Bangalore, often hailed as the 'Silicon Valley of India,' is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Amidst the hustle and bustle of technology and innovation, Bangalore offers a plethora of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking vibrant cultural experiences, the Garden City has something for everyone. In this article, explore the top 10 places to visit in Bangalore city,, including nearby getaways, and explain why purchasing a domestic travel insurance plan is crucial when travelling in India.
Top 20 must-visit places in Bangalore
Here are places to explore in Bangalore city.
Cubbon Park:
Nestled in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park is a sprawling oasis that provides a refreshing escape from urban chaos. Lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and statues dot the park, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. The park also houses the impressive State Central Library.
- Places to visit in Cubbon Park: Visit the State Central Library with its impressive collection of books, the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the Bangalore Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in India. Do not miss the statues of famous personalities like Queen Victoria and Sir Mark Cubbon.
- Things to do in Cubbon Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a jog along the lush green pathways, rent a bicycle for a ride, or join a yoga session. Children can have fun at the kids' play area, while photographers can capture the park's scenic beauty and historical monuments.
- Best time to go to Cubbon Park: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for visiting Cubbon Park to avoid the midday heat. The park is particularly beautiful during the cooler months from October to February.
Bangalore Palace:
A true architectural gem, Bangalore Palace is reminiscent of medieval European castles. The grandeur of the palace is evident in its Tudor-style architecture, opulent interiors, and sprawling grounds. Visitors can explore the royal residence and marvel at the exquisite artwork and vintage furnishings.
- Places to visit in Bangalore Palace: Explore the royal grounds, including the ballroom, the courtyard, and the elegant interiors adorned with intricate wood carvings and paintings. The palace grounds also host various cultural events and concerts.
- Things to do in Bangalore Palace: Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and attend one of the many events or exhibitions held on the palace grounds.
- Best time to go to Bangalore Palace: Visit during the cooler months from October to March. Weekdays are preferable to avoid the weekend crowd.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden:
A haven for nature enthusiasts, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a botanical paradise that showcases an incredible variety of flora. The Glass House, inspired by London's Crystal Palace, is a key attraction. The garden also hosts the bi-annual Lalbagh Flower Show, a visual feast for flower aficionados.
- Places to visit: Do not miss the Glass House, inspired by London's Crystal Palace, and the centuries-old Lalbagh Rock. Explore the numerous themed gardens and the Bonsai Garden.
- Things to do: Attend the bi-annual flower shows, go for a morning walk, or participate in a botanical tour. The garden also offers bird watching opportunities and a tranquil boating experience in the Lalbagh Lake.
- Best time to go: Early mornings or late afternoons during October to March to avoid the heat and witness the garden in full bloom.
Nandi Hills:
For a quick escape from the city, Nandi Hills is an idyllic destination located just a short drive from Bangalore. The panoramic views from the hilltop are breath-taking, especially during sunrise. Adventure seekers can indulge in activities like paragliding, making it a perfect day trip.
- Places to visit Nandi Hills: Visit Tipu's Drop, Tipu Sultan's Summer Residence, and the Nandi Temple. The hills also offer panoramic views from various viewpoints.
- Things to do Nandi Hills: Trekking, paragliding, and cycling are popular activities here. Enjoy a sunrise view, explore the ancient fortress, and picnic amidst the serene surroundings.
- Best time to go Nandi Hills: Early morning visits are ideal, particularly from September to February, when the weather is pleasant.
Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace:
Steeped in history, this architectural marvel was once the summer residence of the legendary Tipu Sultan. The palace showcases a fine blend of Indo-Islamic architecture, with ornate arches, floral motifs, and teakwood interiors. History buffs will appreciate the artifacts and paintings on display.
- Places to visit Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Explore the beautifully decorated halls, the Durbar Hall, and the museum showcasing Tipu Sultan's memorabilia, including his clothing and weapons.
- Things to do Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Take a guided tour to understand the history and architecture and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
- Best time to go Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploration.
Ulsoor Lake:
Amidst the urban landscape, Ulsoor Lake offers a serene escape. Boating on the lake, surrounded by picturesque views, provides a perfect way to unwind. The lake is also a popular spot for morning joggers and evening strollers.
