Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, is the capital of Karnataka state. It is located on the Deccan Plateau in South India. The city is a mixture of traditions and modernity. Various castes inhabiting it celebrate their cultural festivals by linking them with the recent ups and downs in their café culture and pub-hopping. It is often called the ‘Silicon Valley’, the center of IT development in India.
The lush green area around Bangalore is being explored at waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and intersections with Brooks and Rivers. Due to the presence of lush gardens and rustic land, it has gained a reputation for being the ‘Garden City of India’. Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, Bugle Rock Park, and Lumbini Gardens are wonders of this Faridabad.
Bangalore is overflowing with picturesque destinations where you can try the most adrenaline rush activities. Trekking or hiking at places like Ramnagar, Nandi Hills, Savandurga, and Narayangiri are exciting activities undertaken by trek enthusiasts. You can also try camping and fishing here for a rejuvenating experience.
Bangalore is not only a place for nature lovers but also a place for music lovers. Hard Rock is an elite pub in Bangalore due to living performances by famous bands. There are many other recreational venues within the city, including Snow City, which introduce visitors to activities such as ice-skating, gaming arcades and bowling alleys.
Bangalore has two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The wet season starts in June with the monsoon and lasts till September. The rest of the year is mostly dry, but unpredictable rains may occur. Dry days are sunny with temperatures not exceeding 25 – 30 ° C. The best time to visit Bangalore is from November to March.
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Bangalore Palace
An epitome of great architecture and beauty, The Majestic Bangalore Palace carries the spice of the old regal opulence. Currently the central attraction in Bangalore, the palace was built in the year 1878. The British parents of Chamarajendra Wadiyar bought the original property from their fund in 1873 from the Principal of Bangalore Central High School, Rev, J Garrett.
The palace is extraordinarily spacious and is spread over 45,000 square feet. The grand palace results from the mixture of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture that we see today. The beautiful carvings both inside and outside the palace’s wooden structure reflect the royal culture in different ways.
Apart from being a major tourist destination, the palace is a host to various cultural events, rock shows, and weddings. According to beliefs, King Chamarajendra Wadiyar drew inspiration from London’s Windsor Castle to build the palace. Granite seats adorned with fluorescent blue ceramic tiles on the ground floor, a fairy tale ballroom, paintings by famous painter Raja Ravi Varma, bell-covered walls and the Darbar Hall on the first floor make the Bangalore Palace come together.
A visit to the palace gives you a chance to witness the grand and grandeur of one of the most powerful dynasties of South India. An audiotape is available inside the Palace in both Hindi and English languages, which helps people understand language issues, better understand its history.
Cubbon Park
Spread over an area of 300 acres, Bangalore city Cubbon Park is a major scenic spot which is rich in green leaves. It is a green belt area of the city and is an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil environment. Maintained by Lord Cubbon, the park is named in his honor. It is home to over 6,000 trees that support a vibrant ecosystem.
Apart from being a scenic spot, some of the major structures of the city such as Attara Kacheri, Kabban Park Museum, and Seshadri Iyer Memorial Park are also located here. Another famous attraction in Kabban Park is The Bangalore Aquarium, which is the second-largest aquarium in India.
Cubbon Park was originally spread over 100 acres, which was later expanded to 300 acres. First established in 1870 by Mr. John Meade (Acting Commissioner of Mysore), Kabban Park has a long history. Major General Richard Sankey (Chief Engineer of the state) conceived the park in honor of Mr. John Meade. Initially, the park was called “Meads Park” and later came to be known as Cubbon Park. Since the inception of the park, it has been built and improved in many ways.
In the year 1927, the park was officially designated as “Mr. Chamarajendra Park” to mark the silver jubilee of Shri. The rule of Krishnaraja Wodeyar in the Kingdom of Mysore. Currently, Cubbon Park is under the control of the Department of Horticulture. The Deputy Director of Horticulture (Kabban Park) is responsible for the administration and maintenance of the garden.
Lal Bagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India and is also a major tourist attraction of South India. Located in South Bengaluru, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden is not only one of the largest botanical gardens in India but is also the first of its kind, where planned trails, glasshouses, and ornamental flowers grow throughout the property.
