- Why should you visit Bengaluru?
- What is so special about Central Bengaluru?
- What are the attractions to visit in Central Bengaluru?
Why should you visit Bengaluru?
Bengaluru has always been a great destination for travellers who are on their journey of getting acquainted with South India. The city feels like a destination where it gets skipped because of it being a large urban centre however the city has so much to offer in terms of history, heritage and cuture! The city has a vibrant modern cosmopolitan feel as well which is perfect for those looking to check out the hip bars, restaurants and more! There is something for every kind of traveller here.
You’ve made it to Bengaluru but you don’t know where to start from? Different areas have different flavours to explore. The West & South of Bengaluru have much more of the traditional residential areas such as Malleshwaram, Basavangudi and the likes. This is where you will get the flavour of old school Bengaluru with its quaint local eateries serving up idlis, dosas and more! The area has a typical style of buildings that is reminiscent of an era where noir and similar styles taking center stage.
There is Central Bengaluru that has a flavour that is all its own.
What is so special about Central Bengaluru?
The history of Bengaluru has an interesting twist when it comes to Central Bengaluru. So till the late 1700’s the city mostly operated from its centre around the Market area (where most of the Petes or pronounced as “Pay-tays” were located). This had been the area where Kempegowda’s vision of Bengaluru emerged and continued to expand. However, in the late 1790’s there was a new player in town that was looking to expand its territory – The East India Company who for the time being were being held back by Tipu Sultan. Once he fell, the Company was given an expanse of land to set up their military base. This area was christened as The Cantonment area and it continued to operate as a separate city from the Petes till Independence.
This is where Colonial Bangalore flourished – the names are still representative of that. You have Brigade Road, Infantry Road, St. Marks Road, Museum Road, Lavelle Road, Queens Road and so on. The area still has a few European style villas or bungalows dotted around on the perfectly paved streets and sidewalks (thanks to the Smart Bengaluru initiative).
Now that we understand what the area is all about, what are the best places to visit near Locul Central?
Let’s break it down as per interests, so here goes:
1. Shopping – There is a host of places where one can go shopping for all the shopaholics out there!
a. Brigade Road: The busy streets are home to some of Bengaluru’s iconic spots like the Samsung Opera House which used to be an old school single screen theatre but now houses the largest Samsung showroom in the whole of Asia. Rex theatre which too was an old school single screen theatre is now home to a lavish PVR which houses its most luxurious cinema yet. There are branded and unbranded outlets throughout the street and lanes.
If you’re looking for more urban, hip wear, step away from the main road into Rest House Crescent Road to check out the Indo-Dubai mall or Tibet Mall. There are a few old school malls like 5th Avenue which have plenty of shopping options as well
b. Church Street: If you’re young and looking for eclectic buys, every evening there are stalls set up in a flea market style all along the sidewalks of Church Street. Here is where you get a few unusual things – like junk jewellery, artwork, Insta polaroid’s, posters, stickers and lots more! Set up by mostly the young and entrepreneurial of the city, this is definitely a go to in the evenings. So definitely try to stay near Church street to enjoy all these things.
c. Commercial Street: Your Bangalore shopping journey is incomplete unless you visit Commercial Street. The main street is home to branded home, fashion and other multi branded outlets. However, if you step away from the main street and duck into the by lanes, you’re in for a treat! The lanes are filled with great local shopping options especially for women. This is a popular spot for women to go shopping before getting married.
d. Lavelle Road: Home of the rich and famous – this area has luxury upmarket brands in the neighbourhood. If that is your thing, UB City could just be the place for you to shop and splurge.
2. Nature: The beauty of Central Bengaluru is that it is the heart and lungs of the city. As rapid urbanization has led to reduction in greenery and green spaces, there is still some left in these parts.
a. Cubbon Park: Over 300 acres of greenery which has more than 6000 trees, Cubbon Park (officially known as Sri Chamrajendra Park) is the epicentre of it all. Not just a regular park, it is an integrated park that has a museum, the high court, a tennis stadium, a children’s amusement park, a public library and lots more in it! Spend a day lazing around in the beauty and quiet of the park without a care or bliss in the world. If you’re a nature enthusiast, the park is home to different species of flora and fauna.
There are plenty of activities to do in the park – from skating to a dog park, there is something for everyone in this park.
b. Ulsoor Lake: It is one of the biggest and oldest lakes in Bangalore. Neglected for a while, the lake has been restored and is a great spot to have a walk in the evenings. It is a place where you can just be still in the hustle and bustle of the city – the lake brings a sense of calm in the surroundings. The lake is a place where boating specifically rowing takes place.
3. History & Architecture: The city has a rich history that needs to be seen and discovered by visitors and travellers.
a. Vidhana Soudha: It houses the state legislature and is the seat of power for the state of Karnataka. This building is an architectural marvel that has mix of multiple styles (predominantly in the Neo-Dravidian style with Indo-Saracenic features). This building is not only the most unique state legislative building but also the largest one in the country. It is definitely an iconic building in Bengaluru that should be checked out.
b. High Court (Attara Kacheri): Still serving as the current High Court of Karnataka inside Cubbon Park, this iconic building is a building made in European Renaissance style along with Greco Roman features. The court has very interesting history that can be experienced first hand through guided walking tours.
c. Churches of Central Bengaluru: The oldest Anglican Church in Bangalore, this 200 year old cathedral has seen it all. Along with St. Andrews and Trinity Church, these beautiful old churches each have a personality of their own that must be checked out in person. From beautiful stained glass windows to glorious old world instruments like the pipe organ, there are marvels in each of these places.
4. Food & Nightlife: The heart of Bengaluru is home to some of the most old school iconic places in Bengaluru. With the tide of the modern age there are bars, pubs and restaurants a plenty. A few iconic places are still worth a visit.
a. 13th Floor: Aptly named, this place is located in Barton Center and is the perfect place to wind down in the evening. The scenic views of the Parade Ground during the sunset with a drink in hand is something that is worth the visit.
b. Indian Coffee House: Of course, every iconic city in India has a coffee house and Bangalore has one as well. Created with the intent to promote coffee drinking with the English, this is a staple in many parts of India. The servers still wear their iconic uniforms from the yesteryears. Even if you’re not interested in a cup of coffee, come for a sip of nostalgia.
c. Koshys: The name known to every Bangalorean, this iconic place is home to so many. With the charm of the old world, there are dishes from yesteryears that have made the place famous and iconic. Right from the pot of tea and sandwiches to the Appam and Stew, it is a match made in food heaven. And for the tipplers, a fun fact – the bar owns the oldest liquor license in the city!
This is but the tip of the iceberg when it comes to discovering Bangalore. All the locations here are easy to reach via walking since they’re all located stones throw away from each other. If you’re planning to visit Bangalore and are looking for an affordable accommodation – look no further than Locul Central. Located right in the centre of Bangalore, this is the perfect place to stay.
Rated among the best hostels in Bangalore and is conveniently located in Church Street, Locul Central offers shared accommodations with all facilities like Free WIFI, common area, dedicated lockers and more! The hostel offers Guided Walking Tours that help you explore Bangalore like a true local.
Book your stay here, click here
