10 Fun Things To Do When You Are In Bangalore

Experience the vibrant charm of Bangalore with its breezy pubs, delicious craft brews, bustling markets, and stunning historical monuments. Whether you're new to the city or looking to rediscover it, we've curated a list of the best local-approved experiences for you to add to your itinerary.

Known as the garden city or IT hub, Bangalore is famous for its pleasant weather and mouthwatering ghee-laden dosas. However, there's so much more to explore. In a single hour, you can indulge in vintage ice cream at a quaint shop and immerse yourself in Keats' poetry at a charming bookstore. The city also offers bustling shopping destinations, historical monuments, modern art houses, and breathtaking weekend getaway spots, making it a truly diverse destination. Few cities can match the range of experiences Bangalore has to offer. Check out our itinerary for this popular metropolitan gem in South India.

# Grab a steaming-hot South Indian breakfast at Vidyarthi Bhavan

Start your mornings in Bangalore with steaming hot South Indian breakfast delicacies. One iconic place to indulge in this tradition is Vidyarthi Bhavan, a renowned establishment that has been serving customers for over 80 years. The star of their menu is the fluffy, golden dosa, available with potato or sagu filling. Adding to the charm of the place is the sight of the service staff skillfully balancing towers of dosa plates as they navigate the bustling room. Other popular options include medu vada, kesari bath, poori sagu, and rava vada. Make sure not to miss their signature filter coffee, as coffee is synonymous with the culinary culture of the city. To fully enjoy your experience, arrive early to beat the crowd and savor every bite and sip.

# Take a walk through Cubbon Park

Immerse yourself in Bangalore's delightful year-round pleasant weather at a renowned destination that resembles a forest in the heart of the city. Spanning approximately 300 acres, Cubbon Park, also known as Sri Chamarajendra Park, boasts a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. On weekdays, the park attracts joggers and dog walkers, while weekends are perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, art events, yoga sessions, and book clubs.

If you're new to the city, you can easily sign up for these clubs and groups online. However, if you're just visiting, make sure to explore the bamboo plantations, visit the State Central Library and the State Archaeological Museum (one of India's oldest), and admire the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall and the Karnataka High Court. The best time to visit is in spring when the enchanting cherry blossoms, also known as pink poui, are in full bloom. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this place.

# Dig into Death By Chocolate at Corner House

One place that every person who has studied in the city can vouch for is Corner House, a must-visit destination for many. Frequented by both young and old visitors, this ice cream parlour has been a bustling spot since its establishment in the 1980s. Despite its popularity, Corner House has managed to maintain consistent quality over the years, a testament to their unwavering production standards. What sets them apart, apart from their affordable prices, is their commitment to delivering a delightful experience with every bite.

The star of their menu is the Death By Chocolate, a mouthwatering sundae featuring layers of chocolate sauce, creamy vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate brownies, nuts, and cherries. Additionally, their salted caramel ice cream, peach melba, and litchis and cream are also favorites among visitors. The best part is that all these delectable treats are available at affordable prices, making it even more enticing for ice cream enthusiasts.

# Shop for books at Blossom’s or The Bookworm

Bangalore boasts a vibrant community of literature enthusiasts, and one of their go-to destinations is Blossom's Book House on Church Street, which conveniently has two branches located just a few steps away from each other. The original branch is nestled in a cozy corner, adorned with spacious wooden shelves filled with an extensive collection of second-hand books spanning various authors and genres. Whether you're into crime, horror, romance, or fantasy, you're bound to find something that captivates you, and the best part is that the prices are affordable. The other branch is larger and newer, offering a fresh selection of titles that you may not have come across at its counterpart.

Another popular spot for book lovers is The Bookworm, known for its expansive layout that provides ample space for browsing, taking a moment to sit down, and delving into the chapters of different books. The owner's warm hospitality has garnered a dedicated following, making it a beloved destination among literary enthusiasts in the city.

# Spend an evening appreciating art at the National Gallery Of Modern Art

For art and history enthusiasts, here's a must-visit destination in the city: the National Gallery Of Modern Art (NGMA). This captivating venue, surrounded by lush greenery, houses a diverse collection of art from both international and local artists. Renowned names such as Amrita Shergill and Rabindranath Tagore have their works showcased as permanent exhibits. In addition, the gallery frequently features dedicated installations that delve into physical and metaphysical themes. Visitors can partake in guided walks, workshops, film screenings, dance performances, and seminars, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

Many people spend several hours exploring the property, immersing themselves in the art and history on display. Afterward, they can enjoy a meal at the café and browse through the in-house store to purchase souvenirs, completing their visit to the NGMA.

