Bangalore offers many interesting photography locations. The city combines leafy parks, historic buildings, lakes, open grasslands and misty hills. Whether you are planning portraits, a pre-wedding shoot, a nature walk or travel photographs, the right location makes a major difference. Here are five photography locations in and around Bangalore, each offering a distinct setting.
Cubbon Park is an easy place for an outdoor shoot in central Bangalore. Spread across nearly 300 acres, the park has large trees, green lawns, bamboo groves, statues and shaded walking paths. The red State Central Library creates a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery, while the historic Bandstand suits vintage-style portraits. Early mornings are usually better for soft light, quieter paths and candid photographs. General entry to the park is free.
Located around 60 km from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is suited to sunrise, landscape and travel photography. Mist moving across the valleys can create dramatic wide frames during cooler months. Tipu’s Drop, old stone walls and the hilltop pathways add texture to portraits and heritage-themed photographs. Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, situated at the base of the hills, offers carved pillars, courtyards and a temple pond. Check current entry procedures before travelling.
Hebbal Lake provides a calmer natural setting in North Bangalore. Water views, tree-lined paths and reflections work well for simple landscapes, while the distant Hebbal Flyover can add an urban contrast. The lake also attracts several waterbird species, making it useful for bird photography. A telephoto lens is helpful for getting clear photographs while maintaining a safe distance. Stay on public paths and avoid disturbing nesting or feeding birds.
Hesaraghatta is known for broad skies, open fields, seasonal lake views and quiet country roads northwest of the city. The grasslands are especially attractive during sunrise and sunset, when the warm light brings depth to portraits and wide landscapes. The area became part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve in 2025, reflecting its ecological importance. Visitors should use permitted routes, keep noise low and never drive onto the grassland or lake bed for a photograph.
Bangalore Palace in Vasanth Nagar offers a completely different visual style. Its Tudor-inspired facade, turrets, stone walls, royal archways and landscaped grounds create a classic heritage backdrop. The exterior works well for architectural compositions, while shaded corridors can add depth to portraits where access is allowed. Entry tickets are required, and professional or commercial photography may need separate approval. Contact the palace administration before organising a formal shoot.
Each location suits a different mood, from the greenery of Cubbon Park to the open horizons of Hesaraghatta. Choose your equipment according to the setting, arrive when the light is gentle and confirm timings, fees and photography rules before visiting. Responsible planning will help you return with strong photographs without inconveniencing other visitors or affecting sensitive natural spaces unnecessarily.
1. Which is a good free photography location in Bangalore?
Cubbon Park in central Bangalore offers free general entry and features green lawns, bamboo groves, shaded paths, the Bandstand and the red State Central Library.
2. Where can I take sunrise photos near Bangalore?
Nandi Hills, located around 60 km from Bangalore, is known for sunrise views, valley mist, hilltop paths and dramatic landscapes.
3. Where can I do bird photography in Bangalore?
Hebbal Lake in North Bangalore attracts several waterbird species and offers lakeside viewpoints suitable for photography with a telephoto lens.
4. Is photography allowed at Hesaraghatta Grasslands?
Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve allows responsible photography from permitted routes, but visitors should not drive onto the protected grassland or lake bed.
5. Do I need permission for a photoshoot at Bangalore Palace?
Bangalore Palace in Vasanth Nagar requires an entry ticket, while professional or commercial photoshoots may need separate permission from the palace administration.
