Bengaluru, India's Silicon Valley, houses tradition and innovation in a crazy harmony and has a spot for every type of traveller. From microbrews to microchips and yoga classes to nocturnal escapades, this buzzing metropolis layers history, spirituality, and oh-so-awesome modernity. The heartbeat of innovation resounds through ultramodern skyscrapers, as historic gardens offer pockets for meditation amidst the frenzy.

The beauty of Tabebuia and Jacaranda, mingling with the scent of fresh filter coffee, will have you craving to know more about Bangalore City. So, get ready to brew some memories as we provide you with a personalised travel guide to help you navigate through Bangalore.

The Iconic Vidhana Soudha of Bangalore

Best Time to Visit Bangalore

The fantastic weather in Bangalore makes it a favourite spot among travellers. However, the winter months from October to February prove ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During this period, temperatures typically range from a moderate 27°C down to a cool 16°C as winter settles in. The city can be enjoyed equally in summers and monsoon as the temperatures don't soar extremely. An all-season place, visitors can enjoy Bangalore's gardens, architectural wonders, delectable cuisine, and lively culture in comfort all year round.

Places to Visit in Bangalore

To help you plan your itinerary, we've curated a list of the best places to visit in Bangalore:

Cubbon Park: A green belt region of Bangalore city and home to more than 6000 trees, Cubbon Park is more than a nature's paradise. The Cubbon Park Museum, Attara Kacheri, and Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park are also situated here.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. (Closed on Mondays and second Tuesdays.)

Bangalore Palace: The palace's intricately carved interiors and exterior showcase a unique confluence of cultures and artistic flair. Fun World, an amusement park for kids and adults alike, operates on the palace grounds.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. (Closed on Mondays.)

Entry Fee: ₹230 for Indians and ₹460 for foreigners.

The stunning facade of the Bangalore Palace

Kote Venkataramana Temple: This centuries-old temple exemplifies Dravidian architecture featuring intricate carvings and artworks. Built in 1689, this temple was constructed by the then-Mysore ruler Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 06:00 PM to 08:30 PM.

HAL Heritage Centre & Aerospace Museum: India's first aerospace museum hosts a collection of aircraft models, fighter planes and helicopters, along with aircraft simulators, a mock air traffic control tower, and an aeromodelling club.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for students.

St. Mark's Cathedral: Named after St. Mark, who is believed to be the first gospel writer, this church boasts of having one of the best-maintained external bells in India.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Ulsoor Lake: This vast, picturesque oasis provides a little nature escape and offers walking trails, boating adventures, and excellent bird watching opportunity within the city.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden: This garden is home to one of India's distinct collections of tropical and subtropical plant species. The expansive central lake provides a scenic backdrop, while the glasshouse conservatory adds striking architectural detail. It's just a 20-minute drive from Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala).

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults

The serene and green environs of the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Bull Temple: Known locally as 'Dodda Basavana Gudi', the Temple houses the world's largest Nandi idol and is one of the city's oldest shrines.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Things to Do in Bangalore

You'll never run out of things to do in Bangalore, so here are some recommendations to help you have a wholesome Bangalorean experience:

Explore the nature hotspots: Discover Bangalore's serene lakes and parks that offer a perfect escape from urban hustle.

• Madiwala Lake has peaceful picnic spots and abundant birdlife, providing an oasis of tranquillity amid scenic natural beauty.

• Nestled in HSR Layout, Agara Lake offers a retreat complete with walking paths and lively wildlife sightings. What's more, this spot is just a 10-minute drive from Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala).

• Lumbini Gardens, overlooking Nagawara Lake, beckons daily visitors with idyllic views, enchanting walking trails, boating adventures, and charming fountains.

• Bugle Rock Park in Basavanagudi stands as a vibrant green haven, featuring lush flora, waterfalls, three temples, a jogging track, and an open gym.

Hit the Markets: Embark on a shopping spree across these vibrant markets in Bangalore:

• Brigade Road-MG Road Market - You can find thrift stores, tiny jewellery shops, and a range of street stores here, including the Dubai Plaza.

• Chickpet Market - From fancy ethnic wear and fashion accessories to party supplies and groceries, you'll find it all here.

• Commercial Street - A street shopper's paradise, Commercial Street is among the busiest and oldest shopping spots.

• Krishnarajendra Market - This bustling flower market in Chickpet is best visited during the early morning hours.

Views from the busy Brigade Road of Bangalore

Hikes and Treks near Bangalore: Apart from startups and heritage sites, Bangalore has a wild side for the ones wanting to add pages of thrills to their trip. A trek at these places will be sure to give you an adrenaline rush.

• Antaragange Caves- 70 km from Bangalore

• Skandagiri Hills- 60 km from Bangalore

• Nandi Hills- 60 km from Bangalore

One Day Trips from Bangalore

If you think you've covered all the Bangalore tourist places and want to wander a bit more, you can always plan a one day trip from Bangalore to any of these places or maybe even all.

