11 Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

Bengaluru (or Bangalore) is one of India’s most thriving metropolitan cities. Its vibrant local culture and flourishing IT industry draw tourists, students, and professionals from across the country and the world. Bangalore has many titles, known both as the ‘Silicon Valley of India,’ and as the ‘Garden City,’ the city has much to offer. While it may be known for its pubs and its many restaurants, there are many major tourist hotspots in and within a few km from Bangalore. Cubbon Park, Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh, MG Road, State protected monuments and Bull Temple are all well-known attractions.

Many other places near Bangalore like Nandi Hills and Horseley Hills are a short drive away for day or weekend trips. However, there are plenty of other lesser-known and unique places to visit in Bangalore well worth exploring. Here is a list of 11 of the most unusual places to visit in Bangalore and offbeat things to do in Bangalore:

Offbeat And Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

Finding offbeat and unique places in Bangalore is vast, so we narrowed it down to the best of the unique places to visit in Bangalore to explore and experience.

1. Devanahalli Fort: 500 Years Of History

With a history of 500 years, Devanahalli Fort is among some of the best forts of Bangalore. While most people know about Bangalore Fort, very few make the trip outside Bangalore to visit the spectacular Devanahalli Fort. Unlike Bangalore Fort, most of it still remains and is one of the top historical places near Bangalore. It was originally built in 1501 by the Saluva Dynasty but was taken over by Hyder Ali. The fort was also where his famous son, Tipu Sultan was born. Devanahalli Fort, covering a vast area of 20 acres, is situated about 37 kms from Bangalore. The fort’s architecture is the highlight here which takes you through one of the most unique experiences in Bangalore.

Location: Near Bangalore – Hyderabad Highway, Karnataka 562110

How To Reach: You can either hire a cab or drive your own vehicle on NH7. This place is around 35 kms from Kempegowda International Airport. You can also get into a bus from KempeGowda Bus station that will take you to the fort.

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Open 24/7

Also Read: 15 Most Stunning And Majestic Forts In India

2. Nrityagram: An Amalgamation Of Culture And Nature

One of the interesting and hidden places to visit in Bangalore is Nrityagram which is situated near Hesaraghatta Lake, about 30 kms from Bangalore. Opened by Odissi dancer Protima Gauri in 1990, this modern Gurukul is more of a community than a school. The simple yet magnificent place is a perfect place to escape the city and immerse yourself in both culture and nature. Various classical forms like Odissi, Mohiniattam, Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Manipuri classes are taught here. This spiritual and beautiful world is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Bangalore. It boasts of both beautifully maintained gardens, as well as temples with rustic structure.

Location: Hesaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560088

How To Reach: Bus (253, 253B, 253C, 253H, 407) or Metro

Entry Fee: ₹100 per person. For senior citizens and children under 12, the entry is free.

Timings: Friday to Sunday from 10:00am to 2:00pm

3. Big Banyan Tree: Ancient And Beautiful

Known locally as the Dodda Alada Mara, this 400-year-old tree is located in the outskirts in the village of Kethohalli, about 30-40 kms from Bangalore city. It is a single tree that has several thousand aerial roots hanging down from an amalgamation of small and large trees covering over 250 meters. Among the unique places to visit near Bangalore, explore the labyrinths formed by the enormous roots, filled with pathways and brightly painted seats. Its home to a variety of bird species and many monkeys too. The Big Banyan Tree is the largest banyan tree in the State and the fourth largest Banyan Tree in the Country. This famous tourist attraction in Bangalore is also one of the ideal places for a picnic.

Location: W95W+Q7V, Tavarekere, Dodda Aladmara Rd, Uttarahalli Hobli, Bengaluru-562130

How To Reach: You can either hire a private taxi/cab or drive down in your own vehicle on Bangalore – Mysore highway.

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: All days of the week from 8:00am to 5:30pm

4. Jakkur Aerodrome: Adventures In The Sky

One of the best places near Bangalore for adventure enthusiasts, the Jakkur Aerodrome is located 16 km from Bangalore city center and offers a wide range of exciting and engaging activities. This is one of the unique places to visit in Bangalore, that allows you to take a ride in an aircraft to watch the city sparkling from below you, or go micro light flying over the city. Jakkur Aerodrome also offers one day packages that includes concepts like the theory of flying, rules and regulations in the air, flight communication and more. Flying for the public is open from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM on Saturday and Sunday. One needs to book the experience in advance as the experience is limited to only one person at a time. Jakkur Aerodrome is one of the places where adventure junkies can also go parasailing, and much more. 

