10+ Superlative Places to Visit in Bangalore

Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is the capital of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is a bustling city that blends modern technology with traditional culture. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Bangalore:

• Lalbagh Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden covers an area of over 240 acres and is home to over 1,000 species of plants. It was originally commissioned by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, and later expanded by his son, Tipu Sultan.

• Bangalore Palace: This beautiful palace was built in the 19th century and is reminiscent of England’s Windsor Castle. It is now open to the public and houses a museum showcasing the history of the Wadiyar dynasty, who once ruled the region.

• Cubbon Park: This lush green park is located in the heart of Bangalore and covers an area of over 100 acres. It is a popular spot for jogging, picnicking, and relaxing amidst nature.

• Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: This beautiful palace was built in the 18th century by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore. It is made entirely of teakwood and features beautiful floral motifs and intricate carvings.

• Ulsoor Lake: This serene lake is located in the heart of Bangalore and offers boating and other water activities. It is a popular spot for picnics and relaxing by the water.

• Bangalore Fort: This historic fort was built in the 16th century by Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore. It was later expanded by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and played an important role in the region’s history.

• ISKCON Temple: This beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a popular spot for spiritual seekers. It features beautiful architecture and hosts various cultural and spiritual events throughout the year.

• Commercial Street: This bustling street is a popular spot for shopping and offers a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handicrafts.

• Bannerghatta National Park: This beautiful park is located on the outskirts of Bangalore and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, lions, and elephants. It also features a butterfly park and a zoo.

• Wonderla: This popular amusement park offers a wide range of rides and attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to water slides and wave pools. It is a fun spot for families and adrenaline junkies alike.

Bangalore is well-connected to the rest of India and the world via air, rail, and road. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Bangalore:

• By Air: Bangalore has its own international airport, Kempegowda International Airport, which is located around 40 km from the city center. It is well-connected to major cities in India and around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city center.

• By Train: Bangalore is connected to major cities in India via rail, with several trains passing through the city’s railway stations. Bangalore has three major railway stations, namely Bangalore City Railway Station, Bangalore Cantt. Railway Station, and Yeshwantpur Junction Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach your destination.

• By Road: Bangalore is connected to major cities in South India via a network of national highways. You can also take a bus to reach Bangalore from other cities in Karnataka and neighboring states. The city has several bus terminals, including Kempegowda Bus Station, Shantinagar Bus Station, and Majestic Bus Station.

The best mode of transportation in Bangalore is a taxi or auto-rickshaw. You can also use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Ola. The city also has a well-developed public transport system, including buses and a metro rail network. However, traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours, so it is advisable to plan your travel accordingly.

Bangalore is known for its vibrant food scene, with a mix of local and international cuisines. Here are some famous local foods that you must try when in Bangalore:

• Masala Dosa: This crispy South Indian dish is a must-try in Bangalore. It is a thin pancake made from rice and lentils, filled with a spiced potato filling and served with coconut chutney and sambar.

• Idli and Vada: This is another popular South Indian dish that is a staple breakfast item in Bangalore. Idli is a steamed rice cake, and vada is a deep-fried lentil fritter, served with coconut chutney and sambar.

• Bisi Bele Bath: This is a spicy rice dish that is a specialty of Karnataka. It is made with rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices, and served hot with ghee on top.

• Mysore Pak: This is a famous sweet from the city of Mysore, located near Bangalore. It is made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee and has a rich, buttery flavor.

• Chaat: Bangalore is famous for its street food, and chaat is a popular snack item. It is made with a mix of crispy noodles, chickpeas, potatoes, and spices, topped with yogurt and chutney.

• Filter Coffee: Bangalore is known for its filter coffee, which is a strong and aromatic coffee made with a special filter. It is usually served with milk and sugar.

• Akki Roti: This is a popular flatbread made with rice flour, onions, and spices. It is usually served with chutney and vegetable curry.

• Mangalorean Fish Curry: Bangalore is close to the coastal town of Mangalore, and the city is famous for its spicy fish curry made with coconut, tamarind, and a mix of local spices.

These are just a few of the many local dishes that you can try when in Bangalore. The city has a rich food culture, and there are plenty of food markets and restaurants where you can explore the local cuisine.

Bangalore is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of shopping options, from street markets to luxury malls. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Bangalore:

• Commercial Street: This is a popular shopping destination in Bangalore, with a wide range of shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It is known for its bargain prices and street food.

• Brigade Road: This is another popular shopping destination in Bangalore, with a mix of street shops and branded stores selling clothing, footwear, and accessories. The street also has several cafes and restaurants.

• UB City: This is a luxury shopping mall in Bangalore, with high-end stores selling designer clothing, jewelry, and accessories. It also has several restaurants and cafes.

• Phoenix Marketcity: This is one of the largest shopping malls in Bangalore, with a mix of Indian and international brands selling clothing, accessories, and electronics. It also has a cinema and several restaurants.

• Chickpet Market: This is a bustling street market in Bangalore, known for its wholesale prices and a wide range of products, including silk sarees, jewelry, and electronics.

• Malleswaram Market: This is a traditional market in Bangalore, known for its fresh produce, spices, and flowers. It is also a great place to buy traditional Indian clothing and accessories.

• Gandhi Bazaar: This is a popular market in Bangalore, known for its traditional South Indian food items and clothing. It is also a great place to buy handicrafts and souvenirs.

