Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is famed for its blend of historic charm and modern innovation. Make sure to embrace the local culture and customs to fully immerse yourself in the Bangalore experience.

  • Local cuisine: Sample authentic South Indian dishes at restaurants like Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) and Vidyarthi Bhavan.
  • Historic hotspots: Explore the rich heritage of Bangalore at Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Bangalore Palace.
  • Modern attractions: Do not miss visiting the innovative Technological Museum and Art Galleries like the National Gallery of Modern Art.
  • Shopping Spree: Commercial Street and Chickpet are famous for their variety of goods and reasonable prices.
  • Green spaces: Enjoy the serenity of Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park, especially early mornings and late evenings.
  • Festive celebrations: Participate in the colourful celebrations of local festivals like Karaga or Kadalekaye Parishe (Peanut Festival).

Historical Attractions in Bangalore

Step back in time and explore the rich historical attractions of Bangalore, a city steeped in stories and architectural splendour.

Start early to make the most of your day and avoid the afternoon rush.

  • Must-Visit Palaces: Don't miss out on Tipu Sultan's Palace and Bangalore Palace, known for their exquisite architecture and historical significance.
  • Fort Exploration: Wander through the sturdy walls of Bangalore Fort and Devanahalli Fort to get a glimpse of the city's past.
  • Colonial Architecture: Mayo Hall, a symbol of the British Era, offers a breathtaking view of the city's landscape.
  • Events & Exhibits: Keep an eye on the local listings for special events or exhibits at these historical sites.
  • Guided Tours: Opt for guided tours at these historical attractions for an informative and enriching experience.

Green Spaces and Parks in Bangalore

Bangalore, known as the 'Garden City', boasts some of India's most verdant and tranquil green spaces and parks.

Enhance your experience by immersing yourself in the varied flora, fauna, and peaceful environs of these havens amidst the city hustle.

  • Guided Tours at Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Opt for the morning guided tours to learn about its rich biodiversity.
  • Visit Cubbon Park in the Early Morning: Ideal time to enjoy peaceful walks and witness the park teeming with joggers and fitness enthusiasts.
  • Wildlife Safari at Bannerghatta National Park: Don't miss the thrilling lion and tiger safaris, plus the butterfly park.
  • Sunset View at Sankey Tank: Plan your visit during sunset to capture the stunning reflections on the water.
  • Events and Exhibitions: Check out the annual flower show at Lalbagh Botanical Garden and cultural events at Cubbon Park.

Art and Culture Spots in Bangalore

Uncover the soul of Bangalore in its art and culture hubs, each resonating with creativity and historical significance. Ensure to pre-book your visits where applicable for a hassle-free experience.

  • Interactive Workshops: Participate in art workshops often held at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath.
  • Regal Architecture: Admire the Tudor-style architecture and opulent interiors of Bangalore Palace.
  • Varied Art Forms: Witness an array of traditional and contemporary art pieces at the National Gallery of Modern Art.
  • Cultural Events: Stay updated with cultural events and exhibitions frequently organized in these art spots.
  • Local Artisans: Don’t miss exploring the works of local artisans in the shopping area of Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath.

Spiritual Places in Bangalore

Experience the tranquility and divinity of Bangalore's spiritual sites, a harmonious blend of ancient temples and modern spiritual centres. A serene visit during the early hours is recommended for a peaceful experience.

  • ISKCON Temple: Visit during aarti time for an enlightening experience.
  • St. Mary's Basilica: Plan your visit during the St. Mary's Feast in September for a vibrant cultural experience.
  • Sri Someshwara Swamy Temple: Explore the Dravidian architecture, preferably during Shivratri.
  • Bull Temple: Don't miss the Nandi statue carved out of a single rock, preferably visited during Kadalekaye Parishe fair.
  • Insider tip: Engage with local guides to understand the deep-rooted history and significance of these sites.

