Bangalore is a wonderful and lively city famous for its pleasant climate, cosmopolitan culture and beautiful gardens. Over the years it has become a popular destination for both business and leisure. The beauty of Bangalore is that there is still so much of the old world charm that has also embraced modern living.
You can visit beautiful gardens and nature right in the middle of the city by visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park. If adventure is what's on your mind then head to Nandi Hills for a day trip or go rock climbing in Ramanagara. The city’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in landmarks like Bangalore Palace, food streets like V. V. Puram and in classic performances at Chowdiah Memorial Hall.
Take a grand food tour of Bangalore with our exciting Bangalore tour packages, where you can try everything from spicy South Indian fares to delectable international cuisines and crafted brews. For some great shopping experiences, head to traditional markets like Commercial Street, Jayanagar 4th Block, and Malleshwaram, or explore the charm of local markets.
Bangalore is a year round destination and whether you’re travelling alone, with family or with friends this vibrant city will give you a refreshing and amazing urban experience.
1. Summer
2. Monsoon
3. Winter
1. By road: Bangalore is well connected by road to major cities like Chennai, Hyderabad and Mumbai. National Highways like NH44 and NH75 provide smooth access for travellers using private vehicles or buses.
2. By Train: Bangalore has two major railway stations, Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna or the Bangalore City Station and Yesvantpur Junction, which are connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, and more
3. By Air: The fastest and most convenient way to reach Bangalore is by air via Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). It is located about 35 km from the city center and it is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, etc. From the airport you can take a cab or board the BMTC Vayu Vajra airport buses to the city.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Bangalore:
1. Lal Bagh Botanical Garden - This 18th century botanical garden was established by Hyder Ali and then expanded by Tipu Sultan. This graden hosts over 1,800 plant species and spans over 240 acres of land. A bi-annual flower show is hosted here that draws thousands of visitors here every year.
2. Cubbon Park - Covering approximately 300 acres of land, this park offers a green haven in the heart of Bangalore. It was established in the year 1870 and is home to more than 6,000 trees that offer rich biodiverse experience. Many important buildings, such as the State Central Library and the High Court of Karnataka fall within the premises of this park.
3. Bangalore Palace - This Palace was built in Tudor style architecture, featuring grand arches, fortified pillars and pristine green gardens. It was built in 1878 and showcases the grandeur of the Wodeyar family with its elegant wood carvings, vibrant motifs and elegant wooden furniture.
4. Dodda Basavanagudi - More commonly known as the Bull temple, this temple is famous for its massive monolithic sculpture of Nandi, Shiv Ji's mount. It was built by Kempe Gowda in the 16th century and is one of the best examples of Dravidian Architecture.
5. Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace - This 18th century Palace is made entirely of teak wood with ornate arches, intricate carvings and balconies. This Palace is one of the finest specimens of Indo-Islamic architecture. It now serves as a museum that showcases the artifacts that were used in his reign
Here are some of the top things to do in Bangalore:
1. Explore HAL Museum - This museum is dedicated to India's aviation history and is a must visit for science, aircraft and tech enthusiasts. Located on the Old Airport Road, HAL Aerospace museum displays fighter jets, helicopters, aircraft engines, flight simulators and aviation history exhibits. It is one of the first Aviation history museums in India and offers a great educational experience.
2. Visit the Indian Cartoon Gallery - A visit to the Indian Cartoon Gallery is sure to add a quirky twist to your Bangalore trip. It is run by the Indian Institute of Cartoonists and it hosts a monthly exhibition by renowned and emerging cartoonists with humorous themes.
3. Take a Trip to the Planetarium - Enjoy a trip to the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium and experience the beauty of the cosmos unfold before your eyes. The Planetarium offers daily shows in Kannada as well as English. They hold a monthly stargazing session that attracts a lot of astronomy enthusiasts.
4. Shop at Sunday Soul Sante - This vibrant flea market is held quarterly in Bangalore and features over 250 stalls showcasing a large collection of handmade crafts, gourmet delights and indie fashion. The event also has live music performances as well as a variety of workshops
5. Fun at Amoeba or Smaaash - Have a fun time at gaming arenas like Amoeba in Church Street or Smaaash in Indiranagar and indulge in some arcade games, bowling, and virtual reality experiences. These places stay open till late and offer food, music and exciting activities.
Here are some of the best adventure sports in Bangalore:
1. Paragliding at Nandi Hills - Set out on an exciting paragliding adventure over Nandi Hills and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the amazing landscape below. Nandi Hills is about 57 km from Bangalore and you can enjoy this unforgettable flying experience with certified instructors.
