Bangalore has been a rapidly developing metropolis over the past decade and the center of it all is Northern Bangalore. The city has been bringing in large tech companies and other firms that have contributed to the growth of the city in many areas. In return, the large number of people have needed somewhere to settle down and North Bangalore has become this residential hub. Here, we take a look at the top things to do and see in the neighborhood.
Inaugurated in 1986 and spread over 65 acres, the Art of Living International Center is nestled on the quaint Panchagiri hills, the campus is an outlet for tourists to revitalize and rejuvenate while admiring the abundance of vibrant foliage gracing the long, winding footpaths, the serene lake and the exquisite Vishalakshi Mantap, a hall dedicated to medication. The replete gardens are filled with extraordinary wildlife such as majestic elephants and peacocks while the interiors of the building host a vast array of courses covering yoga, astrology, music and Sanskrit enabling you to broaden your intellectual mind. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
As India’s most acclaimed amusement parks, Wonderla will let you let your hair down as you take a ride on one of 59 exhilarating rides that will leave you dazed yet thrilled and wanting more. The ideal place for the entire family, get drenched as you slide down the grand water tunnels and take a refreshing dip in the cerulean pools to unwind. Wonderla adopts an ethos that advocates an atmosphere brimming with mischief, fun and adventure. In between these exciting endeavors, take a break and savor a delightful pick-me-up at the restaurants on campus. The Wonderla Amusement Park is your best bet if you desire an invigorating, recreational session. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
If Bangalore is known for anything, it is an abundance of shopping malls! With such a big city, it is only fitting that there are malls in every district. Located in Malleshwaram, Mantri Mall is one of the largest in not only the city but the country. Spanning over five floors, you can only imagine how many stores, restaurants, and other finds there are throughout the complex!
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Sohum Spa
Spa
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Enter a world of ultimate solace when you visit the Sohum Spa which prides itself on delivering the best service and treatments possible to put you at ease and alleviate your stress. Offering a beneficial aromatherapy session, together with skin refinements and calming face therapy, leave your worries outside in the real world and center your mind the moment you step into your plush white robe, the only unifom you’ll need to catch a cathartic moment at Sohum. The spa will pamper you and give your body the tender loving care it deserves. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Get Lost in the stars at Jawarhal Nehru Plantetarium
Historical Landmark
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Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a unique find in such a busy city. If you are interested in all things extraterrestrial then this is the perfect place to spend a whole day. The Bangalore Association of Science Education established this institute to teach the public about space and all the wonders it encompasses. In short, this one’s a great family or friends activity!
Kavade
In a world dominated by technology, classic and traditional board games that our ancestors played have now become a thing of the past. Kavade strives to promote a multitude of Indian toys and games that have been ingrained in the local culture. Bring your children to this niche toy hive and make sure they don’t lose touch with the finer aspects of life that are now ignored. A lively, exploratory space is also attached to this establishment. Known as the ‘Attic,’ it expands over the picturesque terrace and provides a space to participate in workshops and book readings. Visit Kavade for a beneficial bonding experience that will stay with you long after you leave. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Study art at The National Gallery of Modern Art
Historical Landmark
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The National Gallery of Modern Art does well to encapsulate the art and cultural trends of the Karnataka region as a whole. The royal family of Mysore originally owned this museum and then it was passed on to the government. It has been renovated since then and definitely worth the look, all for its sprawling collection of pieces and exhibits.
Splash around at Halasuru Lake
Historical Landmark
One of the last standing lakes in the city is Halasuru Lake, also known as Ulsoor. Covering an astonishing 124 acres, this natural sight provides a lot of recreation for city-goers. Whether it is boating, swimming, or having a picnic, there are plenty of activities for visitors to partake in on its waters.
This aviation museum is the first of its kind in India and was established in 2001 in order to document the development of airplanes from their humble beginnings in 1940. The Heritage Center and Aerospace Museum is spread over 4 acres of green land and divides into two major halls, one displaying the photographs (2-dimensional methods of charting the growth of aviation), while the second hall is home to motorized models of aero engines, of which several have actually been used by big name brands such as Jaguar and Garret. An educational and entertaining experience, the aerospace museum is one to visit. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Unwind at Sohum Spa Movenpick
Historical Landmark
There’s no better feeling than relieving stress and unwinding in a heavenly spa and Sohum Spa Movenpick provides exactly what you need after a rough week exploring Bangalore! With many facilities and services, including but not limited to, massages and saunas, there is much to do and see at Sohum. It focuses on wellness therapies that have been adopted from various parts of the world and tailors for individual treatments and packages.
ISKCON is a campus-like ground that focuses on the nurturing the Hindu culture. With many temples, small and large, there is much to see and visit within the area. Even if you are not a devout Hindu, it is still worth a look for the ornate architecture and rich culture present throughout.
What’s better than kicking back with a cup of coffee with friends? Café Coffee Day provides customers with that exact opportunity. It is a large chain that exists throughout the country, although has ridden particularly high in Bangalore. The great customer service and good quality drinks provide a relaxing mix for just catching up and chatting.
Bluefoot Private Cultural Tour
Embark on a journey around one of the most intriguing cities of India with your equally inquisitive friends and family. The culture ambassadors who lead the tours excel at educating you about the many hidden jewels of Bangalore. As a whole day affair, you can tuck into breakfast at a snake temple, look forward to a historical ride through the ancient streets of the town and converse with a local Indian family. A spiritual visit to the Kali temple will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Breakout
Building
Walk in the footsteps of your favorite literary detectives and put your problem solving skills to the test at Breakout, Bangalore’s first real escape games. Beat the 60-minute timer and see if you can decipher the clues concealed within the confines of the room and free your team. Those seeking that rush of adrenaline and work well under pressure will thrive in this gripping adventure that is sure to challenge you. Inject your brains with a new lease of life and enter the escape room if you dare. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Catch a Movie at PVR in Orion Mall
Historical Landmark
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No matter where you are, you can always catch a good movie. In Bangalore, the locals’ go-to is PVR. A movie theatre chain in India, PVC is large and well-known. The service is wonderful and is located in almost every district throughout the country. Most malls are home to the cinemas and in north Bangalore, you can find a PVC at the Orion Mall.
UB City
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A lavish complex that oozes a certain charm, the UB city is comprised of one of the largest malls in the city, a soothing day spa and a grand amphitheater, seating over 800 guests. The mall, otherwise known as ‘The Collection,’ is aptly justified by successful and luxury brands such as Rolex, Apple and Louis Vitton. A haven for shopaholics, this opulent establishment is sure to cater to all your materialistic desires. As UB consists of three lower level blocks, it also hosts a variety of nightlife venues that include restaurants serving an eclectic spread of cuisines. UB is a multi-functional structure, aiming to spoil and indulge you. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
Built in Basavanagudi, this ancient temple (constructed by Kempegowda to suit Dravidian styles) possesses a huge statue depicting a bull that was established to scare off a wild bull that destroyed crops. The monolith goes by the name of Basavanna and now attracts thousands of tourists that are looking to explore the spiritual and religious aspects of a city now overrun by modern implementations. The temple grounds also host the annual groundnut fair during the winter months with countless stalls selling mouth-watering treats along with ornate trinkets. Recommended by Lavanya Nair.
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