, near Kempe Gowda Circle, opposite the main bus stands; for the north of the city, it’s better to board or disembark at Bangalore Cantonment station north of the centre.

Bangalore City has prepaid auto-rickshaw and taxi booths in the forecourt, and is connected (via Majestic station) to MG Road and points east in the city by Namma Metro’s Purple Line.

Long-distance government buses, including those from other states like Goa and Maharashtra, arrive at the busy Central Bus Stand, opposite the railway station.

There is a comprehensive timetable in English in the centre of the Central Bus Stand concourse. Most services can be booked in advance at the computerised counters near Bay 13.

By private buses

Tickets for the numerous private bus companies can be bought from the agencies on Tank Bund Rd, on the opposite side of the bus stand from the train station.

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A Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Bangalore for First-time

Bangalore is regarded as the most prominent technological hub in Karnataka, India. And, if you are visiting Bangalore for the first time, you may simply be lost for words. Besides, Bengaluru is one of the greatest and the most modern-day metropolis in Karnataka, India.

Until recently, the globally acclaimed entity of India has also been represented by none other than Bangalore . Hence, once you turn up here, you will be overawed by the mind-boggling palaces to visit, pubs, malls, eateries and temples located in every nook and cranny of the city.

Over that, the vivacious and liberal ambience that prevails all across Bangalore makes it different from all the other notable cosmopolitan cities of India.

So, if you are visiting Bangalore and wondering where to eat, what to do and which places to visit, then we have you covered. Continue reading this post to know more about this stunning city called Bengaluru (formerly called Bangalore) and find out what to do when visiting Bangalore for the first time.

Where to go – the most interesting places to visit in Bangalore

Bangalore is an amazing amalgamation of rich cultural heritage and state-of-the-art modern-day facilities. Besides, the favourable climatic conditions that the city has made it worth the visit. In fact, there are quite a few tourist spots in Bangalore wherein you can turn up and make your sojourn in the capital of Karnataka even more gratifying and fulfilling.

If you are visiting Bangalore for the first time, then make sure to visit these interesting places.

National Gallery of Modern Art

Comprised of almost five hundred paintings, it’s a must-visit place in Bangalore for art lovers like you. You will also come across a collection of masterpieces done by renowned personalities such as Jamini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore and many others.

Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park was founded by Richard Sankey and nestles across a massive area of three hundred acres.

It’s a gigantic green park that consists of immaculate lawns and statues of eminent personalities. So, you must come here at least once with your friends or family members.

Nandi Hills

Well, Nandi Hills are meant for outright nature lovers and are located around sixty km away from the city of Bangalore. Particularly, couples would fall for this phenomenal place since it’s so full of greenery.

Interestingly, it is located at a height of 1478 km above sea level and is the genesis of rivers Palar and Akravati.

In particular, the hills got their name after the well-known Nandi Temple and encapsulate a clement weather all through the year. 

Hence, when visiting Bangalore, don’t miss out on visiting this breathtaking spot near Bengaluru.

Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens

To date, this botanical garden is considered the best not only in Bangalore but the whole of India. Initially, it was built by Haider Ali and later on, Tipu Sultan revamped it in his own way.

Spread across sprawling 240 acres, the garden is also comprised of a jaw-dropping glass house that was inspired by the eminent London Crystal Palace. Once you visit this place, you will see a massive collection of around eighteen hundred herbs, plants and trees. Needless to say, this may be the best place to visit while you are in Bangalore, especially so if you are a nature lover like me.

Bangalore Palace

One of the finest places to visit in Bangalore, the Bangalore Palace was predominantly built by Chamaraja Wodeyar in the year 1887.

Many dwellers of the city also believe that the design of the palace has been inspired by the Windsor Castle of England.

Comprised of Tudor-style architecture, towers and fortified arches, this place also harbours wooden carvings in its interior. And the green lawns that encompass it all around take its beauty a notch higher. And therefore, if you are visiting Bangalore for the first time, you may like to add Bangalore place in your list of must-visit monuments on your Bangalore trip.

What to eat when in Bangalore – the best local delicacies

Even if you are not an innate foodie, Bangalore will surely make you one. So, when out on the streets of Bangalore, don’t miss out on noshing these specialities at all.

