October in Bangalore is when the city bursts into life with dazzling lights, street markets, cultural events, and unbeatable online offers. The Diwali shopping rush blends perfectly with Navratri festivities, making it the most exciting time of year. From Commercial Street bargains to Flipkart Big Billion Days steals, this month is all about enjoying and saving. At SavePlus India, our mission is simple — help you make the most of festive fun without overspending.
Shop Festive Wear at Commercial Street
Commercial Street turns into a fashion paradise in October, filled with vibrant fabrics, sparkling lehengas, elegant sarees, and stylish kurtas. Every lane is packed with stores showcasing festive collections to match every budget. Locals and tourists flock here for its unbeatable variety and scope for bargaining. Even high-end boutiques lower their prices for the festive rush. The key to saving is knowing when and where to shop. With the right payment methods, you can double your savings.
- Bargain for Bulk Purchases – Buying three or more outfits in one go often convinces shopkeepers to give an extra discount that isn’t displayed on price tags.
- Choose Local Boutiques – Smaller family-run stores offer unique hand-stitched designs at a fraction of branded store prices while maintaining excellent quality.
- Use Paytm Cashback Offers – Paying via Paytm wallet during festival promotions often earns instant cashback credited within minutes.
Cost: ₹800 – ₹5,000 for a complete festive outfit.
Pro Tip: Visit between 10 AM and noon on weekdays when crowds are thin and shopkeepers are more open to negotiating.
Visit Diwali Markets at KR Road
KR Road is a Diwali shopper’s dream in October, with endless rows of stalls selling diyas, lanterns, festive lights, and sweets. The festive air here is unbeatable — the smell of fresh jalebis, the sight of twinkling lights, and the sound of vendors calling out special offers. The best part is that most prices are negotiable, and buying in bulk can save you a lot. You’ll also find plenty of eco-friendly décor options from local artisans. Many stalls accept UPI payments, making transactions quick and reward-filled.
- Support Local Artisans – Many items are handmade by Karnataka artisans, ensuring you get unique pieces while supporting the local economy.
- Cash + UPI Combo – Pay part in cash for extra discounts and the rest via UPI to benefit from cashback offers running during the festive period.
- Buy in Bulk – Purchasing diya sets or lantern bundles not only brings the per-piece cost down but also earns extra free pieces from sellers.
Cost: ₹100 – ₹1,000 for assorted festive décor.
Pro Tip: Head there just after sunset for the perfect blend of festive lighting and bustling energy.
Attend Cultural Shows at Ravindra Kalakshetra
October brings a packed schedule of theatre plays, classical dance, and music performances at Ravindra Kalakshetra. These events showcase Karnataka’s cultural richness while aligning with the festive mood. From Bharatanatyam and Carnatic concerts to modern Kannada plays, there’s something for every taste. The experience is intimate and enriching, offering more than just entertainment. Ticket prices are surprisingly affordable, especially when booked early. Attending these shows not only entertains but also supports local artists.
- Book Early Online – Reserving tickets on platforms like BookMyShow with festive coupon codes can save you up to 20% instantly.
- Look for Group Passes – Buying tickets in groups of four or more often unlocks special discounts not advertised widely.
- Use Student Discounts – Carrying a valid student ID can give you access to concession rates that are significantly cheaper.
Cost: ₹150 – ₹500 per ticket.
Pro Tip: Arrive 30–40 minutes early for the best seats and to enjoy pre-show performances.
Explore Food Street at VV Puram
VV Puram Food Street comes alive in October, offering the ultimate festive food crawl. Sweets like Mysore Pak, holige, and laddoos are sold fresh alongside crispy dosas and chaats. The aromas wafting through the air are irresistible, making it a must-visit for food lovers. Vendors often launch festive specials that aren’t available at other times of the year. It’s also a great way to enjoy authentic local flavors at budget-friendly prices. Evening hours are especially vibrant with music and lights.
- Go for Combo Deals – Many stalls create festive platters that combine sweets and snacks at a price lower than buying items separately.