Shopping and Markets in Bangalore

Shopping in Bangalore offers a mix of traditional markets and modern shopping streets, making it a unique retail experience. To make the most of your shopping spree, start early to avoid the afternoon rush and have more time to explore.

  • Commercial Street: Offers a variety of clothing, jewelry, and home décor. Shops open from around 10 am, so plan accordingly for an early start.
  • Chickpet: This market is famous for its saree shops. Visit during weekdays when it's less crowded.
  • Jayanagar 4th Block: Apart from clothing and accessories, you can also find books and electronics here. Try to visit on a weekday morning for the best shopping experience.
  • Gandhi Bazaar: Known for its traditional Indian wear and spices. Make sure to visit during festival times for special collections.
  • Insider Tip: Most markets are closed on Sundays. Also, don't forget to bargain, as it's part of the shopping culture in these markets.

Educational Attractions in Bangalore

Immerse yourself in the rich educational landscape of Bangalore, a hub for fascinating technological and historical museums. To make the most of your visit, consider booking guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge about the exhibits.

  • Engage with Interactive Exhibits: Participate in various interactive exhibits at the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum for a hands-on learning experience.
  • Experience Aerospace History: Visit the HAL Aerospace Museum to witness India's aviation history and even experience a flight simulator.
  • Astronomy Exploration: For astronomy enthusiasts, the shows at Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium are not to be missed. They usually begin around 3 PM, so plan accordingly.
  • Discover Ancient Artifacts: Explore a wide collection of archaeological and geological artifacts at the Government Museum, preferably on weekdays when it's less crowded.
  • Special Events: Keep an eye on the museum websites for special events or exhibitions that may align with your visit.

Adventure and Amusement Parks in Bangalore

Bangalore, famed as the Silicon Valley of India, also houses an impressive array of adventure and amusement parks, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and family outings.
For the best experience, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid the crowd and get the most out of your day.

  • Adrenaline Pumping Rides: Indulge in thrilling rides at Wonderla, known for its high-thrill dry and water rides.
  • Experience Bollywood: Explore the Bollywood zone at Innovative Film City for a cinematic experience.
  • Chill Out: Enjoy a unique chill-out session at Snow City, Bangalore’s first indoor snow park.
  • Fun for Kids: Check out Fun World for kid-friendly rides and attractions.
  • Visit Timing: Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially at popular attractions like Wonderla.

Popular Neighbourhoods in Bangalore

Unveil the eclectic charm of Bangalore's neighbourhoods, each offering a unique flavour of local culture and lifestyle.


Immerse yourself in these vibrant localities to experience Bangalore beyond the usual tourist spots.

  • Explore Indiranagar: Known for its bustling nightlife, upscale boutiques and diverse cuisine options, Indiranagar is the place to be for foodies and shopaholics.
  • Discover Malleswaram: Steeped in history, Malleswaram hosts ancient temples, heritage buildings and the famous Sampige Road market. Ideal visit time is early mornings to soak in the cultural vibes.
  • Venture into Koramangala: Offering an array of cosy cafes, restaurants and bars, Koramangala is a hub for the city's youth. Don't miss the innovative and quirky start-ups in the area.
  • Stroll around Basavanagudi: Experience Bangalore's old-world charm with a visit to Basavanagudi. Plan around local festivals like Kadalekai Parishe (Groundnut Festival) for an immersive experience.
  • Unwind in HSR Layout: A quieter neighbourhood known for its parks and green spaces. Drop by the local farmers' markets on weekends.

More about Places to Visit in Bangalore

Discover the Vibrant Tourist Attractions in Bangalore

Known as the 'Silicon Valley of India', Bangalore offers an eclectic mix of modernity and rich history. Here is a list of top places to visit in Bangalore that should not be missed.

  • Cubbon Park: An oasis amidst the bustling city, Cubbon Park is perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls.
  • Lal Bagh: Renowned for its diverse flora, Lal Bagh is a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • Bangalore Palace: Exhibiting Tudor-style architecture, this palace is a testament to the city's historical grandeur.
  • MG Road: A hotspot for shopaholics, MG Road is bustling with a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs.