2. Rock Climbing at Ramanagara - Ramanagara is well known for its granite hills and it is a major attraction for rock climbing enthusiasts. It is about 52 km from Bangalore city and this is where the legendary movie Sholay was filmed
3. Microlight Flying in Jakkur - The thrill of flying a microlight aircraft is incredible and you can take part in this adventure at Jakkur Aerodrome. This place is about 15 km from central Bangalore and you can fly under the supervision of trained pilots.
4. Ziplining at Jungle Trailz - Namma adventure park Jungle Trailz is located within the city limits and offers thrilling ziplining experiences. With all safety measures in place you can glide over tree canopies, amazing landscapes and enjoy a unique aerial perspective.
5. Kayaking at Manchanabele Dam - Enjoy a peaceful kayaking adventure at Manchanabele Dam which is just 40 km from Bangalore. This is a fun water based adventure which beginners and groups can have fun with.
Some other dishes to try include Filter coffee, Vada, set dosa with saagu, Kesari Bhaat and Khara Bhaat
1. Karavalli- This fine dining restaurant provides a great family dining experience with its rustic wooden decor and authentic South Indian food. Its menu includes dishes from the states of Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. The Mangalorean Ghee roast, Kerala style Appam with stew, and the Meen Pollichathu are some of the must try dishes
2. Shri Sagar - Formerly known as Central Tiffin Room (CTR), this joint is a favourite for its mouthwatering Benne Masala Dosa. It is located in Malleshwaram and serves authentic, vegetarian food since 1940
3. Ebony - This MG Road based, fine dining restaurant serves Indian, Thai and Continental cuisines. Their standout dishes are the Thai Green Curry, Biryanis and fusion kebabs
4. Nagarjuna - This is the ultimate destination for foodies in Bangalore. This restaurant serves authentic Andhra meals with fiery spice and bold flavours. The Andhra Thali is the star of the show that you just can't miss out on.
Here are some of the best resorts in Bangalore:
1. Guhantara Resort: Guhantara resort is India’s first underground cave resort offering a wonderfully unique stay experience. It features rustic interiors, cave-style rooms, a swimming pool, rain dance area and in-house restaurant. The property is about 32 km from Bangalore and also offers adventure activities like zip lining and quad biking.
2. Our Native Village: This beautiful eco resort is just 40 km from Bangalore and offers stays that promote sustainability and digital detoxing. The property is built using traditional methods and you can enjoy village-style experiences with activities like bullock cart rides, pottery and organic farming.
3. The Windflower Prakruthi Resort: This luxury resort is 33 km from Bangalore and it is spread across 7 acres of beautiful landscapes. There are spacious cottages, an infinity pool, a spa and adventure activities like ATV rides and zorbing.
4. Vama Retreats: This magnificent property is set amidst a 180-acre military themed eco-park near Nandi Hills. The best part about Vama Retreats is it is a pet-friendly resort and it also features tent stays, adventure sports and beautiful open green spaces. You can do archery, air rifle shooting and many other activities here.
5. The Taj West End, Bangalore: This is one of the best stay options in Bangalore Located right in the heart of the city on Race Course Road. The Taj West End is a 5-star heritage resort that gives you an experience of colonial charm with modern luxury. This beautiful property is spread across 20 acres of landscaped gardens and offers elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, spa services and a luxurious escape within the city.
1. Open Air Movie Night: Sunset Cinema Club in Bangalore presents to you a fun and unique open air movie experience under the stars. Enjoy cosy seating under fairy lights, popcorn and a specially curated selection of classic and contemporary films.
2. Explore MG Road and Brigade Road: Exploring these iconic streets at night is a different experience altogether that is a must for any Bangalore visitor. These streets come alive after dark with dazzling lights, vibrant street shopping, lively cafes and bustling crowds. Shop at high-end stores, visit quirky boutiques and dine at late-night eateries.
3. Clubbing in Bangalore: Clubbing in Bangalore is an electrifying experience especially in popular spots like Loft 38, Skyye, Pebble, Byg Brewski, and Toit. They have great music, vibrant crowds and signature cocktails to give you a taste of the amazing nightlife of Bangalore.
4. Fun and Entertainment: Clubs and pubs are not the only choice you have to enjoy Bangalore’s nightlife. There are other forms of entertainment like stand-up comedy at That Comedy Club or Comedy Shots or catch an interesting play at Ranga Shankara or Jagriti Theatre.
5. Late Night Cafe and Eateries: Bangalore has an amazing list of late-night cafes and eateries that is perfect for night owls. Trendy places like Dyu Art Café, Matteo Coffea and CTR stay open late, offering coffee, delicious selection of comfort food and a quiet ambience. Then there is Rasta Cafe that stays open 24/7 perfect for night owls to come out and enjoy a cup of coffee over fun board games.
Here are some of the best shopping places in Bangalore:
1. Commercial Street: Commercial Street is a bustling and lively paradise for shoppers. You can buy clothes, jewellery, hand bags, shoes and enjoy street food at affordable prices. You can get anything from western wear to traditional attire, a great place for bargain hunters.
