Bangalore

 

The Bull Temple, located in Basavanagudi, is a typical Dravidian style temple, and is famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops, and that the offering was effective with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude.

The Maha Bodhi Society Temple, see 'Learn' section is a relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at Bodh Gaya. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English.

ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple

Temple built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote vedic culture and spiritual learning, and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama Rath Yatra is attended by thousands.

parks

Cubbon Park

(http://www.numberkyahai.c...) A 121 ha 300 acre green lung in the center of the city. Sitting in the shade of one its many magnificent trees and watching towering bamboo sway in the breeze, it is hard to imagine that you are in the heart of a metropolis of over 8.8 million people and one of the world's most dynamic and fastest growing cities. Avoid the secluded areas. There is also a toy train offering children's rides.

The Lal Bagh. A meticulously cared for garden located on the southern part of the city. Throughout its 97 ha 240 acre, there are lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and stone formations that date back over 3.0 billion years. Described as the most romantic garden in India, it was laid during the 18th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. There is a small entrance fee after 9AM. A flower show is held during the week preceding Indian Independence day August 15 and Republic day January 26 in the Glass House. This flower show features exquisite flowers and patterns designed by the experienced gardeners of Lalbagh. Beware the tour guides, especially if you come in with a taxi driver. Always negotiate the tour price for the party at the outset. Otherwise, you will be charged a hefty fee at the tour's conclusion. Tour guides are not necessary.

Bannerghatta National Park is on the southern fringe of the city. This 100 sq km national park consists mostly of dense forest and scrub land, and is home to wild animals like bison, leopard, wild boar as well as being an important corridor for elephants migrating between the eastern and western ghats. Other attractions here are a crocodile farm, serpentarium and a newly added butterfly park. In addition, a portion of the park is used as a sanctuary for wild rescued animals.

Lumbini Gardens

A new attraction in Bangalore. It is located near hebbal flyover and is on the lake front oF Nagvara lake. It has been recently developed with a grant of Rs 100 million. Major attractions of the park include boat rides, wave pool and children's garden.

Bugle Rock Park

Named so because during the monarchy, a bugle call was sounded from the watch tower to alert soldiers about impending danger. Adjacent to the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi, this park has been recently renovated and is home to the watch tower that marked the southern limits of the city during the times of Kempegowda. The park is relatively small, well maintained and is a favourite location for couples from the nearby educational institutions.

Wonder La Amusement park

(http://www.wonderla.com/) A new attraction in Bangalore. It is India's biggest amusement and water park which belongs to V-Guard firm. This park boasts of several ridesboth ground & water. This is one of the best spots to visit in Bangalore. It is in the outskirts of the city off Mysore Road. This Park is very expensive so you should have enough money to enjoy. The entry fee is only Rs 450 per head. If two people are going to Wonderla bring at least Rs 1,000. Overall, very clean bathrooms and the water, excellent rides, trained operators for the rides, well maintained equipment, decent food in restaurants, fun water rides, enjoy the rain dance and fire crackers/laser lights in evening. Enough rides to keep you busy all the day; however, there were no roller coasters. The park does not allow outside food.

The Innovative Film City (IFC)

The Innovative Film City IFC (http://www.khojbin.com/In...) located on the Bangalore - Mysore highway at Bidadi. Built on an area of around 50 acres it is supposed to be the biggest entertainment centre, theme park and much more. The film city has several small attractions such as world famous Ripley's Believe it or not museum, Louis Tussad wax museum, Funplex, Aqua Kingdom artificial beach, Dinosaur world, cartoon city. It is also has a go-carting zone, a mini golf course, a 4D amphitheater, fossil museum. The entry fee to the park is Rs 50. There is a separate fee for each of the attractions.

Freedom Park