- Pay Digitally – Vendors frequently tie up with Paytm or PhonePe for cashback deals, especially during Diwali week.
- Share Dishes – Going with friends and ordering different items lets you taste more without overspending.
Cost: ₹50 – ₹300 per person.
Pro Tip: Visit after 8 PM for maximum variety and freshly prepared dishes.
Grab Electronics During Flipkart Big Billion Days
October is the month tech enthusiasts wait for, thanks to Flipkart’s Big Billion Days sale. Discounts on smartphones, laptops, TVs, and home appliances can be massive, often combined with bank offers for deeper savings. Stock moves fast, so timing is everything. This sale often overlaps with Amazon’s Great Indian Festival, creating a perfect opportunity to compare prices. Using the right coupons can further slash your bill. Many buyers also opt for EMI offers to spread costs easily.
- Use Bank Card Offers – Credit cards from SBI and HDFC often provide flat 10% extra discount on top of sale prices.
- Compare with Amazon – Cross-checking Flipkart prices against Amazon lightning deals can lead to unexpected savings.
- Use SavePlus Coupons – Applying SavePlus-exclusive Flipkart coupon codes can unlock additional cashback.
Cost: Savings of ₹1,000 – ₹20,000 depending on purchase.
Pro Tip: Log in right at midnight on the first sale day to secure the most in-demand products.
Enjoy Festive Installations at Phoenix Marketcity
Phoenix Marketcity transforms into a festive wonderland in October, complete with giant installations, musical performances, and exclusive brand sales. It’s one of Bangalore’s largest malls, so the range of products and discounts is vast. Special activities like workshops and kids’ events make it perfect for families. The décor is Instagram-worthy, drawing in crowds from across the city. Many premium brands offer storewide sales and loyalty rewards this month. Timing your visit right can make your experience smoother and more rewarding.
- Join Loyalty Programs – Enrolling in mall or brand loyalty schemes can give you free vouchers and advance notice of sales.
- Flat Festive Discounts – Many apparel and accessory brands offer 30–50% off storewide during October.
- EMI Offers – Large electronics stores inside the mall offer no-cost EMI plans to make purchases easier on the wallet.
Cost: ₹500 – ₹5,000+ depending on purchases.
Pro Tip: Go on weekday mornings to avoid heavy weekend crowds and long billing queues.
Visit Lalbagh Flower Show
The Lalbagh Flower Show in October is a treat for the eyes, with stunning floral displays inspired by local culture and seasonal themes. The show attracts tourists, photographers, and nature lovers from across the country. Each year, a unique theme is chosen, making it a fresh experience. Vendors also sell plants and gardening supplies at the venue. The pleasant October weather adds to the charm. It’s also an affordable outing for families.
- Check for Online Discounts – Booking tickets online often comes with a small discount and saves queue time.
- Family Passes – Buying tickets for a group can reduce the per-person rate significantly.
- Photography Deals – Renting DSLRs during the festive season is often cheaper, allowing you to capture high-quality images.
Cost: ₹50 – ₹100 per person.
Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning for soft lighting and fewer people in the background of your photos.
Experience Navratri Garba Nights
October in Bangalore comes alive with colorful Garba and Dandiya nights, bringing the spirit of Gujarat right into the city. Venues like Palace Grounds and community halls host energetic dances with live music. People dress in vibrant chaniya cholis and kediyus, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. The atmosphere is infectious, with beats of the dhol keeping everyone moving. Entry tickets often include snacks or drink coupons, adding to the value. Whether you’re a dancer or just a spectator, the vibe is unmissable.
- Book in Advance – Tickets for popular venues sell out quickly, so booking 1–2 weeks ahead can save you from overpriced last-minute rates.
- Use Group Discounts – Many organizers offer reduced prices for groups of five or more attending together.
- Rent Outfits – Renting traditional wear for the night is far cheaper than buying and still ensures stunning festive photos.
Cost: ₹300 – ₹1,000 per person.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to grab the front rows for the best view of professional dance performances before the crowd takes over.