2. Brigade Road: Brigade Road is one of Bangalore’s most iconic landmark streets that features branded stores, quirky boutiques, generational stores and fun eateries. It is a fun place to shop for clothing, cosmetics and electronics.
3. Jayanagar 4th Block Market: 4th Block market is a highly popular South Bangalore market that features a fun mix of street shopping and branded outlets. You can find ethnic wear, home goods, flowers, fruits and much more. It is also known for quality products at reasonable prices.
4. Phoenix Marketcity Whitefield: Phoenix Marketcity is one of the biggest shopping malls in the city that offers a fantastic range of high-end brands, multiplexes, a food court and regular events to boot.
1. Ranga Shankara, J P Nagar: Ranga Shankara is a theatre-lover’s haven and this place hosts plays in multiple Indian languages. It is known for its affordability, meaningful plays and performances. The ambiance, minimalist stagecraft and passionate audience together make this theatre a true cultural gem.
2. Indian Music Experience Museum, J P Nagar: This Museum is India’s first interactive music museum giving you the opportunity to explore Indian music through touchscreens, exhibits, instruments and sound installations. There are zones dedicated to different genres of music like classical, folk and film music.
3. Nrityagram Dance Village: Famous Odissi dancer Protima Bedi started Nrityagram near Hesaraghatta which is a dedicated dance village. This stunning place is surrounded by nature and it is used as a center for classical dance training and performances. As visitors, you can watch rehearsals, interact with dancers and explore the grounds.
4. Jain Farms: Jain Farms is a splendid rural retreat located on the outskirts of Bangalore city. Guests can enjoy bullock cart rides, pottery classes, fire-eating shows and a lot more. There are eco-friendly cottages and fun open-air activities for you to experience rustic living.
5. Turahalli Forest: Turahalli is one of Bangalore’s last surviving forest patches and can be found about 20 km away from the city. It is a favourite among cyclists and rock climbers because it offers a wild, rocky escape with some truly stunning sunrise views.
1. Festivals:
2. Events:
1. Explore Bangalore Palace: Take a tour of the Bangalore Palace which is Modeled after the Windsor Castle in England and reflects Tudor and Gothic architecture. Explore the beautiful and lavish interiors, royal artifacts, and the sprawling Palace grounds.
2. Take a Heritage Walk in Basavanagudi: Basavanagudi is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bangalore and it showcases the city as it was before the IT Boom. You can take a guided heritage walk here that lets you explore ancient temples like Bull Temple, traditional homes and eat at traditional eateries
3. Go Microbrewery Hopping: Bangalore today is India’s craft beer capital and it is home to some famous microbreweries like Toit, Byg Brewski and Windmills Craftworks. Each one of these places offer unique craft beers, great food, a fun and lively atmosphere.
4. Attend a Classical Music or Dance Performance: Experience the cultural richness of Bangalore’s heritage with amazing performances at venues like Chowdiah Memorial Hall and Seva Sadan. Witness Carnatic music concerts, Bharatanatyam performances and art festivals here.
5. Sample Street Food at VV Puram Food Street: VV Puram Food Street is a haven for street food fans and it comes alive every evening with stalls serving fresh and crispy dosas, idlis, varieties of chaats, sweets and much more. The flavours, the wafting aromas and energetic atmosphere will give you a completely different experience of the city.
Bangalore has pleasant weather throughout the year. The climate will be moderate and is suitable to be visited at any time of the year.
Usually, the months between September and February sees the highest tourist flow rate and the reason for this is the weather becomes much more pleasant and gives a beautiful feeling during these times.
-Bangalore in Monsoon: Monsoon in Bangalore usually provides the visitors with a lot of getaways. There are many places in and around Bangalore which can be explored in these monsoon seasons. The hills, rivers, lakes, landscapes and many more, if you are a nature lover then monsoon is the best time for you to visit Bangalore.
-Bangalore in Summer: Usually, people living in hot and humid areas plan to go to some cooler places and relax there. The maximum temperature in Bangalore is 34 degree Celsius in summer and the climate in summer season is commendable. So you can visit Bangalore this summer and explore many beautiful places.
-Bangalore in Winter: The temperature in the winter season in Bangalore drops below 10 degrees in some instances yet the climate is peaceful and people can enjoy the cool weather. There are many beautiful destinations in Bangalore which can be explored in the cool climate. Hills, beaches, heritage sites and a lot more can be visited and explored in this beautiful season.
Bangalore offers a multitude of entertainment options for tourists. Some of the best things to do in Bangalore starting from 250/- Only are:
4. Wildlife Safari at Bannerghatta Biological Park
5. Adventure activities at Ramanagara
6. Nature Adventure Camp In Kanakapura
7. Day out At Jain Farms
8. Trekking in Skandagiri
9. Caving Day out at Anthargange
The general climate of Bangalore is usually below 35°C even in the summer months of March to May but it gets unpleasant outdoors due to the fierce sunlight. October to February is ideal for outdoor activities like family picnics, trekking, long drives and others.
