3 Days in Bengaluru for an Active Getaway

Bengaluru isn't just about tech parks and traffic - it's got a wild side too. I've spent years discovering the city's adrenaline-pumping spots, from hidden trails to quirky experiences. This itinerary packs in the best active fun without wearing you out.

Karnataka, karnataka
3 Days
Adventure
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunrise trek at Savandurga - one of Asia's largest monoliths
White-water rafting at the nearby Bheemeshwari
Night cycling through the city's quieter streets
Trying aerial obstacle courses at Wonderla amusement park

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

Share Your Adventure

Spread the word about this amazing trip!

Day 1

Day 1 in Bengaluru

Kick off your Bengaluru trip with the city's most iconic spots, from lush gardens to historic landmarks and vibrant markets.

Activities

Morning at Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Morning at Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Lalbagh, one of India's most famous botanical gardens. The 240-acre space is home to rare plants, a stunning glasshouse, and serene lakes. Don't miss the iconic Lalbagh Rock, a 3,000-million-year-old geological formation.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Mavalli6:00 AM - 7:00 PM (best visited early morning to avoid crowds and heat)INR 20-50 per person
Tips:
  • Carry water and wear comfortable shoes—the garden is huge.
  • Visit on Sundays for the lively flower show if your trip coincides.
Explore Bangalore Palace
Explore Bangalore Palace

Head to Bangalore Palace, a Tudor-style mansion that feels like a slice of Europe in the heart of the city. The palace interiors, with their vintage furniture, ornate ceilings, and royal portraits, offer a glimpse into the lives of the Wodeyar dynasty.

Bangalore Palace, Vasanth Nagar10:00 AM - 5:30 PMINR 230 for Indians, INR 460 for foreigners (includes audio guide)
Tips:
  • The audio guide is worth it for the fascinating stories.
  • Photography inside the palace requires an additional fee.
Evening at Commercial Street

Wrap up your day with some shopping and street food at Commercial Street, a bustling hub for everything from trendy clothes to traditional souvenirs. The area comes alive in the evening with locals and tourists bargaining for deals and snacking on local treats.

Commercial Street, Shivaji Nagar4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (shops open till late, but evenings are livelier)Varies (budget INR 500-1000 for shopping and snacks)
Tips:
  • Bargain hard—prices are often inflated for tourists.
  • Try the street-side kebabs and chaat while you shop.

Must Try Foods

Masala Dosa at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room)
Filter Coffee at any local café
Benne Dosa (butter dosa) at CTR (Shri Sagar)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bangalore City Railway Station (5 km from Lalbagh, 20-30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Lalbagh Main Gate Bus Stop (frequent buses to city center)
Metro Station
Not available (nearest metro to Commercial Street is MG Road, 1 km away)
Cab Availability
Cabs (Ola/Uber) are easily available throughout the city; auto-rickshaws are also an option but negotiate fares upfront.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Bengaluru

A mix of tech, history, and local flavors, diving deeper into Bengaluru's vibrant culture and modern charm.

Activities

Visit the ISKCON Temple

Start your day with a peaceful visit to the ISKCON Temple, one of the largest Krishna temples in the world. The serene atmosphere, intricate architecture, and the morning chants make it a spiritual haven. Don’t miss the prasadam (sacred food) served here—it’s simple but soul-satisfying.

ISKCON Temple, Hare Krishna Hill, Rajajinagar7:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PMFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered.
  • Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
Explore Cubbon Park
Explore Cubbon Park

A green escape in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick break under the shade of its massive trees. The park houses the State Central Library and the iconic red Attara Kacheri (High Court). Rent a bicycle or just sit by the lotus pond—it’s a great way to soak in Bengaluru’s laid-back vibe.

Cubbon Park, Kasturba Road6:00 AM - 6:00 PMFree (bicycle rental around ₹50-100)
Tips:
  • Weekends are car-free—best time to visit.
  • Carry water; it can get warm by midday.
Evening at MG Road and UB City
Evening at MG Road and UB City

Wrap up your day with a blend of shopping and luxury at MG Road and UB City. MG Road is great for street shopping and quirky finds, while UB City is Bengaluru’s swanky mall with high-end brands. Grab a coffee at one of the chic cafes or enjoy a rooftop drink with a view of the city lights.

MG Road and UB City, Vittal Mallya Road4:00 PM onwardsVaries (street shopping starts at ₹200, UB City dining ₹500+)
Tips:
  • Bargain hard at MG Road’s street stalls.
  • UB City’s rooftop bars have great sunset views.

Must Try Foods

Masala Dosa at MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room)
Filter Coffee at any local Brahmin’s cafe
Kebabs at Shivaji Nagar’s street stalls

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bengaluru City Railway Station (3 km from Cubbon Park, 15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic), frequent buses to all parts of the city
Metro Station
MG Road Metro Station (Purple Line), connects to most key areas
Cab Availability
Cabs (Ola/Uber) are easily available; auto-rickshaws are cheaper but bargain first.

Day 3

Day 3 in Bengaluru

Dive into Bengaluru's hidden gems and cultural side, exploring art, history, and local flavors away from the usual tourist spots.

Activities

Morning at the National Gallery of Modern Art

Start your day with a dose of culture at this underrated gem. Housed in a beautiful colonial-era mansion, the gallery showcases Indian modern art from the 18th century to contemporary works. The peaceful gardens outside are perfect for a post-viewing stroll.

Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Road10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (opens at 10 AM, least crowded in mornings)INR 20-50 per person
Tips:
  • Check for temporary exhibitions which often feature fascinating regional artists
  • Photography requires a separate permit
Lunch at Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR)

Experience authentic Bengaluru at this legendary 1924 eatery. Their fixed-menu thali is an institution - expect fluffy idlis, crisp dosas, and their famous rava idli invented during WWII rice shortages. The filter coffee here is arguably the city's best.

11 Lalbagh Road, near Lalbagh West Gate12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (gets packed by 1 PM, arrive early)INR 200-300 per person
Tips:
  • They don't serve dinner - lunch is your only chance
  • Cash only - ATMs are nearby
Afternoon in Basavanagudi & Bull Temple

Explore one of Bengaluru's oldest neighborhoods. The 16th-century Bull Temple houses a massive Nandi statue carved from single granite. Wander the adjacent Bugle Rock Park for great city views, then explore Gandhi Bazaar's vibrant street market for local snacks and flowers.

Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi2:30 PM - 5:00 PM (best light for photos at the temple)Free (small donations at temple)
Tips:
  • Try the hot gulkand milk at nearby VB Bakery
  • Market stalls start closing by 6 PM

Must Try Foods

MTR's rava idli
Gulkand milk at VB Bakery
Thatte idli from local Basavanagudi stalls

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Bengaluru City Station (5 km from Basavanagudi, 20 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Bull Temple Bus Stop (frequent buses to city center)
Metro Station
Not available in Basavanagudi (nearest is National College station 3 km away)
Cab Availability
Easy throughout day, but demand spikes during evening rush (5-7 PM)

Travel Tips

Start hikes early - the rocks get too hot by 10am
Book rafting slots at least 3 days in advance during weekends
Local cycling groups organize great night rides - check Meetup apps
Carry cash for small adventure operators who don't accept cards

Related Trips

Explore related trips for this destination

Other Popular Destinations

Explore itineraries for other amazing destinations

Itineraries by Destination