Best Time to Visit Bangalore
Bangalore's pleasant weather is indeed one of the most alluring features of the city. However, depending largely on one's own likes and dislikes, the different seasons present various options to enjoy one's visit.
October to February is one of the best seasons to visit Bangalore, as the cool weather makes it an ideal time for sightseeing tours and a period to indulge outdoors. Diwali, Christmas, New Year are celebrated across the city.
March to May-Summer: Summers are not harsh in Bangalore like in any other part of India, with only moderately hot weather in the afternoon. Early mornings and evenings are refreshing and hence treks should definitely be a part of one's plan.
June to September: Bangalore receives slight to heavy rainfall in monsoon. The cool weather would be ideal for all outside activities. Nandi Hills and Coorg are most in the freshness and glory in this season, and you can plan trips to these hill stations during this time.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Bangalore, detailed information about timings, entry fees, how to reach them, and more.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
A must-visit in Bangalore is the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a vast green space covering 240 acres filled with a variety of exotic plants, trees, and flowers. Within the garden, you'll find a stunning glass house inspired by London's Crystal Palace, which features an annual flower show.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: 6 AM to 9 AM- Free, 6 PM to 7 PM - Free
During the day -₹25 for adults, free for children below 12 years,
How to Reach: The garden is well-connected by buses and auto-rickshaws.
Nearest Metro Station: Lalbagh Metro Station
Bangalore Palace
Bangalore Palace, built in 1878, is an excellent example of the Tudor style of architecture and design with the wonderful splendour of the Wadiyar dynasty. This palace is excessively ornamented with fine interiors containing exquisite woodwork of their masterpieces, powerful paintings, and delicate chandeliers. It is one of the best options for those who are interested in history and architecture.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹230 for Indians, ₹460 for foreigners
How to Reach: Easily accessible by cab or auto-rickshaw.
Nearest Metro Station: Mantri Mall Malleshwaram
Sri Chamarajendra Park, also known as Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park spans 300 acres and serves as a peaceful retreat from the busy life of Bangalore. This verdant park is perfect for morning strolls, jogging, or just unwinding. Visitors can also explore the impressive three-story government aquarium, which provides a stunning glimpse into aquatic life. Additionally, the park houses various government buildings and institutions, including the High Court of Karnataka and the State Library located in Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall.
Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM except Monday
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Buses and cabs are readily available.
Nearest Metro Station: Cubbon Park Metro Station (Purple Line)
Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace
This two-story palace, known as Dariya Daulat Bagh, was built between 1778 and 1784 AD as a summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. It was commissioned by his father, Hyder Ali, and completed under Sultan's direction. Constructed entirely from teak wood, the palace showcases intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes. If you're interested in Bangalore's rich history, this is one of the top places to visit.
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹15 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
How to Reach: Located near KR Market, you can reach the palace by bus, cab, or auto-rickshaw.
Nearest Metro Station: KR Market
ISKCON Temple Bangalore
Perched on a hillock, the ISKCON Temple in Bangalore spans 7 acres and serves as both a place of worship and a cultural hub. With its breathtaking architecture, serene ambience, and calming chants, it is truly a must-visit destination.
Timings: 4:15 AM - 5:00 AM, 7:15 AM - 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Take a cab or an auto-rickshaw.
Nearest Metro Station: Mahalakshmi Metro Station
Bannerghatta National Park
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Bannerghatta National Park is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore. It’s home to a zoo, a butterfly park, an elephant sanctuary, a rescue centre and a safari where you can spot lions, tigers, and bears in their natural habitat. The park also features a rescue centre for orphaned animals.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹80 for the zoo, 40 per person for children
Adult- ₹260 for the safari, ₹500 for special AC bus
How to Reach: It is located 22 km from Bangalore. You can take a cab or bus from the city. It takes 1-2 hours to reach the national park.
Vidhana Soudha
An architectural icon of Bangalore, Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the Karnataka state legislature. It was famously described by Pandit Nehru as the "temple dedicated to the nation". Building Style - The building has been constructed in the neo-Dravidian style. This mighty granite and porphyry structure is, in fact, a pride of Bangalore that was built in a style that reflects its political importance.
It is a symbol of the political and cultural significance of the city. Entry is not allowed inside, but the building exudes an attraction worth viewing if seen from the outside when lit in the evenings.
Timings: Exterior view accessible at any time
Entry Fee: Free (no entry inside without permission)
How to Reach: Located in the heart of the city, it's easily reachable by cab or bus.
Nearest Metro Station: Vidhan Soudha Metro Station
Ulsoor Lake
Ulsoor Lake is a great spot for those who want to experience some peace and serenity. The 123-acre lake offers boating facilities and is surrounded by picturesque walking paths. It’s one of the oldest lakes in Bangalore and is ideal for a peaceful picnic or a morning jog.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (₹35 boating charges)
How to Reach: Cabs and buses are available from various parts of the city.
Nearest Metro Station: Ulsoor Metro Station
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
For a fun and educational experience, head to the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, where you can learn about the cosmos, stars, and space. The planetarium regularly hosts shows that are both engaging and informative, making it a hit with children and adults alike.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays, second Tuesdays, local and national holidays)
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults, ₹50 for children
How to Reach: Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
Nearest Metro Station: Dr BR Ambedkar station and Cubbon Park.
Innovative Film City
For a fun day out with family or friends, Innovative Film City is one of the best tourist places in Bangalore. Located just outside the city, this amusement park offers a wide range of activities, from film sets and wax museums to water sports and adventure rides.
Timings: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Starts at ₹899/-
How to Reach: Located 40 km from Bangalore, you can take a cab or a bus.