Location: Bellary Rd, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064

How To Reach: Buses G-9A, KIA-6W, KIA-8A, KIA-9 will take you directly to the flying station.

Flying Charges: ₹3000 to 5000 depending on the duration of the flight.

Timings: Open to the public on weekends from 6:30am to 9:30am

Also Read: Why Aero Show Bangalore Should Be Part Of Your Bucket List

5. Gardi Ustad Pehlwan Kale Bhai: Wrestling Pit-cum-Restaurant

You can wrestle your way into this century-old wrestling pit and load up on some biryani and tasty shami kebab. This 110-year-old akhara (wrestling pit) smack in the middle of Shivajinagar is one of the few remaining spaces where kushti (traditional Persian wrestling) is practiced in the city. However, in the afternoons, this gardi turns into a restaurant, serving delicious biryani and kebabs that you can gorge on. Does’nt this sound like one of the most unique places to visit in Bangalore. The seating arrangement here is very basic but the smoky aroma of wood-fire cooked biryani makes up for it. The fully functional wrestling pits converted into seating areas with blankets add to the charm of the place. Undoubtedly one of a kind unique experiences in Bangalore that one shouldn’t miss out on.

Location: Swamy Shivanandapuram, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru – 560051

How To Reach: Public and Private Transportation options available

Meal Charges: ₹200–400

Timings: 12:30pm to 4:30pm

6. Mayo Hall: An Ornate Government Building

Amidst the high-rises and modern buildings of Brigade Road, sits the red colored colonial Mayo Hall. The building was originally white in color but was converted to a Pompeian Red to sink in with the High Court of Karnataka. It was built in the 1800s to honor the memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This relic of a bygone era, one of the best places to visit in Bangalore, staunchly escaped the rush to modernity that surrounds it. Full of beautiful ornate furniture, chandeliers, stone arches, and Tuscan columns, it houses both government offices and the Kempegowda Museum. The unique architecture of this building has also inspired the construction of many other buildings like Raj Bhavan, Vidhana Soudha and Puttanchetty Town Hall.

Location: MG Road, FM Cariappa Colony, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru – 560001

How To Reach: Bus, Metro & all private transportation

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Monday to Saturday 9:00am to 6:30pm, Sundays Closed

7. Blossom Book House: For All The Bibliophiles

One of the most beloved bookstores in Bangalore, Blossom may not be the most unusual destination on this list. Opened in 2001 and located on Church Street, Blossom is the largest second-hand bookstore in India and is a must for any book-lover. One of the most visited places by avid readers, you can easily get lost in the stacks and stacks of books piled in every nook and cranny of the store. From history to fiction, cookbooks to gardening, you will find books on any subject to suit your interest. This place is thriving and recently expanded to a second location nearby.

Location: Prestige Commercial Complex, Church St, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru – 560001

How To Reach: Bus, Metro & all private transportations

Timings: 10:30am to 10:00pm all days of the week.

8. Malleswaram And Basavanagudi: The Real “Malgudi”

Whether you read the short stories or watched the TV series, you might be familiar with RK Narayan’s ‘Malgudi Days’. If you are interested in the writer and the book then this is the place to be. While the town may be fictional, Narayan has said that the name is a combination of two of his favorite areas in Bangalore — Malleswaram, and Basavanagudi. These neighborhoods still retain much of their old-world charm, with tree-lined streets and gorgeous traditional heritage homes. If you are looking for some mouth-watering masala dosas, then CTR in Malleswaram is the place to be. For soft idlis and crispy vadas head towards veena stores. Basavanagudi is home to numerous ancient temples of which the most famous of them all is the Bull temple. This place is always buzzing with activities due to the busy marketplaces, abundant elite institutions and array of unique eateries.

9. Freedom Park: A Park With A Unique Theme

Located in what was once Bangalore’s central jail, Freedom Park is said to have been inspired by Hyde Park in London. This interesting location in Bangalore symbolizes India’s freedom and is a stage for public meetings. Built in 1866, this was originally a prison used to keep people who opposed or protested against British rule. However when the number of prisoners outnumbered its capacity the prisoners were relocated. Today only the surroundings have changed, the many components of the original Jail are still kept intact. The cell yard with a high walled structure still bears several memories of the past. It also has the remains of the barracks and a watchtower, along with a Jail Museum. Various other attractions such as Sculpture court, People Courtyard, Water Fountain, and Book Museum can be seen here. Without a doubt this is one of the offbeat places in Bangalore to visit.