All you would need is a windcheater or a light woollen jacket if you are planning to drive around at night. June to September is monsoon time when the city faces mild to heavy rainfall and a sunny afternoon can suddenly turn into a downpour that can become a damper if you are out shopping.
Know More: Bangalore Weather and Temperature
While Bangalore has several attractions, some of the must-visit places are:
-Nandi Hills
-Ramanagara
-Kanakapura
-Bannerghatta National Park
-Skandagiri
-Lal Bagh Botanical Garden
-Kunti Betta
-Guhantara,The Underground Resort
Bangalore is located close to several hill stations like Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Wayanad and Coorg that can be explored during summer.
The best places to visit in summer in Bangalore are amusement parks like Snow City in Fun World Complex, Wonderla the water park and Neeladri Amusement and Waterpark with games for everyone.
Waterfalls like Shivanasamudra, Muthyala Maduvu or Pearl Valley are also pleasant after a few bouts of rainfall.
As winters are perfect for travelling around to nearby locations in Bangalore, one can explore Mysore and Srirangapatna along with Nandi Hills and Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.
Pleasant weather also helps to explore local scenery with adventure sports like trekking, rappelling and camping at Bheemeshwari, Antharagange, Vanakebe Falls, Manchinbele or at Ramanagaram.
This is also a good time to visit temples like Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Kotilingeshwara Temple, Chamundeshwari Temple, Ghati Subramanya Temple, Ranganathaswamy temple and Someshwara Temple.
Cubbon Park, regarded as the “lung” area of Bangalore’s business district was created in 1870 and is today spread across 300 acres. The park is made up of natural rock, massive bamboos and several varieties of small and large plants along with wide walkways used for walking and light exercises by residents in the area.
It also houses a library, aquarium and toy train along with several statues of famous personalities and benches to relax. The park is open between 10.30 AM to 6 PM on all days except Thursdays and the entrance is free.
They have a show of colorful fairy fountains every evening and short courses for pottery making and painting are also offered.
Vidhana Soudha or Karnataka Government’s parliament building is India’s largest legislature-cum-office building which is an interesting place that every tourist to the city must visit.
Spread across 60 acres, the building has four entrances signifying four directions and houses twenty-two departments on four floors.
The impressive building was built in Dravidian architecture style in 1956 and has a beautiful 60 feet dome in its center and six domes of which, four are in the front section and two on the sides which are supported by 8 pillars. Entry to the structure is not allowed unless one is visiting for official work.
Bangalore palace, the erstwhile summer capital of Mysore’s Maharajas was built by Rev. J Garett in 1862 to resemble Windsor Castle. The palace spread across 453 acres, is popular for its beautiful Tudor style architecture and beautiful objects of art belonging to the royal family that is displayed to the public.
Instead of a live guide, the 40 tour has an audio guide that tells the history behind each section of this marvellous heritage. The palace’s interiors are decorated with stained glass windows, skylights, neoclassical furniture, family photographs, royal garments used for ceremonies and hunting trophies.
Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum is one of the best in Bangalore that has five galleries dedicated to varied aspects of technology. Besides this, one can visit the Government Museum that was built in 1865 and has got its share of ancient history in the form of geological and architectural objects excavated from across the state.
The city also has a quaint folk museum that has an excellent collection of folk artefacts like costumes, masks and weapons used during performances. The museum also has audio-visual presentations of rural dances and an antique temple chariot.
The top-ranked waterpark in Bangalore is Wonderla that is ranked 1st in India and 7th in Asia and spread across 33 hectares.
Neeladri Amusement and waterpark, which was the city’s first water amusement park is located in Hosur road, which has 45 dry rides and 8 rides in waterpark.
Lumbini Gardens in Hebbal is famous for boating and water based games for adults and children.
Know More: Best Water Parks in Bangalore
Wonderla is Bangalore’s most popular amusement parks located around 28 kilometres away from city center at Bidadi. There are buses and cabs to the amusement park and back till late hours in the evening.
The park has 55 land and water-based rides along with a musical fountain and laser show along with special games and attractions for small children. The park is open between 11 am to 7 pm on all days and rates are Rs.700 for an adult and Rs. 540 for a child.
During festivals, weekends and peak holiday season the rates go up to Rs. 940 per adult and Rs.710 for a child.
While Bangalore is home to over 1000 new and old temples the most famous of them is the ISKCON Radha Krishna temple, Bull Temple with 15 feet tall Nandi and Dodda Ganesha temples located beside each other in Basavanagudi.
