From
hurtling down in a roller coaster at a theme park to learning about history at
a museum, there's a wide range of fun and learning activities for children in
Bangalore. With its salubrious climate, Bangalore is ideal for outdoor excursions
and in close vicinity to a number of destinations that provide an escape from
city life.
ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple
This
magnificent and impressive temple complex is located on Hare Krishna Hill,
Chord Road, Rajajinagar. It is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world and is a beautiful blend of
ancient temple architecture and modern construction. The presiding Deities of
the temple are Sri Radha Krishnachandra, Sri Krishna Balarama and Sri Nitai
Gauranga. There are also two smaller shrines of Sri Srinivasa Govinda and Sri
Prahlada Narasimha.
Brahmotsava,
Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vaikuntha Ekadashi are among the major festivals
celebrated here when lakhs of devotees come and take part in the festivities.
The major activities of the temple are Harinam Sankirtan, distribution of free
prasadam and spreading the teachings of Srila Prabhupada (the Founder-Acharya
of ISKCON). The other features of the temple include sale of organic food
products, exhibition and sale of handicrafts in the Vedic tradition and video
show on the childhood pastimes of Lord Krishna.
Darshan
timings: 7:15 am to 1:00 pm and 4:15 pm to 8:30 pm.
ADDRESS: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Rajajinagar, Bangalore
Darshan timings: 7:15 am to 1:00 pm and 4:15 pm to 8:30 pm.
ADDRESS: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Rajajinagar, Bangalore
Bannerghatta National Park
A combination
of a zoo, butterfly enclosure, aquarium, snake house and a lion and tiger
safari, Bannerghatta National Park is a preferred place for those who want to
explore the hinterlands of Bangalore. Spread over 25,000 acres, the park is
located about 20 km south of Bangalore at an elevation of 1245 m. Packed with a
wide variety of flora and fauna, the park is an educational and recreational
experience for children and is also patronized by trekkers. Amongst its wide
variety of fauna, the park is home to leopards, elephants, wild boars and
tigers. The park has a small lake where boat rides are available. This park allows you to unwind and also explore the
wilderness and makes for a great day-trip destination.
ADDRESS: Bannerghatta Road, Bannerghatta, Bangalore
ADDRESS: Bannerghatta Road, Bannerghatta, Bangalore
Wonderla Amusement Park
Wonderla Amusement Park is 30 km away from Bangalore city. It is a fun-filled destination offering uninterrupted joy for kids and adults alike. From easy rides like the magic mushroom, mini Venice, kiddies wheel to high-thrill rides such as the flash tower, hurricane and maverick, the park provides thrills to all ages. Those who don't mind getting wet can go down the swirling water-rides which include lazy river, boomerang and uphill racers. The park also has play pools, wave pools and a rain dance enclosure. Wonderla also has a resort in the premises, with luxury rooms, restaurant and large halls for celebrations.
ADDRESS: Mysore Road, Bangalore
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
A centre of non-formal science education, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a main attraction for children in the garden city. Constructed by Bangalore City Corporation in 1989, the centre has a variety of shows (named sky-theatre, Mars, our solar system) that entice lots of school students and families through the year. The planetarium features a dome measuring 15 metres in diameter, and the auditorium can accommodate 200 people at a time. Offering a close encounter with our galaxy, constellations, the nine planets and other celestial objects, this centre makes learning Astronomy fun. The planetarium is also a preferred venue for scholarly debates and events related to science, for e.g. viewing eclipses through their giant telescope.ADDRESS: Sankey Road, Vasanthanagar, Bangalore
Fun World
From roller coasters to water-rides, Fun World promises a world of fun and enjoyment for all. It has adventurous and thrilling rides for families - Columbus, Octopus, Tora Tora and Pendulum and simple rides for children - jumping frog, baby dragon, merry-go-round, etc. This park is one of the major attractions for children in Bangalore. The wide variety of swings here also include a Ferris wheel, amazing cyclone, while the gaming chambers house virtual car racing and motor racing games.
It is located just six km away from the city railway station and about 30 km from the airport.
ADDRESS: Palace Ground, Opposite-TV Tower, J C Nagar, Bangalore.
The Heritage Centre & Aerospace Museum
Take a walk through India's first aerospace museum in Bangalore and you'll find yourself admiring the precision, design and shape of some of the handpicked Indian air machines to take to the air. Providing interesting glimpses of the Indian aeronautics history, the Aerospace Museum houses a collection of aircrafts and helicopters, aircraft engine models and flight simulators where one can witness the technological advancements brought in aircraft-making. An exhibit of photographs and notes take you back in time and give you a tour of the aviation industry's glorious past. Almost free of cost, the museum only requires you to pay a sum of Rs. 20 for a visit. Do not forget to carry your camera along to capture the vintage aircrafts and their exquisite cockpits.
ADDRESS: Airport Service Centre, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, Varthur Road, Bangalore
Government Museum
You might not care
much for history, but nevertheless, the Government Museum in Bangalore will
capture your imagination and bring the past to life. Started in 1886, this is
one of the first museums in India and has a fine assortment of ancient coins,
sculptures and paintings. Some of its most prized exhibits include relics from
the Indus valley civilization and some stunning jewellery from south India.
ADDRESS:
Kasturba Road, Cubbon Park, Bangalore
ADDRESS: Kasturba Road, Cubbon Park, Bangalore
Ulsoor Lake
If the idea of stepping away from the city for a quiet getaway excites you, then you must include Ulsoor Lake in your itinerary while you're in Bangalore. Plan an early morning trip to the lake and enjoy the picturesque views of the waters set amidst lush coverlets of trees swaying in cool breeze. Carry your favourite book and a picnic hamper to make the most of your day trip. Located towards the north-eastern side of the city (near M.G. Road), this serene lake spans over 123 acres and is surrounded by a surfeit of eateries and street-food stalls. Those visiting the city during August-September must witness the elaborate Ganesha Festival festivals at the lakeside.
ADDRESS: Near MG Road, Bangalore
The Lalbagh Glass House
A historical garden, Lalbagh was built by former Mysore ruler, Hyder Ali, and his son Tipu Sultan. Modelled after the Mughal gardens that were fast gaining popularity at the time, this space is spread over 188 acres. Its most arresting feature is the Glass House, built in the very center and modelled after the Crystal Palace in London. Originally meant to acclimatize the foreign and exotic plants to the Indian weather, this structure is now the venue of Bengaluru's famous biannual flower shows on Republic Day and Independence Day.
ADDRESS: Mavalli Bangalore
Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
This interactive museum is a fascinating place to get schooled in science and it draws about a million visitors a year. You can discover the history of space exploration at the Space Gallery, see a moving replica of a Spinosaurus at the Dinosaur Corner or take in an interactive electrical exhibition at the Electro-technic Gallery. The new 3D theatre is a feast to the eyes.
ADDRESS: Kasturba Rd, Bangalore