- Places to visit in Ulsoor Lake: Visit the boating club and various small islands within the lake. The surrounding area offers picturesque views and is perfect for photography.
- Things to do in Ulsoor Lake: Boating is a popular activity, along with leisurely walks along the lake. Picnicking and bird watching are also enjoyable here.
- Best time to go in Ulsoor Lake: Early mornings and evenings, especially from October to March, for the best experience.
ISKCON Temple:
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the ISKCON temple is not only a spiritual retreat but also an architectural marvel. The temple's serene ambiance, melodious chants, and intricate sculptures make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace.
- Places to visit in ISKCON Temple: Explore the grand temple complex, which includes prayer halls, gardens, and educational exhibits about Krishna and Hindu philosophy.
- Things to do in ISKCON Temple: Participate in the daily aartis and bhajans, enjoy the prasadam, and visit the Vedic Museum. The temple also offers spiritual and educational programs.
- Best time to go in ISKCON Temple: Visit during major festivals like Janmashtami for a vibrant experience, or any time between October and February for comfortable weather.
Bannerghatta National Park:
An ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Bannerghatta National Park offers a safari experience where visitors can spot diverse flora and fauna. The park also houses a butterfly park, a zoo, and a reptile park, providing a comprehensive wildlife encounter.
- Places to visit in Bannerghatta National Park: Explore the zoo, butterfly park, and various safaris, including the Grand Safari that takes you through different animal habitats.
- Things to do in Bannerghatta National Park: Enjoy wildlife safaris, trekking in the adjoining hills, and visiting the rescue centre. The park also offers educational tours and activities for children.
- Best time to go in Bannerghatta National Park: The best time to visit is from November to June, avoiding the monsoon season for better safari experiences.
Commercial Street:
For those inclined towards shopping and vibrant street life, Commercial Street is a bustling shopping district that caters to various tastes. From branded stores to quaint boutiques and street vendors, this area offers a diverse shopping experience.
- Places to visit in Commercial Street: Explore a variety of shops selling clothes, accessories, and electronics. The street is also known for its street food stalls and cafes.
- Things to do in Commercial Street: Shop for trendy fashion, bargain for the best deals, and enjoy local delicacies at the food stalls.
- Best time to go in Commercial Street: Evenings are the best time to visit when the street comes alive with vibrant activity. Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
MG Road:
This bustling shopping destination is known for its upscale stores, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
- Places to visit in MG road: Visit the numerous boutiques, bookstores, and cafes along the road. Notable places include the Barton Centre and the Rangoli Metro Art Centre.
- Things to do in MG road: Shopping, dining at upscale restaurants, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. MG Road also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions.
- Best time to go in MG road: Evenings and weekends are lively, but weekdays offer a more relaxed experience. October to March is the best time for a comfortable visit.
National Gallery of Modern Art:
The National Gallery of Modern Art in Bangalore showcases modern and contemporary Indian art through various exhibitions and collections, engaging visitors with diverse artistic expressions and cultural narratives.
- Places to visit in National Gallery of Modern Art: Explore the extensive collection of contemporary and modern Indian art. The gallery also includes sculptures and photographs.
- Things to do in National Gallery of Modern Art: Attend art exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. The gallery also has a cafe and a library for a leisurely experience.
- Best time to go in National Gallery of Modern Art: Weekdays for a quieter visit, and during special exhibitions or events for a more engaging experience. October to February offers pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.
Devanahalli Fort:
Devanahalli Fort stands as a testament to Bangalore's rich history, featuring impressive architecture and offering visitors insights into the region's past through guided tours and historical displays.
- Places to visit in Devanahalli Fort: Explore the ancient fort's ramparts, gates, and the beautiful temples within the fort complex, such as the Venugopalaswamy Temple.
- Things to do in Devanahalli Fort: Take a historical tour of the fort, enjoy photography, and explore the surrounding village for a glimpse of local life.
- Best time to go in Devanahalli Fort: Early mornings or late afternoons from October to March for a comfortable and less crowded visit.
Janapada Loka:
Janapada Loka immerses visitors in Karnataka's vibrant folk culture, with interactive exhibits, live performances, and workshops showcasing traditional arts, crafts, music, and dance forms.
