Vinod K
Top Places to Visit in Bangalore
Bangalore or Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, could also be more famous as a hub for the knowledge Technology sector, but it’s also a gem of a tourist destination. The bustling metropolis beckons vacationers primarily with its scenic, lush green spaces that have earned it the nickname, ‘Garden City.’ Among the opposite things that tempt holidaymakers to plan a visit to Bangalore are its thumping nightlife, exquisite dining scene, myriad shopping districts, and countless adventure opportunities. People, who are heading to the ‘Silicon Valley of India’ for business purposes or leisure, have a lot of places to go to in Bangalore for a memorable time and things to try to do in Bangalore. So, with none further ado, allow us to get straight to the magnificent points of interest, divided into different categories to assist you to discover your favorite ones.
Parks and Wildlife Areas, Bangalore
The Garden City has no shortage of green spaces, and therefore the following are those that you simply shouldn’t miss out on visiting:
1. Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is sort of a breath of fresh air within the bustling city of Bangalore. The 300-acre park, brimming with greenery and tranquillity, may be a great pick for a fun outing with the family or a leisurely stroll there upon special someone. it’s also a treasure trove of biodiversity with about 6000 trees and plants, representing almost 100 species.
- Timings: Morning till evening
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Station Vidhana Soudha Metro Station (75 meters)
2. Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore
Lalbagh arboretum traces its origin to the 1760s, when the then ruler of Mysore, Hyder Ali initiated the event of 40 acres of land as a personal garden for the royalty. What you see today may be a result of constant expansion and development administered by Tipu Sultan, British, and other regional rulers over the years. People like it because it offers a respite from the fast-paced life Bangalore is synonymous with.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Lalbagh (220 meters)
3. Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore
Bangalore may house many beasts of the IT industry, but the world surrounding it’s home to the important creatures of the wild. Situated within the outskirts of the town is Bannerghatta park, where you get the prospect to capture the fascinating wildlife of the region from up close. Elephants, leopards, sambars, wild boars, and sloth bears are among the animals that you simply can encounter here.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Safari Rides Bus Stand (180 meters)
4. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, Bangalore
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, located 70 km south of Bangalore, is one of the foremost popular hiking spots within the area. About 3780 ft. high, this hill houses a temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha Swamy and is roofed with dense shrubs. Elephants and other medium-sized wildlife animals are often spotted in these forests. and therefore the view from the highest is completely delightful!
- Timings: Sunrise to sunset
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: KSRTC Bus Stand Kanakapura (16.4 km)
5. Freedom Park, Bangalore
London’s Hyde Park equivalent, Freedom Park in Bangalore covers a neighborhood of 21 acres and occupies an equivalent site where once stood the Central Jail. A glimpse of the past is often seen within the center of the park, where lies the tower that was wont to observe prisoners. drinking fountain, Jail Museum, a Sculpture court, Book Museum, and other people Courtyard are other attractions here.
- Timings: 5 am to 8:30 am and 4 pm to 8 pm
- Nearest Metro Station: Kempegowda Stn., Majestic (2.1 km)
6. Lumbini Gardens, Bangalore
A one-of-its-kind attraction within the city, Lumbini Gardens attracts many visitors a day due to its serene environment and verdant landscape. The park, situated on the banks of Nagawara Lake, is ideal for a day-out with family because it boasts a kids’ park, amusement rides, wave pool, boating club, beautiful fountains, a 1.5 km-long walking path and a food stall to enjoy delectable fare.
- Timings: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Kanaka Nagar Bus Stand (1.7 km)
7. Bugle Rock Park, Bangalore
The Bugle Rock Park is situated in Basavanagudi within the South of Bangalore. the most attraction of the park is that the group of natural rock formations called the Peninsular Gneiss. These formations are assessed to be quite 3,000 million years old. The park attracts both locals and tourists and is complete with a fountain and lush greenery.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on all days of the week
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: BMS College Bus Stand (300 meters)
8. Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park (JP Park), Bangalore
This is the third-largest park in Bangalore and maybe a beautifully maintained landscape sprawling across 85 acres. The park is crammed with four lakes, a few refreshing fountains, and a clean jogging path. The musical fountain is another attraction here. The park is found in Mathikere and has clean toilets, fresh beverage sources, and food kiosks too.