For Couples and Romantics

Indulge in the romantic atmosphere of Bangalore with its serene lakes and lush gardens. Places like Ulsoor Lake and Sankey Tank are perfect for an intimate picnic or boat ride. Visit the Art of Living Ashram for a peaceful retreat.

For Families

For family fun and entertainment, Wonderla is an amusement park that offers thrilling rides and activities. Bannerghatta National Park offers wildlife safaris, while the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum is educational and engaging for kids.

For Night-Time Activities

Experience Bangalore’s vibrant nightlife at Brigade Road and Church Street, known for their lively pubs and clubs. Catch a theatre performance at Ranga Shankara or a live gig at The Humming Tree.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a nightlife lover, Bangalore has something to offer for every traveller. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of this beautiful and bustling city.

Places to Visit in Bangalore: Architecture


Bangalore Palace

Built in the year 1887, Bangalore Palace is one of the most stunning places to visit in Bangalore. It offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the unique Scottish Gothic architecture and also offers visitors a break from the mundane. The wooden structure is quite extraordinary as are the carvings both outside and inside the palace. 

The best time to head here is in the morning when the tourist rush is at its minimum and you can explore the palace in peace. Commissioned by King Chamarajendra Wadiyar, it is said the inspiration from the palace came from London’s Windsor Castle. It will take one anywhere between 3 to 4 hours to explore the palace and we recommend keeping aside this time if you want to do justice to the beauty of the palace. 

One must definitely visit the Durbar Hall during the tour since it’s the highlight of the palace. With a huge elephant head and stained glass windows, the beauty of the hall is incomparable and you’ll be taken by surprise by the architectural brilliance.


Vidhana Soudha

Popularly known as the Taj Mahal of the South, Vidhana Soudha is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore. Housing the State Legislature and the Secretariat of Karnataka, it is one of the most popular tourist places in Bangalore. Said to be the largest state legislative buildings in the country, exploring the area is a delight for travellers and locals. There are four entrances to the complex and four floors above the ground level which can take close to two hours to explore. Constructed in Neo-Dravidian style, the architecture of the Vidhana Soudha is truly a delight for architecture enthusiasts. 

The building is decorated with lights on Sunday and all public holidays, so if you happen to visit then, you’ll be mesmerised by the illuminated building. The foundation stone of the building was laid by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru along with the then Chief Minister K.C. Reddy. 

National Gallery of Modern Art

Art and culture have always been a big part of South India and slowly Bangalore is giving importance to the finer arts. The National Gallery of Modern Art was recently inaugurated in 2009 and has taken the city by storm. Displaying over 14,000 exhibits in the form of paintings, sculptures and craft, the museum is home to masterpieces by world-famous artists including Amrita Shergil, Rabindranath Tagore and Jamini Roy.

Situated in the midst of refreshing greenery, we suggest including this in your list of places to visit in Bangalore. The museum has a main hall which serves as an art gallery, a multi-cuisine cafeteria and a reference library. You can head here any time of the week to rejuvenate yourself and get inspired by old classics and contemporary art pieces. 

Tipu Sultan Summer Palace

Considered to be one of the best places to visit in Bangalore, the construction of the palace began much before it was finally completed by Tipu Sultan in the year 1791. An example of religious tolerance, the summer palace is a mix of Indo-Islamic architecture and has a temple located in the courtyard. 

An ideal place to include in your tour of best places to visit in Bangalore, it will take you close to two hours to cover the entire area. We suggest heading here late in the afternoon since it’s the best time to admire the grandiose and beauty of the summer palace. 

Places to visit in Bangalore: Recreational

Cubbon Park

If you are looking for recreational and rejuvenating spots in the busy city, you must include Cubbon Park in your list of places to visit in Bangalore. Perfect for nature lovers, it’s situated in the green belt region of the city and is dedicated to Lord Cubbon as he laid down the foundation stone. Offering a break from the city, the park is a relief for sore eyes and is definitely one of the most popular places in Bangalore. 

