Bangalore is one of the most progressive cities in the country. Apart from the countless things to do in Bangalore, this “Silicon Valley of India” also boasts dreamy weather, delicious masala dosa and filter coffee, and Carnatic fusion melodies. Planning to travel here soon? Take note of the following things to do in Bangalore, India for couples, friends, and families!
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in India, as well as the first of kind with its glasshouses and ornamental flower growing throughout the property. It’s also a known national and international center for the study and conservation of plants and botanical artwork. Spread more than 98 hectares of land, this expansive garden boasts a diverse species of flora like the giant silk-cotton tree and bonsai. You can also find rare birds, such as parakeets and purple moorhen.
An oasis of greenery amid the busy Bangalore, Cubbon Park is a scenic tourist attraction with its more than 6,000 trees and diverse flora and fauna. It also boasts a history of over 100 years and is surrounded by the Vidhana Soudha, the Attara Kacheri, and a number of other organizations. Visit Cubbon Park and discover the indigenous and exotic varieties of ornamental and flower plants, take a toy train ride, or explore the statues of famous personalities.
Bannerghatta Biological Park is a government-run sanctuary for an estimated 2,300 animals of 101 different species. Located some 23km from the city centre, it allows both locals and tourists to get acquainted with the diverse flora and fauna inhabiting the hills of the Anekal range. Apart from a zoo, the park also has a butterfly park, safari, and rescue centre. Some other unique attractions you can find are a crocodile farm, snake park, and prehistoric animals’ park.
One of the city’s oldest landmarks, Bangalore Palace is an estate perfect for those who are looking to experience the classic royal charm of Bangalore. The palace was built in 1878 and boasts an impressive mixture of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture. Once the private residence of the royal Wodeyar family, this palace now houses a fascinating collection of art and paraphernalia from the bygone era, specifically from South India’s most enduring dynasties.
Built in the year 1791, this palace was used as the summer residence of Tipu Sultan, one of the fiercest rulers of the Kingdome of Mysore. This two-storey building boasting beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture is made purely out of teak wood; it also has big fluted pillars and walls and ceilings decorating in floral patterns. Most of the fort is in a state of ruin but the palace is well-preserved. Today, The Archeology Survey of India is in charge of maintaining Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace.
Nandi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bengaluru and is dedicated to Nandi the bull, the “vahana” or vehicle of Lord Shiva and the guardian deity of Lord Shiva’s abode. Also known as the Bull Temple, it boasts a Dravidian style with intricate metalwork and beautifully adorned pillars. Enter inside and you’ll find a Ganesh temple with a large deity made of 110kg of butter, which is distributed as a “prashada” (God’s food) every four years.
Located in the heart of Bangalore, Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum is the best place to nurture curious minds. The museum covers an area of 4,000 square meters with four floors of seven permanent exhibitions and three special ones. It houses a variety of industrial products and engines and offers several activities: Taramandal Show, Science Demonstration Show, Sky Observation Programme, Science on a Sphere, and more. You can also find animated dinosaurs and a life-size model of the Wright Brothers’ flyer.
The Suvarna Vidhana Soudha is the building for the legislative assembly of Karnataka. Sprawled across 127 acres of land, the four-storied structure has an Assembly Hall, a Council Chamber, a Central Hall, and 14 conference rooms, crowned by a mammoth dome. It is said to bring the Karnataka government closer to the people. At the front of the building is an inscription that says “Kayakave Kailasa”, which means “Work is Worship”, from the famous 12th-century poet Basavanna.
Found on the Bangalore Mysore road is the Dodda Alada Mara, a legendary 400-year-old banyan tree covering a massive area of 3 acres. It suffered from a natural disease in the 2000s and the chief roots died of contamination; since then, the giant tree looks like a bundle of several small trees - with its aerial roots still multiplying in number and size. The area today is well-maintained with bright cement seats, pathways, and dustbins, making it a great place for a picnic.
Bheemeshwari is more than just a small town in Karnataka’s Mandya district; it’s also a paradise for thrill-seekers and people who just want a chance to get closer to nature. Perfect for a short trip from Bangalore, the petite town offers a variety of exciting activities, including boating, camping, trekking, rope walking, kayaking, and zip-lining. The extensive forest covering a variety of flora and fauna is also home to many bird species. Some other wildlife that can be spotted here are elephants, deer, snakes, crocodiles, and deer.
Once a sleepy regional capital, today’s Bangalore has become the technological hub of India, thanks to the growing presence of multinational companies. Apart from being the “Silicon Valley of India”, this city is also known for its beautiful lakes, calming gardens, and age-old trees.
Bangalore is a year-round travel destination, although the most popular travel periods are May-Jun and Dec-Jan. Some notable events include Dussehra in October, which is a traditional Hindu festival with colorful street processions. You can also experience Diwali in October or November; this is the festival of lights with sparklers, fireworks, and candles.
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation in Bangalore but one of the nicest areas is along and around St. Mark’s Road. This road stretches between two major thoroughfares and is close to many top-end hotels, malls, and other facilities best for tourists. There are also express buses to and from the airport here. MG Road, on the other hand, is quite central and is close to many tourist attractions.