The Unexplored Bangalore

The silicon valley of India, Bangalore, is known for its cosmopolitan nature, its mall culture and its tech parks. Multi-ethnicity and adaptability have been the greatest attributes of Bangalore city. It seems as though even the faintest trace of history, if it ever existed, has been erased.

With a population of around 8.426 million, and enthusiastic travellers, is there a road less travelled at all in a place like Bangalore? Let's explore the lesser explored.

Mahabodhi Society
Tucked in one of the busiest areas in Bangalore, Gandhinagar, the Mahabodhi Soceity provides a startling contrast to busy life. The society has in its premises a congregation hall, a stupa and a Bodhi tree under which is seated a statue of the Buddha.

The place isn't very big in its dimension but nothing can take away from the fact that the scene breathes fresh air. One cannot say what makes the place so convivial; whether it is the monks, the ever-smiling students, devotees seeking their higher-self, or the peace-loving visitors - everything adds to the serene ambiance.

photo by the author

Omkar Hills
The peak point of Bangalore is surprisingly among the lesser known places in the city. The sunset and the sunrise look beautiful from up here. Apart from the breathtaking view from this place, there's also a banyan tree which houses statues of many sages of India.
There's a huge clock which chimes every hour and is claimed to be the second biggest clock in the world after Big Ben. The recently built Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Temple attracts thousands during the festival of Mahashivaratri.

Pyramid Valley
Belonging to Harohalli Hobli of Kanakapura Taluk, Pyramid Valley is on the Bangalore border. Originally named Maitreya-Buddha Vishwalayam, the place is fondly called the Pyramid Valley.

The World's Largest Meditational Pyramid, is an International Meditation Center and can easily house 5,000 people at any given time. It is a place one must visit to spread peace and silence. A long ride would be the best way to sink in the atmosphere.

Sridhara Gudda
Located in Kengeri, Sridhara Gudda, is a centre for self realization and a confluence of an ashram and a temple.
The place believes in meditation as a form of prayer and the silence there is certain to rejuvenate your soul.
The trees, the stones, the quiet and, the atmosphere as a whole is sure to transport you to a world of contemplation.

Big Banayan Tree
Called the Dodda Alada Mara in Kannada, the Big Banayan Tree is a perfect weekend getaway. Located in Ramohalli village of Bangalore West, the tree easily covers three acres of land. The tree is said to be more than 400 years old. Though not at its healthy best, the tree gives shelter and peace to all travellers alike.

Bangalore Fort
Right in the heart of the city is the Bangalore Fort. Though it carries historical weight, it is a place rarely visited.
Kempegowda, popularly known as the founder of Bangalore, originally built the fort with mud in 1537. Later, Haider Ali converted it to a stone fort in 1761. The British dismantled most of the fort leaving out the Delhi Gate and remnants of 2 bastions. Though very little of the original fort really remains, the fort will remind you of a history that is never recalled.

Now you know what you're doing this weekend. Explore the lesser explored. Travel Bangalore. Embark on the path less taken.