Over the last few years, Bangalore has emerged as one of the primary multicultural cities of the country. Part of the reason for this vibrant character can be attributed to the fact that Bangalore is home to some of the best educational institutes of the country, be it IIM Bangalore, NLSIU or Christ University. Youngsters from all over the country flock to Bangalore to immerse themselves in its environs and eventually end up growing by leaps and bounds.

　　Additionally, Bangalore is also one of the most expensive cities in India, but this reputation does not sit well with its character of being a student hub. Naturally, Bangalore thus offers a number of budget friendly experiences that allow you to explore its every nook and corner without creating a hole in your pocket. Here is our guide to exploring Bangalore with friends on a budget.

　　Bring out the art afficionado at the Venkatappa Art Gallery

　　Sharing a neighbourhood with Cubbon Park and Bangalore Museum, this gallery attracts artists and art lovers from all across the city and for good reason. With over 600 paintings and sculptures on display, the Venkatappa Art Gallery provides a space for showcasing the work of both contemporary and well-known artists. The gallery consists of three floors, with the first being dedicated completely to the works of K Venkatappa, Bangalore’s most popular artist and the namesake of the gallery.

　　On the remaining two floors, you will find the walls laced with artworks including sketches and painting series by a number of accomplished names, and the experience is sure to satiate the art afficionado in you. The gallery is open from 10 am to 5 pm and the entry fee is a mere INR 10.

　　Experience French cinema at Alliance Francaise De Bangalore

　　If you and your friends are movie buffs, you will be surprised at what Alliance Francaise De Bangalore has in store for you. On the second Wednesday of each month, film enthusiasts meet up for a 7 pm screening of the latest French movies and the fourth Thursdays are reserved for French documentaries. Join other enthusiasts to spend an evening doing your favourite activity, discussing films.

　　If the allotted days are too specific for you, the centre hosts a plethora of other Indo French events regularly, not to mention the small French art galleries located here. You can still make a day out of a visit here and spend laidback quality time at no cost.

　　Head out for a weekend breakfast at Vidyarthi Bhavan

　　The favourite way to begin or end the weekend for the city’s residents is a hearty breakfast of the famous dosas that the city has to offer. The best masala dosa on offer is definitely by Vidyarthi Bhavan, which has several patrons frequenting it regularly for their Benne Masala Dosa and a round of filter coffee. Begin your weekend by heading out for an early morning drive with your gang through the streets of Bangalore and arriving at Vidyarthi Bhavan to indulge in their dosas over a round of conversations. The meal will leave your heart and pocket full, with a plate of dosa just costing INR 43.

　　Take a walk through Cubbon Park

　　Rightly known to be the lungs of the city, Cubbon Park in central Bangalore holds a different meaning for each of its residents. It is spread over 300 acres and is the green belt of the region. Apart from the lush gardens, The park is home to India’s second largest aquarium- The Bangalore Aquarium, and other major structural attractions like the Attara Kacheri, the Cubbon Park Museum and the Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park. Plan a day out with your friends and make a picnic inside the premises, all the while admiring the lush ecosystem and the beauty of the place.