# Have a date with history at the Bangalore Palace

Speaking of historical remnants and art, we cannot overlook mentioning the iconic tourist attraction nestled in the heart of the city: Bangalore Palace. This magnificent palace is adorned with breathtaking 19th and 20th-century artwork, with a particular highlight being the exceptional creations of Raja Ravi Varma, widely regarded as one of the greatest artists in Indian history. Additionally, the palace showcases captivating photographs that chronicle the lives of the members of the Wadiyar Dynasty, who were the former rulers of Mysore.

The architecture of Bangalore Palace features stunning arches, elegant wooden interiors, and charming turreted papapets. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a verdant courtyard that frequently serves as a venue for various cultural events. To enhance your visit, audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing insightful information about the palace and its rich history.

# Drive up to Nandi Hills

The weekend long-drive tradition to this particular destination in the city is a rite of passage for nearly every local. Nestled at an elevation of 4,851 feet, Nandi Hills welcomes visitors with its enchanting fog and mist in the early morning, just before sunrise. As the day progresses, the hills transform, displaying a mesmerizing palette of red and gold during sunset.

A typical excursion to Nandi Hills involves driving up to admire the breathtaking views, savoring a cup of coffee, and then returning to the city. However, many opt to extend their stay and enjoy the surrounding area by booking a stay at one of the numerous resorts that dot the picturesque region. Some adventurous souls venture to the nearby Grover Zampa vineyards for a delightful day of wine tours and leisurely sips.

If you have the opportunity to spend some time in the city, adding Nandi Hills to your bucket list is highly recommended. Its captivating beauty and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.

# Come face-to-face with wildlife at the Bannerghatta Biological Park

If you're seeking adventure or traveling with children, there's another popular tourist attraction in the city that you must visit. This project has a noble aim to preserve the diverse flora and fauna of India. Situated at the northernmost terminal point of the Mysore Elephant Reserve, this spot serves as a sanctuary for over 2,300 animals belonging to around 102 species. The animals receive veterinary care and protection in this area.

Here, you'll encounter an incredible array of wildlife, including lions, tigers, jungle cats, baboons, Asian elephants, Himalayan black bears, giraffes, and zebras. The conservation efforts highlight the importance of natural habitats in the survival of these species. The location offers outreach programs, guided tours, and safaris to provide visitors with an immersive experience and raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

Make sure not to miss out on this opportunity to witness and appreciate the beauty of these protected animals and their habitats. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or traveling with children, this destination offers a memorable experience that emphasizes the significance of preserving our natural world.

# Shop at Commercial Street

To satisfy the shopping cravings of enthusiasts, Bangalore boasts its very own street market, one of the oldest and most bustling shopping districts in the city. This vibrant marketplace features narrow lanes brimming with quirky souvenirs, exquisite jewelry, hidden denim boutiques, and much more. Additionally, you'll find several skilled tailors scattered throughout the area, adept at bringing your Pinterest-inspired outfits to life.

Each bylane within the market is dedicated to a specific category, ranging from electronics and stationery to tattoo parlors and piercing studios. The street-food vendors are also a big hit, offering delectable treats such as sweet potato chaat, refreshing coconut water, mouthwatering bondas, and many other tempting options.

Navigating through this lively street market can be a bit challenging, so it's advisable to keep a map handy to avoid getting lost in the maze of lanes. Prepare yourself for an exciting shopping experience filled with unique finds, delicious street food, and an array of specialized services.

# Go bar hopping in Indiranagar

While it may not be the most conventional addition to travel itineraries, if you enjoy unwinding and embracing the nightlife, we highly recommend experiencing the local bar scene in one of the liveliest parts of the city. Among the many options available, one that stands out as an iconic and bustling spot, especially on weekends, is Bob's Bar. True to its name, inspired by the Bengaluru slang for "bro" or "dude," this establishment offers a delectable selection of South Indian finger foods such as Mangalorean pork chilli bafat, Madikeri raw banana cutlet, Mutton keema with egg paratha, and even unique treats like filter coffee cheesecake.

For a different vibe, you can visit Toit, a brew pub that boasts an eclectic and mouthwatering lineup of craft beers accompanied by comforting pizzas. If you're in the mood for a more old-school experience, Pecos, a vintage rock bar, or Watson's, with its laid-back atmosphere, are excellent choices. However, if you're seeking a trendy spot, the rooftop bar at Daddy's has been gaining popularity among the locals.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local nightlife by visiting these bars, where you can indulge in delicious food, sip on refreshing drinks, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere. It's a great way to experience the city's vibrant social scene and create lasting memories.