Location: Seshadri Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Bengaluru – 560009

How To Reach: Bus, Metro & all private transportations

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 5:00am to 8:30am and 4:00pm to 8:00pm on all days

Also read: Have You Visited These 11 Famous Parks In Bangalore?

10. Pyramid Valley: For Some Peace

If you are looking for an unwinding experience then Pyramid valley is one of the best places to visit. Located just outside Bangalore, in Kebbedoddi, this international meditation center houses the world’s largest meditational pyramid. The campus is spread over 28 acres and an energy spot for meditation. The Maitreya-Buddha Pyramid is 102 feet tall and can house over 5000 people at a time. The center also conducts classes and seminars on Meditation, Spirituality. They have a library with a good collection of Spiritual books that help in mental relaxation. Nestled in a lush green valley, it also has streams and hills that make it an ideal place to relax and meditate. It is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in Bangalore for a tranquil experience. 

Location: Kebbedoddi Village, Harohalli Hobli, Bengaluru – 562112

How To Reach: Bus: KBS-5H, MKT-5H; Metro, KSRTC Buses & all private transportations

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Book Now: Mysore tour with Somnatahpur and Pyramid valley from Bangalore here.

11. Turahalli Forest: A Forest Within The City

The Turahalli Forest Area is the last surviving forest in Bangalore city. Located off the Kanakapura Road, near Banashankari, this area is full of narrow trails, small hillocks, and dense vegetation. Vehicles have been banned inside this reserve forest, but it is a popular spot for cyclists. So, the best way to enjoy Turahalli forest is to drive up to the entrance. Park your vehicle here and take a walk into the forest to enjoy the flora and fauna this place has to offer. If you want to plan a day trip, the place also offers numerous activities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hiking and rock-climbing. It is one of the best and most unique places to visit in Bangalore that provides a sense of peace and tranquility.

Location: VGMF+FXQ, Thurahalli, Bengaluru – 560062

How To Reach: Bus: 224-E & all private transportations

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 24/7

Also read: 10 Best Cycling Trails In Bangalore

Bonus Places: Unexplored Places Around Bangalore

1. Gudibanda: A Majestic Fortress

Gudibanda is situated in the Chikkaballapur district and located 92 kilometers away from Bangalore. The Gudibanda fort has a legacy of 400 years and was built by Byre Gowdas in the 17th century. The fort also offers trekking opportunities and stunning scenery as it is sculpted out of a hill. Situated on a hill, the Gudibanda Fort also has a lake and a shrine of Lord Shiva. The fort also has beautiful gateways, and views. The trek to the summit takes about an hour and a low difficulty level. One of the unique features of the fort is the interconnected pathways across the seven levels that the soldiers used as escape routes. 

It is also believed that Gudibanda is one of the 108 Jyotirlingas, so it is a major religious attraction. Jyotirlinga is a representation of Hindu God Shiva. You can further explore the nearby villages called Chinnahalli, Nicchanabandahalli, and Bramharahalli. It is perfect for a one-day trip and can be reached by car with a 2.5 hours’ drive.

2. Gandikota Fort: Indian Grand Canyon

Gandikota Fort, another offbeat place to visit is located 280 kilometers from Bangalore and is called the Indian Grand Canyon. Situated next to the Penna River, the fort was built in the 13th century. The fort was home to powerful kingdoms like Chalukyas, Pemmasani Nayakas, the Khiljis, Vijayanagara, Kakatiyas, and Qutub Shahis dynasties. It also has a lake called the Rayalacheruvu Lake which was established by King Sri Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara dynasty. The fort is also situated next to a spectacular gorge that runs through the Erramala Hills in Andhra Pradesh. When you visit Gandikota, make sure to catch the beautiful sunrise and sunsets. Other tourist attractions near Gandikota include Madhavaraya Swamy, Raghunatha Swamy temples and Jamia Masjid. A good spot for adventure enthusiasts to try rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling. 

3. Galibore: Fishing And Nature Camp

Galibore fishing and nature camp lies deep in the deciduous forests on the banks of the River Cauvery. If you are looking for an escape from the busy city life, this place is a perfect weekend retreat for nature lovers and trekkers. It is named after the windy hillock called Galibore that stands behind it. Once here, you will feel like away from civilization as the only sound you can hear is the sound of flowing water and birds. Merely a 2-hour drive from Bangalore will get you to this wonderful tourist spot. Look out for activities like fishing, a spinning coracle ride in the calmer waters of Cauvery, nature trek with experienced guides and spotting the many species of birds and animals. To experience a true sense of escape this is one of the top unique places to visit in Bangalore.

