Planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Bangalore: 2025 ultimate guide? Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, is India’s Silicon Valley and one of the most exciting cities to explore. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this guide covers the best things to do in Bangalore including top attractions, cultural sites, and unique experiences.
This guide covers the best attractions, activities, and experiences in Bangalore. We’ve organized everything by category to help you plan your perfect itinerary. Whether you have just one day or a whole week, you’ll find something amazing to do in this beautiful city.
Best Things to Do in Bangalore – Historical & Cultural Attractions
1. Bangalore Palace
Bangalore Palace stands as one of the city’s most magnificent landmarks. Built in 1878, this Tudor-style palace showcases the royal heritage of the Wodeyar dynasty. The palace features beautiful woodwork, elegant furniture, and stunning paintings that tell the story of Bangalore’s rich history.
What makes it special: The palace houses rare artifacts, vintage photographs, and royal memorabilia. Visitors can explore the grand ballroom, durbar hall, and private chambers of the former rulers.
- Best time to visit: Early morning (10 AM – 12 PM) to avoid crowds
- Entry fee: ₹250 for adults, ₹125 for children
- Location: Vasanth Nagar, Central Bangalore
2. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
This beautiful wooden palace served as the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan, the famous ruler of Mysore. Built in 1791, the palace showcases Indo-Islamic architecture with intricate carvings and beautiful paintings depicting Tipu Sultan’s victories.
The palace is made entirely of teakwood and features ornate pillars, arches, and balconies. The walls display historical artifacts and weapons used during Tipu Sultan’s reign.
- Visiting tips: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Bangalore Fort and City Market
- Entry fee: ₹15 for Indian citizens, ₹200 for foreigners
- Location: Near City Market, South Bangalore
3. ISKCON Temple Bangalore
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world. This modern architectural marvel attracts millions of visitors annually and serves as a spiritual center for devotees and tourists alike.
The temple complex includes beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restaurant serving pure vegetarian food. The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) is particularly captivating with its melodious chants and spiritual atmosphere.
- Special features: Light and sound show, cultural programs, spiritual discourses
- Best time to visit: Evening (6 PM – 8 PM) for aarti
- Location: Rajajinagar, West Bangalore
Natural Parks and Scenic Views – Best Things to Do in Bangalore
4. Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh is one of India’s most famous botanical gardens, spanning 240 acres in the heart of Bangalore. Established in 1760, this garden houses over 1,800 species of plants from around the world and serves as a green lung for the city.
The garden’s main attraction is the Glass House, modeled after London’s Crystal Palace. This Victorian-style conservatory hosts spectacular flower shows twice a year, attracting thousands of visitors. The garden also features ancient rock formations that are over 3,000 million years old.
Must-see attractions:
- Glass House flower shows (January and August)
- Rose Garden with over 2,000 varieties
- Lalbagh Lake for boating
- Ancient Kempe Gowda towers
- Entry fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
- Best time to visit: Early morning (6 AM – 9 AM) or evening (4 PM – 6 PM)
5. Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is Bangalore’s most popular green space, covering 300 acres in the city center. This lung of Bangalore offers peaceful walking trails, jogging paths, and beautiful gardens that provide a perfect escape from urban hustle.
The park houses several important buildings including the State Library, Museum, and High Court. It’s an ideal place for morning walks, family picnics, and nature photography.
Activities available:
- Morning and evening walks
- Jogging and cycling
- Photography
- Reading at the State Library
- Visiting Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
Free entry | Open 24 hours | Location: Central Bangalore
6. Nandi Hills
Located about 60 kilometers from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is a popular hill station perfect for day trips and weekend getaways. This ancient hill fortress offers breathtaking sunrise views, pleasant weather, and several trekking trails.
The hills have historical significance as they served as Tipu Sultan’s summer retreat. Today, they’re famous for adventure activities like paragliding, cycling, and trekking.
Best experiences:
- Sunrise viewing from Tipu’s Drop
- Paragliding and adventure sports
- Cycling on hill roads
- Photography and nature walks
- Visiting ancient temples
- Distance from Bangalore: 60 km (1.5 hours drive)
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Entry fee: ₹5 per person for the hill top
2025 Ultimate Guide to Food & Nightlife in Bangalore – Best Things to Do in Bangalore
7. Wonderla Amusement Park
Wonderla is one of India’s best amusement parks, offering world-class rides and entertainment for all age groups. Located on the outskirts of Bangalore, this 82-acre park features over 60 rides including high-speed roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions.
The park is divided into land rides and water rides sections. Popular attractions include the Recoil roller coaster, Flash Tower, and the massive wave pool.
Top attractions:
- Recoil (India’s first reverse looping roller coaster)
- Flash Tower (56-meter high ride)
- Equinox (360-degree rotating ride)
- Wave pool and water slides
- Kids’ zone with safe rides
- Entry fees: ₹1,199 for adults on weekdays, ₹1,399 on weekends
- Location: Bidadi, 28 km from Bangalore
- Operating hours: 11 AM – 6 PM
8. Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park offers an amazing wildlife experience just 22 kilometers from Bangalore. This 104-square-kilometer park houses a zoo, safari park, butterfly park, and rescue center for wild animals.