These are just a few of the many shopping destinations in Bangalore. The city has a vibrant shopping culture, and there are plenty of options to suit all budgets and tastes

Bangalore has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with several landmarks and monuments that reflect its history and traditions. Here are some popular cultural and historical sites in Bangalore that you must visit:

• Bangalore Palace: This is a beautiful palace in Bangalore, built in the Tudor-style architecture. It has beautiful gardens, intricate woodwork, and stained-glass windows.

• Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: This is a famous historical site in Bangalore, built by Tipu Sultan in 1791. The palace has beautiful arches, balconies, and paintings that reflect Tipu Sultan’s legacy.

• Lalbagh Botanical Garden: This is a popular park in Bangalore, known for its sprawling gardens, botanical collections, and a glasshouse that houses rare plants.

• Bull Temple: This is a famous temple in Bangalore, dedicated to Lord Shiva’s vahana, the bull. The temple has a massive statue of the bull, made of granite, and is a popular pilgrimage site.

• National Gallery of Modern Art: This is a popular art museum in Bangalore, known for its collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. It also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.

• Vidhana Soudha: This is a landmark building in Bangalore, which houses the state legislature and the secretariat. It is an impressive building, built in the neo-Dravidian style of architecture.

• St. Mary’s Basilica: This is a famous church in Bangalore, built in the Gothic-style architecture. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and a serene ambiance.

These are just a few of the many cultural and historical sites in Bangalore. The city has a rich history and heritage, and there are plenty of landmarks and monuments that reflect its past and present.

Bangalore is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Bangalore:

• Avoid walking alone late at night in secluded areas.

• Use reputable taxi or ride-sharing services, and avoid hailing a taxi on the street.

• Keep your valuables such as cash, passport, and electronics safe and secure, preferably in a hotel safe.

• Be cautious when using ATMs or carrying large amounts of cash.

• Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert, especially in crowded areas such as markets and festivals.

• Follow traffic rules and cross roads only at designated crossings.

• Be cautious of scams and avoid giving money to strangers.

By following these safety tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bangalore.

Bangalore has a range of budget-friendly accommodation options that cater to different types of travelers. Here are some options you can consider:

• Backpacker hostels: There are several backpacker hostels in Bangalore that offer budget-friendly accommodation options for solo travelers or those traveling in groups. These hostels usually have dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms, communal areas, and kitchen facilities.

• Guesthouses and budget hotels: Bangalore has several budget guesthouses and hotels that offer affordable accommodation options. These guesthouses and hotels usually have basic amenities such as clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.

• Service apartments: Service apartments are a good option for budget-conscious travelers who are looking for a home away from home. These apartments usually come with basic amenities such as a kitchenette, living room, and bedroom.

• Homestays: Homestays are a popular option for travelers who want to experience the local culture and traditions. These homestays are usually run by local families, and they offer comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and the opportunity to interact with the locals.

• Campsites: If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can consider camping in Bangalore. There are several campsites around Bangalore that offer budget-friendly accommodation options in tents or cottages.

These are some of the budget-friendly accommodation options you can consider in Bangalore. Make sure to do your research and book in advance to get the best deals.

Exploring Bangalore on a budget is possible with some careful planning and research. Here are some tips on how to explore Bangalore on a budget:

• Walk or use public transport: Walking is a great way to explore the city and save money on transportation. Alternatively, you can use public transport such as buses or metro to get around the city.

• Visit free or low-cost attractions: Bangalore has several free or low-cost attractions such as Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and Bangalore Palace Grounds. These attractions are great for sightseeing without breaking the bank.

• Try local street food: Bangalore is famous for its street food, which is not only delicious but also affordable. You can try local delicacies such as dosas, idlis, and vadas from street vendors.

• Shop at local markets: Bangalore has several local markets such as Chickpet, Commercial Street, and Avenue Road, which offer a range of affordable goods such as clothes, handicrafts, and spices.

• Attend cultural events: Bangalore is known for its cultural events such as music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Many of these events are free or have a nominal entry fee.

• Take a walking tour: Several companies in Bangalore offer walking tours of the city, which are a great way to explore the city’s history and culture without spending too much money.

By following these tips, you can explore Bangalore on a budget without compromising on the experience.

Bangalore has a lot to offer beyond the usual tourist attractions. Here are some offbeat things to do in Bangalore:

• Explore the street art: Bangalore has several neighborhoods with vibrant street art. Take a walking tour of these neighborhoods and discover the hidden gems of the city.

• Visit the pottery town: Bangalore’s pottery town, located in the suburbs, is a great place to see the traditional pottery-making process. You can also take a pottery-making class and create your own masterpiece.

• Attend a book reading session: Bangalore is known for its vibrant literary scene, and several bookstores and cafes host book reading sessions and author events.

• Go on a night trek: There are several trekking trails around Bangalore that offer beautiful views of the city at night. A night trek is a great way to escape the city and enjoy nature.

• Visit a vineyard: Bangalore has several vineyards in its outskirts that offer wine-tasting sessions and tours of the vineyards.

• Take a food tour: Bangalore has a diverse culinary scene, and a food tour is a great way to discover the city’s hidden food gems and try local delicacies.

• Attend a music concert: Bangalore is known for its live music scene, and several venues host concerts by local and international artists.

These are some offbeat things to do in Bangalore that will give you a unique and memorable experience of the city.