Things to do in Bangalore

An epitome of great architecture and beauty, The Majestic Bangalore Palace preserves in it the spice of old regal opulence. Currently the central attraction in Bangalore, the palace was built in the year 1878. Chamarajendra Wadiyar's British Guardians bought the original property in 1873 from the principal of Bangalore Central High School, Rev, J Garret, from his funds. The palace is extraordinarily vast and spread across 45,000 square feet. A mixture of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture have resulted into the grand palace that we see today.The wooden structure of the palace along with the beautiful carvings both inside and outside showcases the royal culture in different ways.

Spread over an area of 300 acres, Cubbon Park in the city of Bangalore is a major sightseeing attraction rich in green foliage. It is a green belt region of the city and is an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking a calm atmosphere. Having been laid down by Lord Cubbon, the park is named so in his honour. It is home to more than 6,000 trees that support a vibrant ecosystem. Topping the list of things to do in Bangalore, Cubbon Parkk is an ultimate sightseeing destination.

Another one among the most essential things to do in Bangalore is to visit Lalbagh. It is nationally and internationally renowned centre for botanical artwork, scientific study of plants and also conservation of plants. A haven for all nature lovers, Lal Bagh covers an area 240 acres in the heart of the city and has nearly 1,854 species of plants. It was commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 and completed by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden features rare plants of French, Persian and Afghani origin and has attained the status of a Government Botanical Garden. The Lal Bagh Rock which is over 3000 million years old is found here and is a major tourist attraction.

One of the busiest roads in Bangalore, MG Road or Mahatma Gandhi Road is a hub of recreational and commercial activity in the city. Swarming with people at almost all the time, MG Road is a one-stop destination for a perfect weekend shopping adventure. It is a must visit stop and shopping here is one of the top things to do in Bangalore, if you are visiting. Items such as traditional handicrafts, silk, sarees and cutlery and bone china sets are easily available here among other enticing goods. And once you get tired of shopping and are looking for a quick bite to eat, a plethora of cafes and restaurants here are at your service. Nights at MG Road call for partying and dancing till you drop and it packs quite a few high-end pubs as well.

One of the largest lakes in Bangalore, the Ulsoor Lake is a magnanimous lake that is sprawled over an area of 50 hectares. Dotted with a number of islands all along, the natural beauty of this destination is enhanced by the lush greenery that surrounds the lake. Owing to its natural beauty and calming environment, the Ulsoor Lake is frequented by picnickers and nature lovers alike. A special boating club dedicated to this activity is present here as well, and you can either take a pedal or rowboat to go on an excursion around the waters of Ulsoor Lake.

Situated about an hour and a half away from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is majestic trekking destination, roughly resembling a sleeping bull. It is a favourite among Bangaloreans for early morning drives to catch the sunrise, adventure sports, or one-day getaways to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This is definitely one among the best and top things to do in Bangalore.

The Big Banyan Tree or locally called as the Dodda Alada Mara is a 400 year old banyan tree in the village of Kethohalli near Bangalore. This has definitely to be there in your itinerary or your list of things to do in Bangalore. Sprawling over a vast 3 acres of land, the tree is one of the largest of its kind. In the 2000s, the tree got infected with a natural disease and the chief roots died of contamination. Ever since, the giant tree looks like an amalgamation of several smaller trees, with its roots still multiplying in number and size. Awning with at least a thousand aerial roots, Alada Mara covers a circumference of more than 250 metres.

Located in the Central Business District of Bangalore, Commercial Street is home to a number of small shopkeepers and thrift shops which sell the most delightful variety of articles you can find. One of the first shopping areas a newcomer to the city is told about, Commercial Street is a fix for all your shopping needs and weekend entertainment. Needless to say, it is one of the most popular and visited shopping destinations in Bangalore. This destination is most famous for its variety of goods which range from street side markets to high-end stores. Whether one is looking for those Jimmy Choos or the local silk sari, chances are one will find it easily in many of the shops or the malls situated here. The lively atmosphere which is always abuzz with activity and the mad, mad rush of the local market make Commercial Street is every shopaholic's delight.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in Bangalore is a popular attraction site in the city, administered by the Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE). From how stars form to how planets evolve, from the origin of life to human's space expeditions, from how gravity works to how eclipses happen - the planetarium tells it all. The Sky Theatre is its main attraction, but there are other interesting set ups as well which is fun to experience as well as gives an overall idea about a number of scientific phenomena.

Located at the juncture of Albert Victor Road and Krishna Rajendra, is the magnificent accommodation of the valiant ruler of Mysore- Tipu Sultan. The palace is located in the Bangalore Fort which is situated in old Bangalore in the south-west Indian state of Karnataka. An exquisite example of Indo- Islamic architecture, the opulent palace was once used as a summer retreat by the king and was often referred to as the 'Abode of Happiness' and 'Rash e Jannat' meaning 'Envy of Heaven'. Amongst one of the most noteworthy creations of the ancient times, the palace boasts of ornamental frescoes, magnificent arches, protruding balconies and brilliant motifs.