Some of the city’s ancient temples are Chokkanathaswamy temple in Domlur built in the 10th century, Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple carved out of single rock in the 9th century and the Halasuru Someshwara temple dating back to Chola period has retained its ornate charm.
Other famous temples are Venkataramana temple, Banashankari temple, Sri Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Temple and Kailash Vaikunta Mahakshetra Temple.
This theme park is located 37 km from Bangalore and has state buses and cabs plying to the area. The park visiting hours are between 10 am to 7 pm on all days of the week and entry fees before 3 PM is Rs. 500 per adult and Rs. 399 after 3 PM.
Built in 2007 the park has several attractions like a water park, Dino park, haunted mansion, mirror maze and a tribal museum for children and adults.
The best places couples can visit in Bangalore are:
-Cubbon Park
-Lalbagh and Bugle Rock Park in Basavanagudi
-Boating on Hebbal Lake, BTM lake and Ulsoor lake
-Shopping Malls like Mantri Mall, Forum Mall, Bangalore Central Mall, Garuda Mall and Orion Mall
-Barleyz Restaurant
-Persian Terraces
Bangalore a lot of options for romantic candlelight dinners where couples can enjoy privacy and great food. Here listed are some of the places:
-Café Max on CMH Road with its cozy setting and fairy lights
-Blue Ginger at Raj West End on Race Course Road with its peaceful atmosphere and fine dining experience
-Candlelight at Le Cirque Signature on Old Airport road
-News Café in Indiranagar
-Bierre Republic at Pavilion Mall in Church Street with its warm woody ambience
-Ebony –Ivory Tower with its amazing view
-Mezzaluna with its stylish Italian furniture and food
There are several amazing places around Bangalore that you can take the family for a fun-filled day of swimming and casual lazing around. For the best experiences visit:
-Savandurga which has a ruined fort for a picnic
-Avani has ancient temples
-Bannerghatta National Park for safaris
-Take a trip to Wonderla amusement park
-Take a swim in Chunchi Falls
-Go fishing in Bheemeshwari
-Explore lush greenery around Balmuri and Edmuri falls
-Explore the grasslands around Hessarghatta lake and charming Horsely Hills to view the “World’s biggest Banyan Tree.
Bangalore being such a vibrant city for sightseeing and adventure activities also has a lot of options for kids to enjoy:
-Amusement Parks: Wonderla, Lumbini Gardens, Snow world and Neeladri Amusement and waterpark where kids can enjoy various watersport and thrilling activities.
-Educative: Jawaharlal Nehru Planetorium, Vishveshwaraya Museum and aeronautics museum.
-Adventure: Camping to Manchinbele or at Ramanagaram, Bheemeshwari for fishing and boating since kids also love adventure and the thrill of adrenaline rush.
-Waterfalls: Shivanasamudra, Muthyala Maduvu and Pearl Valley.
Most resorts near Bangalore have swimming pools but none of them are private as generally they are used by all guests that are present in the resort.
Some resorts that have multiple swimming pools for children and adults are:
-Elim Resort
-Confident Amoon Glamour resort
-Emerald Isle Resort
-Holiday village Resort
-Urban Valley Resort
-Parkfield Resotel
All resorts near Bangalore have volleyball and basketball courts for guests along with swimming pools and video game parlours to keep families and children across varied ages busy across the day:
-Chairman’s Jade Club Resort offer extra facilities like archery
-Shilha Andara Resort offers adventure sports like paintball, zorbing and rope climbing without any extra charges
-Angsana resort offers paintball games
-Jaladhama resort offer trampoline and water sports like paddling, canoeing and banana boat ride
Corporate day outings should comprise of team building sports and activities that brings office colleagues in an informal atmosphere. Some of the best resorts with space and opportunities for organizing large team activities are:
-Discovery Village Resorts
-Guhantara Resorts
-Angsana Oasis Spa and Resort
-Olde Bangalore
-Ramanashree California Resort
-Vana Resort
-Jaladhama Resort
Bangalore Resorts that offer privacy and solitude for couples are:
-Woodrich Anbi Club
-Silver Oak Farm
-Royal Orchid Resort and Convention Center
-Eagleton Golf Resort for a touch of luxury
For relaxing spa resorts and massage experience try:
-Angsana Oasis Spa and Resort
-Palm Meadows Club
-Windflower Prakruthi Resort and Spa
-Clarks Exotica Convention and Spa
-Golden Palms Resort
-Parkfield Resotel
Living in Bangalore and being apart of the daily rush and chaos calls for quality time away with nature and unwinding yourself. There are a lot of options for weekend getaways in Bangalore, you can:
-Take weekend trips to Hogenakkal Falls just 189 kms from Bangalore
-Visit Hampi beside a river
-Bheemeshwari or Masinagudi for natural beauty
-Explore nearby hill stations of Coorg, Ooty, Wayanad and Munnar and wander around the tea gardens enjoying homemade chocolate
-If historical ruins, temples and forts are your interests then check out Shravanabelagola, Belur, Halebid, Shivanasamudra, Badami, Mysore, Srirangapatnam and Dharmasthala
Bike trips allow you to see offbeat locations that are usually avoided by tour operators so here are some places you can explore on a bike. Thottikallu Falls off Kanakapura road is just 35 km away Savandurga and Manchinabele Dam close to Arkavathi River is best explored on bikes.