For those who are travelling with children, this is an ideal park to enjoy a picnic or simply spend a few hours away from the rush of the city. With attractions such as the Bangalore Aquarium, toy train, dancing fountain, an amphitheatre and other rides, one can expect to spend a few enjoyable hours here. 

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Making it to the list of top places to visit in Bangalore is Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A haven for nature lovers and for those who are looking for peace and serenity, the garden is home to over 1,854 species of plants. With rare plants of Aghani and Persian origin, the garden is now a Government Botanical Garden. 

One of the reasons that the park is counted among the best places to visit in Bangalore is the 3000 million years old Lal Bagh Rock which is preserved here. The park is said to be commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 but the work was finished by his son Tipu Sultan who made considerable efforts to ensure it’s one of the best gardens in India. 

Not only is the garden a delight for nature lovers, but it also gives photographers an opportunity to capture the vibrant beauty of the rare flora here. Owing to the large variety of flowers and plants here, the park is also home to some of the most beautiful birds including parakeets, brahminy kite and myna.

Bangalore Aquarium

If you are travelling with children, you must include this in your itinerary of the best places to visit in Bangalore. A delight for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the aquarium is home to a variety of fish and is considered to be the second-largest in India. With different species of fish such as Goldfish, Red Tail Shark and Catla, you will have a great time exploring the aquarium. Since the aquarium is spread over three floors, it will take you a couple of hours to explore the entire area. 

On the second floor of the aquarium, you’ll find 69 tanks of cultivable fishes and other unique species of the marine world. Keep an eye out for eels, red-tail sharks, goldfish and moon tail. The aquarium is located in Cubbon Park so you can combine the two spots together when you are on your tour of places to visit in Bangalore. 

WonderLa Water Park

If you are travelling with children or are in the mood to relive your childhood, you must include WonderLa Water Park in your list of places to visit in Bangalore. Loved by locals and tourists, the amusement park is one of the best in South India and offers a variety of rides which are thrilling and get the adrenaline pumping. The amusement cum water park has over 60 rides and its main attraction is the reverse looping roller coaster which is one of a kind in India. 

For little ones, there are numerous child-friendly rides which ensure they have a memorable trip. WonderLa is also home to a multi-cuisine food court which offers respite after a long day of fun. 


Bannerghatta National Park

A natural retreat located 22km away from the city, Bannerghatta National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Bangalore. Set up in the year 1971, the national park is home to unique flora and fauna and wildlife enthusiasts can expert an unforgettable experience. With a beautiful butterfly park, crocodile farm, snake farm and a children’s park, the park is a great way to spend your day in the city. 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Bangalore if you are travelling with children, the park is a great way to introduce them to wildlife and the importance of environmental conservation. As is the case with all parks, there are numerous safaris which operate throughout the day and it’s considered to be the best way to explore the national park.

The national park is home to a number of animals including Royal Bengal tigers, jackals, Asiatic lions, spotted deer, cobras and sloth bears and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these animals in their natural habitat. We suggest heading here early in the morning so you can make use of less tourist crowds and also the great weather. 

For those who enjoy hiking and trekking, the park should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Bangalore since it offers well-marked trails. We recommend going on a guided tour to ensure safety. 


Ulsoor Lake

The largest and perhaps the most beautiful lakes in the city should certainly be a part of your list of the best places to visit in Bangalore. Surrounded by rejuvenating lush greenery, the lake has is loved by locals and travellers. Offering one a much-needed break from the concrete jungle, the lakes gives one a chance to recharge the senses. 

If you have time, you must head here for a leisurely picnic complete with a food basket and outdoor games. Trust us, it’ll add a zing to your week. During the festival of Ganesh Chaturti, the lakes comes alive with excited locals celebrating the festival. 

