Located in the area with street names such as Hospital Road and Dispensary Road, one wonders if it is some kind of a sign from God or just coincidental that Jamia Masjid is located there. All the way through the bylanes of Shivajinagar and amidst the flea markets and a hospital, it makes for a pretty sight. Pristine white paint interspersed with green, makes most tourists stand back for a minute to soak in this spectacular mosque. The facade is built of a green colored marble with its name engraved near the top.
The Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum was an initiative undertaken by the Ministry of Culture, and was set up in 1960 as an independent entity supported by the National Council for Science Museums. The museum is named after Sir Visvesvaraya, the great engineer who has to his credit the KRS dam and Mysore University to name a few. The museum focuses mainly on science and has exhibits that trace the history of engines, biotechnological revolution, dinosaur exhibits, and science for children. It has shows like the fascinating Taramandal Show which is popular and has a separate entry fee. There is also a small store within the premises that sells scientific toys for children. The museum is a fun place to stop at with the family.
Mahabodhi Loka Shanti Buddha Vihara is the venue for all the devotees of Lord Buddha to converge at. The seekers of knowledge and enlightenment gather here to gain a deeper insight of Gautama Buddha's teachings. Locally known as the 'Mahabodhi Society of Bangalore', this charitable organization was established after the mid 90's in Bengaluru, and it strives for the upliftment and welfare of society. There is a temple on the premises with a stone Stupa erected near its entrance. Spiritual and academic studies are conducted here regularly along with prayer sessions, meditation, chanting, talks, discourses, dhamma-studies and a lot more.
With a history dating back to the 17th Century, St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral was built by French missionaries in India. The magnificent stone building with arched windows and white domes, make it a mesmerizing sight to behold. On stepping inside, there is an almost palpable peace and tranquility that prevails. Apart from many charitable activities, 'St. Anthony's and St. Rock's Primary School' too was built for the welfare of the community. The church conducts a number of events throughout the year. To organize these better, there is a youth center, conference hall and a parish hall too within the enclave. Just near the cathedral, is the Shrine of St. Anthony and St. Rock which is known to possess healing powers. So let your prayers be answered here, at the St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Cleveland Town.
Set in the neighborhood of Ulsoor, Sri Kanyakaparameshwari Devasthana is a temple that has an air of serenity to it. Also, known as 'Sri Vasavi Kannika Parmeswari', Goddess Vasavi is the kuladevi (prime goddess) of the Arya Vysya community from India. This exquisite temple was built by the local Arya Vysya community members. Intricately designed deepas brighten the holy sanctum and create a stunning golden yellow halo effect on the idol of the divine Goddess. There are daily poojas (Hindu worships) conducted, and an eager lady at the threshold sells fresh flowers for temple offerings. Sri Kanyakaparameswari Devasthana is located in the middle of a busy bazaar yet uncannily provides a deep solace within its confines.
The Visvesvarapuram neighborhood in Bengaluru city is dotted with a number of significant temples, and the Sri Vasavi Temple is one such temple dedicated to Sri Vasavi Kanyakaparmeswari. Intricately designed ornate wooden doors and the stunning gopuram (monumental temple towers), sufficiently impress the first time visitor who seeks divine blessings for prosperity and health. The holy sanctum enshrines the beautiful stone idol of Goddess Vasavi which is adorned with precious ornaments and fresh flowers. As the prime deity of the Arya Vysya Community belonging to the Hindu religion in India, this temple is dearly loved by its ardent devotees.