Other locations for day trips by bike are Mekedatu, Lepakshi if you like historical inscriptions and Nandi Hills. A couple of Tipu Sultan’s strategic forts like Manjarabad Fort (226 km away) and Gandikota Fort (300 km away) located deep in the hills can be explored by bikers.
Located deep in the heart of Kodagu Hills, Coorg is a beautiful hill station and the coffee capital of India. It is located around 270 km by road from Bangalore.
The best time to visit this hill station is between October and May as the weather is pleasant at 20° C and ideal for exploring every part of the town by just walking around or driving on motorbikes.
To explore the actual essence of Coorg, tourists prefer to stay in homestays instead of commercial lodges or resorts.
Surrounded by hills and valleys Bangalore’s outskirts is perfect for adventure sports like rappelling and rope climbing along with day and night trekking.
The best locations for rappelling which is generally conducted by adventure clubs with trained guides helping new entrants to the sport are:
-Ramanagara
-Tadiandamol Trek and rappelling
-Skandagiri hillock for trekking and rappelling
-Manchinbele is popular and so is Anthargange both of which have swimming and trekking along with rappelling
Paintball adventure can be explored in resorts and adventure camps located in the outskirts of Bangalore like:
-Bannerghatta Road
-Jade Garden
-Savandurga hill camp
-Holiday Village Resort
-Paintball and Go karting arena located 5 kms from total mall in Sarjapur
-Paintball Zone in Kothnur Road at RBI Layout
-National Paintball League in Indira Nagar
-Play near Total Mall in Kasavanahalli
The most popular trekking locations in Bangalore with well laid out tracks are:
-Ramnagara Trek
-Ramadewara Betta Trek
-Nandi Hills
-Devarayanadurga
-Bheemeshwari
Though some of these treks are also used for night trekking it is best done on full moon nights and with a guide as there have been instances of people getting lost.
Due to rocky landscape, there are many ancient caves around Karnataka like:
-Siddara Betta
-Tumkur
-Antharganga
-Kolar
-Badami
The closest ones to Bangalore for which exploratory tours are conducted are:
-Antharagange in Kolar
-Mullayanagiri caves
There are few cave temples that can be explored too like Hulimavu cave on Bannerghatta Road close to BGS school.
Popular camping locations within 100 kms of Bangalore are:
-Manchinbele
-Ramanagara
-Bananthi Betta
-Kanakpura near Hosa Doddi Lake
-Savandurga
-Antharagange
-Nachikuppam
Popular camping sites within 200 kms of Bangalore are:
-Bheemeshwari and Doddamakali while there are several camping sites as one travels towards Ooty, Coorg and Wayanad
Bangalore to Ooty is 273.4 km drive and is accessible by road and train. Every visitor to Ooty must see the:
-Botanical Gardens spread across 22 acres that has 650 species of flowers and trees
-Boating on Ooty Lake
-Speedboat ride near Pykara waterfall
Ideal for trekking and camping:
-Dodabetta peak
-Lamb’s rock
-Pine Forest
-Dolphin’s Nose
-Take a toy train ride to Coonoor for scenic view of hills and hidden waterfalls
-Go shopping on Charing Cross to purchase chocolates, Toda shawls or famous Nilgiri tea and Eucalyptus oil
Every coffee lover that visits Bangalore should make a point of visiting the beautiful hill station of Chikmagalur for its lush greenery, Bangalore to Chikmagalur is a 277 kms drive. There are several activities that can be done in Chikamagalur, Such as:
-Take long walks along the coffee plantations
-Visit the local temples and sightseeing locations
-Explore rafting on the river Bhadra
-Try golfing at Chikmagalur Golf Club with a 9 hole golf course
-The range of mountains make the town’s outskirts like Kemmangundi ideal for camping, cycling and trekking
-Other locations for cycling here are Kudremukh, Bababudangiri, Mullayanagiri and Kuringal gudda.
With two of the nation’s largest national parks close to the city there is no dearth of wildlife safaris that one can explore in Bangalore:
-Bannerghatta National park
-Kabini located in Mysore
-Mudumalai National Park in Udagamandalam
-National park in Bandipur and Nagarhole National Park offer both elephant safari and tiger safari that are done by jeeps during daytime
-Wayanad in Kerala and BR Hills are smaller in size so usually small herbivore species and elephants are visible during safari to these locations
Bannerghatta National Park located 25 km south of Bangalore city is closed on Tuesdays and though it is open between 9 am to 5pm on all other days the ticket counter opens at around 10 am.
