Introduction
Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is known for its pleasant weather, lush green parks, historical temples, and delicious food. This Bangalore travel guide will help make your visit easy and enjoyable. We’ll cover everything from the best time to visit and where to stay, to what to eat and what to see.
How to get to Bangalore?
Assuming you are starting from the very beginning, the first step is to get to Bangalore. Depending on where you are coming from, this can be done in a few different ways.
If you are coming from within India, the easiest way to get to Bangalore is by taking an Indian domestic flight to Kempegowda International Airport (IATA: BLR). This airport is located about 40 kilometers outside of central Bangalore and has flights arriving from all over India. Once you land, you can take a taxi or an Uber into the city center.
If you are coming from outside of India, the best way to get to Bangalore is by flying into Bengaluru International Airport (IATA: BLR). This airport is located about 40 kilometers outside of central Bangalore and has flights arriving from all over the world. Once you land, you can take a taxi or an Uber into the city center.
Another option, regardless of your location, is to take a train to Bangalore City Railway Station. This railway station is located in central Bangalore and has trains arriving from all over India. Keep in mind, however, that depending on where you are coming from, this option may not be feasible as it can take a very long time to reach Bangalore by train.
What to see and do in Bangalore?
There are a few must-sees in Bangalore that should be on any traveler’s list. The first is the Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, which span 240 acres and are home to over 1,000 species of plants, trees, and flowers. The gardens also have a glass house modeled after London’s Crystal Palace, which hosts flower shows throughout the year.
Next on the list is Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the state government. The massive granite building is an architectural wonder, and visitors can take a tour of the interior to see where the legislature meets.
For those interested in Hindu temples, several worths are visiting Bangalore. The ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple is one of the largest in India and has beautiful architecture and decorations. The Sri Someshwara Temple is another popular temple, known for its sixteenth-century gopuram (gateway tower).
Finally, no trip to Bangalore would be complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife. UB City is a great place to start, with its many bars, restaurants, and clubs. For something a little different, head to M G Road or Koramangala for some street food and live music.
Where to stay in Bangalore?
There are many accommodation options in Bangalore, from five-star hotels to budget guesthouses. For the luxury traveler, the city offers a range of high-end hotels, such as The Oberoi Bangalore and The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore. For those on a tighter budget, there are plenty of mid-range and economy hotels, such as the Park Plaza Bengaluru and the Cavalry Court Hotel. There are also several Airbnb rentals available in Bangalore.
Eating and drinking in Bangalore
Bangalore, India’s third largest city, is a cosmopolitan melting pot where you can find food from all over the world. The city is known for its street food, which includes dosas (a type of pancake), idlis (a steamed rice cake), vadas (a fried doughnut), and uttapams (a thick pancake). Other popular dishes include masala dosa (a pancake with a spicy potato filling), Pongal (a rice and lentil dish), and biryani (a rice dish with meat or vegetables). In addition to street food, many restaurants serve Indian and international cuisine. When it comes to drinks, Bangalore has a lot to offer as well. The city is home to several breweries, including the world-famous Kingfisher Beer. In addition to beer, you can also find wine, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages in Bangalore.
Shopping in Bangalore
Shopping in Bangalore can be a lot of fun, especially if you know where to go. For starters, Commercial Street is a great place to find good deals on clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. If you’re looking for something more upscale, check out UB City Mall, which has high-end stores like Armani Exchange and Tory Burch. Or, for a more traditional shopping experience, head to Chickpet Market. Here you’ll find everything from spices to silk saris.
Tips for visiting Bangalore
Bangalore, India’s third largest city, is a bustling metropolis that is often called the Garden City and Silicon Valley of India. A visit to this vibrant city offers a unique blend of old and new, with ancient temples and monuments standing alongside modern high-rise buildings.
Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Getting around:
Bangalore’s public transport system includes an efficient metro rail service as well as a large fleet of air-conditioned buses. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also widely available, although negotiating a fare can be tricky. For longer distances, it’s best to hire a car with a driver.
Where to stay:
Accommodation options in Bangalore range from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. If you’re looking for something in between, consider staying in an apartment or villa through a vacation rental website such as Airbnb.
What to see and do:
Bangalore has something for everyone, from historic sights like the 16th century Vidhana Soudha – the city’s legislative assembly building – to contemporary attractions like the Bangalore palace. Make sure to leave time for some shopping too; MG Road and Commercial Street are two of the best places for retail therapy.