Hogenakkal Falls: Nestled on the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Hogenakkal Waterfalls captivate with a picturesque blend of rocks, water, and mist. Ideal for a day trip from Bangalore, reaching Hogenakkal offers two routes: a shorter 130 km journey via Electronic City, Attibele, and Denkanikottai with fewer tolls and a popular 150 km route through Hosur, Krishnagiri, and Dharmapuri on a wider national highway.

Shivasamudram Falls: Situated in Chamarajanagar district, bordering Mandya, Shivanasamudra is a renowned waterfall on the Kaveri River, captivating visitors post-monsoon with its visual spectacle. Open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, it comprises two falls – Gagana Chukki and Bara Chukki. A 133 km scenic drive from Bengaluru makes it easily accessible.

The mighty Gaganachukki Falls | Picture by Anmol Ramanujam on Unsplash

Kanakpura: Ideal for a serene weekend escape, Kanakapura has a lot of hills, making it perfect for trekking enthusiasts and offering an adventurous twist to your journey. An enticing feature is the option for guided night treks, providing a unique and memorable experience for travellers.

Dodda Aladda Mara: Dodda Alada Mara, or The Big Banyan Tree, stands 28 km from Bangalore city on the road to Mysuru. Ideal for nature lovers, it offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for impromptu trips and cycling adventures. Enthusiastic bikers can explore the vicinity and even cycle to Manchanabele Dam, located around 10 km away.

Channapatna: Located at a distance of 60 km from Bangalore, Channapatna, the renowned "Town of Toys," has been crafting exquisite wooden toys and handicrafts for centuries. Recognised by the World Trade Organization as a Geographical Indication, this quaint Kannada town brings the enchanting world of Toy Story to life.

Best Eateries in Bangalore

All the city exploration will surely have you craving some authentic gastronomical delights, and here are some of our personal favourites.

Shivaji Military Hotel: A paradise for die-hard non-vegetarians, this place is renowned for its authentic donne biryani and endless servings of spicy keema, ghee-laden dosas, and succulent chicken and mutton dishes.

Cost: ₹450 for two.

Vidyarthi Bhavan: A legendary Bangalore eatery that has been serving stellar dosas and coffee since 1943. This local hotspot boasts pocket-friendly South Indian vegetarian fare and is a must-visit food heritage landmark.

Cost: ₹100 for two.

The Only Place: The Only Place steakhouse stands as one of the longest-running American-style diners in Bangalore and has achieved legendary status for its mouthwatering meat cuts and grilled steaks.

Cost: ₹1400 for two.

Shri Sagar: Formerly called Central Tiffin Room (CTR), this place has been serving up Bangalore's best buttery Benne Masala Dosa, in the heart of Malleswaram at wallet-friendly rates.

Cost: ₹150 for two.

Rameshwaram Cafe: This cafe is famed for mouthwatering podi idlis and masala dosas, and its name honours the birthplace of the late President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

Cost: ₹200 for two.

A steaming plate of Dosa with coconut and tomato chutney at Rameshwaram Cafe | Picture by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

Corner house: This vintage ice cream parlour's nostalgic charm and crave-able chocolate sauce have won legions of loyal patrons, including famous celebrities. Located at a distance of 2.3 km from Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala), this place will surely satisfy your sweet and icy cravings.

Cost: ₹300 for two.

Koshy's: A legendary Bangalore breakfast spot, Koshy's has served up everything from omelettes to their famed coffee for legendary figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Pandit Nehru.

Cost: ₹900 for two.

Indian Coffee House: A go-to for locals and visitors craving fresh coffee & tasty bites, Indian Coffee House marries quality ingredients with stellar service.

Cost: ₹200 for two.

Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR): Integral to Bangalore's culinary scene, MTR draws daily crowds for its legendary crispy dosas and an unhurried enjoyment of each dish in the 15 to 16-item 'Unlimited Lunch Thali'.

Cost: ₹300 for two.

Truffles: While the Truffles' ever-popular burgers stand out as all-time favourites, the diverse menu has something for all tastes, from refreshing sips to craveable comfort food.

Cost: ₹1100 for two.

Night Scene of Bangalore

Bangalore is known for its zesty nightlife, no matter if it's the middle of the week or the weekend. Topped with music, booze, and a happening vibe, these classic bars of Bangalore will treat you to the authentic nightlife of the city:

• Pecos
• Toit
• Watson's
• Bob's Bar
• Arbor Brewing Company (ABC)

A bit about Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala)

Your search for places to stay in Bangalore ends here. Meet Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala), our bright and buzzing hostel right in the thriving hub of Namma Bengaluru. Encapsulating the pulsating vibe of the city in its pastel-toned and bright interiors, make your way to this hip spot for a fun & social getaway. With a common room on each floor, a special rooftop seating area, an in-house cafe, dedicated workspaces, and buzzing dorms for your stay, Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala) is here to make your Bangalore experience even more fun!

Check out Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala).

Facade, colourful seating area, and buzzing dorms at Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala) | Pictures by @thehimalayanfilmco

Cafe area, rooftop seating area, and common room at Zostel Bangalore (Koramangala) | Picture by @thehimalayanfilmco

And that's all about Bangalore city, folks! Cheap thrills and a million chills, this city has got it all. Pack your bags and come soak it all in.