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Chowdeshwari Bus Stand JP Park (300 meters)
Monuments, Bangalore
Bangalore is dotted with impressive monuments that narrate the story of its rich past. those you’ll explore are:
1. Bangalore Palace
Built in the latter half of the 19th century, Bangalore Palace offers a glimpse into the riches of the past monarchs. The architecture of the building reminds me of the castles inbuilt in Northern France and England in medieval times. additionally, the massive park ahead regularly hosts concerts by international Heavy Metal bands.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Cubbon Park Metro Station (3.2 km), Forum City Apartment Bus Stand (800 meters)
2. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Bangalore
Tipu Sultan ruled the dominion of Mysore for nearly 20 years during the late 18th century, and this sprawling palace served as his summer residence. The palace houses several articles belonging to Tipu Sultan also as paintings of monarchs.
- Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Krishna Rajendra Market Metro Station (450 meters)
3. Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore
The seat of the govt of Karnataka, Vidhana Soudha may be a granite marvel which leaves observers spellbound by its sheer grandeur. Though there are several impressive buildings and monuments within the city, Vidhana Soudha stands out with its Neo-Dravidian sort of architecture, broad staircase ahead, and therefore the giant pillars these are followed by. you are doing not want to skip this one out on your Bangalore city tour. thanks to it being a building, entry to its premises is restricted.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays; closed on weekends
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Metro Station (Vidhana Soudha) (350 meters)
4. ISKCON Temple, Bangalore
Little do people know that Bangalore’s ISKCON Temple holds the honor of being the most important within the world. Its foundation was laid in 1997 in remembrance of the birth anniversary of ISKCON founder, Shri Prabhupada. The shrine stands out for its neo-classical style of architecture, the ethereal idols of Radha and Lord Krishna, and therefore the ornate arch at the doorway, among other things.
- Timings: 4:15 am to 5 am, 7:15 am to 1 pm, and 4 pm to 8:30 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Mahalakshmi Metro Station (650 m)
5. Halasuru Someshwara Temple, Bangalore
Located in Ulsoor, this is often among the oldest temples in Bangalore and was built during the Chola Dynasty. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and maybe a beautiful and peaceful place to go to within the middle of the bustling city.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Halasuru Metro Station (400 meters)
6. Shivoham Shiva Temple, Bangalore
Built in the year 1995, this temple within the Old Airport Road, Bangalore is understood for its 65-feet Shiva Idol, which is that the main attraction here. the synthetic cave that results in the inner sanctum of the temple is one more reason for its popularity. The temple attracts worshippers from everywhere on the planet per annum and is an architectural landmark of the town.
- Timings: Open 24 hours a day
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Murugeshpalya Bus Stop (150 meters)
7. Bull Temple (Nandi Temple), Bangalore
The Bull Temple in Basavanagudi is one of the most important temples within the world dedicated to Lord Nandi. It houses a really large and majestic idol of Nandi, measuring 15-feet tall and 20-feet long. The temple is found inside the famous Bugle Rock Park and maybe a very fashionable tourist destination within the city.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: BMS College Bus Stand (300 meters)
8. Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall (State Central Library)
The Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is another iconic monument in Bangalore. this is often situated in Cubbon Park and is additionally called the Central Library. It houses over 2.6 lakh books. The building gives you a glimpse of rare literary classics that you simply cannot find anywhere else within the country.
