With its origins dating back to the 16th Century, the historically significant Bull Temple or the 'Dodda Basavana Temple' is one of the most famous temples in Bengaluru. The neighborhood Basavanagudi derives its name from this temple, as Basavanagudi in Kannada means Bull Temple. The monolithic stone idol of Nandi, constructed by Kempe Gowda and regarded as one of the biggest of its kind, lies upon the crest of the Bugle hill in Basavanagudi. The ascending gopuram (monumental tower) was built in the Dravidian style. The sacred Nandi bull is worshiped by several devotees, and the farmers offer their harvest to it each year. These offerings see a festive occasion called the 'Groundnut Festival' or 'Madalena Parishe' or 'Kadalekaye Parishe'. The Bull Temple is a must-visit both for its historical importance and to show devotion to Nandi, the sacred vahana of Lord Shiva.
Mahatma Gandhi Road popularly known as the M. G. Road is the lifeline of Bengaluru city and is well connected to all the places within. Many prominent establishments and attractions like the Bible Society of India, Mahatma Gandhi Park, Cariappa Memorial Park and Field Marshal Maneckshaw Parade Grounds, all lie along this busy stretch of road. The M. G. Road bus stop is one of the busiest bus stops around. Named after the 'Father of the nation', there is at least one M. G. Road in most of the towns and cities in India. And Bengaluru is no exception to this popularly proven fact.
Built on what was an old Eidgah ground by Mohammad Abdulla Basha in 1981, this imposing mosque pays ode to the beauty of Islamic architecture. The mosque is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and fountains, reminiscent of characteristic Islamic layouts. Domed arches and pillars that end in mounds are part of the construction, while cryptic Islamic calligraphy adorns the walls of the mosque. The surrounding grounds are typically used for Haj camps, while the mosque itself attracts potential pilgrims into its doors during the Haj season.
Located in the urban precinct of Basavangudi, Bugle Rock Park is named after the colossal Bugle Rock that stands within the park. The rock, estimated to be at least 3000 million years old is a geological wonder and attraction in itself. History has it that a 16th Century ruler drawing strategic advantage from the elevated position of the rock built a watchtower on which a guard would periodically blow a bugle to signal normalcy and hence the name. Geological importance notwithstanding, the park is a breath of fresh air with densely populated trees and a wide variety of fauna residing here. There are three temples as well as the auditorium within the lush confines of this large park. It's no wonder that this is one of the most visited parks in the city.
Standing roughly at the center of the sprawling Lalbagh Gardens, the Glass House is a magnificent iron and glass structure built in 1889. The gleaming edifice built on the lines of the Crystal Palace in London was originally meant for growing exotic plants and features regal architecture. Today, it is one of the foremost attractions within the Lalbagh gardens and is the primary venue for the bi-annual flower shows that take place here. Evening times bring about a visual treat as the Glass House, illuminated aesthetically, glows in the fading twilight lending an ethereal beauty to the setting.
The 17th century built Kaadu Malleswara Temple is the genesis of Malleswaram in north-west Bengaluru. Kaadu in Kannada means forest, which is exactly what surrounded these temples centuries back. There are a number of smaller temples surrounding the main temple which enshrines the holy sanctum of Lord Shiva. Sri Gangammadevi Temple, Nandi Kalyani Temple and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple are a few to mention. The entire complex is purified with the homas and pujas, which are rituals performed by Hindu worshipers. There are some very important homas organized too wherein, the pandits are called from across the country to recite from the sacred texts. In one of the temples, there is a Nandi from which the Cauvery river's water flows miraculously and incessantly. Recently renovated, the new main gopuram (monumental tower) amidst the old forest makes it a must visit in Malleswaram. Kaadu Malleswara Temple attracts more devotees especially during the occasion of Mahashivratri.
Standing roughly at the center of the sprawling Lalbagh Gardens, the Glass House is a magnificent iron and glass structure built in 1889. The gleaming edifice built on the lines of the Crystal Palace in London was originally meant for growing exotic plants and features regal architecture. Today, it is one of the foremost attractions within the Lalbagh gardens and is the primary venue for the bi-annual flower shows that take place here. Evening times bring about a visual treat as the Glass House, illuminated aesthetically, glows in the fading twilight lending an ethereal beauty to the setting.
The 17th century built Kaadu Malleswara Temple is the genesis of Malleswaram in north-west Bengaluru. Kaadu in Kannada means forest, which is exactly what surrounded these temples centuries back. There are a number of smaller temples surrounding the main temple which enshrines the holy sanctum of Lord Shiva. Sri Gangammadevi Temple, Nandi Kalyani Temple and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple are a few to mention. The entire complex is purified with the homas and pujas, which are rituals performed by Hindu worshipers. There are some very important homas organized too wherein, the pandits are called from across the country to recite from the sacred texts. In one of the temples, there is a Nandi from which the Cauvery river's water flows miraculously and incessantly. Recently renovated, the new main gopuram (monumental tower) amidst the old forest makes it a must visit in Malleswaram. Kaadu Malleswara Temple attracts more devotees especially during the occasion of Mahashivratri.
Built on what was an old Eidgah ground by Mohammad Abdulla Basha in 1981, this imposing mosque pays ode to the beauty of Islamic architecture. The mosque is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and fountains, reminiscent of characteristic Islamic layouts. Domed arches and pillars that end in mounds are part of the construction, while cryptic Islamic calligraphy adorns the walls of the mosque. The surrounding grounds are typically used for Haj camps, while the mosque itself attracts potential pilgrims into its doors during the Haj season.
One of the foremost contributions made in India by the British Council, an educational and cultural organization operating worldwide, is establishing libraries in a number of cities. The one in Bengaluru which stands right opposite the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum has an excellent collection of books on virtually every topic. The library, which represents the British Council is a delight for avid readers with a number of regular literary events and book launches happening here. While it is well-known that book-reading as taken a backseat with the advent of new technology, it is heartening to see organizations such as the British Council using books as a major medium to promote culture.
Located within the lush confines of the sprawling Cubbon Park, this magnificent edifice dressed in an eye-catching red hue instantly commands attention. Built in the year 1915 in honor of the Sir K. Sheshadri Iyer, the celebrated Diwan of Mysore, this majestic British legacy has striking Gothic architectural features that stand out amidst the calmness in the park. The majestic building stands within a little clearing in the park on a neatly laid-out lawn with a pretty flower garden stretching out at the front. The building today houses the award-winning State Central Library and is a frequently visited monument simply for its breathtaking architectural beauty.
A contemporary art gallery located in Sadashivnagar, Mahua prides itself on showcasing talented and upcoming Indian contemporary artists. The gallery has a fine collection of paintings, sculptures, and prints by established as well as new and upcoming contemporary artists. Apart from this, there is also a collection of photographic and folk art. Besides exhibitions, the gallery also offers a number of services like consultancy as well as art education. It has gained a significant reputation among art circles in the city and is a good place to check out Indian contemporary art.