Welcome to 560097
North Bengaluru: Vidyaranyapura & Thindlu
About Our Neighborhood
Welcome to 560097, a unique pincode that offers a breath of fresh air in the bustle of Bengaluru. Covering the twin localities of Vidyaranyapura and Thindlu, this area is defined by its distinct character: one part planned modern township, one part historic village, and both embraced by nature.
Vidyaranyapura serves as the residential anchor. Developed in the late 1970s for employees of BEL and HMT, it has evolved into a self-sufficient hub known for its educational institutions, wide avenues, and the famous Durga Parameshwari Temple. While new apartments rise to meet demand, the area retains the soul of the ancient settlement it once was, offering a quieter, more grounded way of life.
The Green Lung: GKVK & Nature
What truly sets 560097 apart is its proximity to the Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra (GKVK), the University of Agricultural Sciences. Spanning over 1,300 acres, this massive campus acts as the primary "green lung" for North Bengaluru. While the concrete jungle expands elsewhere, our neighborhood breathes through this biodiversity hotspot. It is home to virgin forests, experimental farmlands, and botanical gardens that lower the local temperature and purify our air. For residents, the campus is more than just a university; it is a sanctuary for morning walkers, joggers, and birdwatchers who enjoy access to one of the last remaining heavy green covers in the city.
Complementing this massive forest is the rejuvenated Doddabommasandra Lake. A favorite among locals, the lake serves as a thriving community hub with a well-maintained walking track and a children's parkâperfect for a peaceful evening stroll by the water.
Thindlu: A Legacy of 1,000 Years
While Vidyaranyapura represents modern planning, Thindlu holds the area's ancient soul. Long before Bengaluru was a global tech hub, Thindlu existed as a traditional village, and its crown jewel is the Ancient Veerabhadra Swamy Temple.
Estimated to be nearly 1,000 years old, this temple is a living testament to the region's rich history. Historians believe the original structure dates back to the Chola Dynasty, making it one of the oldest spiritual sites in North Bengaluru. Dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, the temple has stood witness to the rise and fall of empires.
Today, the temple creates a unique skyline where the historic Gopura stands tall against a backdrop of modern homes. It remains a thriving center of culture, particularly during the annual Jathre (fair) and fire-walking ceremonies, which draw devotees from all over the city.
A Glimpse into History: The Story of Bengaluru
To understand the character of 560097, one must look at the history of the city it calls home. Bengaluru began in 1537 when the chieftain Kempe Gowda I built a mud fort and established a settlement. He envisioned a center of trade and commerce, marking the city boundaries with four watchtowers. Over the centuries, the city changed hands from the Marathas to the Wodeyars, and eventually to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The British arrival in the 19th century created a distinct divide: the traditional "Peta" (city) and the modern "Cantonment."
The Rise of the North For decades, North Bengaluru was the industrial engine of the city. As the city expanded, areas like Vidyaranyapura, Yelahanka, Sahakarnagar transformed from distant outposts into coveted residential hubs, benefiting from their proximity to the airport and the Outer Ring Road.