Bisi Bele Bhath

A perfect blend of veggies, rice and dal, even a small bite of Bisi Bele Bhath is enough to tantalize your taste buds.

The delicacy is also quite similar to our mom’s homemade Khichdi, and you will get it almost in any South Indian eatery or takeaway food joint in the city.

Idli Dip Sambhar

Unlike the conventional dosas and idlis, idli dip sambhar is totally different especially when it’s somewhere like Bangalore.

Before tucking into this dish, you will see two pcs of soft, steaming hot idlis dipped into an entire bowl of partially sweet and spicy yet quite flavoursome Sambhar.

Although you will get it in every nook and cranny of Bangalore, Amruth Vegetarian is one such place where you will get the quintessential taste of Idli Dip Sambhar, served authentically that too in an amazing style.

Coming to Bangalore and not trying out the delectable steaks in the city is simply not done. You will get a steakhouse in every hop, skip and jump in Bangalore.

In particular, the central areas of Bangalore are regarded as the hub of the most well-known steakhouses ever.

However, the one steakhouse that stands out from all the others is the Millers 46, where not only you will get your favourite steaks but that too served with alcohol.

Where to stay when visiting Bangalore?

You are never short of accommodations during your Bangalore tour. Take a peek into these hotels for a clearer idea of where to stay visiting Bengaluru.

Grand Kalinga Hotel, Bangalore

Featuring two on-site restaurants, you will get access to double rooms, deluxe suites and superior king rooms out here.

Aside from that, some lip-smacking dishes are cooked and served in Grand Kalinga with utmost care and attention. Besides, you will get facilities like free Wi-Fi, car parking and customized dining options etc. All in all, staying in this hotel for a few days will leave you feeling satiated and pampered.

Shivas Galaxy Hotel in Bangalore

Starting from family rooms to club rooms, family connecting rooms to deluxe suites, you can book any sort of accommodation when in Shivas Galaxy Hotel in Bangalore.

Plus, the airport is also located quite near to the hotel, so reaching here won’t be a hassle for you at all. Access to a fitness centre, car parking and free Wi-Fi are some of the additional facilities that you will get while staying in this hotel.

Gokulam Grand Hotel and Spa

Almost all kinds of rooms are available in the Gokulam Grand Hotel and Spa. The checklist comprises twin rooms, deluxe and luxury spaces, executive suites, Club King Rooms with Business Lounge access and much more.

Also, avid food lovers would fall for this place as an assortment of food items are available here from Asian, Halal, and Full-on American to Western cuisines.

Enjoy the festivity: renowned festivals in Bangalore

The choicest blend of cultural diversity, whether it’s modern or traditional can be seen only in a few places of India.

Bangalore is one such place.

Check out the most renowned festivals of Bangalore below.

Dussehra typically represents the way good triumphs over evil. It is quite similar to the Durga Puja festival of Kolkata since the idol of Goddess Durga epitomizes the same idea. Likewise, the event of Dussehra lasts for about ten days during which ten thousand light bulbs are lit up, conveying the unapologetic victory of Lord Rama over the obnoxious demon, Ravana.

Apart from that, a couple of other symbolisms like fireworks and bonfires are also used and tikas are applied on the foreheads of the participants to add a hint of magnificence to the entire festivity. Signature renditions are performed to add to the significance of the ceremony even more.

 Gowri Habba Festival

The ceremony of Gowri Habba is celebrated in the whole of Bengaluru and especially by the myriads of married women out there.

After dressing up in traditional ethnic wear, the ladies embellish their homes beautifully while worshipping the idol of Goddess Gowri. Similarly, the temples are also decorated with mango leaves and banana stems to exude the actual essence of this beautiful festival in Bangalore.

Besides, the housewives also prepare meals and desserts made of honey and distribute them to their neighbours, believing that Goddess Gowri would give them adequate courage and strength for the rest of the year.

Ugadi Festival

Coming to the Ugadi Festival in Bangalore marks an auspicious, happy and joyous beginning of every Kannada New Year. Revels can be seen on the streets of the city all day long that is believed to pave the way for new avenues of blessings, abundance and success. What’s more, homeowners decorate their entrances with resplendent rangolis that take the festivity to a whole new level.