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM (all days except Monday), Closed on the 2nd Tuesday of every month
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Cubbon Park Metro Station (600 meters)
9. Bangalore Fort
This is yet one more historical monument in Bangalore. the development of the fort started within the year 1537 by Kempe Gowda I and Tipu Sultan improved the architecture of the fort within the 18th century. Located in Tharagupet, you’ll enjoy beautiful paintings and wall murals here.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: KR Market Bus Stop (150 meters)
Museums, Bangalore
The museums in Bangalore aren’t just informative and insightful, but engaging also. Among the foremost thronged museums within the city are:
1. Government Museum
Operational since 1865, the govt Museum in Bangalore is counted among the oldest museums within the country. However, it’s not just the rich history of this place that pulls visitors, but also the impressive collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, like sculptures, coins, inscriptions and jewellery.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Cubbon Park Metro Station (1 km)
2. HAL Heritage Centre & Aerospace Museum
HAL Heritage Centre & Aerospace Museum chronicles the event of the aviation industry and the way the aircraft evolved within the past century. It does so through a comprehensive assortment of photographs also as genuine and model aircraft and parts thereof. Museums might not be your thing, but this one, with its intriguing collection, could alright change your entire outlook.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: HAL Police Station Bus Stand (700 meters)
3. NIMHANS Brain Museum
NIMHANS Brain Museum isn’t your run-of-the-mill museum. For years, the place has been collecting, preserving, and exhibiting brain specimens for educational and research purposes. it’s going to appear or sound eerie to some people; however, the work that it’s done regarding spreading awareness and removing the stigma associated with neuropsychiatric illnesses is basically outstanding.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand/Bus Stand: South End Circle Metro Station (3.1 km), Nimhans Hospital Bus Stand (150 m)
4. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore
The Nehru Planetarium may be a top attraction within the city, especially for teenagers and science buffs. The planetarium offers amazing 3D shows, a science park with up to 40 exhibits, and a sky theatre. It also organizes a sky-gazing programme on the primary Sunday of each month.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Closed on all Mondays and the second Tuesdays of the month
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Metro Station (900 meters)
5 Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
If you’re a tech enthusiast or if you’ve got children who love science and technology, the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, located within the Cubbon Park area may be an excellent spot to go to. The museum was inaugurated within the year 1962 and has about 10 exhibition halls, a 3D theatre, and a science park.
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Chinnaswamy Stadium Bus Stop (600 meters), Cubbon Park Metro Station (1 km)
Markets and Shopping Malls, Bangalore
From palatial shopping malls to bustling markets, the town of Bangalore has a lot of retail hubs that are not any but attractions in themselves. the foremost popular among these include:
1. M.G. Road, Bangalore
M.G. Road is one of the simplest spots in Bangalore to spend leisurely time. The place is lined with shops that offer you an opportunity to enjoys retail therapy, restaurants where you’ll relish delectable food, and a plethora of entertainment options. If you’re trying to find an area to select up local handicrafts as souvenirs of your Bangalore trip, then M.G. is your best choice.
- Timings: Morning to Evening for market; 10:00 am to 10:00 pm for malls
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: M.G. Road Metro Station (500 meters)
2. UB City Mall, Bangalore
Retail therapy in Bangalore doesn’t get more stylish than this. UB City Mall is usually touted because the “India’s First Luxury Mall”. It’s not just the various international brands that draw shopaholics to the present place, but also the aesthetics of the building on the within and out of doors. aside from shopping and dining, UB City Mall also attracts people with its endless nightlife options.
- Timings: Stores (11:00 to 8:00 pm); restaurants (11:00 am to 11:30 pm on Sun-Thu and 11:00 am to 1:00 am on Fri-Sat)
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Cubbon Park Metro Station (1.6 km)
3. Commercial Street, Bangalore
Commercial Street may be a dream come true for each budget shopper in Bangalore. The bustling street, which is merely a brief drive from the famed M.G. Road, is replete with stores where people can purchase trendy clothes and accessories at low rates. The place also boasts many restaurants offering regional and international cuisine.
- Timings: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: M.G. Road Metro Station (1.1 km)
4. Mantri Square Mall, Bangalore
Mantri Square Mall is one of the most important shopping malls in Bangalore with a sprawling area of 1.3 m square feet. quite 10,000 brands are housed here including a number of the simplest domestic and international names across industries. Besides shopping, this mall is ideal to enjoys a movie-viewing experience at 6-screen INOX multiplex, have some fun time at the bowling alley and gaming corner, or enjoy a variety of delicacies at the food court.
