Explore Ulsoor With Our Top Things To Do In This Area!

Ulsoor may not have watering holes like Indiranagar or a thousand cafes like Koramangala, but it certainly has its own charm. You've probably already heard about the Ulsoor Lake (which we agree is quite blissful), but in this guide, we tell you what more you can do in the area.

Someshwara Temple 

We know temples might not be the first spots to come to mind when you think of Bangalore. However, with temples dating back to as far as the ninth century, these spiritual structures are an intrinsic part of the city's culture. With several reports dating this Shiva temple back to the Chola period, Ulsoor's Someshwara Temple might very well be the oldest temple in Bangalore. While several elements point towards the Vijayanagara architectural style on a basic level, the structure has much more to it. Adorned with everything from impressive sculptures and pillars to a majestic gopura and an intricately designed Nandi Mantapa, this one's bound to keep you gaping for quite a while. 

Where: Halasuru Someshwara Temple, Ulsoor Rd, Someshwarpura

Ulsoor Lake

One of the oldest and most popular lakes in the ooru, Ulsoor Lake is conveniently located in the centre of the city. Although initially neglected, the lake is now nicely maintained and surrounded by greenery. Perfect for a Sunday picnic with friends or family, this is where you can go boating, play some games or just chill with a book. While you're at it, don't miss the breathtaking sunset here! There are quite a few cafes like Cafe Kaara and Urban Solace, facing the lake if you feel like having a cuppa with a view! 

Smally’s Restocafe

Picture Credits: an_eclectic_gourmet

Officially the smallest cafe in the country, this cramped up space (lives up to its name) is the first branch that ever opened in the city. Head here for their popular burgers like spicy Chicken Cafreal (our favourite), Sliced Sausage Burger and Peri Peri Chicken Burger. Other must-try dishes include Disco Chicken, steaks,  Peri Peri Wings and options in Lasagne. Finish with their Original Cheesecake Shake or Smally’s Brownie Shake. Smally's also took home the award for 'Best Cafe in Bangalore' at What's Hot Owler Awards, a well-deserved win, we think. 

Where: Skywalk, 5/1, Near Body Craft, Assaye Road 

The Skywalk

Until a few years ago, Ulsoor folks had to travel to MG Road or Indiranagar for some good grub and gruel. Come Skywalk and they now have an option of a rooftop pub – Watson’s, multiple eateries like Smally’s, Just Shawarma, Xian (for your Chindian), Mangalore Pearl and more. Dessert options include Gobble Up Churros (try their chocolate-filled variation) and Melita Ice Creams. The Skywalk also houses a popular salon – Neil’s Studio known particularly for hair colouring and treatments. 

Urban Solace

Done with eating, drinking and making merry? Sign up to attend a painting workshop or a poetry reading at Urban Solace. Offering a lovely view of the Ulsoor Lake, this cafe is known for its events, comedy nights, writing workshops and even live music nights by popular demand. Whether you want to spend a lazy afternoon here with a book or catch one of the events, this cafe is a must-visit. 

RBANMS Grounds

Up for a dose of murals and street art? Head here to witness a riot of colours covering the grounds at RBANMS campus. Most of the art here can be credited to the students of Shristi School of Design who have taken up everything from social issues to punny inspirations to create masterpieces.

Street Shopping

The Ulsoor Market, which we often visited when living in the area sells everything from fish and groceries to costumes and stationery.  If you are into cooking, a trip to the Fish Market, followed by one to the bylanes of Bazaar Street is recommended. If not, you can buy stationery at Sumangali Stores for wholesale prices and even shop for clothes at Sri Venkateshwara Garments (look for wrap around skirts in quirky prints. 

Picture Credits - Think Bangalore

Think we missed a place? Let us know in the comments.