Groundnut Festival

Locally known as Kadalekai Parishe, the Groundnut Festival in Bangalore celebrates the first harvest of the groundnut crop throughout the city.

Fairs are also held in many parts of Bengaluru where vendors are conventionally seen selling Mehendi, colourful bangles, clay trinkets and toys to the several onlookers visiting them.

That apart, ten thousand lamps are lit at the Bull Temple and jubilant revelries take place in the Dodda Ganesha Temple so that the ceremony attains its pinnacle of exuberance.

How to reach Bangalore?

One can easily reach Bangalore through any of these means of travelling from different parts of India.

Since Bangalore is connected to the prominent national highways; you will get buses from the various neighbouring states of the city. The Bangalore Bus Stand also runs an array of buses to the major South Indian Cities out there. So, reaching Bangalore by road shouldn’t be a hassle for you at all.

Bangalore Railway Station is well-connected to the other prominent railway stations in India. Some of the most sought-after itineraries include Udayan Express from Mumbai, Karnataka Express from Delhi, Bengaluru Duronto Express from Howrah, and Mysore Express from Chennai via which you can arrive in Bangalore.

The Bangalore Airport is just located approx forty km away from the main city. In fact, a lot of international and national flights are seen landing here every day, which makes reaching Bangalore by air very easy and simple from major cities in India.

Explore Bangalore to the full!

Bangalore is not just a destination to travel all across but to perceive the true essence of its rich cultural heritage and technological breakthroughs as well. So, before you plan your Bengaluru trip, it’s better to access to know these interesting facts about Bangalore . I hope this Bangalore travel guide will help you get familiar with everything the city awaits you to astound with.

Aside from that, if you need help with relocating your goods to Bangalore, you can use Servicesutra to find the best-leading packers and movers in Bangalore at cost-effective prices.

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PM Modi in Bengaluru today: Avoid THESE routes for hassle-free travel

Prime minister narendra modi's visit to bengaluru prompts traffic advisory with road closures and diversions to ensure smooth traffic flow. security beefed up for vvip movement in the city..

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Bengaluru on Saturday afternoon, the city police department has issued a traffic advisory to alleviate congestion and facilitate uninterrupted traffic flow for commuters.

Meanwhile, security measures have been beefed up during the VVIP movement.

Also Read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE Updates

In an official release, DCP Traffic North, Bengaluru, said, “In view of VVIP visiting Bengaluru City on 20.04.2024, from 01:00 PM to 07:00 PM parking of all types of vehicles in the following roads, is prohibited. During the said period commuters are advised to avoid following roads and use alternative routes."

Here are the 11 roads to steer clear of today:

Palace Road

M V Jayaram road

Vasanthanagar Road

Jayamahal Road

C V Raman Road

Bellary Road

Ramanamaharshi Road

Nandidurga Road

Tharalabalu Road

Mount Carmel College Road

From Mekhri Circle towards Yeshwanthpura

It further read, “Traffic movement heavy goods vehicles are strictly prohibited from 12:00 noon to 9:00 PM to enter city."

Here are the traffic diversion points designated for heavy goods vehicles:

CMTI Junction

Mysuru Bank Junction

Hebbal Junction

New BEL Junction

BHEL underpass

Basaveshwara Circle

Old Udaya TV Junction

Haj Camp, Nandidurga Road

Near Yeshwanthpura Govardhan

PM Modi will visit Bengaluru and neighbouring Chikkaballapura district for the Lok Sabha poll campaign on Saturday.

According to the state BJP, a massive rally is scheduled at 4 PM in Bengaluru's Palace Grounds, covering the segments of Bangalore North, Bangalore South, Bangalore Central, and Bangalore Rural. These areas have been strongholds for the BJP, except Bangalore Rural, represented by Congress' D K Suresh, brother of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.

Also Read: Bengaluru news: Section 144 to be imposed during polling for Lok Sabha elections. Details here

The BJP's sitting MPs Tejasvi Surya and P C Mohan are candidates from Bangalore South and Central respectively, while Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje is contesting from Bangalore North.

