Everyone told us what not to miss in Bangalore, and we missed most of it. Instead, in “Namma Bengaluru” we followed our heart… and our stomach. We were invited to Bangalore as part of the media to cover the most happening Karnataka Travel Expo (KITE), 2025. We also kept an extra day before our further journey to see a bit of Bangalore.

Given the limited time, we had to select some things to do in Bangalore in a day or two days. Based on our experience, here is a quick guide to Bangalore. If you are visiting Bangalore or stopping over in Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, before embarking on your further journey, this list of must-visit places in Bangalore should come in handy.

Day 1 in Bangalore

Breakfast in Bangalore

We started with a hot South Indian breakfast and strong filter coffee! KITE 2025 involved a lot of fancy eating, and we wanted something simple this morning. No fancy café, just a neighbourhood eatery. It was 7 am, and this was the only food place that was open. No wonder it was swarming with people. Surprisingly, our vadas, upma, and the coffee were all memorably tasty, and we realised – Bangalore wakes up late!

Nandi Temple, Basavanagudi

We headed straight to the iconic Nandi Temple. Built in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bengaluru, this temple houses one of the world’s largest monolithic Nandi statues, carved from a single granite rock and measuring approximately 15 feet tall and 20 feet long. The temple’s architecture reflects the Vijayanagara style, with a modest shrine and a porch adorned with Shaivite motifs. Behind the Nandi statue was a little shrine with a Shiva Linga. We had to visit this temple since rarely do we find such a historic shrine in the heart of a busy city.

It was indeed surprising that the main subject of worship here was the Nandi Bull, a devotee and the vehicle of Shiva, while the chief guy, Shiva himself, was relegated to a symbolic presence. Perhaps the imposing statue of the Nandi Bull reiterated the Hindu philosophy that the follower or the Bhakt is as reverential as the God or the Bhagawan.

Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore

Vidhana Soudha is a majestic landmark in Bangalore that stunned us with its majesticity. Standing tall with its grand granite structure, it embodies the spirit of Karnataka’s governance. Built between 1951 and 1956, it showcases the Neo-Dravidian architectural style, blending traditional and modern elements.

The imposing flight of 45 steps leads to the entrance, where the inscription “Government Work is God’s Work” greets visitors. Though public access is limited, we admired its intricate carvings and the central dome crowned with the national emblem. Visiting Vidhana Soudha offered us a glimpse into the state’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

Cubbon Park, Bangalore

Right across the road, Cubbon Park welcomed us with a golden sunset and that breezy Bangalore feel.

Established in 1870 by Major General Richard Sankey, this verdant area spans approximately 197 acres and is officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park. Historical landmarks like the red Attara Kacheri (High Court) and the State Central Library are visible from here. As we meandered through its tree-lined avenues, we felt that the park was like lungs to the metropolis. The well-maintained pathways were perfect for leisurely strolls, while families enjoyed picnics on the grassy lawns. The serenity here was sheer joy.

Cauvery Emporium, Bangalore

While exploring Bangalore, we found Cauvery Emporium on M.G. Road to be a delightful treasure trove of Karnataka’s rich handicraft heritage. This government-run emporium showcases exquisite sandalwood carvings, intricate rosewood inlay work, vibrant silk sarees, and traditional metal crafts. The craftsmanship of local artisans is evident in every piece, reflecting centuries-old traditions.

Browsing through the emporium, we appreciated the authenticity and quality of the items, making it an ideal spot for souvenirs and gifts. We bought sandalwood shaving garlands, wood bangles, and a brass lamp to carry back home, too. Our visit to Cauvery Emporium offered a concise view into Karnataka’s artistic legacy.

Day 2 in Bangalore

ISKCON Temple, Bangalore

The next morning started with a visit to the ISKCON temple, divine vibes, and that peaceful energy.

Our visit to the ISKCON Temple in Bangalore was a serene and uplifting experience. Situated atop Hare Krishna Hill in Rajajinagar, this temple stands as one of the largest ISKCON temples globally. The architecture beautifully blends traditional Dravidian styles with modern design elements, creating a tranquil ambiance.

 

As we entered, the melodious chants of “Hare Krishna” enveloped us, fostering a sense of peace. The temple complex houses six shrines, each dedicated to different deities, including Sri Radha Krishnachandra and Sri Krishna Balarama. Our time at the ISKCON Temple left us with a profound sense of calm that fortified us during the long day ahead.

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House, Bangalore

Our visit to the Indian Coffee House on Church Street in Bangalore was a delightful step back in time. In fact, we are big fans of Coffee House and have visited their cafes in various cities of India. This historic café, part of a worker-run cooperative since 1957, exudes old-world charm with its simple décor and uniformed staff.

We savoured their classic egg sandwiches, which were both hearty and flavourful. The hot coffee was robust and aromatic, while the cold coffee provided a refreshing contrast. The unpretentious ambiance, coupled with the café’s rich history, made our experience memorable. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal and soak in a piece of Bangalore’s cultural heritage.

Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore

Then came the wild side-Bannerghatta National Park. We actually saw leopards, elephants… even lions!

Our day at Bannerghatta National Park was a refreshing escape into nature. Located about 22 km south of Bangalore, this expansive park offers a unique blend of wildlife and greenery. We embarked on the Grand Safari, where we observed tigers, lions, and bears in their natural habitats. The Butterfly Park, India’s first, was a highlight, showcasing a variety of butterfly species amidst lush gardens.

Rangoli Gardens, Bangalore

Rangoli Gardens in Jakkur offered us a delightful journey into Karnataka’s rural heritage. This model village, nestled within the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Energy and Development, showcases over 1,000 life-size exhibits depicting traditional village life, from bustling markets to serene household scenes.

As we wandered through the meticulously crafted sculptures, we felt transported to a bygone era. The park also features eco-parks and themed gardens, providing a serene backdrop for our picnic. We relished our snacks, complemented by hot and cold coffee, amidst the tranquil surroundings. Rangoli Gardens is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with entry fees ranging from ₹150 to ₹200 for adults, depending on the day. Our visit was both educational and rejuvenating, offering a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.

K C Das in Bangalore

True to his roots, Bedabrata could not resist the pull of K.C. Das on St. Marks Road, which was a delightful immersion into Bengali flavours. We began with crisp, golden luchis paired with chickpea or chholar daal that warmed our hearts. The highlight was the koraishutir kochuri-flaky kachoris stuffed with seasoned green peas, that was served with spicy aloor dum. This offered a perfect blend of sweetness and spice.

To conclude, we savoured their renowned roshogollas, soft and syrupy, living up to their legendary status. Bengal in Bangalore, the meal was both comforting and memorable, and we saw the place swarming with home-bound patrons stopping for a snack or buying sweets. The nostalgic ambiance and authentic tastes made our evening truly special.

Bangalore – the Silicon Valley of India

Bangalore, you gave us so much in just two days. You are a heady mix of the ancient and the modern. Women walking barefoot wearing the bright orange Kanakambharam flowers in their hair co-exist peacefully with the fast-paced IT scientist here. In this land of the old and the new, we know we missed a lot of things, but we made memories.

Next time, we’re coming to Bangalore with more time and an empty stomach!

Note: This post is in collaboration with Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025.