Places to visit in Bangalore

The top hits of the places to visit in Bangalore are many. But few of the places where you get to enjoy, cherish these moments forever in in your life! These are the must visit places. Some of them are:

1. Wonder La Amusement Park

Wonder La owns 2 amusement parks in Bangalore & Kochin. These parks has been set up with International standards and has been attracted more than 13 million people. Both the parks have secured ISO 14001 (environment friendly) & OHSAS 18001 (Safety & Helathy) certification from BVQI, France. Wonderla parks use Reverse Osmosis treated water in the pool and the temperature of the water maintained @ 28 degree celcius. The rides at the park caters to people of all age and follows the system of pay once and enjoy unlimited rides. This park is situated nearly 20 Kms from the the central part of the city. And most importantly it consists of a resort for the people who wish to stay there for a while.

2. ISKCON Temple

Iskcon Bangalore, a pearl of Iskcon (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) a palace of Sri Sri RadhaKrishna in this world. It is a palace of highest  worship to RadhaKrishna, Krishna Balaram, Nitai Gauranga, Srinivasa Govinda and Prahlada Narsimha. The temple is constantly filled with transcendental kirtans going on regularly in the day. Its a pleasure to be at this place  where one forgets his anxieties of day-to-day life, a place for seeking questions and receving the most authoritative answers of Indian Vedic Knowledge for  the questions of the self and spirit. This temple stands to its name for being the crest  jewel of Iskcon Worldwide founded by its respectable founder and spiritual master " His Divine Grace A C BhaktiVedanta Swami Srila Prabhuapada", India's  foremost modern teacher of Vedic Knowledge.

The temple has a main temple hall of deities of Sri RadhaKrishnachandra, Krishna Balaram and Nitai Gauranga. One passes through the temples of Srinivasa Govinda and Prahlad Narsimha on their way to the main hall. The main hall has four large pictersque of Lord Krishna's pastimes like his lifting of Govardhana hill, playing with this cowherd friends etc..,. The temple also has a Dwaja Sthamba which is the largest pillar in India. It also has a Hari-nama-mantapa ( a lovely place where the congregational chanting of the names of Lord Krishna happens for the purification of the mind and soul and also for World peace).

The temple also has a Multi-Vision-Theatre(MVT) and an Open Air Theatre(OAT). At MVT, a 3-screen theatre, a short movie of Indian wisdom and Heriage runs and also the latest animation movie 'Hey Krishna' which has won International Awards before the release is run. The temple also has a pond called Kalyani used during various festivals.

One can see many dedicated members of this spiritual society always immersed in the melodious chanting of Hare Krishna mantra. These dedicated devotees have a cleanly shaven head with a mast on head reflecting India's Vedic lifestyle. The devotees here refrain from smoking, meat-eating, alcohol,illicit  relationships,gambling etc...,

The temple is always filled with Young Turks of colleges and corporate circles for their enquiry of the soul and heart by attending the programs like "Yoga for Happiness", "Yoga Retreat", "Focus", "Rasa" and "Folk". More than 30,000 shool children attend programs like "Culture Camp", "Krishna camp", "India Heritage" etc..,

One can witness thousands of devotees thronging to the temple on all the days of the year especially on Weekends and Festivals. Sunday Mornings is a fest and feast in this temple. There is a huge kirtan and dance in the temple at 7:00 am, followed by Grand Worship to all the deities and Bhagavad-Gita, Bhagavatam classes in five languages.

The DAILY PROGRAMS of this temple are:

4:15 am Mangala Aarti & Guru Puja
4:45 am  Tulasi Aarti
5:00 am Aarti at Srinivasa Govinda and Narsimha temples
5:15 am to 7:00 am Chanting of Hare Krishna Mahamantra

7:15 am Darsha Aarti in all the temples in sequence
8:00 am Guru Puja
8:15 am Srimad-Bhagavatam Class
12:00am Bhoga -Aarti
1:00 pm Temple Closes for afternoon break

4:30 pm Evening Aarti
6:00 pm Tulasi Puja
6:15 pm Sandhya Aarti
8:00 pm Shayana Arati
8:15 pm Pallaki Utsava
8:30 pm Temple Closes

The most striking feature of this temple is its charitable attitudeThis temple alone feeds more than 8,15,000 poor and hungry children everyday with mid-day meals in Government shools in various parts of the country as on September 2007. This program is called "Akshaya Patra" and is very popular in Karnataka, Puri, Jaipur, Ahmedabad,Vrindavan etc.,. Many Corporates from the IT and related sectors are a part of this program too.

The main festivals of this temple is Krishna Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Vaikunata Ekadashi, Brahmotsava, Rath Yatra.

Contact Address:

ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna-Chandra Temple,
Hare Krishna Hill,
Chord Road,
Bangalore 560010,
Karnataka,
India.

How to go: Ask anyone autowala or city bus, they'll guide you. It's around 5-6 km from central bus station & around 10km from M G Road. 

