Lal Bagh
Spread over 240 hectares, Lal Bagh tops the list of places to visit in Bangalore. This exquisite botanical garden was built in the eighteenth century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Impressed by the scenic beauty of the landscape, the father-and-son duo ordered that the rarest species of fauna and flora be preserved in this garden. The place also has a glasshouse and a beautiful lake. On your next visit to Bangalore, don’t miss the flower shows organized in Lal Bagh. In fact, enjoy your stay in some of the best hotels near Lal Bagh.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Flower show organized on the Republic Day is considered to be the best.
Bannerghatta National Park
If you thought Bangalore was only a concrete jungle, think again! A 90-minute drive from the city takes you to Bannerghatta National Park. Situated in the middle of the Champakadhama forests, Bannerghatta National Park is a natural zoological reserve rich in wildlife. You can spot bears, deer and even lions and tigers (if you’re lucky!) here. A butterfly park and a rescue center will keep you busy even if you don’t spot any wildlife. The Park also promotes responsible and sustainable wildlife tourism in the region.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Park offers safaris organized by the Karnataka State Tourist Development Corporation. You can also spend some time boating in the park’s beautiful lake.
Wonderla
If you’re travelling with kids, Wonderla is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore. A world of thrilling rides, splashing waters and lip-smacking food awaits you and your family at Wonderla. The Jungle Lagoon, Lazy River and Boomerang are some of the most popular rides.
Good to Know: Tickets can be easily purchased online. Reach the park early to avoid long queues to get on your favourite ride.
Bangalore Palace
The grand Tudor architecture of Bangalore Palace makes it look similar to England’s Windsor Castle. Constructed amidst lush green lawns, the palace is used for organizing various musical shows, rock concerts and other events. Artists like Jay Sean and Metallica have performed in the palace gardens. What more? There are some great places to stay near Bangalore Palace.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (All days of the week.)
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
Once the official residence of Tipu Sultan, this grand palace, constructed entirely out of teak, has now been converted into a museum, and is one of the top places to visit in Bangalore. Beautiful paintings, magnificent sculptures and antiques adorn the interiors—and will make you feel like you’re walking through history.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (All days of the week.)
Vidhana Soudha
The seat of the state legislature in Karnataka, the Vidhana Soudha is a 46-metre tall structure comprising 300 rooms. Dravidian influences are prominent in this architectural marvel, which houses several departments of the Government of Karnataka. It’s also one of the largest state assemblies in the country.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Visit duration is 45 minutes.
Bull Temple
Like most cities in South India, Bangalore is home to numerous temples. The Dodda Basavana Gudi or Bull Temple is the most famous one. The temple is devoted to the demi-god Nandi, Lord Shiva’s mount.
One of the oldest Hindu temples in Bangalore, the Bull Temple was built in the sixteenth century. The Dravidian style of architecture, common in most temples down south, is also prominent in this temple, which features an intricately carved gopuram. It also houses one of the biggest idols of Nandi in the country, measuring approximately 20 feet in length and 15 feet in height and built in granite. For a comfortable and affordable stay near the Bull Temple, choose from these accommodation options.
Good to Know: Visit the Ramakrishna Mission and the Ganapathi Temple located within walking distance from the Bull temple.
Innovative Film City
Established in 2008, Innovative Film City has been entertaining people in Bangalore for several years now. Spread across 50 acres, Innovative Film City offers a wide range of facilities, including an entertainment district, an amphitheatre, theme restaurants and food courts.
The other attractions that keep tourists entertained here include the Haunted Mansion, Aqua Kingdom, Cartoon City, 4D Theatre, Go-Karting, Louis Tussaud’s Wax Museum and many others.
Good to Know: Entry timings are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday. Entry tickets are Rs 599 per person before 3 p.m., Rs 399 per person after 3 p.m.
Snow City
One of the largest snow parks in India, Snow City is a favourite with adults and kids alike. When temperatures soar in the city, this snow park offers major relief from the heat. Covering an area of 12,500 square feet, the huge indoor park allows you to explore various activities, such as mountain climbing, basketball, dancing and sliding.
Good to Know: Entry timings are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily. Suitable clothes can be taken from the entry counter before entering the premises.
UB City
UB City is fast becoming the party hub in the city and is the one of the top places to visit in Bangalore, especially for youngsters. Hosting over 1,000,000 square feet of high-end retail, commercial and service apartment space, UB City offers luxury brands, nightclubs and upscale restaurants, all under a single roof. Shop high-end brands like Jimmy Choo, Burberry and Louis Vuitton. Enjoy a lavish dinner at Toscano or have a few drinks at Skybar.
Good to Know: It’s open all day, from 10.00 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. (for stores) and 11.30 p.m. (for restaurants).