The park is spread over an area of 240 acres and was constructed by the famous ruler Hyder Ali. This was finally completed by his son- Tipu Sultan – who designed keeping in view the beautiful gardens of Sira in Tumkur district in Karnataka.
Lalbagh is home to exotic flowers that were imported by the Sultan from countries such as France, Persia, Arabia, Afghanistan, etc. Therefore, never before seen flowers in India were seen in this historic garden. Trees imported by Tipu Sultan from around the world can still be found growing here.
Apart from the exotic trees, visitors can also see some rare birds such as mynah, pond heron, purple moorhen, parrots, Brahmini kites, common ego, and more. Apart from the stunning flora and fauna of Lalbagh Botanic Garden, it has another attractive attraction, which is Lalbagh Rock. This rock, which is said to be more than 3000 years old, is one of the oldest rocks in the world and can be found in the center of the garden.
How it all Started
Lalbagh is not only one of the most well-developed botanical gardens in India with a wealth of exotic flora and fauna, but also a historically significant place. Hyder Ali, who was the ruler of Mysore between 1761–1782, began the construction of the garden. In fact, he was known for the many gardens he founded and the architecture he established during his reign as emperor.
The development of the Lalbagh Botanical Garden was then handled by his son Tipu Sultan, who added to the beauty of the garden by importing his own trees and plants from distant countries. The layout of the garden was based on the vast Mughal gardens spanning the Mughal Empire, particularly one at Sira- an important Mughal outpost in South India and a little away from Bangalore city.
After its completion in the 18th century, Lalbagh also obtained India’s first lawn-clock and was home to the largest collection of exotic plants in the Indian subcontinent. By 1860, Lalbagh also had animals like oranges, peacocks, rhinoceros, deer, and amus.
Flower show
Beholding the biennial flower show at Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a spectacle. People from India and from abroad and even from abroad travel millions of flowers, thousands of plants, and the incredible artistry that goes into making sculptures and floral structures.
The show takes place twice a year – once in the week of January as Indian Republic Day, and the second time during Independence Day in August. Every year, a different theme is chosen and flowers are arranged according to the theme.
Plants and flowers are imported from all over the world and each year more than 2 million flowers are used to create semi-permanent structures in various distinctive shapes and designs. The show takes place inside the striking Glass House which is located in the compound of the Botanical Gardens and runs from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Even though the best time to watch the show is in the morning when you can see all the flowers in full bloom and all their vibrant colors, the night time is a different experience. The entire glasshouse lights up in a golden glow that makes the structures look even more magical and ethereal.
Bannerghatta National Park
Located on the outskirts of Bangalore, and commonly known as BBBP, the Bengaluru Bannerghatta Biological Garden is one of the most popular and frequently visited destinations in the city. Catering for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, it is an integral part of the magnificent Bannerghatta National Park and is spread over a large area.
It was declared an organic reserve in 2002 and is one of the only places in the world from where one can experience the forest so close to the city. In addition to a zoo and jungle safari, Bannerghatta Biological Park also has a butterfly park and a rescue center where captive animals are protected and protected. Bannerghatta Biological Park is also the first biological park in the whole of India, which has a wild elephant sanctuary. Spread over 122 acres, this sanctuary is sponsored by PETA India.
The biological park is also home to a large variety of butterfly species. Here on a safari, you can see a glimpse of various animals including tigers, bears, deer, elephants, and monkeys. Along with places for short trekking and hiking expeditions, the park is also a complete retreat for people, with various safaris.
Due to the presence of many ancient temples on its premises, many people also visit the park. Additionally, the park is also a haven for those who want to get away from the busy city limits and rejuvenate and relax for some time amid the calm of nature. Bannerghatta Biological Park is also a great place for photography, where shutterbugs get a chance to see many amazing places in their camera.
UB City Mall, Bangalore
Located in the CBD (Central Business District) in Bangalore, this luxury mall is in one place for all your high-brand needs. Gathering four towers as a whole, it is spread over a sprawling area of 13 acres. The place takes care of all your specific needs, whether it’s shopping at a high-end shop, ultra-fine dining, or even taking a spa after a long day of work, this place has it all.
The place is home to all luxury beauty, footwear, jewelry, bags, and fashion brands around the world, where Louis Vuitton, Estée Lauder, Rolex, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, and Canali are just to name a few. Various events are also organized on time to make all visitors experience the best of everything. The food choices here are among the best in the world and are a bit on a high budget as well. The most budget-friendly restaurant here is Subway.
