Bengaluru is known for its lush green landscapes and year-round pleasant weather, both of which can be enjoyed in Bengaluru's many parks. Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a sprawling garden of royal origin, known for its beautiful botanical artwork, conservation projects, and scientific study of plants. It is home to nearly 2000 species of plants, as well as the Lalbagh Glass House, which was modelled after London’s Crystal Palace. Cubbon park, often dubbed Bengaluru’s Central Park, is a 300-acre green oasis, perfect for escaping the concrete jungle that surrounds it. It is home to more than 6000 trees, a variety of local and migratory birds, and is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.

Once a royal palace, Bangalore Palace is an architectural wonder in the heart of the city. Since its construction in 1878, the regal opulence of the building has been well preserved, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Bengaluru. The palace was built in both Tudor & Scottish Gothic style and is a miniature replica of Windsor Palace: the home of the British Royal Family. Explore the sprawling grounds and admire the magnificent architecture before heading inside where you’ll be greeted by majestic artwork and a rich history that offers a glimpse of the evolution of Bengaluru over the centuries.

Tipu Sultan was one of the greatest warriors of his time and a great ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. The Summer Palace in Bengaluru was originally built in 1537 but was later expanded by the Sultan himself. Often referred to as the ‘Abode of Peace’, today this Bengaluru landmark is known for its impressive Indo-Islamic architecture, hidden chambers, and a museum that showcases historical photographs. The Summer Palace is enclosed by the Tipu Sultan fort (or Bangalore fort), which takes visitors on a journey through different architectural styles on their way to the palace.

Good food is not hard to find in Bengaluru. But if it’s great food you’re after, then head to Mavalli Tiffin Room. This Bengaluru institution has been open since 1924, so you won’t find a better place to try local delicacies. Specialties at this legendary eatery include masala dosas, a pancake made from rice batter and black lentils, stuffed with spiced potatoes and laced with ghee, and rava idli, steamed semolina cakes made from yoghurt, coriander, cashew nuts, curry leaves and mustard seeds.

Emerging just a decade ago, Bengaluru’s craft beer scene has fermented to perfection, with around 60 microbreweries in the city. One of the trend’s pioneers, home-grown The Biere Club is a solid starting point, with experimental flavours spanning coconut and mango alongside a more sophisticated menu of complex malt-forward beers. Toit is another great brewpub, helmed by French brewer Christopher Champalle, who experiments with local flavours from jackfruit to basmati rice. Beer geeks might also want to head to The Druid Garden, a cute microbrewery serving craft beers, cocktails and bar snacks in airy, light-filled surroundings.

The National Gallery of Modern Art offers a visual feast of India’s artistic prowess from the 18th century to modern day. Expect paintings from celebrated figures such as Rabindranath Tagore and Raja Ravi Verma, plus sculptures, graphic prints, photography and a rolling line-up of exhibitions. At the Indian Music Experience Museum, you’ll caress sounds from a singing stone and hear the elemental power of the storm drum. The family-friendly museum showcases the diversity of Indian music through exhibits, performances and learning activities. Or learn about folk traditions at Janapada Loka, from exploring scenes of daily life created across the beautiful leafy grounds to enjoying traditional dance performances like the acrobatic Puja Kunita.

A six-by-four metre granite statue of Nandi, the sacred bull, greets visitors at the 500-year-old Bull Temple (Nandi Temple) in Basavanagudi. For Hindus devoted to the supreme being Shiva, the ancient temple is an important rite of passage, as the demi-god Nandi serves as Shiva’s trusted mount and gate keeper. Next door, at the Ganesha Temple, you’ll find a statue dedicated to Ganesha, the son of Shiva – made entirely from butter. Every four years, the carefully sculpted figurine is dismantled and distributed to worshippers. Another Bengaluru attraction worth visiting is Chokkanathaswamy Temple, one of the oldest temples in the region, dating back to the 10th century. Admire the large pillars, sculptures and Tamil-inscribed walls at this ancient site.

There are many things to do in Bengaluru, but the whole family is sure to be entertained at VR Mall, with its huge range of international lifestyle stores, food courts and entertainment options. For designer goods, visit the luxury UB City Mall which boasts top brands such as Rolex and Louis Vuitton. Alternatively, head to the colourful streets of the 400-year-old Chickpet market for the best silk sarees in town and gorgeous dress materials, accessories, footwear and jewellery. Head to Commercial Street for an abundance of deals, or if you’re a budding photographer check out the KR Flower Market, a frantic riot of vivid blooms, exotic flowers and busy market traders.

No Bengaluru holiday would be complete without a wildlife experience, and on the outskirts of Bengaluru, you can visit the Bannerghatta Biological Park - a safari-like wildlife sanctuary that homes natural treasures from butterflies to elephants. Visitors can book safaris in secured vehicles that take you through the wilderness to catch sightings of lions, tigers and bears, and drive you out to picturesque Mattubunde hill, which offers panoramic views over lush green forests and valleys. Or for a slower pace, enjoy guided walking tours of the reptile and butterfly parks.

The ancient hill fortress of Nandi Hills lies an hour north of the city – a gorgeous landscape scattered with ancient temples, shrines and buildings. Perched above the clouds at an elevation of 1,478 metres, this beautiful spot attracts pre-dawn crowds to admire the stunning sunrise. Thrill-seekers can get eagle-eye views of the landscape with paragliding adventures, while the fainter of heart can explore the intricate Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and Tipu’s Summer Residence.

The Kingdom of Mysore ruled southern India for almost 600 years until 1947. As a result, the modern city of Mysore, or Mysuru, is studded with stunning heritage structures and palaces. A two-hour train ride from Bengaluru, it’s a perfect day trip for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Take in the extravagant Mysore Palace and the pure white Lalitha Mahal palace, or head over to St Philomena’s Cathedral and the Chamundeshwari Temple. For modern architecture, check out the futuristic Infosys Multiplex Building.