Hidden gems in Bangalore: lesser-known tourist spots
Small museums and galleries
- Indian Music Experience: an interactive music museum in J.P. Nagar where you can try instruments.
- HAL Heritage Centre and Aerospace Museum: aircraft and engines from India's aviation history.
- Venkatappa Art Gallery: a quiet gallery next to Cubbon Park.
- Rangoli Metro Art Center: art space along MG Road boulevard, easy to reach by metro.
Old neighbourhoods and markets
Gandhi Bazaar in Basavanagudi and the Malleswaram market streets are where Bangalore shops for flowers, vegetables and temple supplies. Go in the morning. KR Market is louder and busier, and early hours are when the flower trade is in full swing. The Bull Temple and Dodda Ganapathi Temple are a short walk from Gandhi Bazaar.
Green spots away from the crowds
- Sankey Tank: a lake walk in Malleswaram, close to Palace Grounds.
- Turahalli Forest: rocky scrub forest on the southern edge, used by walkers and cyclists.
- The Big Banyan Tree (Dodda Alada Mara): a huge old banyan on the city's western outskirts.
- Kaikondrahalli Lake: a restored lake with a walking path, known among birdwatchers.
Check current fees and opening days for each before you go. Several are closed on certain weekdays.
An indoor stop at Palace Grounds
Many visitors drive past Palace Grounds without knowing there is an aquarium inside the Fun World complex. Aquarium Paradise has what it calls India's longest underwater tunnel, a jellyfish room with reflective walls and indoor waterfalls. You will see moray eels, alligator gar, tarpon and sun catfish. A visit takes 1 to 2 hours and fits well after a morning at Sankey Tank or Malleswaram.
It stays open till 8:00 PM, so it also works as the last stop of the day. An expert diver feeds the fish at 6:30 PM daily. See our places near Bangalore Palace guide for what else sits close by.
| Aquarium Paradise ticket | Weekdays (Mon to Fri) | Weekends and holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (above 140 cm) | ₹499 | ₹599 |
| Kids (80 cm to 140 cm) | ₹449 | ₹549 |
Book online with official tickets and use AQUA100 for ₹100 off. For more offbeat ideas, see unique indoor experiences in Bangalore.
About Aquarium Paradise
Aquarium Paradise is an indoor aquarium at Palace Grounds, Jayamahal Main Road, opposite TV Tower, J.C. Nagar, Bengaluru 560006, inside the Fun World complex next to Snow City. It is open every day from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, and ticket counters close at 7:15 PM. For bookings and questions, call +91 96063 11881.
FAQs
Which quiet spots are close to Palace Grounds?
Sankey Tank and the Malleswaram market streets are nearby, and Aquarium Paradise sits inside Palace Grounds itself.
Is Aquarium Paradise worth adding to an offbeat Bangalore day?
It is a 1 to 2 hour indoor stop with an underwater tunnel and jellyfish room, open till 8:00 PM, so it fits after a morning of walking.
When is the fish-feeding at Aquarium Paradise?
An expert diver feeds the fish every day at 6:30 PM.
Is there an online discount for Aquarium Paradise?
Yes. AQUA100 gives ₹100 off online aquarium bookings. Check the offers page for current terms.