Located in the north-western part of Bangalore, Malleshwaram is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. With its name taken from the Kaadu Malleshwara temple located in the area, it was initially a forest land which was later transformed into a suburb when the plague in the 19th century hit the city centre. The neighborhood was planned with nicely paved roads, educational institutions, parks, and places of worship. Today, though it has reinvented itself as new restaurants, cultural centers, malls, and supermarkets have popped up in the area, but it still retains its old-world charm. It stands proudly as an endearing mix of past and present. Take time to explore its streets, as well as ancient temples and green spaces, and do have a post-stroll break at one of the heritage eateries serving South Indian specialities. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Malleshwaram, Bangalore, India.
Things to do in and around Malleshwaram
Whether you’re a nature lover, art enthusiast, history buff, or a spiritual seeker, there is something for everyone in Malleshwaram.
1. Nature walk at Sankey Tank
Spread across an area of 37.1 acres (15 hectares), Sankey Tank is a man-made lake that was initially established to fulfill the water demands of the city. Today, the lake serves as a recreation spot with lush walking trails around it. As well as nature walks, you can take a boat ride at the lake, which makes for a one-of-a-kind experience complete with picturesque views. There are also benches and shaded canopies across the lake where you can relax and enjoy the serene ambiance. Many ducks can also be spotted here. Other than that, it’s also equipped with a small playground complete with swings and gym equipment, which adds to its appeal. There are a few snack carts outside the park where you can grab a quick bite. All in all, it’s a perfect spot to unwind, indulge in some relaxing yoga, or catch up on your fitness regime.
Pro tip: Visit during sunset as the entire lake is enveloped in rusty orange and red glow - a sight to behold!
Sankey Tank
Address: 273, Sankey Rd, 18th Cross Rd, Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 5am - 10am; 4pm - 8pm (closed on Fri)
Price: Free entry (food is not allowed inside the park)
2. Go temple-hopping
Once you’re satisfied with your dose of nature, go temple-hopping. Malleshwaram is home to several temples, and the most noteworthy ones include the 17th-century Sri Kaadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple (or, Kadu Malleshwara temple) and the diagonally opposite 400-year-old Sri Dakshinamukha Nandi Tirtha Kalyani Kshetra - both are dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva. The Kadu Malleshwara temple is an epitome of Dravidian architecture and is popular for its annual Shivaratri festival held in February or March, while the highlight of the Dakshinamukha Nandi Tirtha temple is its stone statue of Nandi (Lord Shiva’s mount), from whose mouth water falls onto the Shivalinga and flows into a stepped tank set in the centre of the temple.
Sri Kaadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Address: 2nd Temple Street, Vyalikaval, Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
Opening hours: 7am - 12pm, 6pm - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
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3. Admire the street art
Malleshwaram has some really creative street art thanks to the Urban Avant-Garde project held in 2012. Some of the...
Posted by Trell on Friday, 26 May 2017
Malleshwaram is one of the prime artistic hotspots in Bangalore. There exist various forms of street art throughout the neighborhood. While some works depict the quirks of the city and the locals, others have a social message. Keep your eyes peeled around the 6th Cross Road, 7th Cross, 8th Cross, Sampige Road, Malleshwaram Railway Station, and various other walls. The wall art ‘ignorance is blindness of the soul’ on the 8th Cross is definitely worth checking out.
Bangalore District Tour Guide
Ramesh Kumar
Hello, I am Ramesh Kumar, a Bangalorean, born & brought up in this lovely city. I work as a freelance Tour Guide-Tour Leader-Trip Manager to the foreign travelers who visit Southern India as a destination for travel as well as for the corporate executives who come on business meets taking place. Being a knowledgeable Tour Guide, I curate creative itineraries, all tailor made to suit their tastes, likes & interests. I am conversant with the entire stretch of South Indian monuments. I speak good quality English easily assimible by the travelers. My services are sought after by foreign travelers, travel agents, diplomats & those who wish to travel with their special plans of interest for gaining an experience of Learning and Discovery.
4. Catch a musical or theatrical performance at Chowdiah Memorial Hall
If you’re an admirer of Hindustani and Carnatic classical music, then this is the right place for you. Dedicated to the Indian violin maestro Tirumakudalu Chowdiah, the Chowdiah Memorial Hall hosts a range of classical concerts along with several traditional and contemporary dance shows, ballet, jazz, and plays. Apart from the musical and theatrical shows, the auditorium is also known for its architecture. Built in the shape of a huge violin, complete with the strings, keys, the bow and the bridge, it will surely leave you wonderstruck.
Chowdiah Memorial Hall
Address: 16th Cross Road, Vyalikaval, Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
Website: Chowdiah Memorial Hall
5. Indulge in retail therapy
Malleshwaram is one of Bangalore’s shopping hubs. If you want to experience shopping the local’s way and want an affordable fashion and household item (and also don’t mind the crowd or heat), head to Malleshwaram Market on Sampige Road. It is dotted with shops and street hawkers selling everything from clothes and accessories to bags, handicrafts, electronic gadgets, spices, vegetables, flowers, and more.
Malleshwaram Market
Address: Sampige Rd, Malleshwaram West, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56000
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
Posted by Mantri Square on Saturday, 7 August 2010
If you want to shop for luxury brands, visit the Mantri Square Mall on the Sampige Road. With over 250 retail stores to explore, plus an expansive food court, a gaming center and a six-screen multiplex, there is something for everyone at the Mantri Square. Also, it is the only mall in South India that houses five department stores under one roof - Pantaloon, Shoppers Stop, Marks & Spencers, Lifestyle, and Reliance Trends.
