Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru is a land of start-ups and nifty ideas. This metro economy can seem a little tight, especially if you run low on cash. But there’s a lot to do here for budget travellers. From art to book readings and more – the city is full of wonders that come at no cost. Namma Bengaluru has something for all – here’s your guide to meandering through some of its zero-pay destinations.

Bibliophiles, Head To A Reading Session

The city has several charming indie bookstores that host regular author interactions and readings. You can walk in and spend a happy couple of hours soaking it all in. Check out Atta Galatta in the tony neighbourhood of Koramangala and Champaca on Edward Road.  

Cubbon Park Calling

The Garden City’s popular Cubbon Park is known for its cultural display, monuments, and government buildings. It lies in the middle of the route for Old Bangalore and Cantt, often being an apt rest site for some R&R for people traveling the distance. The lush green stretch is an ideal spot when you want to spend some quiet time away from the crowd. With more than 6,000 plants across 300 acres, Cubbon Park is the perfect place for a stroll and a break.

Address – Behind High Court, Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560001

Timings – 6 AM to 6 PM

Other green spaces to explore are – M.N. Krishna Rao Park and Bugle Rock Garden

Check Out The Street Art On St. Mark’s Road

Several neighbourhoods in the city have art on walls, with striking murals and graffiti highlighting the city’s quirks as well as some addressing issues like freedom, and social and local problems. We recommend you head to St. Mark’s Road to experience this public art in the best way. The entire street is a must-see tourist attraction destination radiating aestheticism in a gorgeous setting that is 10/10 photo worthy.

Other places to witness compelling art opus on byways in Bengaluru are – Kormangala, Malleswaram, Ulsoor, Indiranagar, MG Road, Yelahanka, and Church Street.

Explore Lalbagh Botanical Garden 

Lalbagh Glass House is a massive glass and iron building designed to resemble the Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde Park. A vast garden with 240 acres of land, it lies in the centre of the city. Walking paths, a bridge, and a small waterfall surround the huge lake here. A watchtower erected by Kempegowda, the founder of Bengaluru, can also be seen in this lovely garden, located atop a 3000 million-year-old granite outcrop.

Address – Lalbagh Road, Wilson Garden, Near BMTC Office, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560004

Timings – 6 AM to 7 PM

Early in the morning and late at night, entry is free (6 to 9 AM and 6 to 7 PM). A small fee is charged during the day.

Cultural Surfeit At Rangoli Metro Art Centre

Rangoli is an urban public area where anyone can enter without hesitation and take in the best that the visual arts offer. They have events every day involving a range of cultural programmes and public art.

Address – MG Road Boulevard Bangalore, Karnataka, 560001

Timings – 11 AM to 07:30 PM

Immerse In Art At The National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art in Bengaluru frequently hosts new art exhibitions, cultural events, and film screenings. Keep a watch on their page for the latest events.

Watch A Film At Alliance Française De Bangalore

The Alliance Française de Bangalore hosts free film screenings of French motion pictures and documentaries on the second Wednesday and fourth Thursday of every month, making it a must-visit location for international film buffs. Its exhibition gallery and auditorium are the ideal venues for artistic expression and offer first-rate facilities for holding top-notch cultural events.

Address – PO 108, Thimmaiah Road, Vasanthnagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, 5600052

Timings – 9:30 AM to 05:30 PM