Start your Bangalore adventure with a visit to the stunning Bangalore Palace, a great example of Tudor architecture. Built in 1878, the palace has been well-preserved and features beautiful paintings and intricate woodcarvings. Take a self-guided audio tour to learn about the history of the royal family and their legacy. Don't miss the antique furniture and the sprawling grounds outside the palace.
Next, head to the summer residence of the Mysorean ruler Tipu Sultan. The palace is made of teakwood and features beautiful floral motifs and Indo-Islamic architecture. Take a walk around the peaceful gardens and the museum showcasing personal letters and war artifacts of the Sultan. While here, you can also grab a bite at the small and affordable canteen located inside the palace.
End your day exploring Bangalore's bustling shopping district, Commercial Street. You'll find everything from clothes to jewelry to souvenirs at reasonable prices. Enjoy bargaining with street vendors but be wary of scams. The street is lined with cafes and street food vendors where you can try authentic Kannada cuisine. Make sure to try the local favorite, masala dosa.
Spend your second day at Bangalore's most famous garden, Lalbagh. The sprawling garden features a stunning glasshouse, a serene lake, and over a thousand species of flora. Take a stroll through the famous Kempegowda Tower and marvel at the floral clock. If you're up for it, you can also climb the hillock inside the park for panoramic views of the city and catch a glimpse of the Nandi Temple.
Round up your trip with a visit to Bangalore Fort, a 16th-century fortress built by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. Although in ruins, the fort still holds on to its old-world charm with its watchtowers and gateways. Inside the fort, you'll find a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. From the fort, you can also visit the nearby Tipu Sultan's Armoury, a museum showcasing weapons and other war memorabilia of the Mysorean Empire.
If you have extra time, consider visiting Cubbon Park, a green oasis in the heart of Bangalore or the ISKCON Temple, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. You can also explore the street art at the MG Road Boulevard or hit the nightclubs in Indiranagar or Koramangala. If you have less time, skip Commercial Street or Tipu Sultan's Armoury. Make sure to dress appropriately for the places of worship and seek advice from your hotel concierge for travel and safety tips.