Shopping
Bangalore has a variety of shopping options for tourists and locals alike. The city has many shopping options for electronics and gadgets, ranging from local stores to large shopping malls. For those looking for unique and traditional items, Bangalore also has a range of markets and boutiques to explore.
In this section, we’ll explore all the shopping possibilities that this vibrant city has to offer:
Commercial Street
Commercial Street is located in the heart of Bangalore and has been a favorite shopping destination for decades. With its string of shops lining either side of a road, it has everything from textiles to jewelry and antiques to trinkets, with most prices being negotiable.
The vast range of items and variety of stores makes it an ideal place to wander around, especially during the festive season when decorations add to the festive atmosphere. The area offers excellent opportunities for bargain hunters and those looking for gifts or souvenirs. You’ll find plenty here if you’re looking for fashionable clothes or timeless antiques.
Whether you are looking for furniture stores offering traditional goods or crowds thronging at electronics stores here, Commercial Street is always full of surprises and bargains that make an effort worthwhile!
UB City Mall
UB City Mall is located in the Central Business District of Bangalore. It is a four-storeyed destination that offers an eclectic mix of international labels, luxurious department stores, and specialty shops.
It houses over 60 famous brands like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, and Paul Smith, offering women’s accessories, luxury handbags, and shoes. Those looking for Indian ethnic threads and fabrics can check out SVA or Fabindia or explore the clothing range of local brands like Ethnicity or Abhi & Sanskruti.
The mall also houses some of Bangalore’s most popular restaurants worldwide, including The Glass House, Rangoli – South Indian Restaurant / Kaveri – North Indian Restaurant / Le Meridien Club Lounge, and La Piazza, to name a few. For leisure activities, there’s Escape – The Rooms, an escape room game where teams are locked inside a room to decode various puzzles before the time away, and Aim High, an adventure equipment rental company that provides thrilling experiences on their climbing walls.
UB City Mall is a one-stop shopping destination for all family members, with an array of exclusive and unique stores, ranging from designer couture to kids’ wear, all under one roof. With its excellent location and ease of accessibility, UB City Mall promises to give you a truly memorable shopping experience.
Brigade Road
Brigade Road is one of the bustling commercial centers of Bangalore, India. This vibrant city boasts a wide range of shopping experiences for visitors, and Brigade Road is at the heart of it. In the center of Bangalore’s downtown area, Brigade Road is a shopper’s paradise with its wide variety of stores offering products ranging from traditional Indian stores to chic boutiques.
The area has several well-known department stores and clothing and jewelry stores ideal for bargain hunters.
On this street, you will also find several specialty shops selling items such as carpets and handicrafts. So whether you are looking for exotic souvenirs or something more luxurious, Brigade Road caters to all tastes and budgets.
There are also many restaurants on this street serving both local food and international cuisine. Most importantly, the neighborhood offers an exciting nightlife atmosphere with many pubs, bars, and discos presenting great entertainment.
Brigade Road provides an ideal shopping experience for those seeking quality products at reasonable prices and excellent services from friendly shopkeepers. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable shopping experience in Bangalore, which also offers great eats and beats, Brigade Road should be top on your destination list!
Sightseeing
Bangalore is a bustling city filled with various attractions and activities to explore. Whether you are looking for a thrill or an educational experience, there are plenty of amazing sights to see in Bangalore. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, there is something for everyone.
Let’s take a look at some of the must-see sights in Bangalore:
Bangalore Palace
The magnificent Bangalore Palace is a sprawling 19th-century palace in the city’s heart. It was built by the then Maharaja of Mysore, Sri Chamarajendra Wadiyar VIII, in 1887. The palace features an array of stunning architecture with ample turrets and sky-high towers spread across over 44,000 sq. meters. This majestic structure stands tall, surrounded by extensive landscaped gardens, and is a popular venue for cultural programs, royal weddings, and luxury events.
The main palace houses several spectacular paintings and sculptures which date back to the Mysore school of painting in 17th century India, making it an ideal spot for art and history buffs to explore. It also features several points of interest, such as:
- Its grand Durbar Hall is equipped with a massive dancing arena from where the Maharaja used to address his courtiers;
- Two life-size elephant statues at its entrance;
- Finely carved timbers depicting colonnades, towers, domes, and arches.
Visitors can take guided tours around the palace to explore these unique wonders up close and personal or even choose to rent out some parts of this grand building for a night’s stay! Bangalore Palace offers an exquisite journey through India’s rich heritage, which you won’t find anywhere else!
