Bangalore, now called Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka in south India. The city has earned several names such as Silicon Valley of India, Pub Capital of India, Air Conditioned City, and City of Gardens. Prior to the IT revolution, Bangalore was known as Pensioners’ Paradise. Now, it’s a wonderful blend of past and present. Although Bangalore may not have as many iconic attractions as other major cities in India, it does have a great mix of history, architecture, culture, spirituality and nature. Here are the top tourist places to visit in Bangalore.
1. Bangalore Palace
Built in 1887 by Chamaraja Wodeyar, Bangalore Palace is inspired by England’s Windsor Castle. This evocative palace has Tudor-style architecture, with fortified towers, arches, green lawns, and elegant woodcarvings in its interiors. The royal family still lives there. On display is all kinds of memorabilia, family photos, and portraits. The palace is open from 10 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. The entry fee is 230 rupees for Indians and 460 rupees for foreigners. There’s a 675 rupee camera fee as well, if you want to take photos.
2. National Gallery of Modern Art
If you’re an art lover, don’t miss visiting the National Gallery of Modern Art on Palace Road. This gallery, which opened in 2009, is the third such one in India (the others are in Delhi and Mumbai). It’s housed in a Colonial mansion with a garden setting, and has two interconnected wings. The old wing features works from the early 18th century up until India’s Independence, while the new one displays works from a large number of modern and contemporary artists. There’s a cafe on the premises as well. The gallery is open daily except Monday, from 10 a.m until 5 p.m. The entry fee for Indians is 20 rupees and 500 rupees for foreigners. (Note: unfortunately this fee was recently substantially increased and many foreigners feel that 500 rupees is way too much to pay). Photography is not allowed.
3. Tipu Sultan’s Palace and Fort
Situated inside the Bangalore Fort area, Tipu Sultan’s Palace was originally built by Chikkadeva Raya in mud. Later, Hyder Ali started reconstruction in Indo-Islamic architecture. This was completed by his son, Tipu Sultan, in 1791. The Hindu temple seen in the courtyard of the fort is the proof of Tipu Sultan’s religious tolerance. The palace is open daily from 8.30 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. Tickets cost 15 rupees for Indians and 200 rupees for foreigners. Combine visiting it with nearby Krishna Rajendra Market.
4. Krishna Rajendra (KR) Market
This vivid, traditional local market is an assault on the senses and a treat for photographers. In the middle of it is Bangalore’s bustling flower market. Go there in the early morning to best experience the colors and crowds, when piles of fresh stock are being unloaded and sold. The market also sells a variety of fresh produce, spices, and copper items.
5. Lalbagh Botanical Garden
This expansive garden started out as a private Mughal-style garden for the city’s royal rulers. It was established in 1760 by Hyder Ali, and later extended by his son Tipu Sultan. It now covers 240 acres, and derives its name from the red roses that bloom throughout the year there. The garden is said to have the most diverse species of plants in the world. Its focal point is a majestic glasshouse, built in 1889 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales. It was designed along the lines of the Crystal Palace in London.
The garden is open from 6.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. throughout the year. It takes on a festive look during India’s Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations, with a captivating show of over 200 varieties of flowers. The show also features an exhibition of hybrid vegetables.
6. Cubbon Park
Occupying a 300 acre area in Bangalore’s business district, Cubbon Park is a popular place for walkers, joggers, nature lovers, and anyone who just wants to laze around. The park was named after the erstwhile Commissioner of Bangalore, Sir Mark Cubbon. Many ornamental and flowering trees, both exotic and indigenous, can be found there. Kids will enjoy the special Bal Bhavan play area and aquarium inside the park.
7. Vidana Soudha
Built in 1954, Vidana Soudha is a landmark of Bangalore, next to Cubbon Park. This enormous building is a massive example of neo-Dravidian architecture, with four domes on its four corners. It houses the Legislative Chamber of Karnataka Government, as well as accommodates many government departments. Unfortunately, it’s not open to the public but is stunningly illuminated at night.
8. Attara Kacheri (High Court) and Surroundings
This eye-catching red, two-storied building, built in 1867 under the reign of Tipu Sultan, has magnificent neoclassical architecture. It houses the High Court and many lower courts, and sits opposite Vidana Soudha at the entrance to Cubbon Park.
Close to the Court is the red, Gothic-style State Central Library building, with imposing stone and fluted pillars. Nearby, the highlight at the Government Museum is a collection of artifacts and stone carvings dating back to the 12-century, and excavated from places including Hampi. Adjacent to the Museum is Venkatappa Art Gallery, devoted to displaying famous paintings, plaster of Paris works and wooden sculptures of renowned artist Venkatappa (who painted for the royal family). Tickets for the museum also provide entry to the art gallery.
9. Ulsoor Lake
Picturesque Ulsoor Lake is spread over an area of 125 acres in the heart of the city, north of M.G. Road. It was constructed by Kempegowda II. It’s open daily except Wednesdays, from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. Boating facilities are provided by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation. There’s also a walking track around the lake.
10. Spiritual and Religious Places
Bangalore is the home of many of India’s spiritual gurus, and the city has a rich religious culture. There are many diverse places of worship, including ashrams, mosques, and churches. Here’s the pick of them.
