Best Things to Do in Bangalore: A Complete Guide

Attractions in Bangalore

1. Lalbagh Botanical Garden Lalbagh, a serene oasis in the heart of the city, showcases a stunning variety of flora. Home to over 1,000 species of plants, it entices nature lovers with its enchanting landscape, picturesque lake, and the Glass House hosting flower shows.

2. ISKCON Temple Bangalore This spiritual haven is an architectural marvel and a spiritual retreat. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple features intricate designs, serene ambiance, and regular events that attract devotees and tourists alike.

3. Cubbon Park Spanning 300 acres, Cubbon Park is an urban green space offering tranquility amid the city’s bustle. It houses numerous species of plants, walking trails, and landmarks like the Bangalore Aquarium and the State Archeological Museum.

4. Bengaluru Palace Reflecting the opulence of the city’s bygone era, this palace showcases exquisite architecture, stunning interiors, and a remarkable collection of paintings, artifacts, and memorabilia.

5. Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum A tribute to the scientific genius of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, this museum features interactive exhibits, scientific models, and displays on various branches of science and technology.

6. Bannerghatta Biological Park This wildlife reserve offers a safari experience with diverse wildlife, including tigers, lions, elephants, and various species of birds, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

7. UB City A luxury shopping and dining destination, UB City houses high-end boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and hosts cultural events and art exhibitions, drawing locals and tourists alike.

8. Wonderla Amusement Park An exhilarating escape, Wonderla offers thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect spot for family fun and adventure.

Explore these attractions to capture the essence of Bangalore’s culture, heritage, and entertainment.

Activities:

• Trekking: The hills offer various trekking trails suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

• Paragliding: Adrenaline junkies can enjoy paragliding sessions and experience the thrill of flying.

• Cycling: Cycling enthusiasts can pedal through the scenic routes, soaking in the panoramic views.

Best Time to Visit: The early morning hours to witness the mesmerizing sunrise or during cooler months from September to February.

Note: Visitors should check the current status and accessibility of activities due to varying weather conditions and local guidelines before planning their visit.

Tours and Day Trips Around Bangalore

1. Guided Tours: Discover Bangalore’s essence through guided tours. Explore heritage sites, bustling markets, and cultural landmarks with knowledgeable guides.

2. Day Trips to Mysore: Embark on a day trip to Mysore, a city steeped in history. Visit the majestic Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and the artistic Brindavan Gardens.

3. Wine Tours: Explore vineyards and indulge in wine tasting sessions in the nearby regions of Nandi Hills or Ramanagara. Savor local wines and learn about the winemaking process.

4. Adventure Excursions: Satiate your adventurous spirit with day trips to Ramanagara for rock climbing, Savandurga for trekking, or Bheemeshwari for river rafting.

5. Wildlife Safaris: Take a day trip to Bannerghatta Biological Park for a safari experience amidst diverse flora and fauna. Witness wildlife in their natural habitat.

6. Spiritual Journeys: Visit spiritual hubs like ISKCON temple and explore ancient temples in Belur, Halebid, and Shravanabelagola, experiencing tranquility and architectural grandeur.

7. Heritage Visits: Plan a day trip to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore ruins, ancient temples, and architectural marvels from the Vijayanagara Empire.

8. Hill Station Escapes: Enjoy day trips to hill stations like Nandi Hills, Ramanagara, or Yercaud, reveling in scenic beauty, serene surroundings, and pleasant weather.

Note: Prioritize safety, book trips with certified operators, and consider local guidelines before planning any excursions.

 

Outdoor Activities in and Around Bangalore

1. Trekking and Hiking: Explore the rugged terrain of nearby hills like Nandi Hills, Ramanagara, or Skandagiri. Enjoy picturesque trails, lush forests, and panoramic vistas.

2. Cycling Adventures: Pedal through scenic routes in and around the city or opt for organized cycling tours. Experience exhilarating rides amidst picturesque landscapes.

3. Nature Walks: Unwind amidst nature at Cubbon Park or Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Enjoy leisurely strolls, discover diverse flora, and relax in serene surroundings.

4. Bird Watching: Visit the city outskirts or Bannerghatta Biological Park for bird-watching experiences. Observe a variety of avian species in their natural habitats.

5. Water Activities: Engage in thrilling water sports at Manchanabele Dam or adventure resorts like Discovery Village. Activities include kayaking, zip-lining, and coracle rides.

6. Camping: Camp under the stars at Nandi Hills, Bheemeshwari, or Kanakapura. Experience nature, bonfires, stargazing, and serene nights away from the city hustle.

7. Paragliding and Skydiving: Adventure enthusiasts can partake in paragliding sessions in Nandi Hills or tandem skydiving experiences near Mysore for an adrenaline rush.

8. Horse Riding: Enjoy horseback riding experiences at equestrian centers around Bangalore. Traverse lush landscapes and bond with these magnificent creatures.

 

Concerts & Shows in Bangalore

Bangalore’s vibrant cultural scene offers a plethora of live concerts, music festivals, and captivating shows throughout the year.

1. Live Music Events: Experience the city’s diverse music scene with live performances ranging from rock, jazz, classical, to indie. Venues like Hard Rock Cafe, The Humming Tree, and Opus regularly host live gigs.

2. Stand-up Comedy: Enjoy rib-tickling laughter nights with top-notch stand-up comedians at venues like That Comedy Club, Vapour, and Urban Solace.