For more information visit  www.iskconbangalore.org

3. Art of Living International Centre

The Art of Living International Center, founded by H H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is located on Kanakapura Road, Bangalore, India. It is an international centre for Peace, Meditation and Yoga. People from all over the world visit this place to sense the essence of purity of the human soul.

Contact Address:

Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth
21st Km, Kanakapura Road, Udayapura
Bangalore, Karnataka 560 082, India

For more information visit www.artofliving.org

4. Lalbagh

The sprawling 240-acre botanical garden houses some over 1,000 species of plants including some 100-year-old trees. The construction of Lal Bagh was started by Hyder Ali in 1760 and completed by his son Tippu Sultan. Currently the park hosts a deer park, aquarium, a lake and a small rocky hillock on which is sited one of the city’s four Kempe Gowda Towers and also a Glass House.  Another highlight of Lal Bagh is the Rose Garden; this has almost all the species of roses available worldwide. The Lal Bagh Rock, one of the oldest rock formations on earth, dating back to 3000 million years, is another attraction that brings the crowds. Flower shows are conducted every year to educate people about different flora and help cultivate habit of growing plants among the public.

 The Glasshouse inspired by the Crystal Palace in London is the venue of the annual flower show. This was built in the year 1840. The Annual flower, fruit and vegetable shows held here. Lal Bagh also houses the offices of the Karnataka Horticultural Society that renders free advice and conducts weekend courses in horticulture and flower arrangement to those interested in flowers and gardens. A giant Electronic Quartz Flower clock is also in the garden built by HMT.

Contact Address:

Lalbagh, BANGALORE-560004.
Karnataka State, India.
Ph. No. 080-26578184

For more information visit www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/lalbagh.htm

5. Basavanagudi

Basavangudi is one of the few areas in Bangalore that have retained its old-world charm. A residential area with quaint homes, leafy roads, markets and temples, a walk here can take you back in time. Always buzzing with activity, Basavanagudi buzzes even more feverishly before festivals. There are numerous restaurants here, some institutions in themselves. This is a good place to feast on idlis (savory cake), dosas (savory pancakes) and the famous filter kaapi (coffee).

6. The Heritage Centre Aerospace Museum

This is India’s first aerospace museum, it offers a glimpse of India’s aeronautical history. Exhibits include life-size models of aircraft, photographs and a chance to use a flight simulator. Exciting for kids and adults alike.

Contact Address:

Varthur Road  Bangalore, Karnataka
080 2232 0701

For more information visit www.hal-india.com/heritage.asp

7. Malleshwaram

Malleswaram, that bastion of Tamilians in Bangalore, is another locale that is a whole world away from India’s silicon city. Watch maamis in their kanjeevarams haggle in the market, visit a temple or two, eat local food and browse through small shops. The Kaadu Malleswara Temple and Sankey Tank are oases of calm amid the bustle. A new arrival on the scene is the incongruous Mantri Mall, much reviled for being the harbinger of modernization in Malleswaram. 

8. Mahathma Gandhi Road (M.G Road)

Erstwhile South Parade is Bangalore’s shopping and entertainment hub, along with nearby Brigade Road, Church Street and Commercial Street. Old-timers reminisce fondly about the grand avenue this once was. Many old landmarks have been torn down to make way for characterless glass buildings. The metro running over the road proved to be the proverbial nail in the coffin for MG Road’s beauty. Thankfully, some of the vibe still survives. Walk along and enjoy a few gems that survived the massacre. 

9. Bangalore Palace

The Bangalore Palace was the private residence of the royal Wodeyar family. Built to resemble Windsor Castle, this quirky palace is filled with an interesting and eclectic collection of art and paraphernalia from a bygone era. The palace grounds are a popular venue for rock concerts and other music events.

Some paintings of Raja Ravi Verma are also present here. The inner walls of the Bangalore Palace are also festooned with paintings belonging to the mid-19th century. One of the walls of the Durbar Hall has a set of windows that are decorated with stained glass. The main attraction of Bangalore Palace Bangalore is an art gallery that displays several historical photos, including those of Viceroys, Maharajas and other royal personages and exquisite paintings and carvings. At that time it cost about Rs One lakh to construct the palace. It is one of the major tourist attraction in the city.

Contact Address:

Bangalore Palace, Jayamahal Rd, Armane Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

10. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary - Karnataka, India

Near Srirangapattana is the Rangantittu Bird Sanctuary, which is the breeding site for several bird species. It is around 30kms from Mysore. In the Sanctuary, a little boat takes you close to the islands where the trees are covered with birds of different species. Every little island was home to nests of the most exotic birds. The only sounds are the cries of birds and the ripple of water. Ideal for picnicking and bird watching. The sanctuary was declared a bird sanctuary in 1940. The best time to visit is between June to October.

Birds coming from Siberia, Australia and even North America can be spotted here. The Marsh Crocodile is a common inhabitant of the riverine reed beds. Breeding water birds include Asian Openbill Stork, Woolly-necked Stork, Black-headed Ibis, White Ibis, Lesser Whistling Duck, Painted Stork, Indian Shag, Stork-billed Kingfisher and other common birds like egrets, cormorants and Oriental Darter.