In Bangalore Rural, Dr. C N Manjunath, the son-in-law of Deve Gowda and a prominent cardiologist, is contesting on a BJP ticket as part of an arrangement with alliance partner JD(S).

Karnataka is conducting elections in two phases, with 14 Lok Sabha segments in the southern part of the state going to polls on April 26 , and voting for the northern districts scheduled for May 7 in the second phase.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The 7 Best New and Affordable Places To Travel in 2024

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

Planning your 2024 vacation? If your wanderlust has you eager to go where you've never been, consider one of these new and affordable destinations for 2024.

Find Out: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Read More: 5 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Most safari vacations offer rustic accommodations, and a stay at Angama Amboseli does mean you'll be sleeping in a tent. But you'll also be able to gaze on the majesty of African elephants in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro. The resort celebrates the local indigenous community in its architecture and its culinary offerings.

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Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Busan, South Korea

While the K-pop stars BTS may have put Busan on the map, an influx of new resorts keeps it there. A new Windham property joins many beachfront resorts on the Sea of Japan. Foodies will want to consider Busan as it will welcome a new Michelin guide this year.

Check Out: I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Ocean views and a thriving maritime economy have long been associated with Nova Scotia, but this seaport now boasts an emerging technology industry. The newly redeveloped waterfront area features the Queen's Marque, with restaurants, art galleries and a five-star hotel.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

This Australian destination has rebuilt much of its lost in bushfires in 2020, and several new resorts will open this year. Cabn X is an affordable option, with small homes with a modern feel, and Southern Ocean Lodge, destroyed in the fires, has been rebuilt and is now open.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The DR has long been known as an affordable Caribbean destination, but it is now being recognized for luxury as well. Several new resorts in Punta Cana will open this year, including the St. Regis Cap Cana, the Sanctuary Cap Cana, and a new W hotel. Many resorts are all-inclusive, and some only welcome adults.

Find Out: 7 Cheap, Beautiful Places for a Winter Vacation

Quito, Ecuador

Most travelers visit Quito on their way to the Galapagos Islands, but the Ecuadorian capital has undergone a recent renaissance that makes it a destination in and of itself. An expanded subway has reduced traffic congestion and made it easier for non-locals to get around. New shops, galleries and restaurants have much to offer visitors, and its weather is mild year-round.

Transylvania, Romania

Beautiful castles and a rich history will prove that Transylvania is known for more than just vampires. Try Bethlen Estates near many historical sites, including Dracula's Bran Castle, for luxury. For a retreat experience, Matca offers walking safaris and praying with monks, all with views of the Carpathian Mountains.

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• Dear Life Kit
• Life Skills

How much should I spend on a wedding present? Life Kit's tips of the month

The great thing about working on Life Kit is that the editors and producers get to pick up all sorts of nifty life hacks that save money, enhance our relationships and make our everyday lives more joyful.

Here are nine expert tips from our April episodes we were most excited to share — and put into practice in our own daily lives.

1. Planning a big trip? Consider traveling during "shoulder season," the period of time between a city's peak season and offseason. It's often less expensive and it can help your "destination deal with over-tourism and overcrowding," says Lale Arikoglu, articles director at Condé Nast Traveler magazine.

From food to finance, 9 life hacks from Life Kit experts

2. The rule that your wedding gift should cost as much as your plate is outdated, says etiquette coach Myka Meier. "That is kind of an old wives' tale that you have to spend what the couple spent on you, because that's often not possible for many people. At the end of the day, you need to stay within your budget."

3. To prevent digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule . For every 20 minutes of computer work, take a 20-second break and look 20 feet away, say eye experts .

4. To truly connect with a poem, don't worry about figuring out what the poet is trying to say . Instead, says poet Harryette Mullen, focus on how you feel . What impression do you get? What ideas float around in your mind as you read it?

24 nifty tips to make 2024 even brighter

5. Don't depend on an anti-choking device if your baby is choking, say pediatricians . The evidence-backed and proven method is to do back blows followed by chest blows on your child — and then, if they're unresponsive, proceed to call 911 and do CPR .