- Places to visit in Janapada Loka: Visit the museum showcasing Karnataka's folk culture, the puppet theatre, and the craft and pottery village.
- Things to do in Janapada Loka: Attend folk art performances, participate in workshops, and explore traditional crafts and artifacts.
- Best time to go in Janapada Loka: October to February for pleasant weather and during special cultural festivals for a vibrant experience.
Innovative Film City:
Innovative Film City provides an immersive cinematic experience, with film sets, themed attractions, rides, and entertainment options that transport visitors into the world of movies and fantasy.
- Places to visit in Innovative Film City: Explore various themed attractions like the Dino Park, Aqua Kingdom, and Mini Golf. The film city also hosts movie sets and museums.
- Things to do in Innovative Film City: Enjoy amusement rides, participate in adventure sports, and take guided tours of the film sets. The site also offers live performances and events.
- Best time to go in Innovative Film City: Weekdays to avoid crowds and during the cooler months from October to March.
Wonderla Amusement Park:
Wonderla Amusement Park offers thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertainment for visitors of all ages, providing an exhilarating escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangalore city life.
- Places to visit in Wonderla Amusement Park: Visit the numerous thrill rides, water slides, and the wave pool. The park also features a 3D virtual reality experience and various shows.
- Things to do in Wonderla Amusement Park: Enjoy the rides and attractions, relax at the water park, and participate in fun games and activities.
- Best time to go in Wonderla Amusement Park: Weekdays to avoid long queues and during October to February for the best weather.
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium:
The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium educates and entertains visitors with captivating astronomy shows, interactive exhibits, and stargazing sessions, fostering a deeper understanding of the cosmos and space exploration.
- Places to visit in Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium: The Sky Theatre, the science park, and the observatory. The planetarium also hosts regular sky-gazing sessions.
- Things to do in Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium: Watch educational shows about astronomy, participate in interactive exhibits, and attend workshops and lectures on space science.
- Best time to go in Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium: Throughout the year, with special programs during school holidays and weekends.
Krishna Rajendra Market:
Krishna Rajendra Market buzzes with activity as locals and tourists alike explore its vibrant stalls, offering fresh produce, spices, flowers, and street food, providing a sensory feast and cultural experience.
- Places to visit in Krishna Rajendra Market: Explore the vibrant market stalls selling flowers, spices, and traditional items. The market is also known for its wholesale shops.
- Things to do in Krishna Rajendra Market: Shopping for local produce, experiencing the bustling market atmosphere, and sampling street food.
- Best time to go in Krishna Rajendra Market: Early mornings for the freshest produce and the liveliest market experience. October to March offers pleasant weather for outdoor shopping.
Vidhana Soudha:
Vidhana Soudha, Karnataka's legislative seat, showcases stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture and hosts government functions, welcoming visitors to admire its grandeur and historical significance.
- Places to visit in Vidhana Soudha: Admire the grand architecture of this iconic building, which houses the state legislature. The building is especially stunning when illuminated at night.
- Things to do in Vidhana Soudha: Take guided tours to learn about the building's history and significance, and capture photographs of its impressive facade.
- Best time to go in Vidhana Soudha: Evenings, particularly from October to March, when the weather is cooler, and the building is beautifully lit up.
Go Karting:
Grips Go Karting offers adrenaline-pumping kart racing experiences on professional-grade tracks, attracting racing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers for competitive and exhilarating adventures.
- Places to visit in Go Karting: Bangalore has several go-karting tracks, including those at Meco Kartopia and Play Arena, offering various track lengths and difficulty levels.
- Things to do in Go Karting: Enjoy thrilling go-karting races, participate in competitive events, and enjoy other adventure sports available at these centres.
- Best time to go in Go Karting: Evenings and weekends for the best experience, and during the cooler months from October to March.
Shivoham Shiva Temple:
Shivoham Shiva Temple is a place to visit in Bangalore city that invites visitors to experience serenity and spirituality amidst its tranquil surroundings, featuring a majestic Shiva statue and serene ambiance for meditation and introspection.
These top 20 places to visit in Bangalore offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical landmarks and architectural wonders to natural retreats and cultural attractions, ensuring a memorable journey for every visitor to the Garden City.
