Travelling during pandemic might seem like an absurd plan, but come to think of it, it has now opened several opportunities for us all to go local. In fact, with states embracing the new normal, travelling too has got a new facelift. For instance, Staycations and Workations are now being acknowledged more than ever. However, there’s one such city, where these travel norms were being appreciated from before. Where? Well, it’s ‘Namma Bangalore’.
In a recent blog that my colleague wrote; she quite aptly said – a typical Bangalorean is someone who works hard but unwinds harder. And why wouldn’t they? This multilayered city may be the Silicon Valley of India, but it has so much more to offer. Right from cultural and historical to artistic and natural attractions, you’ll find everything in this city.
So, whether it’s your first visit to Bangalore or you simply wish to know your city better, we have curated a perfect list for you:
1. Enjoy an Alfresco
One of the best places to unwind right in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park is an ideal picnic spot. You can spend your day with friends or family amidst green shades to relive those childhood memories. Did you know? Cubbon Park, the lung of Bangalore city, is formerly known as Sri Chamarajendra Park.
Address: Kasturba Road, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Everyday)
2. Wander in the Wild
A true paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts; Bannerghatta National Park, home to an array of flora and fauna, is spread across 100 sq.km. The park boasts of a zoo, a museum, a butterfly park, a safari and an aquarium. You can opt for a guided tour bus or jeep safari to explore the park.
Address: Bannerghatta Rd, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083
Timing: Open from Monday to Sunday (Tuesday Holiday).
Zoo Timings – 09:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Safari Timings – 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
3. Admire The Deets
The city’s most pre-eminent landmark, Bangalore Palace, a Tudor inspired estate was built in the year 1887 by King Chamaraja Wadiyar. Experience the grandeur of this palace as you walk past the majestic corridors, pristine paintings, Victorian-style furnishings, and the lush green lawns. Fun fact: The Bangalore Palace was built to replicate the Windsor Castle, England.
Address: Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru – 560052
Timings: 10 AM to 5.30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹230
4. Visit Sultan’s Summer Abode
Take a trip down time to experience the exquisite living of Tipu Sultan. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace is crafted with Indo-Islamic nuances and is made entirely using teakwood. However, the most striking features of the palace are its balconies, grand arches and floral motifs that grace the palace walls.
Address: Bangalore Fort, Krishna Rajendra Rd, New Tharagupet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002
Timing: 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5
5. Stroll Through the Botanical Garden
Spread across 240 acres, Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is dotted with varieties of plants that are 1000 years old. If you like to be around nature, then this is the place for you. Stroll around the park with your loved one or enjoy your morning runs here. Be sure to check out the nineteenth-century glasshouse, which was designed to mirror London’s Crystal Palace.
Besides, when at Lal Bagh, you’ll understand why Bangalore is called the Garden City. So, make sure you include it in your things to do in Bangalore ‘List’
Address: Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004
Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25
Camera charges: ₹60
6. Calm Your Soul at ISKON Temple
Considered to be the as largest ISKON Temple in the world, this majestic edifice aris a perfect amalgamation of spirituality and modernity. Right from modern architecture to perfectly organised stalls to Vedic theatres and open-air amphitheatres, this shrine is an ideal example of a 21st-century temple.
Address: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Rajajinagar, Bangalore 560010
Timings: 4:15AM – 5:00 AM, 7:15AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
7. Be Inspired by Art
A treasure trove for modern art, National Gallery Of Modern Art is a historic mansion that exhibits art from the 18th-century to the present day. Here you’ll find works of famous artists like Ravindranath Tagore, Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Shergil, as well as lesser-known ones like Bhabesh Sanyal, Paramjit Singh, and Sailoz Mukherjee. Did you know? The National Gallery Of Modern Art was actually a residence that was transformed into a museum.
Address: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20
8. Witness the Golden Hour
Nandi Hills, an ancient hill fortress, is a perfect blend of spectacular views and monuments. If you want to escape the humdrum of the city, then this is where you need to be. Don’t forget to witness the sunrise or sunset, for the view from this 4851 feet summit is truly unbeatable. If the mood strikes in, you can visit the nearby cafes with your friends to snack some delicious munchies. Some of the known cafes around Nandi hills include Hills Drive Cafe, Tribal Cafe and CAFE KA43.
9. Go on Shopping Spree
When you are done exploring Bangalore or if you are out of options, then you must visit UB City. Located in the Central Business District of Bangalore, UB City is the ultimate shopping destination for all your luxury needs. You’ll find several international brands here such as Rolex, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Estee Lauder to name a few. Alas!
Address: Vittal Mallya Rd, KG Halli, D’ Souza Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timings: Store Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Restaurants Timings:
11:00 AM – 11:30 PM (Weekdays), 11:00 AM – 01:00 AM (Weekends)
10. Hop, Skip and Chug at Breweries
Known for being the micro-brewery capital, beer-lovers you cannot complete your trip without tasting the craft beers. Toit, Arbor Brewing Company, Byg Brewski, The Pump House, ShakesBierre, Windmills Craftworks are some of the well-known and the must-try breweries in Bangalore. So, make sure to add them to your list.