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is located on the southeastern corner of Bangalore and is spread across a sprawling 240 acres of land. This stunning garden is a mesmerizing attraction for locals and tourists who wish to be surrounded by nature. The 19th-century Mughal-style gardens are home to an exotic collection of flora, fauna, avifauna, and various historical installations.
Visitors can experience the grandeur of Lalbagh Botanical Garden, taking in its intricate network of pathways and trails leading them around the lawns, tanks, fountains, and horticultural displays. On arrival at this scenic landscape featuring over 1,000 species of trees and plants throughout its vastness, they will be surrounded by thousands of flowering trees, exotic shrubs, and rare aquatic plants in bloom.
Apart from its breathtaking floral beauty, Lalbagh also has visiting pets like Peacocks & Peahens that sport their colorful feathers among the greenery; various butterflies fluttering throughout its gardens; Gaur (Indian Bison) roaming amongst the trees; Fruit Bats flying freely in this impressive habitat; Spotted Deer adorned with velvet fur between the countless flower beds; And several resident partridges & peacocks that wander about its gorgeous landscape. The unique attraction for bird watchers here is White Ibis which thrives within its sanctuary, viewable from a nearby watchtower every evening. All these exciting features provide visitors ample sightseeing opportunities in this lush botanical garden that can be missed when visiting Bengaluru!
Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is one of the most renowned parks in India. Located in the heart of Bangalore, Karnataka, the park was created in 1864 and initially called “Meade’s Park” after Sir Mark Cubbon, then Britain’s Commissioner of Mysore. Subsequently renamed Cubbon Park, this lush green oasis covers an area of 300 acres and features pathways, gardens, and several stately buildings that can be explored on foot.
The park is divided into several sections, including a botanical garden with a plethora of exotic plants and trees, government buildings such as the Government Library and High Court complex, the Mayo Hall (a grand mansion built between 1870-1873), and the Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall that houses the State Archaeology Museum.
Visitors will also find numerous statues dotting the park scape, featuring personalities such as Sir Mark Cubbon and famed poets such as Kalidasa. There are also free musical concerts for visitors to enjoy every Sunday afternoon near Mayo Hall.
Perfect for picnics or morning walks to soak in all that nature offers – Cubbon Park provides a much-welcome respite from busy city life!
Food
Bangalore is well known for its delectable cuisine. From street food to Michelin Star restaurants, the city has something for everyone’s taste. Bangalore has it all, whether you are looking for local delicacies or international cuisines.
Let’s take a look at some of the delicious food that you can find in the city:
Indian Cuisine
Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, offers diverse food options due to its cosmopolitan population. The city provides a variety of Indian cuisines ranging from street-side vendors to restaurants serving freshly made and delicious dishes. Masala dosa, served with sambar and chutney, is a popular and iconic city dish.
Idli and vada are also widely consumed, typically served with chutney or sambar. In addition, Bangalore’s chat corners offer dishes like Bhel puri, sev puri, and pani puri, which all ages can enjoy. Along with traditional Tamil Nadu recipes like dosai, upma, and idiyappam – steamed rice cake strips –, visitors can also eat Punjabi dishes like palak paneer or chole bhature – deep-fried bread served with chickpea gravy – as well as Gujarati dishes such as dhokla.
The inner suburb of Shivaji Nagar is home to many Irani Cafes like Kayani bakery that offer ayrani patticevery famous among connoisseurs! Kebabs are another famous delicacy; try the Mughal kebabs at Maratha’s Empire, which is cooked in signature malai marinade– a rich blend of cream, spices, garlic, and ginger! For visitors who enjoy seafood kebabs, try the fresh shrimps’ kebab at the Tandoori Rack in Jayanagar! Along with a vast array of eateries offering different types of Moghlai cuisine, there are also jain restaurants that serve Indian vegetarian specialties without onion or garlic! The street-side eateries generally stay open late into the evening– making them ideal for those who want to hit up some late-night munchies!
Street Food
Street food is a type of food that is prepared and ready to be served in a street or other public location. Street food typically consists of quick, ready-to-eat items that may be cooked in front of or behind the counter. Common street foods include:
- Hot dogs
- Bakery items such as cookies and pastries
- Fried snacks such as samosas, sandwiches, and tacos
- Various sweets, such as ice cream and candy
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
Street food is often cheaper than restaurant dining and may offer a more diverse range of cuisines. Street food vendors typically have specialized carts designed for transportation and preparation. Many street foods are cooked with traditional techniques, such as grilling over charcoal, or modern methods, such as deep frying in oil. Popular flavors are often spiced with herbs, spices, chilies, and other ingredients. Street foods can also be eaten on the go or taken away for later consumption at home or elsewhere.
International Cuisine
Bangalore, India, is a bustling city with opportunities for foodies searching for international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for traditional cuisines from Europe, Asia, or the Americas, this vibrant city has it all. From savory spices to creatively-crafted dishes, you won’t be disappointed by your selections in Bangalore.
Europeans will find plenty to love about Italian restaurants in Bangalore, like Cafe Ponte and Berry’d Alive. Here you can enjoy classic Italian dishes like wood-fired pizzas and freshly prepared pasta made with genuine Italian ingredients. Also on offer are European-inspired delicacies such as fondue and seafood platters.
Asian flavors are available in Bangalore, ranging from Chinese to Japanese, and even Thai restaurants like Taste of Thailand, Bangkok Village & Nalasopara Cafe. Indulge in an aromatic Szechuan stew, pad thai, and hot-pot dishes like shabu-shabu and Korean kimchi.
For Asian cuisine lovers, there’s no better spot than Vicky’s Cuisine! Authentic Malaysian favorites such as roti prata and Hokkien mee are served alongside signature Indian flavors from Kerala’s banana leaf pulao to patthar ka gosht and Delhi’s butter chicken. Foodie paradise awaits!
Nightlife
Bangalore is well-known for its buzzing nightlife. The city has everything from clubbing at one of the many rooftop bars to a fine dining experience. So whether you are looking for a relaxed evening or a wild night out, Bangalore has something for everyone.
Let’s explore some of the best places to experience the nightlife in Bangalore:
Pubs & Bars
Bangalore is known for its vibrant nightlife, with various pubs, bars, and lounges all over the city offering different experiences. Popularly known as the ‘Pub City,’ Bangalore is widely preferred for nighttime chill-outs and drinks owing to its energetic ambiance. In addition, the bars here have a free-spirited culture reflected in their art, music, and decor.
The city has impressive rooftop bars, lounges, breathtaking skyline views, and great music for an unforgettable experience. Also, many popular pubs even offer different delicacies to go along with your drinks, such as finger food, steaks, and grills, among many more.
A few must visit Pubs & Bars in Bangalore are:
- Toit
- High Ultra Lounge
- Hard rock cafe
- Skyye
- 1441 Pizzeria
- Unicorn Bar & Bistro
- 13th city pub
There are also many stand-alone pubs spread across the city that often invite live bands to perform at night, providing fun-filled experiences for their guests accompanied by delicious multi-cuisine and well-stocked bar counters.
Clubs & Discos
Bangalore offers many nighttime attractions, from clubs and discos to themed events and lounges.
Nightbird is one of the more popular clubs that cater to an international clientele and features house, hip-hop, retro, Bollywood, and regional music. However, for those looking for a low-key evening, EMBRACE Lounge is ideal for conversation over drinks with live performances and DJ music. Meanwhile, Big Pitcher boasts large screens for special events and local brews that are perfect for enjoying while chatting with friends.
Nitesh HUB in Whitefield caters to the younger crowd with amusement park rides, shops, and live music evenings. Fake ID covers all the bases a few doors down, from a lively ambiance to contemporary music, drinks specials, and karaoke nights. Then there’s Loft 38, where guests will find something unique as its four floors contain guest DJs and go-go dancers for anyone looking for an electric night out on the town.
For a more relaxed atmosphere in Bangalore City Center, then Opus is an ideal option where guests can enjoy some beer alongside board games while enjoying one of the many fun events hosted here throughout the year, including quizzes, open mics, and stand-up comedy acts. Finally, Shiva Valley rounds out this list while taking visitors back in time with old-school spinning vinyl records served by local DJs specializing in rock ‘n roll and soulful electronica beats or classic funk grooves — take your pick!
Live Music Venues
Bangalore is a culturally diverse city with a surging nightlife. Live music venues dot the landscape, from cozy open-air spots to upscale rooftop bars. There are countless places where people can catch world-class acts, international DJs, acoustic performances, and more. Whether looking for intimate vibes or wild dances, these live music venues have it all.