6. Start talking to your kids about vaping when they're in elementary school , says Dr. Deepa Camenga, a pediatrician and addiction medicine specialist with the Yale School of Medicine. You want to be the first person to have that conversation with them so they know what your expectations are.

7. Think of your birthday as your own personal holiday. A lot of people dislike their birthday — they don't like the attention or they've been disappointed by previous birthdays. Make your day special again by doing what you want to do, whether it's throwing yourself a giant bash or treating yourself to a spa day.

8. In negotiation, avoid simple yes or no answers by trying a tactic called "a menu of options," says career coach Joan Moon. For example: instead of asking for more flexibility at a new job and getting a flat-out no, you might propose a couple of options: working three days remote or a four-day workweek. It can help expand the possibility of a favorable outcome .

Having a roommate can be great, but it takes some work to make it work

9. Tired of having roommates? Consider "communal living." Communal living takes many forms, whether that's sharing a home with like-minded people or raising your kids on the same street as your friends. And it goes by many names: intentional communities, co-housing, co-ops or communes. But they all have one thing in common: people who co-live don't just simply live together as roommates . They make the long-term commitment to intertwine their lives with one another, says Gillian Morris, who co-runs a blog on communal living.

The digital story was written by Malaka Gharib and edited by Meghan Keane. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

• Life Kit: Life Skills

Adaptive adventures are making national parks more inclusive

At great smoky mountains national park, adaptive mountain bikes and kayaks aid visitors with disabilities.

New resources available at Great Smoky Mountains National Park help visitors with disabilities explore hiking trails, go mountain biking, paddle kayaks and camp overnight in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee.

After launching a program of free, adaptive activities last year, the country’s most-visited national park will expand the number and type of excursions this summer.

“The programs allow individuals with disabilities and their families and community to move beyond the pavement to explore and enjoy the Smokies,” said Emily Davis, a public affairs specialist with the national park.

For its inaugural year, the national park and its partners organized three hikes and one mountain bike outing for parkgoers who use adaptive gear. This year, the program will feature three hikes, two mountain bike rides, one kayak trip and one night of backcountry camping. The outings are scheduled for select dates in June, July, September and October.

Davis said the staff receives daily emails and phone calls from people inquiring about the special excursions and adaptive equipment, which the park loans out through a separate program. She said the messages come from locals and out-of-town guests planning to vacation in the popular park. Last year, more than 13 million people visited, according to National Park Service data .

Eric Gray, founder and executive director of Catalyst Sports , one of the program’s key partners, said the nonprofit will provide three hiking chairs (plus two from the park), seven adaptive kayaks and a dozen mountain bikes, in addition to snacks and drinks. Experienced staff members and volunteers will help with the fit and handling of the gear.

“We’re trying to remove as many barriers as possible,” Gray said. “All they need to do is show up.”

Types of adaptive equipment

Catalyst’s equipment is available to anyone with a physical disability and caters to a wide range of special needs. Some of the kayaks and bikes are built for two, ideal for people with visual impairments.

• The organization uses three-wheel off-road trikes for people who can move their legs but have poor balance, and handcycle mountain bikes for cyclists without leg mobility. The bikes come with e-assist for powering through tough or steep terrain.
• The hiking chairs have levers (easier to push than dirt-encrusted wheels) and a front wheel for steamrolling over large obstacles.
• The kayaks have outriggers to prevent tipping, and a custom seat supports people with limited abdominal functions. Hand adaptations are tailored for amputees and others with restricted capabilities.

Participants can also bring their own gear. Folks who don’t require special assistance are invited, too.

“ It’s not just about making something accessible. It’s about making it inclusive, so that the entire family and friends can be part of it,” said Mark Bogosian, the director of quality of life grants program at the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation . “By offering these kinds of programs, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is really making sure that everybody in the community has the opportunity to participate and enjoy nature and be active.”

The inclusive outdoors

National parks are becoming increasingly more welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts with mobility issues. In addition to its adaptive-friendly excursions, the Great Smoky national park has three adult-size off-road wheelchairs (and one junior chair) available for use on accessible trails. NPS volunteers meet the guest at the trailhead for a safety overview and quick tutorial. The volunteer can accompany the hikers or wait at the trailhead. Davis said the park plans to expand its fleet as well as train more volunteers for this service.

