Bangalore, also popularly known as “The Silicon Valley of India” is so much more than just the IT capital of India. This mega city has something to offer everyone. Bangalore is blessed with everything, from a pleasant climate to its vast cultural and historical attractions, from the great shopping malls to fine dining experiences, and cafe culture, this place has it all. Being one of the most expensive cities in India, many feel that, a fun time in Bangalore is sure to burn their pockets. But contrary to the popular belief there are many ways to explore Bangalore without spending a penny. We have compiled a list of free things to do in Bangalore that will help you experience every nook and corner of this fascinating city.
Table of Contents
12 Top Experiences In Bangalore That Will Cost Nothing
You don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun in this beautiful Garden City. Here are 12 ideas that are totally free!
Go Deep Within Oneself At The Pyramid Valley
Head straight to Pyramid Valley to give your body and mind a break from your busy schedule for free. The 28-acre campus with Mega-Pyramid is the perfect place for going deep within oneself. This huge pyramid-shaped structure in the middle of pristine nature is dotted with high-energy spots for meditation and silent retreats. It is specifically designed to experience calmness and relaxation pretty quickly. Apart from this one can also attend the numerous talks, workshops, and training that are conducted in the state-of-the-art training rooms. This meditation center near Kanakapura is regarded as one of the top things to do in Bangalore for free.
Also read: Top 6 Vineyards To Visit In Bangalore
Admire Bangalore’s Street Art
There are a bunch of super-talented artists right here in Bangalore who have been beautifying the lanes and filling them with vibrant colors. These incredible artists are from institutions like the Srishti Institute of Art and Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath and have complete knowledge of their art. Empty spaces, lifeless corners, boring lanes, and flyovers have been brought to life with their amazing artwork. Some of the favorite art spots to look out for are: Majestic Metro Station, Malleswaram, Koramangala, St. Mark’s Road, Ulsoor, Indiranagar, MG Road, Dhanvantri Road, and KR Market.
Sit Down With A Book At Atta Galatta
Pick up a book and sit down to read your favorite while munching on some freshly baked cookies here at Atta Galatta. There are over 10,000 books, in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi, Bengali, and English and most of which are for sale. But there is a section of the displayed collection that is exclusively for reading purposes. This place comes alive during the weekends with various activities like poetry, book readings, storytelling, theater, film screenings, and children’s workshops. This place also plays host to regular literature and musical events, book launches, and various workshops. Book lovers can spend an entire day for free at this cozy nook.
Also read: 11 Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore
Lend A Helping Hand At Animal Shelters
If you are an animal lover and want to do something for them, Bangalore is the right place. This city has many pet shelters that are looking for volunteers and helping hands. CUPA’s adoption center, Charlie’s Animal Rescue Centre (CARE), and KRUPA Animal Hospital and Shelter are open for pet lovers. You can either volunteer or spend some time giving love and attention to the stray animals here and do inform them in advance so your experience with the animals is smooth and they are ready for you. This is definitely one of the most wholesome ways of things to do in Bangalore for free.
Spend Quality Time Amidst Ulsoor Lake
With an area of 123 acres, the beautiful Ulsoor Lake is one of the largest lakes in Bangalore. Situated in the heart of the city this lake is close to the most happening M.G. Road in Bangalore. One can spend a few quiet moments amidst the refreshing green nature or watch different species of birds that call this destination their home. An array of activities like boating and touring the islands can also be experienced here. And then do visit the Sikh house of worship, Gurudwara which is just a few minutes away from the lake.
Also read: 10 Best Cycling Trails In Bangalore
Marvel The Fine Architecture Of Vidhana Soudha
Marvel this neo-Dravidian architecture which has a blending of both ancient and modern architectural styles. The rectangular-shaped sprawling building and its imposing surroundings are spread over 60 acres. It houses the state secretariat and legislature, hence one cannot take a tour of the building from the inside, but can be viewed from the outside for free. An exact replica of the Vidhana Soudha can also be seen just beside it (Vikas Soudha). The long flight of forty-five steps, richly carved pillars, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments, and domical finials are both massive and striking. Definitely one of the best things to do in Bangalore for free.