3. Theater and Drama: Witness enthralling plays, dramas, and stage performances at venues like Ranga Shankara, Jagriti Theatre, and Chowdiah Memorial Hall.

4. Dance Shows: Delight in spectacular dance performances encompassing various genres like classical, contemporary, and Bollywood at venues across the city.

5. Music Festivals: Be part of music extravaganzas like Bacardi NH7 Weekender, Echoes of Earth, and Indie March, featuring renowned artists and bands from across the country.

6. Cultural Events: Embrace Bangalore’s rich cultural heritage through folk music performances, storytelling sessions, and traditional dance shows at cultural centers like National Gallery of Modern Art and Bangalore International Centre.

7. Film Screenings: Engage in film screenings, film festivals, and movie marathons showcasing diverse cinema at venues like Suchitra Film Society and Alliance Francaise.

 

Food & Drink Experiences in Bangalore

Bangalore, a melting pot of cultures, reflects its diversity in its rich culinary offerings. From traditional South Indian delights to global cuisines, the city caters to every palate.

1. Local Cuisine:

• South Indian Delights: Indulge in iconic local dishes like dosas, idlis, vadas, and authentic Kannadiga meals at eateries such as MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room), Vidyarthi Bhavan, and Brahmin’s Coffee Bar.
• Biryani Havens: Savor aromatic biryanis at Shivaji Military Hotel, Meghana Foods, or Savoury Sea Shell for a delectable experience.
• Chaat and Street Food: Dive into the lively streets to relish mouthwatering chaats, pani puri, and local street delights at Food Street, VV Puram.

2. Fine Dining:

• Award-Winning Restaurants: Explore upscale dining experiences at acclaimed restaurants like Karavalli, Fava, and The Black Rabbit, offering diverse cuisines and exquisite ambiance.
• Rooftop Bars: Enjoy a panoramic city view while sipping on cocktails and indulging in a range of global cuisines at high-rise venues like High Ultra Lounge and Skyye.

3. Cafe Culture:

• Quaint Cafes: Experience the city’s cafe culture at cozy spots such as Matteo Coffea, Glen’s Bakehouse, or Art Blend Cafe, offering delightful brews and delectable bites.

4. Microbreweries:

• Craft Beer Havens: Bangalore is renowned for its burgeoning craft beer scene. Visit microbreweries like Toit, Arbor Brewing Company, and Windmills Craftworks for unique brews.

5. Food Tours:

• Culinary Trails: Embark on food tours exploring local markets, food streets, and hidden gems across the city with curated tours offering a taste of Bangalore’s culinary diversity.

6. Nightlife:

• Nightclubs and Bars: Unwind and enjoy the buzzing nightlife at popular spots such as Loft 38, Church Street Social, and The Biere Club, offering live music, DJ nights, and vibrant ambiances.

 

Bangalore’s food scene is not just about taste; it’s an exploration of cultures, traditions, and a celebration of flavors, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

 

Shopping in Bangalore: Unveiling the City’s Retail Extravaganza

Dive into Bangalore’s vibrant shopping landscape, offering a plethora of options, from bustling markets to upscale malls, catering to varied tastes and preferences.

1. Commercial Street:

• Street Shopping Haven: Explore this bustling street market for trendy clothes, accessories, and footwear at budget-friendly prices. Haggle skillfully for the best deals!

2. Brigade Road:

• Fashion Hub: Discover branded stores, boutiques, and trendy outlets lining this famous boulevard. From high-end labels to local designer shops, it’s a fashionista’s paradise.

3. UB City:

• Luxury Shopping: Indulge in upscale retail therapy at UB City, housing prestigious international and Indian luxury brands, along with fine dining and entertainment options.

4. Chickpet Market:

• Wholesale Marketplace: Experience the charm of a traditional market, offering a wide array of wholesale goods, textiles, sarees, and ethnic wear at reasonable rates.

5. Commercial Markets:

• KR Market: Delve into Bangalore’s largest wholesale market, renowned for its vast array of flowers, fruits, vegetables, and vibrant local produce.
• Avenue Road: Explore a centuries-old market famous for its books, stationery, traditional fabrics, and local artifacts.

6. Malls and Shopping Complexes:

• Orion Mall, Phoenix Marketcity, Forum Mall: Visit these sprawling malls for a blend of international and Indian brands, entertainment, dining, and recreational options.

7. Handicrafts and Artifacts:

• Cauvery Emporium: Browse through a diverse collection of handcrafted artifacts, textiles, pottery, and traditional souvenirs representing Karnataka’s art and craft.

8. Antique Stores:

• Johnson Market: Uncover hidden treasures at antique stores, offering an array of vintage finds, collectibles, and unique items that reflect the city’s history and culture.

 

From street markets exuding local flavors to upscale malls offering luxury shopping experiences, Bangalore’s shopping scene is an eclectic mix, catering to every shopper’s desire and creating an unforgettable retail journey.

In Conclusion

Bangalore is a shopper’s paradise offering a myriad of options for every taste and preference. Whether you’re hunting for traditional artifacts, trendy fashion, or exploring local markets for an authentic experience, the city’s diverse shopping destinations cater to all.

From the lively markets of Commercial Street and Chickpet to the luxurious ambiance of UB City and high-end malls like Orion and Phoenix Marketcity, Bangalore seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern shopping experiences.

While strolling through the bustling streets or browsing upscale boutiques, one can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture, savoring its rich heritage and bustling energy. Embark on a retail escapade in Bangalore, an experience that promises a fusion of tradition, modernity, and an unforgettable shopping spree.