Several other NPS sites also provide all-terrain wheelchairs (e.g., Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Rocky Mountain National Park ) or beach wheelchairs ( Golden Gate National Recreation Area , Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve , Gulf Islands National Seashore ). The rentals are complimentary. Because of the limited supply, reservations are strongly recommended.

The movement is flourishing on the state and regional level, as well. All-Terrain Georgia supplies all-terrain wheelchairs to more than a dozen destinations in the Peach State, including Cloudland Canyon, Panola Mountain and Cumberland Island. Tennessee State Parks and the Minnesota Department of National Resources provide the trailblazing equipment in 13 parks each. A number of other state park departments are also onboard, including Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Oklahoma and Wyoming.

“ I do see the domino effect,” said Carly Pearson, the ADA coordinator in Knox County, Tenn. “Other parks are catching on.”

Pearson, a former NPS wildland firefighter who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2002, said she assisted the Knoxville nonprofit Legacy Parks Foundation in creating one of the first adaptive mountain bike trails in East Tennessee. The Independence and Freedom Trail was completed in spring 2020. She said a number of local partners have since collaborated to develop more outdoor sites that can accommodate adaptive equipment.

People with mobility issues said one of the biggest obstacles to exploring the outdoors is acquiring or accessing the specialized gear. The equipment can be prohibitively expensive. Pearson said a fully kitted-out adaptive mountain bike can cost $22,000.

“Do I want to pay for my son’s college or do I go and selfishly buy myself a recreational piece of equipment?” she said. “I’m going to take care of my kid, of course.”

Specialized guides

Though loaner programs help adventurers overcome that hurdle, availability isn’t always enough. Depending on the individual’s capabilities, the visitor might need help settling into the equipment and navigating the unfamiliar trail or body of water. That’s where the support team comes in.

For the Great Smoky Mountains program, Gray said experts from his team will accompany guests, including an adaptive mountain bike director who lives in Asheville, N.C., a hiking director who will oversee the day treks and backcountry camping trip, and an adaptive kayaking specialist from Knoxville. Park rangers will cover the educational portion of the outings, sharing ecological and historical tidbits with the group.

For backcountry camping, Gray said guests will hike for about 1½ miles, cook over a fire and sleep in tents. They will rough it — to a point. Instead of digging a hole for a toilet, they will have access to a portable commode.

“We’re going to make it easier for them for their first experience in the backcountry,” he said.

Each national park shares information about its accessible trails and adaptive programs on its website and in its visitor centers. For a broader scope, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation created a search tool to help people locate accessible and adaptable programs, events and resources around the country. The organization also has a team of advisers who can help with trip planning and other recreational advice. The service is free.

“The information specialists are trained to help people locate areas for adaptive activities,” Bogosian said. “They help them think about the questions they need to ask as they plan their trips.”

‘Healing and restorative’ exercise

Matt Lee, a 43-year-old Asheville resident, suffered a spinal cord injury the summer after he graduated high school. He uses a wheelchair, which restricts his outdoor activities. Several years ago, he upgraded to a power-assisted device with off-road tires and a free wheel attachment. His range of exploration improved, but he still runs into stumbling blocks.

“You can get to a certain point,” he said, “but there might be a creek or a stream or some uprooted areas or lots of rocks that are just too challenging to navigate.”

In 2022, he attended an adaptive mountain bike clinic hosted by Catalyst Sports. He said it was the first time he had biked that hard and that deep into nature since his accident. He learned about the Great Smoky program during the clinic and signed up for two hikes last year. For the first trek, he borrowed a “passive” Jolëtte all-terrain wheelchair from the North Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association . He brought his own equipment for the second excursion on Deep Creek Trail.

“To venture off and experience being out in nature — it’s very healing and restorative,” he said. “Now that I’ve been able to get out there, I feel better. I’m happier. My overall well-being has improved.”

This year, he is considering the kayak outing and the backcountry trip, an adventure that is long overdue.

“I haven’t really done overnight camping in over 20 years,” he said. “So that would that would be a new experience for me since my injury.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .