Bang bang Bangaluru

Tourist attractions in Bangaluru:

Bangalore, now known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka in south India. Bangalore is a city of salubrious climate, and always bubbling with life and energy, representing a potpourri of people and culture. One of India's largest cities, it's earned several names such as Silicon Valley of India, Pub Capital of India, Air Conditioned City, and City of Gardens. Bangalore was known as Pensioners' Paradise, prior to the IT revolution. Now, the city is a wonderful blend of past and present.

Here are the top tourist places to visit in Bangalore. Consider seeing many of them on these Bangalore Walking Tours.

Alternatively, Viator offers a comprehensivePrivate Full Day Bangalore City Tour that's easily bookable online.

1.  Vidana Soudha

Bangalore Vidana Soudha. Getty Images.

Built in 1954, Vidana Soudha is a landmark of Bangalore. 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. It's stunningly illuminated at night.

2.  Attara Kacheri (High Court) and Surroundings

Bangalore High Court.jayk7\Getty Images

This two-storied building, built in 1867 under the reign of Tipu Sultan, is painted in red with Corinthian columns in Gothic style architecture. It's located at the entrance to Cubbon Park, and houses the High Court and many lower courts.

Close to the Court is the State Central Library building, which has the "Pompeian red" color and architectural style of stone and fluted pillars, with walls finished in lime plaster. Nearby, the Government Museum houses many exotic collection of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and old paintings. Adjacent to the Museum is Venkatappa Art Gallery, displaying famous paintings, plaster of Paris works and wooden sculptures of the well known artist Venkatappa, and of other contemporary artists.

3.  Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Vivek Chugh

This enchanting garden is set on 240 acres with a rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical trees and plants, and a majestic glasshouse built on the lines of London's Crystal Palace. The garden was made in the 17th century -- started by Hyder Ali, and later completed by his son Tipu Sultan. It derives its name "Lal Bagh" from a collection of red roses that bloom throughout the year there. The glasshouse, which was constructed in the year 1889 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales, is the jewel of this garden.

Lalbagh takes on a festive look during India's Independence Day and Republic Day, with a captivating show of over 200 varieties of flowers. The show also features an exhibition of hybrid vegetables.

4.  Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park, Bangalore. Getty Images

Located in the heart of city, set on a 300 acre area, Cubbon Park is a great place to laze around in the lush green paradise. It has a treasure of different species of exotic plants. 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 in the park. It's a popular place for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. Bal Bhavan in the park is a great place for the kids to enjoy. An aquarium is also located in Cubbon Park, with many varieties of exotic and ornamental fish.

See Also: Your Essential Guide to Visiting Bangalore

5.  Bangalore Palace

Bangalore Palace.Walter Bibikow/Getty Images.

Built in 1887 by Chamaraja Wodeyar, Bangalore Palace is inspired by England's Windsor Castle. This beautiful palace has Tudor style architecture, with fortified towers, arches, green lawns, and elegant woodcarvings in its interiors.

• Private Half Day Tour of Bangalore's Palaces and Forts (Book Online with Viator)

6.  Tipu Sultan's Palace and Fort

Bangalore Tipu Sultan's Palace. Richard I'Anson/ Getty Images

Tipu Sultan's Palace and Fort 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.

7.  Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake at sunrise, Bangalore. Getty Images.

The beautiful Ulsoor Lake is spread over an area of 125 acres. It was constructed by Kempegowda II. Boating and swimming pool are the great attractions of the lake.

8.  Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium was founded in 1989, with an aim of spreading awareness among students and the public about astronomy. Two shows are held here daily except on Mondays. More »

9.  Crazy Waters Amusement Park

This amusement park is located amid a rocky landscape on Bannerghatta Main Road, near Meenakshi temple, and provides thrill, splash and excitement. It's open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, and until 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

10.  Other Bangalore Attractions

Apart from the above, Gandhi Bhavan exhibiting photos of Mahatma Gandhi’s life, several religious places, as well as great shopping malls, world class hospital facilities, and educational institutions attract people to this beautiful city. There are also manyattractions around the city.