Bengaluru, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends modern innovation with rich cultural heritage. Known for its thriving IT industry, pleasant climate, and lush green parks, Bengaluru attracts professionals, students, and travelers from all over the world. The city is a melting pot of cultures, offering everything from historic temples and palaces to bustling street markets and trendy cafes. Whether you’re walking down the tree-lined streets of Jayanagar or exploring the startup buzz in Koramangala, Bengaluru offers a unique charm that caters to both tradition and modernity.
1. Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a green sanctuary that breathes life into the city. With centuries-old trees, blooming flowers, and the iconic Glass House at its center, Lalbagh is a peaceful blend of history and nature. Whether you’re admiring rare plants or strolling along its serene paths, Lalbagh offers a moment of calm in the city’s fast pace.
Location : Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560004, India
Timing : Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Entry Fee :
- Adults (above 12 years): ₹25
- Children (below 12 years): Free
- Camera (still photography): ₹60
Free Entry Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
2. Sri Chamarajendra Park
Sri Chamarajendra Park, commonly known as Cubbon Park, is a sprawling 300-acre green oasis nestled in the heart of Bengaluru. Established in 1870, this historic park is a testament to the city’s rich colonial heritage and natural beauty.
Location : Cubbon Park, MG Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560001, India
Timing :
- Open Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Closed: Every Monday and the second Tuesday of each month
Entry Fee : Free
3. Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum (VITM)
The Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum (VITM) is a premier science museum located in the heart of Bengaluru, Karnataka. Established in 1962 in memory of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the museum is a constituent unit of the National Council of Science Museums, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Location : P. B. No. 5216, Kasturba Road, Bengaluru – 560001, India
Timing : 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Ticket counter closes at 5:30 PM)
Entry Fee :
- General Visitors: ₹95
- Organised School Groups: ₹35
- Organised Govt./Municipal School Groups: ₹10
- BPL Category (with valid card): ₹10
4. Art of Living International Center
The Art of Living International Center, also known as the Bangalore Ashram, is the global headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. Established in 1986 by spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the center is nestled atop the scenic Panchagiri Hills, approximately 21 km southwest of Bengaluru, in the Udayapura area along Kanakapura Road.
Location : Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth, 21st Km, Kanakapura Road, Udayapura, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560082, India
Timing : 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Satsang Timings:
- Weekdays & Saturdays: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Sundays: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : Free (For a one-day visit to the Ashram.)
5. Shivoham Shiva Temple
The Shivoham Shiva Temple, also known as the Kempfort Shiva Temple, is a prominent Hindu temple located on Old Airport Road in Bengaluru. Established in 1995, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its towering 65-foot statue of the deity. The temple attracts approximately 500,000 visitors annually, with significant footfall during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.
Location : 97, HAL Old Airport Road, Ramagiri, Murugeshpalya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560017, India
Timing : 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Entry Fee : Free
6. Sri Radha Krishna Temple
ISKCON Bangalore, officially known as the Sri Radha Krishna Temple, is one of the largest and most prominent temples of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) worldwide. Located on Hare Krishna Hill in Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, it serves as a spiritual, cultural, and architectural landmark.
Location : Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru – 560010, Karnataka, India
Timing :
- Morning Darshan: 4:15 AM – 5:00 AM and 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee : Free
7. Bengaluru Palace
Bengaluru Palace, an iconic testament to the city’s royal past, offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Wodeyar dynasty. Situated in the heart of Bengaluru, this 19th-century palace combines Tudor Revival and Scottish Gothic architectural styles, drawing inspiration from England’s Windsor Castle.
Location : Bengaluru Palace, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052, India
Timing : 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
The palace remains closed on Mondays.
Entry Fee :
- Indian Nationals: ₹230
- Foreign Nationals: ₹460
Famous Food In Bengaluru
1. Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath, which means “hot lentil rice” in Kannada, is one of Bengaluru’s most iconic and comforting dishes. Originating from the royal kitchens of Mysore and now a staple in homes and restaurants across the city, it’s a delicious one-pot meal that brings together rice, lentils, vegetables, and a unique spice blend into a rich, flavorful dish.
Ingredients : Cooked rice, toor dal, Tamarind pulp and Spices
2. Ragi Mudde
Ragi Mudde (finger millet balls) is one of the most iconic and nutritious traditional foods from Karnataka, especially cherished in Bengaluru. Rooted in rural households and now embraced in urban kitchens and restaurants, Ragi Mudde is a symbol of simple living and healthy eating.
Ingredients : Ragi flour
3. Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is one of the most beloved sweets in South India, with its roots tracing back to the royal kitchens of the Mysore Palace. Created over a century ago by royal chef Kakasura Madappa, this golden, ghee-rich delicacy quickly became a favorite of kings—and today, it’s a must-try dessert for anyone visiting Bengaluru or Mysuru.
Ingredients : Besan, ghee, sugar and Water
4. Rava Idli
Rava Idli is a popular South Indian breakfast dish loved in Bengaluru and beyond. Unlike traditional idli made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, rava idli uses semolina (rava) as the main ingredient, making it quicker to prepare and delightfully light and fluffy.
Ingredients : Semolina, Yogurt, mustard seeds, curry leaves and Spices