Nearest Metro Station: Rajarajeshwari Nagar
Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is one of the popular weekend getaways from Bangalore; it is actually a serene hill station, located some 60 km from the city. Famous for its sunrise views, cool weather, and historical importance, Nandi Hills is one of the perfect escapes into the city. Explore the Tipu Sultan Fort, ancient temples, and scenic trails for trekking.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person (additional charges for parking)
How to Reach: You can drive to Nandi Hills or take a cab. There are also buses available from Bangalore.
Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur (from here, take a cab)
Commercial Street
For shopping enthusiasts, Commercial Street is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore. The bustling market is filled with shops selling clothes, footwear, accessories, and electronics at affordable prices. It’s a perfect spot to bargain and shop till you drop!
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (shopping costs apply!)
How to Reach: Cabs, auto-rickshaws, and buses are easily available.
Nearest Metro Station: MG Road
Wonderla Amusement Park
For thrill-seekers, Wonderla is one of the most exciting tourist places in Bangalore. With over 60 thrilling rides, water slides, and a wave pool, it’s perfect for a day of adventure. Wonderla is ideal for families, friends, and anyone looking to have some fun.
Timings: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (weekdays), 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (weekends)
Entry Fee: ₹1400 Adults, ₹1175 Children
How to Reach: Located about 28 km from Bangalore, take a cab or bus.
Nearest Metro Station: Kengeri Metro Station
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
One of the most fulfilling places to visit for art lovers in the city, this gallery is housed in a colonial mansion which showcases works by some of India's greatest contemporary artists. Some exceptional works by international artists are also showcased here. There are rotating exhibitions and regular art workshops.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays and national holidays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners
How to Reach: Cabs, buses, and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
Nearest Metro Station: MG Road station
Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
A fascinating stop for science and technology enthusiasts, the Visvesvaraya Museum offers interactive exhibits on electronics, space, mechanics, and more. Named after Sir M. Visvesvaraya, an Indian engineer and statesman, this museum is perfect for families, especially those with curious young minds.
Timings: 9.30 AM to 6 AM (tickets counter open till 0
Entry Fee: ₹90
How to Reach: Located near Cubbon Park, it is easily reachable by cab or metro.
Nearest Metro Station: Cubbon Park
Jawahar Bal Bhavan
A haven for kids, Jawahar Bal Bhavan in Cubbon Park offers numerous recreational activities such as toy train rides, boating, and a playground. It’s an ideal spot to keep children entertained while adults relax in the surrounding park area.
Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on 2,d and 4th Tuesday)
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
How to Reach: Located inside Cubbon Park, you can easily access it by walking or using a cab.
Nearest Metro Station: Cubbon Park
St. Mary’s Basilica
One of the oldest churches in Bangalore, St. Mary’s Basilica is a fine example of Gothic-style architecture. Known for its stained glass windows and towering spires, the church attracts not just religious visitors but also architecture enthusiasts.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Cabs, auto-rickshaws, and buses are easily available.
Nearest Metro Station: Cubbon Park
Shivoham Shiva Temple
A unique tourist attraction, the Shivoham Shiva Temple houses a towering 65-foot statue of Lord Shiva seated in a meditative pose. This temple is particularly known for its evening aarti (prayer) and grand celebrations during Mahashivratri.
Timings: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Entry Fee: Free (optional donations for special offerings)
How to Reach: Located near Old Airport Road, you can reach it by cab or bus.
Nearest Metro Station: Indiranagar
KR Market (Krishna Rajendra Market)
If you want to experience the bustling local life of Bangalore, KR Market is one of the best places to visit. Known as the city’s largest flower market, you’ll find vendors selling colourful blooms, fruits, spices, and various knick-knacks. Visiting early in the morning offers a vibrant glimpse into the market's daily activities.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12 AM Midnight
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Buses, auto-rickshaws, and cabs are available.
Nearest Metro Station: Krishna Rajendra Market metro station
MG Road
One of the most popular commercial streets in the city, MG Road (Mahatma Gandhi Road) is a shopping and dining hub. From luxury brands to street-side vendors, the area has it all. MG Road is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with many pubs and bars dotted around the area.
Timings: Stores are generally open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and restaurants till midnight.
Entry Fee: Free (shopping and dining costs apply)
How to Reach: It’s easily accessible by cabs, buses, and metro.
Nearest Metro Station: MG Road (Purple Line)
Chunchi Falls
For those looking to get away from the city and immerse themselves in nature, Chunchi Falls, Kanakpura, offers a refreshing escape. Located around 90 km from Bangalore, this picturesque waterfall is a great spot for a day trip and offers opportunities for trekking and photography.
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Cabs or private vehicles are the best way to reach Chunchi Falls.
Nearest Metro Station: No metro station nearby. Need to drive from Bangalore.
Devanahalli Fort
Located about 35 km from the city, Devanahalli Fort is a historic structure that dates back to the 15th century. The fort is not only architecturally significant but is also the birthplace of Tipu Sultan. It’s an ideal place for history lovers to explore.
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Cabs or buses can take you to Devanahalli Fort from Bangalore.
Nearest Metro Station: No metro station nearby; it's advisable to drive or take a cab.
Sankey Tank
A man-made lake located in the western part of Bangalore, Sankey Tank is a serene spot for relaxation and leisurely activities like boating. The surrounding park area makes it perfect for jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Friday closed)
Entry Fee: ₹10 Per Person
How to Reach: Easily accessible by cab or auto-rickshaw.
Nearest Metro Station: Mantri Square Sampige Road
