Bangalore, now officially known as Bengaluru located in Karnataka. It is a vibrant city in southern India known for its pleasant climate, cosmopolitan culture, and burgeoning tech industry. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, green spaces, or modern attractions, Bangalore has plenty to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the top things to see and do in Bangalore:
Top Attractions in Bangalore
1. Bangalore Palace
- A grandiose palace with Tudor-style architecture, inspired by England’s Windsor Castle. It features opulent interiors, lush gardens, and offers insight into Bangalore’s royal history.
- Nearby: Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park.
2. Lalbagh Botanical Garden
- A sprawling garden featuring a variety of tropical plants, a glasshouse modeled after London’s Crystal Palace, and a beautiful lake. It’s perfect for nature walks and picnics.
- Nearby: Bull Temple, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath.
3. Cubbon Park
- A large, well-maintained park in the heart of the city offering lush green spaces, walking trails, and a serene environment. It’s ideal for jogging, picnicking, and relaxing.
- Nearby: Bangalore High Court, Vidhana Soudha.
4. Vidhana Soudha
- The seat of the state legislature of Karnataka, known for its impressive Neo-Dravidian architecture. While tours inside are limited, the exterior is a striking sight, especially when lit up at night.
- Nearby: Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace.
5. Bull Temple
- An ancient temple dedicated to Nandi, the bull, featuring a massive granite statue of Nandi. The temple is an important cultural and religious site.
- Nearby: Basavanagudi, Lalbagh Botanical Garden.
6. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
- The summer residence of Tipu Sultan, featuring Indo-Islamic architecture and intricate woodwork. The palace is now a museum showcasing artifacts from Tipu Sultan’s era.
- Nearby: Bangalore Fort, KR Market.
7. National Gallery of Modern Art
- A gallery housed in a colonial mansion, showcasing modern Indian art with works from the 18th century to the present day.
- Nearby: Cubbon Park, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath.
8. Innovative Film City
- An amusement park and film city offering a range of attractions including theme parks, studios, and entertainment options. It’s a great destination for families and entertainment enthusiasts.
- Nearby: Mysore Road, Wonderla Amusement Park.
9. Nandi Hills
- A popular hill station located about 60 km from Bangalore, known for its scenic sunrise views, cool climate, and historical temples.
- Nearby: Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Amrita Sarovar.
10. Wonderla Amusement Park
- A large amusement park with a variety of rides, water slides, and entertainment options. It’s a fun spot for families and thrill-seekers.
- Nearby: Mysore Road, Innovative Film City.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November to February): The best time to visit Bangalore due to the pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Summer (March to May): Warm temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with occasional heat waves. Early mornings and evenings are more comfortable.
- Monsoon (June to September): Moderate to heavy rainfall with high humidity. The monsoon season brings lush greenery but can lead to traffic disruptions and waterlogging.
Dining and Shopping
- Dining: Explore Bangalore’s diverse culinary scene with options ranging from local South Indian delicacies to international cuisines. Recommended spots include MTR, Vidyarthi Bhavan, and Toit (for craft beer).
- Shopping: Visit Brigade Road and Commercial Street for street shopping, or explore high-end malls like UB City and Phoenix Marketcity.
Bangalore offers a rich mix of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and green spaces, making it an exciting city to explore. Whether you’re interested in cultural heritage, nature, or urban experiences, Bangalore has something to offer.