- Places to visit in Shivoham Shiva Temple: The towering Shiva statue, the cave temple, and the various shrines within the temple complex.
- Things to do in Shivoham Shiva Temple: Participate in the daily aartis, meditate in the tranquil surroundings, and attend special religious events and festivals.
- Best time to go in Shivoham Shiva Temple: Early mornings or late evenings for a serene experience, especially during the months from October to February for pleasant weather.
Best time to visit Bangalore city places
The best time to visit Bangalore is during the winter months, from October to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This time of the year allows visitors to explore the city's attractions, parks, and gardens without the discomfort of extreme heat or rainfall. Additionally, Bangalore hosts various festivals and cultural events during the winter season, adding to the city's charm.
Also, explore: Places to visit in Kerala
List of best places to visit in Bangalore city with family and friends
Following are some of the best places to visit in Bangalore city with your family and friends:
- Cubbon Park: A lush green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for picnics, walks, and family outings. The park features the Bangalore Aquarium and a children's play area, making it one of the top places to visit in Bangalore city.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Renowned for its stunning flower shows and diverse flora, this garden offers a serene environment for nature walks, photography, and educational tours.
- Wonderla Amusement Park: An exciting destination for thrill-seekers, with numerous rides, water slides, and live shows. It’s an ideal place to visit in Bangalore city for a day full of fun and adventure.
- Bangalore Palace: Explore the regal architecture and rich history of this magnificent palace. Perfect for a cultural and educational family outing.
- Bannerghatta National Park: Enjoy wildlife safaris, a butterfly park, and a zoo, providing a fantastic experience for nature and animal lovers.
List of best places to visit in Bangalore city in night
Following are some of the best places to visit in Bangalore city with your family and friends:
- MG Road: One of the most vibrant places to visit in Bangalore city at night, MG Road is bustling with lively bars, cafes, and shopping options, making it perfect for an evening out with friends.
- UB City: An upscale destination with luxurious dining, rooftop bars, and high-end shopping, ideal for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated nightlife experience in Bangalore.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Though primarily a daytime attraction, the garden sometimes hosts night events and flower shows, offering a unique experience under the stars.
- Skyye Lounge: Located at UB City, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it one of the coolest places to visit in Bangalore city at night.
- Commercial Street: Known for its bustling atmosphere and street food, Commercial Street is great for a late-night shopping spree and enjoying local delicacies.
List of best places to visit in Bangalore city for couples
Following are the places to visit in Bangalore city for couples:
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden: A romantic destination with beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and the iconic Glass House, perfect for leisurely walks and peaceful moments together.
- Cubbon Park: Offering lush greenery and tranquil settings, this park is one of the top places to visit in Bangalore city for couples looking to enjoy a picnic or a quiet stroll.
- Nandi Hills: A scenic getaway with stunning sunrise views, ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape just outside the city.
- Ulsoor Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride on this picturesque lake, making it a charming spot for couples to unwind and connect.
- Skyye Lounge: Located at UB City, this rooftop bar provides a stunning cityscape view, making it a perfect place for a romantic dinner under the stars.
What are the travel options to visit Bangalore?
You can travel and visit Bangalore through the following ways:
- Air travel: Bangalore is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad with Kempegowda International Airport, offering domestic and international flights.
- Train services: The city is served by several railway stations, including Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) and Yesvantpur Junction (YPR), with regular trains connecting to various destinations across the country.
- Bus connectivity: Bangalore has a robust bus network with both state-run and private operators providing inter-city and intra-city bus services, offering convenient travel options for budget-conscious travellers.
- Road trips: Enjoy scenic drives to Bangalore from nearby cities via well-maintained highways, with options for self-drive or hiring taxis and cabs for a comfortable journey.
Travelling to these places by road may let you discover the natural beauty of these destinations. If you are planning for a road trip, first ensure that you prepare an itinerary to cover all the best places to visit in Bangalore. Also, ensure to invest in an insurance plan that covers you against any unforeseen events that may occur during the trip. You can opt for pocket-friendly plans like the CPP Road Trip Cover offered through Bajaj Finance. This plan provides a basic travel coverage at just Rs. 599.
