Bengaluru's Hidden Heritage Tour

This isn’t a typical sightseeing tour — it’s Bengaluru through the eyes of someone who was born and raised here. Your day is led by , a passionate historian and heritage storyteller followed by 33,000+ people on Instagram (thehistoryjunkiee). With a background in journalism, a Master’s in Mass Communication from Manipal University, and experience as a reporter with an English daily, she brings clarity, context and nuance you won’t find on plaques or Google. Each stop is intentionally chosen, weaving royal history, political shifts, architecture, culture and lived memory into a cohesive story of how Bengaluru became the city you see today. You travel in a premium private vehicle, explore Lalbagh through a thoughtfully planned route with buggy access (subject to availability), and visit monuments with both certified guides where required and Ashwini’s deeper insights. This is not a scripted tour — it is an immersive, historian-led journey into the soul of Bengaluru.

1. 1

   Lalbagh Botanical Garden

   1.5 hours

   Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of Bengaluru’s most iconic landmarks, developed over 250 years by various rulers of the region. Spread across 240 acres, it is known for its wide variety of plants, heritage trees, and peaceful landscapes. During our visit, we will see key landmarks such as: • The Peninsular Gneiss rock formation • The Glass House, inspired by European architecture • Lalbagh Lake and surrounding garden areas You will also get an overview of how Lalbagh evolved from a royal garden into a public botanical space. This visit offers a calm introduction to Bengaluru’s natural and historical heritage.

2. 2

   Tipu Sultan Fort and Palace - Bangalore KR Market

   45 min

   Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace is an 18th-century teakwood structure built during the Mysore Kingdom. Known for its carved pillars, arches, and painted ceilings, it served as a seasonal residence for Tipu Sultan and his court. As this is a protected monument, a government-certified site guide provides an introduction to the architecture, the audience hall, and how the palace was used during Tipu’s time. You will also hear additional historical context about Tipu Sultan, his family, and the Mysore rulers who shaped this period. The palace offers a brief but meaningful glimpse into Bengaluru’s early political and cultural history.

3. 3

   Bangalore Fort

   30 min

   Originally built as a mud fort in 1537 by Kempegowda—the founder of Bengaluru—it was later strengthened in stone by Hyder Ali in the 18th century. Only a small portion survives today, but this site still marks the birthplace of the city and its earliest political struggles. During this stop, I walk you through: How the fort evolved under different rulers Its role during the Mysore–British conflicts Why this small remaining fragment is still historically important A short but meaningful window into Bengaluru’s origins.

4. 4

   UB City

   1.3 hours

   After exploring the historic heart of the city, we pause for lunch at UB City — Bengaluru’s signature luxury complex and a symbol of its modern, global identity. The iconic UB Tower, premium restaurants, open-air piazza, and international brands create a very different atmosphere from old Bengaluru, offering a glimpse of the city’s contemporary lifestyle. We break here for a relaxed lunch at one of the finest restaurants, giving you a taste of Bengaluru’s cosmopolitan side before continuing our journey through the city.

5. 5

   Cubbon Park

   45 min

   Named after Sir Mark Cubbon, this 300-acre park is where Bengaluru truly breathes. We make a short stop of about 45 minutes to an hour here — a gentle walk to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy the greenery, and pause at iconic landmarks. Along the way, I share delightful, surprising, and even funny stories about Cubbon Park — how it evolved, who shaped it, and the role it played in making Bengaluru the city it is today.

6. 6

   Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri

   30 min

   These two iconic structures face each other across a ceremonial boulevard — a visual dialogue between old Bangalore and the new Karnataka. We pause here for a short walk and a relaxed photo session, taking in: • Vidhana Soudha — an architectural and engineering marvel, celebrated as one of India’s grandest legislative buildings • Attara Kacheri (High Court of Karnataka) — the striking red colonial-era structure directly opposite it While visitors cannot enter the premises due to security restrictions, viewing them together is an experience in itself. The placement of these two buildings has a story — a deliberate choice that reveals much about Bengaluru’s aspirations, identity, and political history. During this stop, I share the immersive and lesser-known stories behind their construction, symbolism, and their place in Bengaluru’s evolving narrative. This is where the city’s past and present stand face-to-face.

7. 7

   Cauvery Handicrafts

   45 min

   Our final stop is Cauvery Emporium, Karnataka’s iconic state-run handicrafts store on MG Road. This is where you find authentic, government-certified art and craft — no replicas, no imitations. From genuine Mysore sandalwood carvings (each with an official registration number) to hand-painted artefacts, traditional textiles, metal crafts, and unique Karnataka souvenirs, this is the perfect place to pick up meaningful gifts for your home or family.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.