The lake is ideal for boating and we highly recommend the activity, especially if you head here in the evening. It’s said that the lake is the perfect place for photographers to capture the lush greenery as well as the soothing views of the setting sun. In fact, some locals head here in the evenings only to enjoy this gorgeous sight. While weekends are the best time to try out your list of the best places to visit in Bangalore, we think an evening in the middle of the week will surprise you.


Innovative Film City

A theme park located 40km from Bangalore, Innovative Film City is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore, especially if the idea of reliving your childhood excites you. Spread across 58 acres, Innovative Film City offers visitors everything including shopping, delicious food and entertainment. 

We suggest heading here early in the morning to avoid queues and also to make sure you don’t miss the best attractions here. Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Bangalore for most travellers, the park is divided into three sections and includes amusements rides, theme parks and a multi-cuisine food court. One can either walk through the park and admire the interesting themes such as Wild West Wind and Cartoon City or can sign up for enthralling tours in the Wax Museum or the Tribal Museum. 

For adventure lovers, this is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore since there is a space dedicated for net cricket, go-karting and bungee jumping to keep them busy. Offering a memorable experience, Innovative Film City is the perfect way to spend your day in Bangalore especially if you are travelling with family.


Places to visit in Bangalore: Shopping


Commercial Street

One of the most popular places to visit in Bangalore for shopaholics, Commercial Street is where you need to go if you are looking for reasonable shopping options. It is one of Bangalore’s best markets and offers everything a shopper would like. Jewellery, apparel, electronics and footwear, the market is a bargainer’s delight and you can take home quite a treasure if you spend time here. 

A part of the market is dedicated to antiques and home decor and those with a keen eye can pick some great stuff. We recommend browsing through the market before you finalise your shopping since all shops offer amazing discounts. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the market is comparatively less crowded. 

MG Road

MG Road is the best place to experience life like a local in Bangalore. Dotted with cafes, restaurants and a plethora of shops, it’s one of the best places to visit in Bangalore, if this is your first visit here. For those who are looking for souvenirs or the classic southern silks, MG Road is a good option. 

It’s also one of the best places to visit in Bangalore for those who’d like to take home handicrafts or unique art products made in Bangalore. We recommend visiting Cauvery Emporium for a plethora of home decor items, apparel, stationery and rare artefacts. 

Chickpet

The oldest market in the city, Chickpet is counted among the best places to visit in Bangalore for enthusiastic shoppers and tourists looking to take back some souvenirs. A busy commercial street, it is famous for sarees, silk products and jewellery. It’s recommended to head here with a local since they know the best places to shop. For adventure shoppers, you can explore the market and go by your instinct to bag some great deals. Balepet and Raja Market are the most popular shopping streets here and should definitely be included in your tour.

Places to visit in Bangalore: Religious


Iskcon Temple

Located on Hare Krishna Hill, Iskcon temple is one of the most important religious places to visit in Bangalore. Dedicated to the Hindu god, Krishna, the temple was built in the year 1997 and is considered to be one of the world’s biggest Iskcon temples. Like all Iskcon temples, it is inspired by Dravidian elements and supports a towering 17-metre high dhwaja-stambha. Visited by pilgrims from across the county, the Iskcon temple in Bangalore is a cultural and religious centre for believers of the faith. If you head here in the evening, the sweet melodies of Krishna bhajans will charm you and you won’t realise how swiftly time passes here. 


Nandi Temple

Considered to be one of the largest Nandi temples in the world, Nandi Temple sees visitors from across the country. One of the most significant religious places to visit in Bangalore, it is dedicated to Nandi, who was Lord Shiva’s mount. Built in the 16th century, the temple is inspired by traditional Dravidian architecture and is a delight for art lovers to explore. 

While the temple is always crowded, we recommend visiting in the morning or in the evening to participate in the small aarti that takes place every day. The temple’s most striking feature is the four and a half metre tall monolithic Nandi figure which has been created from a single rock.