Take Part in Deepavali Charity Runs
Deepavali charity runs in October combine fitness with community service, raising funds for causes like education, healthcare, and animal welfare. These events often take place early morning in parks or iconic city spots like Cubbon Park. The runs are festive-themed, with participants sometimes dressed in colorful outfits or wearing light accessories. Registration usually includes a T-shirt, refreshments, and a participation medal. Running for a cause adds meaning to the festive season beyond shopping and food. You also get to network with like-minded people.
- Early Bird Registration – Signing up a month ahead can cut your registration fee by 20–30%.
- Corporate Sponsorships – Many companies cover the fee for employees participating in charity runs, so check with your HR.
- Volunteer for Free Entry – Some events allow volunteers to run for free in exchange for helping with event setup.
Cost: ₹200 – ₹800 per participant.
Pro Tip: Carry a reusable water bottle to avoid buying plastic bottles and to align with the eco-friendly theme of many charity runs.
Visit Art & Craft Fairs at Chitrakala Parishath
Chitrakala Parishath becomes a creative hotspot in October with its art and craft fairs. Stalls feature handmade jewelry, paintings, pottery, and festive décor. It’s a great place to buy Diwali gifts that are unique and handcrafted. The fair often hosts live demonstrations, letting you watch artisans at work. Bargaining is welcome, but the prices are already fair considering the quality and craftsmanship. This is also a perfect spot to discover traditional art forms like Mysore painting and bidriware. Many artisans travel from different states to showcase their skills here.
- Support Small Artisans – Buying directly from artisans means your money goes straight to the creators, not middlemen.
- Look for Bundle Deals – Some stalls give free items or price cuts if you buy three or more pieces.
- Digital Payments Rewards – Using Google Pay or Paytm here sometimes earns scratch-card cashback offers.
Cost: ₹150 – ₹2,000 depending on items.
Pro Tip: Visit on the last day, when sellers often slash prices to clear their stock before packing up.
Enjoy Outdoor Picnics at Nandi Hills
October’s cool mornings make Nandi Hills a perfect getaway for picnics and sunrise watching. Just a short drive from Bangalore, the hills offer breathtaking views and fresh air away from city chaos. Families and friends often bring snacks, mats, and games to enjoy a relaxed day outdoors. The sunrise is magical, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Entrance fees are minimal, making it a budget-friendly outing. If you go early, you can beat the crowd and enjoy the serenity.
- Carpool for Savings – Traveling with friends not only cuts fuel costs but also makes parking more affordable.
- Pack Your Own Food – Bringing homemade snacks saves money and ensures you eat fresh and healthy.
- Combine Activities – Pair your picnic with a short trek around the hills for added adventure without extra cost.
Cost: ₹10 – ₹50 for entry, plus travel expenses.
Pro Tip: Arrive by 5:30 AM to secure the best sunrise spot before tour buses arrive.
Conclusion
Bangalore in October is a perfect mix of culture, shopping, food, and festivities. From dazzling markets to peaceful getaways, there’s something for everyone. By planning ahead, using smart payment methods, and grabbing the best festive offers, you can enjoy all these activities without overspending. Make this festive season about both joy and value — that’s the true spirit of celebration.
SavePlus India is your trusted guide to Bangalore’s festive season — bringing you handpicked activities, exclusive deals, and money-saving hacks to celebrate more while spending less.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Bangalore in October?
The weather is pleasant all day, but evenings are perfect for markets and events. Early mornings are great for outdoor activities like Nandi Hills.
Which is better for shopping — Commercial Street or KR Road?
Commercial Street is best for clothing and accessories, while KR Road shines for Diwali décor and festive items.
Are Flipkart and Amazon sales worth it?
Yes, if you compare prices, apply coupons, and use bank offers, these sales can give significant savings.
How can I save money on festive events?
Book tickets early, look for group discounts, and use digital payment cashback offers during the festive season.
Is October a crowded month in Bangalore?
Yes, expect more traffic and larger crowds in markets and malls, especially on weekends and closer to Diwali.