Free things to do in Bangalore

ISKCON Temple Bangalore, completed in 1997, stands out with its fusion of modern glass structures and traditional South Indian temple design. Notable are the intricately carved wooden doors and a 56-foot gold-plated flagpost.

Worth knowing. Visit on weekdays to avoid long queues and experience the evening aarti.

Monday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 – 8:20 PM | Tuesday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 – 8:20 PM | Wednesday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 – 8:20 PM | Thursday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 – 8:20 PM | Friday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 – 8:20 PM | Saturday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 8:30 PM | Sunday: 4:15 – 5:15 AM, 7:15 AM – 8:30 PM

Phoenix Marketcity in Bangalore is one of the largest shopping destinations, spanning over a million square feet. With 270 stores, including Zara and H&M, it offers an expansive retail experience. The mall attracts shoppers seeking a mix of high-end brands and extensive food options, making it a hub for both retail therapy and culinary exploration.

Worth knowing. The eastern parking entrance is usually less crowded on weekends.

Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Bangalore's Orion Mall, opened in 2012, sprawls over 8.2 acres near Brigade Gateway, offering a diverse shopping experience with over 80 international and local brands. It hosts a PVR multiplex and an expansive food court.

Worth knowing. Check out the rooftop terrace at Orion Mall for a chill spot to relax and enjoy the view of the city.

Mon-Sat 10:00-20:00, Sun 10:00-18:00

Opened in 1870, Cubbon Park covers over 300 acres within Bangalore and is home to government buildings like the Karnataka High Court. The park’s bamboo groves become specially active around sunrise, attracting a keen crowd of joggers. Art enthusiasts often gather near the State Library, a red Gothic-style structure that stands out vividly in the landscape.

Worth knowing. Visit early to catch classical musicians practicing in the park's quieter corners.

Daily 6:00–18:00

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Swamy Temple, built in 1969, features a towering 30-foot Hanuman statue amidst intricately carved shrines, situated above the city offering panoramic Bangalore views.

Worth knowing. Arrive early to enjoy the temple’s tranquility before the crowds gather for the morning aarti.

Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM | Sunday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM

Chitra Kala Parishath, founded in 1960, is a cultural institution in Bangalore known for its dynamic art exhibitions and preservation of Indian art.

Worth knowing. Check out the basement gallery for rotating exhibits by emerging artists, often overlooked by mainstream visitors.

Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00

Jaya Prakash Narayana Park, covering 85 acres, is a haven for plant enthusiasts with its diverse flora, located in Bangalore's Mathikere. The park features well-kept walking paths and a dedicated butterfly park that houses numerous native species.

Worth knowing. The open gym area near the southern gate is less busy early in the morning.

Monday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Thursday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Sunday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Bagmane Tech Park is a sprawling campus in Bangalore that blends modern architecture with eco-friendly green spaces, creating a productive and sustainable work environment.

Worth knowing. Walk along the lake in the evening for a relaxed and scenic break from the office.

Mon-Fri 9:00-17:00

Bengaluru Fort, originally constructed from mud by Kempe Gowda I in 1537, now features remnants like the Delhi Gate made from granite. The fort’s remnants tell stories of wars and empires, echoing the Mysorean military strategies of the 18th century.

Worth knowing. Notice the carved floral motifs on the Delhi Gate — they reflect the art style of Tipu Sultan’s era.

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

The Bull Temple, built in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda, is dedicated to Nandi, the bull vehicle of Shiva, and features a massive granite statue.

Worth knowing. Pro tip: Check out the smaller side chapels inside the Bull Temple for some hidden gems and a quieter vibe.

Daily 09:00–17:00