Timings: 8 am - 6 pm
Entry Fee: Adult - Rs 10, Child - Rs 5
Boat Ride Fee: Adult - Rs 10, Child - Rs 5

11. St. Mark's Cathedral 

Built in 1926, the cathedral is stately building with a row of Roman arches and an imposing central dome. It is noted for the intricate woodwork in its interior. This is located in the heart of the city off MG Road and easily accessible from any part of the city. The Cathedral is open and service is conducted every Sunday.

Contact Address:
Mahatma Gandhi Road, Bangalore, Karnataka  560001
080 2221 3633

For more information visit www.saintmarks.in/


12. Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park dons many hats, a green lung in the heart of the city that also hosts a library, museums, a tennis academy, an aquarium, a toy train and many statues and pavilions. It’s probably one of the only parks to have a busy road cutting through it. In the wee hours of the morning or evenings, it’s a jogger’s paradise. Spring adds to the beauty of this park, with the lovely and colorful Tabebuia trees in full bloom. 

Contact Address:
Cubbon Park 
Kasturba Road, 
near MG Road, 
Bengaluru – 560001



13. Bannerghatta National Park

Bannerghatta National Park hours are 9am to 5pm.  Avoid the Sunday rush or go to the zoo early around 9.30am. Avoid hours after 3pm -  you probably won't have enough time to see everything you might like to see. Best visited when less crowded. Eat full breakfast before start your trip.  If you're ok with junk food...plenty is available at this site. Carry bottled water.

The cost of the tickets vary depending on the type of visit - A grand safari costs you 210 rupees (including admission to the zoo). If you just want to visit the zoo, the ticket costs less. Also there is concession for children and senior citizens. The combinations include Zoo visit, Tiger+Lion Safar, Grand Safari (most popular) etc. Expats/Non-Indians pay twice the ruppees as would an Indian.

Camera fee is Rs. 25 and Video Camera is Rs. 110 (you may not want to do this). 

There is butterfly conservatory near the zoo (2 mins walking distance).  The cost of the ticket is Rs. 20 in addition to the zoo fees.  

Do the safari tour first, then visit the zoo.  Animals most commonly spotted during the safari are deer, bear, bison (not staged); tigers (staged/caged).  Bus windows have grills (criss/cross wired), for safety reasons, which would obstruct the view for taking photographs and video shooting.  Zoo has a variety animals but is not nearly as classy as one would seen in Australia, United States, Canada, etc.

Tipping guys on the safari bus - not required/neccessary.If you visited Gir National Forest, a trip to this national park could be redundant. If this is your only national park tour, it's worth a visit. 

The nearest airport is none other than the Bangalore International Airport and for reaching Majestic Bus station or any other important place in Bangalore, use the “Vāyu Vajra” AC Volvo bus service. The ticket fare from airport to majestic bus station is Rs: 240 and the bus number is BIAS-9. List of airport bus service to other destinations in Bangalore is available here. Remember, you cannot use the Vajra Daily Pass in Airport services, so buy the one day pass only when you go to BNP. At BNP, there is no difference in entry fee for foreigners or Indians. It is the same, so there is no need for you to pay extra money and buy the ticket ONLY from the ticket counter. No one can sell tickets outside the counter, so if some one approaches you with safari tickets, remember, they are trying to trick you! A tour guide is present in each safari bus, and you should pay them separately, if you use their service extensively. I leave it at your discretion, whether you have to seek their help or not. I suggest a 30 minute Google web and image search about Indian wildlife, before you begin as it may save you a few dollars! At the zoo, there are a few food courts which serves standard junk food! You may decide what to eat and what not to, once you reach there! A pay and use toilet is available at the zoo, but I suggest you to use it only if your nature’s call is so unbearable! (You can ask me whether this point is applicable for everyone. Well; No is my answer. If you are coming from an extremely clean hygienic environment, then even a slight change in hygiene will affect your immunity, so is the case with drinking water!). Summers in India are really hot and hence do bring a magazine along with you, which can be used as a “portable fan”, if your visit falls when the sun is out bright and strong! In the safari bus, if you are the ‘”lone foreigner” then you may get a chance to sit at the front seat along the driver and in that case you will have a fantastic journey. For that to happen, do a simple thing, ask the guide whether you can sit at that spot! They will generally oblige! 

Contact Address:

Bannarghatta National Park

Bangalore -560083

14. Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri

The Neo-Dravidian-style Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the state legislature while the red Attara Kacheri houses the High Court. In 2005, an annex called the Vikas Soudha was inaugurated, designed as an exact replica of the Vidhana Soudha. Though these buildings cannot be visited, they can be viewed from the outside.



15. Bull Temple

Located in Basavanagudi, this temple (built by Kempegowda in the Dravidian style) contains a huge granite monolith of Nandi. The temple grounds also host the annual groundnut fair in November/December. The nearby Dodda Ganesha Temple and Bugle Rock Garden also can be visited.