The safari experience allows visitors to see lions, tigers, elephants, and other wild animals in their natural habitat. The park also runs conservation programs for endangered species.
Main attractions:
- Lion and tiger safari
- Herbivore safari with elephants and deer
- Butterfly park with 20+ species
- Zoo with over 100 species
- Snake park and rescue center
- Safari timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Entry fees: ₹80 for zoo, ₹300 for safari
- Best time to visit: November to February
Modern Attractions and Shopping
9. UB City Mall
UB City is Bangalore’s most luxurious shopping and entertainment destination. This premium mall houses international brands, fine dining restaurants, rooftop bars, and the city’s best nightlife options.
The mall’s architecture is impressive with its modern design and spacious layout. It’s perfect for upscale shopping, business meetings, and enjoying Bangalore’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Shopping options:
- International luxury brands
- Indian designer boutiques
- Electronics and gadgets
- Books and lifestyle products
Dining and entertainment:
- Fine dining restaurants
- Rooftop bars with city views
- Cafes and casual dining
- Live music venues
Location: Vittal Mallya Road, Central Bangalore
10. Commercial Street and Brigade Road
These are Bangalore’s most famous shopping streets, offering everything from traditional Indian clothes to modern fashion, electronics, and souvenirs. Commercial Street is perfect for budget shopping, while Brigade Road offers a mix of local and branded stores.
Both streets come alive in the evening with street food, live music, and a vibrant crowd. They’re excellent places to experience Bangalore’s local culture and buy authentic souvenirs.
Best buys:
- Silk sarees and traditional wear
- Handmade jewelry and accessories
- Spices and coffee
- Books and handicrafts
- Electronic gadgets
Food and Cultural Experiences
11. Bangalore’s Famous Food Scene
Bangalore is a food lover’s paradise with its diverse culinary landscape. From traditional South Indian breakfast to international cuisines, the city offers incredible dining experiences for every taste and budget.
Must-try local dishes:
- Masala dosa with coconut chutney
- Benne masala dosa (butter masala dosa)
- Filter coffee in traditional brass tumbler
- Rava idli and vada
- Bangalore-style biriyani
Famous food streets:
- VV Puram Food Street (Thindi Beedi)
- Fraser Town for authentic South Indian food
- Koramangala for international cuisines
- Indiranagar for trendy cafes and restaurants
12. Pub Culture and Nightlife
Bangalore is known as India’s pub capital with over 800 bars and pubs. The city’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from microbreweries to rooftop lounges.
Popular areas for nightlife:
- Koramangala: Trendy bars and clubs
- Indiranagar: Mix of pubs and lounges
- MG Road: Classic pubs and restaurants
- Whitefield: Modern bars and breweries
Famous establishments:
- Toit Brewpub for craft beer
- Skyye Lounge for rooftop dining
- Hard Rock Cafe for live music
- The Humming Tree for alternative music
Family-Friendly Activities
13. Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
This interactive science museum is perfect for families with children. The museum features hands-on exhibits, science demonstrations, and educational displays that make learning fun and engaging.
Key attractions:
- Fun Science Gallery with interactive exhibits
- Electro Technic Gallery
- Space Gallery with planetarium shows
- Children’s Science Gallery
- Dinosaur Corner
- Entry fee: ₹40 for adults, ₹25 for children
- Location: Cubbon Park area
- Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
14. Innovative Film City
Located 40 kilometers from Bangalore, Innovative Film City is an entertainment theme park that combines movie sets, adventure activities, and cultural shows. It’s an excellent destination for family outings and group visits.
Attractions include:
- Replica of famous movie sets
- Adventure activities like zip-lining
- Cultural performances and shows
- Mini golf and gaming zones
- Restaurant with multi-cuisine options
- Entry fee: ₹850 for adults, ₹650 for children
- Location: Bidadi, on Bangalore-Mysore highway
Day Trip Destinations from Bangalore
15. Mysore Palace
Although located 150 kilometers from Bangalore, Mysore Palace is a popular day trip destination. This magnificent palace is one of India’s most visited monuments and showcases the grandeur of the Wodeyar dynasty.
- Travel time: 3 hours by road
- Best way to visit: Early morning departure, return by evening
- Entry fee: ₹70 for adults
- Special attraction: Evening illumination (7 PM – 8 PM on Sundays and holidays)
16. Shivanasamudra Falls
These spectacular waterfalls are formed by the river Kaveri and are located about 135 kilometers from Bangalore. The falls are at their best during monsoon season (July to October) when the water flow is maximum.