A Religious And Spiritual Journey In Iskcon Temple
ISKCON Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna is located in Rajajinagar. It is known to be one of the most respected tourist places because of its active involvement in social causes. The temple community conducts a wide variety of activities to help people rediscover spirituality and to create a spirit of harmony in the community. Apart from being a religious shrine, the ISKCON temple is also a cultural complex rather than just a place of worship. From cultural education classes for children to youth programs for young adults, the temple authorities conduct different activities for different groups of people.
Connect With Nature At Cubbon Park
Bangalore is also called the garden city, all credit goes to the many beautiful parks in and around Bangalore. Located in the heart of the city, this 300-acre-stretch of lush greenery houses over 6,000 trees. One of the best free things to do in Bangalore is to visit Cubbon Park on a Sunday to indulge in storytelling sessions, poetry readings, music jams, pottery, and game sessions. It also has a library, museum, tennis academy, aquarium, and a toy train that goes around the park. Cubbon Park is a perfect place to spend some peaceful time and connect with nature, all for free!
Breathe Art At Rangoli Metro Art Centre
Rangoli Art Center preserves and displays the cultural side of the city at its best. Located at the metro station on MG Road, this art center is one of the best places for music lovers, culture vultures, and art aficionados alike. Art displays at three gallery spaces, pottery classes, jam sessions, classical dance recitals, hoop circles, plays, and many other activities can be experienced here. Make sure to check out Friendship Point too with your friends. This is a perfect fun place for free things to do in Bangalore for youngsters.
Chill Out At Some Of The Best Malls
The city’s cosmopolitan culture and trendy lifestyle have contributed to a number of shopping malls in Bangalore. Be it food, shopping/window shopping, entertainment, or relaxation, the Mall is the best place to satisfy all your needs under one roof. If you don’t intend to shop, spend some relaxing time with friends and family at some of the best malls in the city. Orion Mall, Phoenix City, UB City, Inorbit Mall, Meenakshi Mall, and Mantri Mall are a few of the top malls in Bangalore. A visit to these malls is one of the top fun things to do in Bangalore with friends or family or even alone.
Also read: Our List Of 10 Relaxing Spas In Bangalore
Enjoy Some Free Drinks At Ladies’ Night Special
Some noteworthy pubs like Cirrus, Loveshack, I bar, Big Pitcher, Ice Bar, and Pebble have one night a week dedicated to the ladies. The ‘Pub Capital of India’ allows ladies to hop on to the jazzy clubs and enjoy a free drink on specific days of the week. If you are a lady and love the nightlife, this is the best opportunity to grab your free drink.
Explore The Colorful Markets
The city is loaded with colorful markets that speak of the rich culture and tradition of Bangalore. The Gandhi Bazaar, City Market, Kitsch Mandi, and Sunday Soul Sante are some of the famous markets here. Immerse yourself in the local culture and explore these markets without spending a penny. Take a stroll around these busy markets like a local. Mingle with people from all walks of life and snap some Instagram-worthy shots, all for free!
The way this hi-tech city has wonderfully evolved over the years, the list of free things to do in Bangalore just keeps growing. Some of the favorite freebies in town listed above are good enough to kick-start your exploration of this metropolitan city in an inexpensive and offbeat way. If you come across other fun activities in Bangalore for free, do share them in the comment section below.
Also read: 30 Road Trips From Bangalore You Have To Check Out
Bangalore is famous for its gardens, religious sites, nightlife, and shopping hot spots.
Nandi Hills, around 62 km from Bangalore is easily reachable from Bangalore.
Driving within the city, enjoying live gigs, or tasting Bangalore’s street food is the best way to spend an evening in Bangalore.
The Department of Horticulture has imposed a ban on professional photography and videography in Lalbagh and Cubbon Park.
Cycling, shopping, trekking, camping, city tour, and food tour are a few of the many free things to do in Bangalore when free.