Wonderla
The Vandalia Waterpark in Bangalore is beyond doubt, the city’s best waterpark. It is a haven for those seeking to escape everyday worldly boredom and offers a range of rides that will make your adrenaline fearless.
It is famous for its high thrill rides, but there are other comfort booths that attract people of all ages and thus make it a ubiquitous place. It is located on the outskirts of Bangalore, so if you are a temporary traveler, it can be difficult to reach that place but not impossible.
In fact, connectivity in Bangalore has made it easy to reach. The water park/amusement park features more than 60 long rides for adults over the age of five for children over 70 years old.
One of its recently built rides, the oping reverse looping roller coaster ‘- a roller coaster that can be ridden in both directions, once straight and then reverse, has left adrenaline addicts thrilled.
The Wave Pool is built with high-tech equipment that gives you the feeling of standing in the middle of the ocean with the smooth waves around you, A rain disco is an always rainy discotheque with hit songs playing in the background so that you too can dance and what not! The best time to visit Wonderla Waterpark is from March to June. It is the summer season in Bangalore, and many people resort to Wonderla to escape the scorching heat of the sun. However, it is peak season, so the park is highly crowded, and fares may be higher. You can travel even after the monsoon subsides in September.
Ramanagaram
If you remember the classic Sholay scenes, you will be amazed to see the rocky mountains of this city, which is located about 50 km from the city of Bangalore and Sholay was originally shot here.
From silk farming to Mysore-Pak, the huge Hanuman statue entrance at the Ramdevara Betta vulture sanctuary; Ramanagar is one of the places to visit in Bangalore to enjoy a plethora of activities like camping and trekking, and there is also an abundance of sightseeing options.
The iconic rock elevation where the dacoit Gabbar was filmed in the cult classic Sholay can be visited during the day, where you walk and climb to some height of about 400 stairs to the top where you will also find a temple. These rocks belong to Ramdevara Betta Hill which is a part of Ramdevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary.
Ramanagar Wine Yard
Spend an hour of your vacation amidst the sweet-smelling vineyard and join a very fun and enjoyable tour in this tourist destination of Bangalore. The Ramnagara wine tour is divided into three parts, which begin with a detailed discussion of how the concept of the wine came to be, and more about this drink and one of the best places to see in Bangalore.
Take a satisfying walk in the yard, and watch the people transform the fruit into the best flavor until it’s ready for fermentation and bottling. This is the best way to learn about this favorite drink from beginning to end. The people organizing this tour will not want you to leave without taking five samples of their best wines from both France and India.
Bangalore Aquarium
Bangalore Aquarium is one of the sightseeing places in Bangalore, located in Kabban Park and is the largest aquarium in Bangalore, with exotic fish such as Siamese, Goldfish, Fighters, Freshwater Prawns, Red Tail Shark, Catla, Moon Tail, There is a huge collection. Angelfish, Pearl Gourami, Hockey Stick Tetra, etc.
The diamond-shaped building is filled with much aquatic flora and fauna, divided into three floors, with the first floor having about 14 tanks in total and the second with 69. Those with a love for aquatic life should visit this huge aquarium which can be easily seen in Kabban Park.
Iskcon Temple Bangalore
Located in Rajaji Nagar in Bangalore, and an undertaking of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness, ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is the temple of Lord Krishna. This magnificent architecture was first built by Shri Madhu Pandit Das and was inaugurated in the year 1997 by the then President of India, Shankar Dayal Sharma. It has many prayer halls dedicated to Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Krishna Balarama, Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Srinivasa Govinda, and Sri Prahlad Narasimha.
Apart from being a temple to Prabhu, ISKCON Bangalore is also a cultural center of many dimensions. It has its own lecture hall, which gives daily lectures delivered by devotees on Srimad Bhagavatam. It also has an amphitheater, in which many events are organized, such as cultural festivals, dance and music programs, educational conferences, etc.
ISKCON Temple in Bangalore also hosts many festivals throughout the year, inviting pilgrims and devotees in all seasons. Ram Navami, Akshaya Tritiya, Sri Krishna Balaram Rath Yatra are just a few of them. Located atop a hill that is away from any source of groundwater drinking, the temple provides drinking water to its visitors, who transport it all the way from the groundwater area. It is well protected by well-trained security personnel, who supervises the area at all times.