4. Antaragange: Kashi Of The South

Antaragange is a mountain situated in the Shathashrunga mountain range which is in the south of Bangalore. In Kannada language the word Antharagange translates to ‘ganges from deep’. There is a beautiful Sri Kashi Vishweshwara temple in this magnificent place amidst the mountain ranges and greenery. It is considered a sacred spot as the temple is sanctified with the water flowing from the hills, hence called the Kashi of the South. Exploring the seven prominent villages in the vicinity, Trekking and hiking are activities to look out for while here.

5. Hesaraghatta Lake: Man-Made Lake

The increasing water demands of the city lead to the creation of this man-made freshwater lake across Arkavathy River in the year of 1894. Hesaraghatta Lake is a popular getaway from the city to spend some refreshing moments with nature. Just 18 km from Bengaluru, this place has a large number of avifauna species that migrate to the place. Paddy Field pipit, Kingfisher, Pond Heron, Magpie Robin, Black Drongo, Brahminy Kite, Cormorants, Pale Billed, Flowerpecker, Egret and Mayna are some of the common birds that you can spot here. With a large number of tourists and locals visiting Hesaraghatta Lake, now it’s a perfect picnic spot and offbeat place in Bangalore.

6. Ramanagara: Silk City

This is where the most popular Bollywood film “Sholay” was shot. It is also known as “Silk City’’ as Ramanagara is one of the biggest silk markets in India. Raw material for the popular Mysore silk sarees come from here. Apart from silk, this place is also known for its Channapatna toys and sericulture. This popular weekend getaway from Bengaluru offers many adventure sports and team building activities like, trekking, hiking and mountain climbing.

7. Avalabetta: Hanging Cliff

Just about 100 km drive from Bangalore will take you to this small mountain range in the middle of farmlands. The main highlight here is the ‘hanging cliff’, an extended platform which is essentially a part of the cliff projecting outwards. As the famous Nandi hills are very crowded, early morning bikers are heading to this spot to catch the early morning sunrise. Morning sights/sounds and the sunrise that unfurls from between the mountains are a sight to behold. An ancient Laxmi Narashima Temple at the peak is a must visit. Learn more of the historical and mythological significance of the place from the priest here. This is one of the hidden places in Bangalore that’s worth a visit.

8. Kanakapura: Art Of Living Centre

Contrast to the madness of Bangalore city is the Art of Living ashram in Kanakapura which is just 21 km away. This private institute founded by Sri Sri Ravishankar is not just a place which conducts spiritual and Yoga programs but also a place which runs social welfare programs all over the world. You will be surprised to know that it has already touched the lives of over 450 million people from all parts of the world. With meditation, yoga, ayurveda and spiritual practice, this ashram gives one a chance to go deeper with oneself. A few days here at the ashram gives one the strength to face the unexpected. True to its name, in this ashram everything happens quite naturally and effortlessly. It’s truly one of the best places in Bangalore to visit if you are looking for some peace and tranquility.

Unique Things To Do In Bangalore

Listed below are some unique experiences in Bangalore which will make you plan a trip soon.

• Visit Grover’s Vineyard in Ramanagara to catch the process of wine making.
• Have a day full of fun and excitement at Wonderla Amusement Park.
• Climb Asia’s largest monolith at Savandurga for an adrenaline rush.
• Relax and heal at Salt worlds natural and drugless therapies such as salt therapy and floatation therapy.
• Sign up for a guided tour at this interactive animal-centric Prani – the pet sanctuary.
• Enjoy a safari at Bannerghatta National park while spotting some lions and tigers.
• Try your hand at go-karting in Bangalore at some of the challenging tracks.
• Use your brain to solve the puzzles and challenges to come out of the Escape room.

Also read: 30 Excellent Options For A Road Trip From Bangalore

Many of these unique places to visit in Bangalore city will not fail to surprise you. Be it popular places like Nandi Hills that are on the outskirts of Bangalore or the many places to visit within the city of Bangalore, they are sure to grab your attention completely. Be sure to tell us if you know of more such interesting places in Bangalore, so that one can see Bangalore differently.

Some FAQs About Bangalore And Its Unique Places