Divided into three sections namely the Zoo, Grand Safari and Butterfly park, the overall cost of visitation to first two locations is Rs. Rs.260 for adults and Rs.130 for children along with Rs.25 for camera.
Foreigners are charged Rs.400 for adults and Rs.300 for children. Entry ticket to visit Butterfly Park is Rs.30 which also has a few stray monkeys playing around.
The best time to visit Dandeli is between January to Feb if you are a bird-watching enthusiast and between the months of April to September during the pre-monsoon and monsoon months when the river Kali is at ideal levels for kayaking, rafting and coracle rides.
There are two locations for river rafting in Coorg namely Barapole River and Cauvery river at Dubare. White water rafting is done during mid-July and September end while Still water rafting is done across the year barring the monsoon season.
Yes, the gentle Cauvery river has paddle boat rafting through the rapids that are considered a major adventure sport for visitors. Depending on the size of the group and their level of enthusiasm, the river rafting exercise can be for 2 or 4 hours to let them explore different grades of water speeds.
Even novices can try out rafting in Bheemeshwari as all boats have a trained oarsman cum diver that travels with every group.
Anyone can visit Nandi Hills by hiring a car or by local tourist buses that include this location on Mysore sightseeing trips. Nandi Hills is famous for its strategic location that gives sweeping views of Mysore city and its surrounding villages.
The hill has religious significance due to Chamundeshwari temple, Bhoganandishwara temple and ancient Nandi Bull statue that is more than 20 feet tall. Bikers and cyclists’ groups visit the hilltop for view of sunrise and sunset which is breathtaking especially during monsoons and winter.
Kanakapura is a tourism hotspot. This town has activities and sightseeing from history to adventure. Located 55 km from Bangalore, it is surrounded by lush green forests and beauty.
-Relaxing in resorts: Guhantara, Urban Valley, Holiday Village resort, Khedda Resorts, Vana Resorts and Elim Resorts. These resorts offer swimming, outdoor games like volleyball, rain dance, trampoline along with several groups and individual sporting activities like video game arenas too.
-Paintball Camps
-Waterfall Tour: Chunchi Falls
-Trekking: Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, Devara Gudda
-Adventure sports: Trekking, rappelling, fishing, kayaking and ziplining
-Spa facilities in Kanakapura: Sri Sri Ayurveda Panchakarma
Below are some of the famous hill stations around Bangalore:
-Ooty in Tamil Nadu is referred to as Queen of Hills – 270km away
-Coorg in Karnataka is called Scotland of India – 267 km away
-Munnar in Kerala is called the Kashmir of South India – 476 km away
-Kodaikanal in Tamilnadu is Princess of Hill Stations – 459 km away
-Yercaud in Tamil Nadu is Poor Man’s Ooty – 228 km away
-Chikmagalur in Karnataka – 277 km away
-Wayanad in Kerala – 275 km away
Some of the prominent beach destinations near Bangalore are:
-Surathkal Beach is 347 km west of Bangalore and 20 km from Mangalore
-Tannirbhavi Beach is 347 km west of Bangalore and 12 km from Mangalore
-Marina Beach is 351 km from Bangalore and in Chennai
-Mahabalipuram Beach is 350 km from Bangalore
-Kaup Beach is 406 km west of Bangalore and 14 km from Udupi
-Malpe Beach is 406 km west of Bangalore and 7 km from Udupi
-Someshwar Beach is 347 km west Bangalore and 13 km from Mangalore
-Bekal Beach is 377 km from Bangalore.
-Puducherry Beach is 323 km from Bangalore
-Murudeshwar Beach is 455 km North West of Bangalore
-Gokarna Beach is 486 km North West of Bangalore
Here is the list of popular markets for shopping in Bangalore:
-Residency Road – City’s oldest shopping hub for handicrafts has government and private emporiums selling unusual handcrafted products at reasonable prices.
-Marathahalli – Factory outlets of large brands are stretched out on Varthur road that is frequented regularly by youngsters.
-Commercial Street – Crowded but popular shopping area for clothes, accessories, shoes, real and costume jewelry, cosmetics and street food.
-Chickpet – Bangalore’s old wholesale market is best for traditional Indian clothes at wholesale prices though you may be pushed to buy more quantity for better discounts.
-Brigade Road – Shops on the footpath sell a wide variety of items from t-shirts to books, leather items, watches, shoes, costume jewelry etc.
If you are looking for branded clothes, electronics or other expensive objects then it is best to explore shopping malls like Orion Malls, Mantri Square, Phoenix Market city etc.