The temple also has its own gift shop, known as Matchless Gifts, which sells fragrant incense and other devotional products. These items are manufactured from natural products, and any profits received are donated to charitable organizations.
How it all Started
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness was started in 1976 for Krishna devotees. ISKCON Temple in Bangalore was first established in 1998 under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act, 1960. The goals of this society are derived from the seven objectives of ISKCON, as stated by Srila Prabhupada. Initially, the temple operated from a rented house in Bangalore. It was around the year 1987 when the temple was moved to Maidan, on the Hare Temple Road, which was then an empty “Kharab Bhoomi” (wasteland).
To make this land a grand temple, Mr. Madhu Pandit Das, a qualified engineer who was the president of ISKCON Bangalore at the time, envisioned a beautiful temple of magnificent architecture, which he then built with Mr. Jagat Chandra Das, the architect. Myself. Construction of the temple began in 1990, and around 600 skilled artisans were employed for this work. Construction finally ended in the year 1997. In the same year, the temple was inaugurated by the ninth President of India- Shankar Dayal Sharma.
Turahalli forest
This dry deciduous forest is filled with wild shrubs and hikes along with many eucalyptus trees, making it an ideal getaway for a day’s picnic plans from Bangalore. Activities like biking, cycling, trekking can be best enjoyed in the untouched areas of the forest of Turahalli. It is one of the closest places to visit Bangalore which is considered a quick hideaway from the city crowd. This jungle is just an hour away from Bangalore and is located on the Vajarahalli Road Hosahalli on the Bangalore-Kanakpura road.
The place is calm, scenic and surrounded by nature with a variety of bird species that can particularly excite a bird watcher. The best way to enjoy the forest of Turahalli is to take your vehicle to the entrance and park there. Get out for a walk in the forest and join in the rejuvenation of the forest. The best time to visit, the day after replenishing the monsoon season, is green and beautiful.
Hebbal Lake
Spread over an area of 150 acres, the magnificent Hebbal Lake is one of the attractive tourist attractions in Bangalore. Today when you visit this place, you will not believe that once it was a garbage dump. The renovation work done on this lake speaks a volume and a large number of visitors who come here make it clear. This lake is a simple place to take on your rejuvenation which invests in natural beauty in abundance for some time. Most of the people hit this place to see the herd of exotic bird species around this lake and enhance its beauty.
You can get a glimpse of birds like violet moorhens, Brahminy kites, darters, cormorants, gray herons, pond herons, and more. Apart from this, you will find a grand garden near the lake which is an ideal picnic spot for many people. Nestled on the banks of Bellary Road, it is a seasonal lake. The lake dries up during summer, but surprisingly it recovers its beauty in the monsoon. Vivid flowers, juicy plants, and lots of trees are dotted around and painting a real picture all around.
A trip to this lake is an excellent decision for those looking for a quiet retreat from the bustling metropolitan city. Thus, Hebbal Lake is an eye treat for every visitor due to its delightful landscape, lots of birds, and icy greenery. No doubt, visitors get to click lots of pictures to admire and to post on their social media handles.
Dubare Elephant Camp
Dubare Elephant Camp is a Jungle Lodge and Resorts Limited (JLR) project located on the banks of the river Kaveri. It is located in Kodagu or Coorg district in Karnataka, itself a major Coorg attraction. Every year tourists in this camp find solitude in search of various elephant species. These elephants are, in fact, trained by naturalists or great men — the person in charge of taking care of tuskers and other elephants. In fact, these naturalists are well aware of the history and biology of elephants. Visitors around the world get more information about life, eating habits, rules, and regulations, etc. of these elephants.
In addition, the Dubare Elephant Camp is full of flora and fauna, such as tigers, deer, and gaurs. And that’s why this project is heavily monitored and is under the control of JLR. New methods have also been introduced by these officers for the betterment of camp life led by these animals. Some of these methods are tourist interaction with the elephant, giving them the opportunity to bathe and then feed them. Also, it is another pleasure to visit the entire forest area in a jungle safari. Many activities such as trekking and camping are regularly hosted around the Dubre Elephant Camp by highly trained professionals.
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