Two main falls:
- Gaganachukki Falls: More accessible and popular
- Bharachukki Falls: More secluded and scenic
- Best time to visit: July to February
- Travel time: 3 hours by road
- Activities: Photography, nature walks, sightseeing
Unique Experiences for Different Travelers
For Couples
Romantic activities in Bangalore:
- Sunset dinner at rooftop restaurants
- Couple spa sessions at luxury hotels
- Evening walks in Cubbon Park
- Wine tasting at local vineyards
- Movie dates at premium multiplexes
- Photography sessions at beautiful locations
For Families with Kids
Kid-friendly attractions:
- Wonderla Amusement Park rides
- Bannerghatta Zoo and safari
- Science museum interactive exhibits
- Lalbagh garden boat rides
- Fun City gaming zones
- Children’s parks and play areas
For Solo Travelers
Solo-friendly activities:
- Heritage walking tours
- Cafe hopping in trendy neighborhoods
- Photography walks in old Bangalore
- Joining group treks to nearby hills
- Attending cultural events and concerts
- Exploring local markets and street food
For International Visitors
Cultural experiences:
- Traditional South Indian cooking classes
- Classical music and dance performances
- Temple visits with guided tours
- Silk weaving and handicraft workshops
- Spice market tours
- Local festival celebrations (when available)
Practical Information for Visitors
Best Time to Visit Bangalore
Bangalore enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March when temperatures are mild and comfortable.
Weather by season:
- Winter (December-February): 15°C to 28°C – Perfect for sightseeing
- Summer (March-May): 20°C to 35°C – Warm but manageable
- Monsoon (June-September): 18°C to 28°C – Pleasant but rainy
Transportation Options
Getting around Bangalore:
- Metro: Efficient and affordable for major routes
- Buses: Extensive network covering entire city
- Auto-rickshaws: Convenient for short distances
- Cab services: Uber, Ola, and local taxis
- Rental cars: Good for day trips and longer stays
Where to Stay
Recommended areas:
- MG Road/Brigade Road: Central location, good connectivity
- Koramangala: Trendy area with restaurants and shopping
- Indiranagar: Popular with young professionals
- Whitefield: Good for IT professionals and airport access
- HSR Layout: Residential area with modern amenities
Safety Tips
- Bangalore is generally safe for tourists, but take normal precautions
- Avoid isolated areas late at night
- Use registered taxi services
- Keep copies of important documents
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen
- Respect local customs and traditions
Budget Categories
Budget travelers (₹1,500-2,500 per day):
- Stay in hostels or budget hotels
- Use public transportation
- Eat at local restaurants and street food
- Visit free attractions like parks and temples
- Shop at local markets
Mid-range travelers (₹2,500-5,000 per day):
- Stay in 3-star hotels or boutique accommodations
- Mix of public transport and cabs
- Dine at good restaurants with some fine dining
- Include paid attractions and activities
- Shop at malls and branded stores
Luxury travelers (₹5,000+ per day):
- Stay in 5-star hotels or luxury resorts
- Private transportation and premium services
- Fine dining and exclusive experiences
- Premium attractions and guided tours
- High-end shopping and spa services
Planning Your Itinerary
One Day in Bangalore
Morning (9 AM – 12 PM):
- Start with Lalbagh Botanical Garden
- Visit nearby Bull Temple
- Coffee break at a local cafe
Afternoon (12 PM – 4 PM):
- Lunch at VV Puram Food Street
- Explore Bangalore Palace
- Shopping at Commercial Street
Evening (4 PM – 8 PM):
- Relax at Cubbon Park
- Visit ISKCON Temple for evening aarti
- Dinner at a rooftop restaurant
Three Days in Bangalore
- Day 1: Historical attractions (Palaces, temples, museums)
- Day 2: Nature and adventure (Parks, hills, amusement parks)
- Day 3: Modern Bangalore (Shopping, dining, nightlife)
One Week in Bangalore
Include day trips to Mysore, Nandi Hills, and nearby attractions along with thorough exploration of the city’s various neighborhoods and experiences.
Conclusion
Bangalore truly offers something for everyone, making it one of India’s most versatile destinations. From its rich historical heritage showcased in magnificent palaces to its modern attractions and vibrant nightlife, the city perfectly balances tradition with contemporary lifestyle.
Whether you’re interested in things to do in Bangalore for couples, families, or solo travelers, this guide has covered the essential experiences that make the city special. The things to do in Bangalore today include both timeless attractions and new experiences that reflect the city’s dynamic nature.
For visitors planning things to do in Bangalore in one day, focus on the central attractions like Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, and the Palace. Those staying longer can explore unique things to do in Bangalore like food tours, day trips to nearby hills, and immersive cultural experiences.
Remember that Bangalore’s charm lies not just in its famous attractions but also in its everyday experiences – savoring filter coffee at a local cafe, exploring bustling markets, or simply enjoying the pleasant weather in one of its many parks. The city’s welcoming spirit and diverse offerings ensure that every visitor leaves with wonderful memories and a desire to return.
Plan your visit during the best weather months, respect local customs, and don’t miss trying the incredible South Indian cuisine. Bangalore awaits with open arms, ready to show you why it’s called the Garden City of India and much more.