Premium fine dine restaurants:
-High Ultra Lounge in Malleshwaram for Japanese, Thai, Korean and Chinese cuisine
-Windmills Craftworks in Whitefield for American and Indian cuisine
-Skyye in UB City for Continental cuisine
-Shiro in UB City for Japanese and Asian cuisine
-Spice Terrace JW Marriott Lavelle Road for North India and seafood cuisine
Top casual dining restaurants:
-The Square – Novotel at Marathahalli for Continental, Indian, Japanese and Italian food
-Saffron on Palace Road for Asian and Indian food
-Bene at Sheraton on Malleshwaram for Italian and European food
-Barbeque Nation, JP Nagar for Indian, European and Mediterranean cuisine
-Yatai on Palace Road for Japanese Sushi Asian food
The city has its share of pubs and nightclubs and the most popular among them are:
-Skyye on 16th Floor of UB City that allows you to enjoy the view of city skyline after a tiring bout of dancing
-Loft 38 to 100 Feet Indira Nagar
-The Big Pitcher on Old Airport Road
-Barleyz – The Brew House
-Zuri in Whitefield that offers free entry to couples
-White Pebble is the city’s favourite haunt
-Eclipse in Leela Galleria
-Sutra in Lalit Ashok
-Ice Bar at Taj Vivanta
Before Café Coffee Day and Kalmane Coffee set up its outlets in the city, there have several cafes in Bangalore that remain favourite haunts of locals till date like:
-Smoke House Deli – Indiranagar
-Art Blend Café – HSR Layout
-Beans Café – Koramangala for its distinct cakes
-Homemade Café - Koramangala for its beautiful green ambience
-Dyu Art Café – Koramangala for art, coffee and inspiration
-Café Noir – UB City for French finger food
-Matteos on Brigade Road for busy shoppers
-Courtyard Café on KH Road for light food and games
Besides the regular dosa, idli, vada, pani-puri and chaat options, every popular shopping in Bangalore has its own street food outlets that offer snack options from across the nation and China too! Some of the popular restaurant chains for serving street food are:
-Shiv Sagar
-Adyar Anand Bhavan
-Udupi hotels
-Taaza Thindi
Popular local eat-out zones in Bangalore are :
-Brahmin’s Coffee Bar in Basavanagudi for typical South Indian fare
-Central Tiffin Room in Malleshwaram for South Indian delicacies and coffee
-VV Puram Food Street for a wide variety of street food options ranging from snacks and ice creams to tempting rice delicacies
-Puchka at Marathahalli for delicious hot dogs and chat items
-Hari’s Sandwich Zone in Jayanagar for its signature chocolate sandwich
Popular locations that one can head out to for a long drive outside the city are:
-Nandi Hills: Just 60 km from the city and you are atop a hill that virtually floats in clouds
-Bheemeshwari: Just 105 km to laze beside the tranquil river with several food options at hand
-Ramanagar: Just 47 km for adventure sports or just to explore temples
-Anthargange: Just 70 km for exploration of local mountains and caves
-Shivanasamudra: Just 130 km is popular for coracle boating and waterfalls of Gaganchukki and Barachukki
-Sangama: 100 km is located at the confluence of Arkavathi and Cauvery rivers
Suggested Read: Popular Places to Visit Near Bangalore Within 100 Kms
Here are some famous homestay near Bangalore:
-Angana – The Country Inn Kanakapura Road
-Aditya Orchards – Kanakapura Road
-Compact Stately homes – Old Airport road HAL
-Casablanca – Co-living home in Koramangala
-Aura Corporate suites in Manyata Tech park
-The White House in Koramangala
-Geese Haven Homestay and Farm in Kalikamba Temple Road Somanahalli
-Abids Vinkas Homestay in BTM Layout for serviced apartments
-Mel’s Service Apartments in Kodihalli Main Road
Bangalore has been famous for its pubs largely because several of them brew their own craft beer so here are the most popular pubs in Bangalore:
-Arbor Brewing Company or ABS located on Brigade Road offers both American and Continental food
-Monkey Bar in Indiranagar is popular for its cocktail combinations and snazzy snacks
-Watson’s with outlets in Ulsoor, JP Nagar and Vasanthnagar is one of the oldest brands
-Toit at 100 Feet Indira Nagar for a delectable range of brews and appetizers
-The Irish House at Whitefield has interesting range of cocktails, martinis, margaritas, mojitos and daiquiris to explore along with community meals for groups.
-Skyee City bar in UB City with alfresco setting and fancy lighting
-District 6 in Malleshwaram with its own brewery serves European and Asian cuisine
Some of the famous Jungle Lodges near Bangalore are:
-Jungle Lodges, Bheemeshwari
-Hill View Resort, Ramnagar
-Morritt Farms
-Our Native Village
-Jaladhama Resort