Located 22 km away from Bangalore, the Bannerghatta National Park is an asylum for a large variety of flora and fauna. Spread over a massive area of around 104.27 sq. km, this national park was established in the year 1971. The park itself has a number of establishments within its confines, which includes the country's first butterfly park as well. Other attractions here are ten Reserve Forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division, an aquarium, a zoo, Children's park, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park, Prehistoric Animals' Park and a museum. One of the most essential things to do in Bangalore, is to take the popular jungle safari at the Sanctuary.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the busy city that Bangalore is, Lumbini Gardens is a quiet getaway to relax the mind and have fun with family and friends. Lumbini Gardens is a public park on the banks of the Nagawara Lake in Bangalore, Karnataka named after Lumbini of Nepal. It is dedicated to Lord Budhha. Although the garden is mainly a national park, it is a treat to the eyes with its serene landscapes and lots of greenery.

St. Mary's Basilica is the oldest church in Bangalore and is the only church in the state that has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities it holds during the St. Mary's Feast, in September each year, an event which attracts a large number of devotees from in and around Bangalore. It is a marvelous sight to behold with its towering façade, glass windows and the loving statues of Mother Mary. It is a generous throwback to the colonial era of Indian history and restores the traditional faith of Christianity till date with elaborate feasts, masses done in different languages and the annual celebration of Mother Mary's nativity day.

Located 21 kms southwest of Bangalore on Kanakpura Road atop Panchagiri Hills, Art of Living Centre is the headquarter of the spiritual, cultural organization Art of Living Foundation, established by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Constructed in 1986, the ashram focuses at creating a stress-free society through its multitudinous programmes which include yoga, meditation, Ayurveda treatments etc. The magnanimous campus housing several mini gardens, tiny water lake and abundance of trees is popularly called the ?Bangalore Ashram? and draws over 1.2 million people from across the world annually. The centre is considered a retreat from the stress and din of the city and provides the much needed therapy and solace from city blues. One among the top places to visit, the ashram also offer a lot of activities and things to do in Bangalore.

Known for its historical significance and archaeological brilliance, Devanahalli Fort is located 35 kms north of the city of Bangalore. The fort is a living example of the extensive battles fought and won and of the royal families. Lately in ruins, the fort once was the birthplace and residence of the great warrior Tipu Sultan. Sprawling over a vast area of 20 acres, the building is essentially made of stone and mortar. Originally built in 1501, by the Mallebyre Gowda during the reign of Saluva Dynasty, until the Dalwai of Mysore Nanjarajaiah occupied it in 1749. Later it was taken over by Hyder Ali before finally being passed on to Tipu Sultan.

The Bull Temple, also known as Nandi Temple, is one of the oldest temples in the city of Bengaluru. The temple is popularly called as 'Dodda Basavana Gudi' by the locals and is the biggest temple dedicated to Nandi in the world. Nandi, the bull, is the mount or 'vahana' of Lord Shiva and the guardian deity of Lord Shiva's abode, Kailashagiri; according to Hindu traditions. This temple is every Shiva devotee's must-visit destination because Nandi holds great importance to Lord Shiva. While there must be a lot of other exciting things to do in Bangalore, you must definitely visit this one.

Located in the suburbs of Halasuru (Ulsoor) in Bangalore, Halasuru Someshwara Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. Dating back to the Chola period, the temple is the oldest in all of Bangalore. Built in around the 12th and the 13th centuries by the Hoysalas, the temple is now managed and maintained by the Endowment Department of the Karnataka government. However, major modifications and additions to the temple were made during the Vijayanagar empire. Besides the several other notable features of the temple, the most fascinating are the elaborate sculptures of Ravana holding the Kailash Parvat to please Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura (a demon), scenes from the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati, images of the Saptarishis etc.

Originally built as a mud fort in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I, Bangalore Fort was finally transformed into a stone fort in 1761 by Haider Ali. Located in the heart of the city, the sturdy fort is currently in ruins. It was torn down by the British and what remains today is the historical Delhi Gate. Yet it is still a popular tourist attraction of the city.

Manchanabele Dam is built on the water of the tranquil Arkavati River. Located in the state of Karnataka, this place is visited by a lot of people because it is ideal to get away from the pell mell of city and enjoy some serenity in the lap of nature. Manchanabele Dam is replete with cool and clear water. This dam is also surrounded by lush green trees in small hills that makes the place look even more mesmerizing. The panoramic views of the sky and the earth can be best observed during sunrise or sunset. The place looks spellbinding during these two phenomenons as the different hues of the sky juxtaposed with the lush greenery and blue water is simply magical. Manchanabele Dam is a perfect place to visit to unwind and relax.