- Humming Tree: Offering indoor and outdoor stages for various acts, Humming Tree is a top venue for indie concerts in Bangalore. Catch emerging artists and lively gigs from household names every week.
- Hard Rock Café: This international chain is one of Bangalore’s most popular live music destinations. Enjoy classic American food and drinks with pumping music from rock bands and hip DJs.
- Indigo XP: For enjoyable yet affordable nights out, head to Indigo XP on Brigade road. The club offers the latest EDM hits alongside acoustic musicals in this rustic brick setting.
- Loft 38: This chic lounge has become a go-to club option in Bangalore’s business district. Catch some of India’s best acts while indulging in deliciously crafted western fare and imported wines.
- The Yard: An open-air garden terrace, The Yard offers plenty of space to dance under the stars beneath the trees at its multiple venues across the city. Experience craft beer tasting sessions alongside EDM and hip-hop performances from local celebrities and international guests all year round.
Adventure
Bangalore, India, is an excellent destination for adventurers. From its stunning mountain peaks to its bird-filled national parks, there is no shortage of activities for the thrill-seeker. So whether you’re looking for a thrilling trek or an exhilarating safari, there’s something for everyone in Bangalore.
Keep reading to find out some of the best adventure activities in Bangalore:
Trekking
Trekking around Bangalore, India, is a fantastic adventure that will surely provide unforgettable memories. With a variety of trails and terrain, ranging from flat, open areas to hilly regions, there’s something for everyone. In addition, trekking around Bangalore allows visitors to explore the local wildlife and culture in a more natural and enclosed environment.
Many of the most popular trekking trails around Bangalore are located within the forests of Ramanagara, Nandi Hills, Anthargange Hills, and Skandagiri Hills. These trails are ideal for adventure seekers exploring natural areas while taking in breathtaking views. Most treks offer varying difficulty levels to accommodate different fitness levels and needs.
Depending on the selected route or trail, visitors can expect a moderate hike in all-day treks ranging from 10 km for a day-long experience or longer for multiple days trips. Trekkers are advised to dress appropriately, with sun protection such as hats and sunscreen essential items during hot months; long trousers should be worn during colder months to protect against leeches and chiggers found in many parts of the forest region.
No matter which route you choose or what type of trekker you may be, from a beginner to an experienced hiker – trekking (in all its variations) around Bangalore provides an exciting Adventure that shouldn’t be missed!
Paragliding
Paragliding is a popular adventure activity that is increasing in popularity in India. Bangalore, the ‘Silicon Valley of India,’ has fantastic landscapes and topography, making it an ideal destination for paragliding.
The city offers some of the best paragliding sites close to the city, such as Toranagallu and Magadi hills, both located around 100 km from Bangalore.
Paragliding provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrilling joy of flying like a bird. On average, it takes about 15-30 minutes to complete a flight depending upon the weather conditions; passengers can take off from around 1000 – 3000 ft of altitude depending upon the needs and expertise of instructors/ pilots. Experienced paragliders/pilots/instructors offer this service at a nominal fee to get you sky-high and make your dream come true! They also provide a package of food, water, insurance, etc., apart from offering extensive safety measures until you land back on the ground.
Thus, paragliding in Bangalore provides travelers with an exhilarating experience they will never forget!
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that has steadily increased in popularity. It can be a great way to experience the outdoors, push past personal boundaries, and strengthen physical and mental abilities. Bangalore, India, boasts an awe-inspiring landscape of rolling hills, tropical forests, and winding rivers – all of which provide the perfect terrain for rock climbing enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, Bangalore offers many different options for a fun adventure in the great outdoors.
Rock climbing opportunities in Bangalore range from basic beginner classes to professional-level courses and expeditions. There are various guided introductory programs at local gyms for those who are just starting and want to learn the fundamentals of rock climbing safety and technique. As you gain more experience, you may move on to tougher climbs at nearby crags like Hithayathagiri Hill or Sugarloaf Peak, where one of the most challenging paths leads to an impressive view of the lush city skyline below. If you want something special, mountain ranges like Kunti Betta offer longer treks across peaks with jaw-dropping panoramic views.
No matter your skill level or goal-setting abilities, Bangalore’s unique geology will keep you on your toes and help sharpen your skills as part of a hobby or intense workout routine. From introductory classes to guided expeditions on some of India’s highest peaks – take advantage of all this stunning city has to offer when it comes to rock climbing adventures!