- Timings: 11.00 am to 10.00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Mantri Square Sampige Road Metro Station (300 m)
5. Phoenix Mall, Bangalore
Located on the Whitefield highway, the Phoenix Mall is that the best place to buy and hang out. The mall is crammed with many branded stores, kiosks, and restaurants, and a well-maintained food court. The play area for youngsters and therefore the open space around the mall are added attractions.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Singaianapalya Phoenix Bus Stop (200 meters)
6. Garuda Mall, Bangalore
Garuda Mall is yet one more popular shopping destination in Bangalore for premium shoppers. Situated on Magrath Road, there is a spread of dining, shopping, and entertainment options here. you’ll spend quality time here shopping from over 300 branded stores. Thousands of locals frequent the mall a day.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: MG Road Metro Station – Church Street Exit (700 meters)
7. Chickpet, Bangalore
If you’re a shopaholic, don’t leave Bangalore without visiting Chickpet. This old neighborhood consists of narrow lanes crammed with many small and large shops selling all types of wares. you’ll find anything you would like from antiques to designer wedding clothes, gold jewelry, footwear, and residential accessories here in plenty.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Chickpet Metro Station (Green Line) (500 metres)
8. Brigade Road, Bangalore
Brigade Road is bustling with people during the year. Walking through this happening lane and enjoying window-shopping is an experience by itself. The road lights up within the evening and is that the perfect spot to buy to your heart’s content.
- Timings: 10:00 AM until midnight
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: MG Road Metro Station – Church Street Exit (500 meters)
Amusement Parks, Bangalore
If you’re spending time within the city together with your family, there are hordes of amusement parks in Bangalore you’ll plan a visit to, such as:
1. Wonderla, Bangalore
Wonderla ensures a fun time for visitors with its over five dozen wet and dry rides. it’s roller coasters to urge the adrenaline levels soaring and calm pools where you’ll simply relax in refreshing waters. In short, a visit to Wonderla is that the recipe for the right time together with your family.
- Timings: Weekdays – 11:00 am to 6:00 pm; Weekends, Holidays and Peak Season – 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Wonderla Amusement Park Bus Stand (350 meters)
2. Fun World, Bangalore
Fun World, because the name suggests, maybe a world of fun. This amusement park is complete with thrilling rides that talk to adrenaline junkies and fun rides that one can enjoy with the whole family. The park also houses an inside snow park, where you’ll enjoy in temperatures below the melting point and partake in mountain activities like sledding.
- Timings: 11:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: TV Tower Bus Stand (250 meters)
3. Innovative Film City, Bangalore
Innovative Film City offers an entertainment extravaganza. The place houses Cartoon City, Aqua Kingdom, Dino Park, collection, Haunted Mansion, and many other similar-themed zones that will keep you hooked for a whole day. It also has numerous museums, production studios, and restaurants that are perfect for a relaxed outing.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Abbanakuppe Bus Stand (900 meters)
Natural Attractions, Bangalore
Those looking to urge faraway from the town but not too far can explore nature’s gifts within the outskirts of Bangalore like:
1. Manchanabele Dam, Bangalore
Located at about an hour’s drive from Bangalore city center, Manchanabele Dam is made across the Arkavathy River and caters to the water needs of the nearby town of Magadi. tons of local and even travelers plan a visit to the present site due to the very fact that it’s far away from the hustle-bustle of the town and offers a serene environment for people to unwind. Trekking, picnics, birdwatching, boating, camping, hiking, and rappelling are a number of the activities to enjoys at this dam.
- Timings: 24 hours
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Manchanabele Dam Cross Bus Stand (1.1 km)
2. Thottikallu Falls, Bangalore
It’s quite common for college-going kids and people in Bangalore to plan a weekend getaway to TK Falls (also referred to as the Swarna Mukhi Falls). About 35 km from Bangalore, Thottikallu Falls is a superb place for trekking enthusiasts or simply those that want to urge far away from the clatter of the town. be happy to require a shower in its cascading waters after the strenuous trek or just relax here.
- Timings: Morning till evening
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Kuppareddy Kere Bus Stand (5.9 km)
3. Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore
Spread over 50 acres, Ulsoor Lake maybe a piece of heaven amidst the hustle and bustle of the town. Boating is that the main attraction here. you’ll also spend time sitting and watching sunrise and sunset. A clean walking path surrounds the lake too perfect for early morning or evening walks.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: MEG Centre Bus Stop (right outside the lake)
4. Dodda Aalada Mara (Big Banyan Tree), Bangalore
Dodda Alada Mara is translated to the large banyan. Located in Kettohalli in Bangalore, this single banyan covers 3 acres of land and is taken into account among the most important trees within the country. The banyan is surrounded by a little park with seating spots and maybe a good place to go to in the mornings and evenings. Do remember an outsized number of monkeys within the park.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Nearest Metro Station/Bus Stand: Dodda Alada Mara Bus Stop (20 meters
