Nicknamed the “Silicon Valley of India,” Bangalore (now Bengaluru) is a city that beautifully blends the old with the new. 🤩
Yes, it’s India’s tech capital, buzzing with innovation, startups, and a youthful energy-but there’s so much more to this vibrant metropolis than just software parks and IT hubs. Step beyond the glassy office buildings and you’ll discover lush green gardens, centuries-old temples, lively street markets, trendy cafes, historic palaces, and a food culture that can rival any major city in the country.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed family vacation, an offbeat solo trip, a romantic escape, or even a quick weekend getaway with friends, Bangalore has something for everyone.
Want to wake up early and catch the sunrise from Nandi Hills? Or sip craft beer at a rooftop brewery while watching the sunset? Prefer walking through art galleries or temple courtyards? Or maybe shopping for budget fashion while munching on street food? Bangalore offers it all-and then some.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the top things to do in Bangalore, the must-try local foods that define the city’s flavour, how to get there by flight, train or bus, and where to stay if you’re looking for a touch of luxury. So, get ready to plan your ultimate Bangalore itinerary-you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
🏙️ Top Things to Do in Bangalore
1. Explore Lalbagh Botanical Garden 🏡
A green paradise spread over 240 acres, Lalbagh is a must-visit for nature lovers. Home to over 1,000 species of plants, centuries-old trees, and a majestic glasshouse inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, it’s a perfect spot for morning walks, family picnics, or photography.
What to do:
- Attend the famous biannual flower show (January & August).
- Explore the rock formation said to be 3,000 million years old.
- Enjoy serene lake views at sunset.
2. Discover Bangalore Palace
Inspired by England’s Windsor Castle, the Bangalore Palace showcases the grandeur of the Wodeyar dynasty. With Tudor-style architecture, lavish interiors, and sprawling gardens, the palace is a visual treat.
What to do:
- Take an audio-guided palace tour.
- Attend concerts or exhibitions, often hosted on the palace grounds.
- Explore the vintage furniture, stained glass, and royal artefacts.
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3. Stroll Through Cubbon Park 🏞️
Located in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. Spread across 300 acres, it’s perfect for a morning jog, a weekend stroll, or even a reading session under century-old trees.
What to do:
- Visit the State Central Library within the park.
- Spot exotic plants, birds, and colonial-era buildings.
- Rent a cycle and explore at your own pace.
4. Shop and Eat at Commercial Street 🛍️
Love street shopping? Commercial Street is your paradise. From budget fashion and jewellery to souvenirs and street food, it’s one of the oldest and busiest shopping streets in Bangalore.
What to do:
- Bargain your way through clothing, accessories, and home decor shops.
- Snack on pani puri, dosas, and momos while shopping.
- Explore nearby Brigade Road and Church Street for more shopping and cafes.
5. Take a Cultural Dive at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath 🖼️
Art lovers, rejoice! This art complex houses traditional Mysore-style paintings, leather puppets, and contemporary Indian art.
What to do:
- Visit the permanent galleries and changing exhibitions.
- Buy affordable artwork from local artists.
- Attend weekend art markets and workshops.
6. Go Brewery Hopping in Indiranagar & Koramangala 🥳
Bangalore is India’s pub capital, and the microbrewery scene here is unmatched. Whether you like stouts, IPAs, or ciders, there’s something for every beer lover.
Top breweries to visit:
- Toit (Indiranagar)
- Arbour Brewing Company (MG Road)
- Byg Brewski (Sarjapur & Hennur)
- Windmills Craftworks (Whitefield)
Pro tip: Many breweries also offer live music and rooftop views.
7. Experience the ISKCON Temple 🛕
One of the largest ISKCON temples in the world, this spiritual centre is dedicated to Lord Krishna and offers a blend of peace and grand architecture.
What to do:
- Attend aarti and spiritual discourses.
- Relish prasadam at the Govinda’s restaurant.
- Shop for books, souvenirs, and spiritual music.
8. Visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium 🖼️
Top weekend getaways from Bengaluru
For science enthusiasts and families with kids, this planetarium offers fascinating sky shows and astronomy exhibitions.
What to do:
- Watch the “Sky Theatre” shows in English and Kannada.
- Explore the Science Park for interactive displays.
9. Drive to Nandi Hills at Sunrise 🌅
A 60 km drive from Bangalore, Nandi Hills offers a magical sunrise experience above the clouds. The misty mountains and lush trails make it a great day trip.
What to do:
- Trek to Tipu’s Drop and Nandi Fort.
- Have breakfast at the hilltop cafe.
- Don’t forget to carry a jacket – it gets chilly in the morning!
🍽️ Top Local Foods to Try in Bangalore ☕
- Benne Dose (Butter Dosa) at CTR Malleshwaram: Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and slathered in butter-this dosa is legendary.
- Filter Coffee at Brahmin’s Coffee Bar: No Bangalore trip is complete without sipping strong South Indian filter coffee.
- Mangalorean Seafood at Kudla or Mangalore Pearl: Try neer dosa with fish curry or kori rotti for authentic coastal flavours.
- Street Chaat at VV Puram Food Street: From spicy masala puris to the famous “Chow Chow Bath,” this place is a foodie heaven.
- Ragi Mudde and Bisi Bele Bath: Traditional Kannadiga meals you shouldn’t miss!
How to Reach Bangalore:
By Flight ✈️
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is one of India’s busiest and most well-connected airports. Flights from all major Indian cities and global hubs land here daily.
- Distance from city centre: ~40 km
- Travel time to city: 1-1.5 hours via cab or airport shuttle
Major Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air, Emirates, Singapore Airlines
By Train 🚂
Bangalore has multiple railway stations:
- Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (Majestic) – Main station
- Yesvantpur Junction – Serves north Bangalore.
- Bangalore Cantt. – Closer to MG Road and central areas
Frequent trains run from Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata.
By Bus 🚍
Bangalore is well-connected by KSRTC and private buses. The Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) is the main hub.
- Volvo, AC Sleeper, and non-AC buses run from nearby states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- Book tickets via apps or directly from the bus operator counters.
🏨 Top Luxury Hotels in Bangalore
If you’re looking for a plush stay, Bangalore won’t disappoint. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in the city:
1. The Leela Palace, Old Airport Road
- A regal experience with palace-like architecture, sprawling gardens, and five-star dining.
- Highlights: Award-winning spa, infinity pool, and proximity to Indiranagar.
2. Taj West End, Race Course Road
- Set in a 20-acre botanical garden, this heritage hotel blends colonial charm with modern luxury.
- Highlights: Alfresco dining, historic bungalows, and curated heritage walks.
3. ITC Gardenia, Residency Road
- One of the most eco-friendly luxury hotels in India, known for its opulence and hospitality.
- Highlights: Sky lounge, spa, multiple fine-dining restaurants.
4. JW Marriott, Vittal Mallya Road
- Located right beside Cubbon Park and UB City, it’s ideal for luxury shopping and sightseeing.
- Highlights: Spacious rooms, rooftop dining, and city views.
5. Four Seasons Hotel, Embassy ONE
- Modern luxury, perfect for business and leisure travellers alike.
- Highlights: Infinity pool, rooftop lounge, and curated city experiences.
📌 Conclusion: Start Your Bangalore Adventure Now!
Bangalore is more than just IT parks and traffic-it’s a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, green spaces and gourmet cafes, vibrant nightlife and serene temples. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, this city will surprise and delight you at every corner.
So, what are you waiting for?
✈️ Book your flight, train, or bus tickets now and start exploring Bangalore with Paytm Travel.
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Let the adventure begin. 💙
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