A quaint place near Bangalore, Muthyala Maduvu is a perfect weekend getaway to rejuvenate yourself and spend some quality time in the lap of nature. The picturesque beauty, dense forests, enchanting waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna will make you fall in love with this place. The liveliness of this place is very welcoming and the mysterious forest will beckon you to explore its mysteries adding thrill and excitement. A perfect balance of history and beauty makes this place a traveler's paradise. This place is a well kept secret near Bangalore that should at least be visited once in life to unwind and feel close to nature.

Devarayanadurga which translates to ?the fort of God? is a tranquil hill station located near Tumkur district in the state of Karnataka. Situated at an elevation of 4000 ft, Devarayanadurga is a perfect weekend getaway to live among the lush green trees and explore the hilly terrain. This place is replete with not only picturesque beauty but also has a rich historical, cultural and religious significance. There are a number of beautifully crafted temples which will provide you with inner peace and leave you awestruck. Untouched by Industrialization, in Devarayanadurga you will be able to witness the magic and serenity of nature.

Situated on the Cubbon Road in Shivaji Nagar, Bangalore, Cariappa Memorial Park is dedicated to the Indian Armed Force Officer- Field Marshal K M Cariappa. Sprawling over 22 acres, the highlight of the park is its military theme. It is divided into six zones- burma bridges, tunnels, playarea, waterfalls etc.

If you thought that trekking is an activity only to be done in the morning, you are certainly wrong. Skandagiri, a hilltown near Bangalore, gives you the opportunity to trek and explore the hills in the night while the moon is casting its light. The hill has a ruined fort on the way which makes the night trek even more interesting by adding the element of horror. And the best part is that you can spend the night at the hilltop under the star. Not to forget the bonfire that is especially lit for the trekkers to sit around and enjoy the warmth. The serenity of the night will make you feel at ease. Not to mention that this is one among the most unique things to do in Bangalore.

Located in the premises of Karnataka Government Museum, Venkatappa Art Gallery situated on Kasturba Road, Cubbon Park flaunts over 600 paintings. Named after the most famous artist of Bangalore city - K. Venkatappa, the gallery houses resplendent works of the namesake painter and other renowned artists as well. Sprawling over a vast area, the two-storeyed museum is further divided in different galleries some of which display antiques from the Indus Valley Civilization, paintings from the Hoysala, Gandhara and Nolamba periods, exquisite wood carvings, phenomenally carved sculptures, specimens of geology and art, ancient musical instruments and the like.

HAL Aerospace Museum is one of the major public attractions of Bangalore. Inaugurated in 2001 at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited premises, the museum was established with an objective of educating the public about everything the journey of HAL, one of Asia's largest and most important aeronautical companies, had to offer - be it historical, scientific or academic. On the one hand, the museum proudly boasts of the giant leaps Indian aviation has taken, both commercially as well as in terms of defence; and on the other side, it gives the visitors an all-inclusive aerospace experience in the most effective environment possible. No other place matches this in terms of being equally demonstrative in theory and practice, both.

Chunchi falls, is an almost 50 feet high cascade of falls, which is fed by the river Arkavati. Chunchi Falls lies en route to Mekedatu and Sangama. Mekedatu is a rocky valley, while Sangama is the meeting point of three rivers. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Bangalore; with routes adorned with lush greenery and gorgeous scenery. It is placed at around 83 km from Bangalore and offers a breathtaking experience; especially after monsoon and during winter months. This spot is extremely popular as a picnic spot.

This is a unique opportunity that the city has to offer to you. Besides the several other myriad things to do in Bangalore, cycling across the city is a top pick among both the city dwellers and tourists. Outskirts of Bengaluru are a cyclist's delight. One can rent a cycle from the multiple cycle groups available here such as Namma Cycle, Bums on the saddle, Bike Zone etc.

Go-karting is an adrenaline pumping activity best for those who are racing enthusiasts. The activity involves driving a vehicle called the go-kart for a particular distance or a limited number of laps. This vehicle is a small four-wheeled machine behaving like a car with only one passenger seating. Simulating the thrills of professional racing on a smaller level, this activity will set your heart on pace and will thrill you to the fullest. You should definitely experience it along with the many other essential activities and things to do in Bangalore.

The Innovative Film City in Bengaluru is an Indian theme park located at Bidadi, just 40 kilometres away on the outskirts of the city, on the way to Mysore. There might be several hundred exciting things to do in Bangalore, but this one is a must. Whether you like to shop, eat, simply walk and explore or experience your childhood again; there is something unique that the Film City has to offer you.