Mantri Square Mall
Address: Sampige Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
Website: Mantri Square Mall
Opening hours: 9:30am - 11:30pm (daily)
6. Step back in time at Bangalore Palace
If you want to learn about Bangalore’s rich history, make your way over to the Bangalore Palace, which is less than 10 minutes’ drive from Malleshwaram. Built in Tudor-style, the palace has two levels filled with ancient artefacts and memorabilia owned by the royal family of Mysore, the Wadiyar. The palace ground also has a well-maintained garden with a variety of flora species, as well as an amusement park with rides and entertainment activities for people of all ages.
Bangalore Palace
Address: Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052
Website: Bangalore Palace
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 10:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Thu)
Price: 3.34 USD (230 INR) for Indians, 6.67 USD (460 INR) for foreigners; 9.94 USD (685 INR) for Still Camera, 4.14 USD (285 INR) for Mobile Camera and 21.55 USD (1485 INR) for Video Camera [NOTE: Ticket price includes a audio guide of the palace, which is available in six languages - English, Hindi, French, Italian, German and Kannada]
Best restaurants in and around Malleshwaram
Prior to 2000, Malleshwaram was a vegetarian-friendly neighborhood. Today, you’ll find restaurants serving a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Trip101 recommends checking out these restaurants.
1. Veena Stores
Craving for local South Indian food? Then look no further than Veena Stores. Their idli (savory rice cake) and shavige bath (rice vermicelli) along with South Indian filter coffee is considered to be one of the best in the city. Modest when it comes to decor, but among the most efficient when it comes to service, this food joint has carved a unique space for itself in Bangalore’s rich and diverse culinary tradition.
Veena Stores
Address: 183, Margosa Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
Website: Veena Stores
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6:30am - 12pm, 3:30pm - 9pm; Sun: 6:30am -12 pm
2. AL-BEK Restaurant
From biryani and non-vegetarian kebabs to Mughlai and North Indian dishes, the food on offer at Al-Bek is sure to have all your cravings satisfied. Their shawarma rolls, mutton biryani, and grilled kebabs are a huge hit among patrons. The relaxed vibe and friendly service are an added bonus.
AL-BEK
Address: 527, 1st Cross, Sampige Road, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
Website: AL-BEK
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 11pm; Fri: 11:30am - 11:30pm; Sat: 11:30am - 12am; Sun: 12pm- 12am
3. The Higher Taste
What do Anil Kumble, Vishwanathan Anand and Amitabh Bachchan have in common? They are all vegetarian and proud of it....
Posted by The Higher Taste on Wednesday, 27 February 2019
Located within the ISKCON temple complex, the Higher Taste is a savior for anyone craving Sattvic Indian fare (no garlic or onion in food) in the city. It is just 2 km (1.24 miles) drive away from Malleshwaram. From North Indian to South Indian Sattvic vegetarian cuisine, the restaurant is equipped to serve everything you could possibly be craving. Food is served on the banana leaves, and there’s an elaborate buffet spread of 40 items and an extensive dessert counter as well. If you don’t wish to visit the main branch of Higher Taste situated within the temple complex, you can also stop by the Higher Taste Store located on Sampige Road in Malleshwaram. It is a small space that specializes in fast food items and quick bites.
The Higher Taste
Address: Inside ISKCON, Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010
Website: The Higher Taste
Opening hours: 12pm - 3pm, 7pm - 10:30pm (daily)
Best bars and pubs in and around Malleshwaram
The best way to wrap up your day in Malleshwaram is by enjoying a drink or two at one of the many bars and pubs dotting the neighborhood. It’s also a great opportunity to interact with locals and get a sense of the area’s growing young (and modern) population. Trip101 recommends checking out these bars.
1. High Ultra Lounge
Enjoy an unparalleled dining experience at the highest lounge bar in South India. For reservations: +91 80 4567 4567/...
Posted by HIGH on Sunday, 6 May 2018
Located on the 31st floor of the World Trade Center, the High Ultra Lounge is not just the highest lounge bar in South India but also one of the best rooftop spaces with unrestricted view of the Bangalore’s skyline. This swanky bar has an impressive drink list and a delicious Pan-Asian cuisine to match, making it a perfect spot to unwind with friends, colleagues, or family.
High Ultra Lounge
Address: 26/1, World Trade Center, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Malleshwaram West, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
Website: High Ultra Lounge
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 12:30pm - 11:30pm; Fri - Sat: 12:30pm - 12:30am
2. District 6
Posted by District 6 on Sunday, 15 February 2015
If you’re a fan of authentic German beer, District 6 is the place for you. All the beers are made from ingredients sourced from Germany, and the standout brews include the Dark Lord (dark, malt beer) and Guru (strong lager). They also have an impressive food menu filled with German, North Indian, and American cuisines.
District 6
Address: G-03, G-04, G-05 26/1, Dr Rajkumar Road, Malleshwaram, Rajaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
Website: District 6
Opening hours: 12pm - 1am (daily)
3. 1522 The Pub
Posted by 1522 The Pub on Saturday, 11 July 2015
With an excellent selection of cocktails, a satisfying food menu complete with Indian and international grub, DJ nights, karaoke, live bands, and more, you’ll never be bored at 1522 The Pub. The setting is also vibrant yet laid-back, making it a great spot to hang out after a long day at work. The best thing is, it is very affordable - you can get a pint of beer for just 2.32 USD (160 INR).
1522 The Pub
Address: 1522, 17th Cross Road, A Block, Milk Colony, Subramanyanagar,2 State, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560055
Website: 1522 The Pub
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 11:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 1am
Malleshwaram, where old-world charm meets modernity
Any walk around Malleshwaram can become a lesson in art, history, and local culture. From ancient temples to lively street art, ample green spaces, and a cultural center, the suburb has it all. If you need a rest, stop by the suburb’s restaurants and bars, where locals like to hang out at all times of the day.
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