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Bangalore Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know Before You Go

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Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is another Indian city that's undergoing a change back to its traditional name, Bengaluru. It's a contemporary, fast growing and prosperous city that's home to India's IT industry. Many multinational corporations have set up their Indian head offices there. As a result, the city is full of young professionals and has a vibrant air about it, with a flourishing pub culture.

There's been a huge population growth in Bangalore in recent years. About 12.5 million people now live there, making it India's fourth largest city after Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Although Bangalore isn't regarded as a must-visit tourist destination in India, many people like the city because of its greenery and interesting buildings. Unfortunately, some its appeal has been lost to growing traffic congestion and garbage disposal issues though.

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Find out what to know before you go in this Bangalore travel guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Due to its elevation, Bangalore is blessed with relatively pleasant climate. Daytime temperatures remain fairly constant, between 26-29 degrees Celsius (79-84 degrees Fahrenheit), for most of the year. The temperature usually only exceeds 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the hot summer months from March to May, when it can reach around 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters in Bangalore are warm and sunny, although the temperature does drop at night to around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter mornings can also be foggy. September and October experience the most monsoon season rain.
• Language: Kannada and English. Hindi is also widely spoken.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours. Bangalore does not have Daylight Saving Time. Read more about India's time zone.
• Getting Around: The new Bangalore Metro train, Uber and Ola Cabs have revolutionized transport in the city. Previously, getting around the city could be challenging, as taxis are only available by prior booking and auto rickshaws are notorious for trying to cheat tourists. Read more about transport options in Bangalore .
• Travel Tip: Stay in the Central Business District to avoid getting stuck in traffic jams.

Getting There

Bangalore has a brand new international airport that opened in May 2008. However, it's located 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the city center. The travel time to the airport is between one and two hours, depending on traffic. Read more about Bangalore airport .

Bangalore City railway station receives long distance trains from all over India. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Bangalore .

Neighborhoods in Bangalore

Bangalore's Central Business District is situated around M.G. Road, which extends east from Cubbon Park and the imposing neo-Dravidian-style Vidhana Soudha (seat of the Karnataka government). It includes UB City , the city's biggest luxury commercial development project that's become a hot place to shop, dine, and party.

Koramangala in south Bangalore and Indiranagar in east Bangalore are other hip and stylish neighborhoods renowned for their nightlife, restaurants, and pubs.

Malleswaram, in northwest Bangalore, dates back to the 1890s and is one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. It's a great place to explore on foot, as it has well-maintained sidewalks (a rarity in India!).

Bangalore's main IT hub is located in Whitefield, about 20 kilometers (18.6 miles) east of the city center. However, this rapidly evolving neighborhood has also become an upmarket residential district with gated communities, spacious villas and luxury apartments.

Things to Do

The city's parks and gardens are a big attraction. Bangalore also has some insightful walking tours for those interested in history and heritage.

Check out these top tourist places to visit in Bangalore and top temples and spiritual places in Bangalore.

If you feel like venturing further afield, there are also some popular tourist places near Bangalore.

Where to Eat and Drink

If you love beer, you'll love visiting the many brew pubs and sampling craft beers. The Biere Club near UB City is Bangalore's first microbrewery. However, arguably, better beer can be found nearby at Arbor Brewing Company (India's first American-style craft brewery) on Brigade Road in Ashok Nagar, and the Bier Library in Koramangala.

Foodies won't be disappointed either. Head to these iconic Indian cuisine restaurants in Bangalore for all budgets.

Where to Stay

Luxury travelers will be pleased to know Bangalore has some fabulous five-star hotels, ranging from colonial to chic, and they're among India's finest. These ones are all located in areas handy for sightseeing. Purple Lotus is a modern boutique hotel in the heart of the action. Electric Cats is a cool place to stay for backpackers and budget travelers.

Culture and Customs

Bangalore was founded in 1537 by a local chieftain, who upon being given the land by a Vijaynagar emperor, built a mud fort and temple there. Over the years, the city has undergone a massive transformation. Its earlier days saw it passed from ruler to ruler, until the British Raj took hold of it and located their south Indian administration there in 1831. The British constructed considerable infrastructure. After India gained independence, Bangalore grew into an important center for education, science, and information technology.

Bangalore is a relatively safe Indian city and organized crime is almost non-existent. The city is also quite liberal in its attitude compared to many Indian cities, resulting in better treatment of women and less staring. However, be careful of pickpockets in tourist areas. You may also be approached by men to pose for selfies, which you can refuse if you don't feel comfortable.

The usual tourist scams also operate in Bangalore, but again, to a lesser extent than in many other Indian cities. Overall, Bangalore is a friendly city to visit.

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60 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore – Bengaluru Travel Guide

If you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore, here is a complete guide to Bangalore prepared by locals to give you a complete experience.

The city of Bangalore is a fascinating melange of experiences. It is a city that has undergone a transformation over the last few of decades. The places to visit in Bangalore are many and offer myriad experiences that range from the spiritual to those that border on the hedonistic. Geographically Bangalore is strategically located in the state of Karnataka, with easy access to getaways within 100 kilometres , and destinations that make for great road trips .

But the city of Bangalore itself offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. Bangalore has its all: temples, gardens, pubs, malls, amusement parks, churches, glitzy restaurants, hole-in-the-wall eateries, iconic hotels, museums, and heritage sites.

Bangalore’s relaxed and old-world charm has been eroded over the years with its emergence as an IT Hub. However, vestiges of that charm still remain in pockets, where time seems to have stood still. Whichever Bangalore you want to experience, this list of places to visit in Bangalore and things to do in Bengaluru is sure to help you curate your own Bengaluru experience.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Bangalore & Top Things To Do In Bengaluru

As kids, we always looked forward to the summer vacations, when we would travel to Bangalore. The place held a special charm: early morning walks in its gardens, walking beneath roads crowned with tree-formed canopies, or breathing in the magical aroma of filter coffee and dosas fresh off the pan.

Bangalore City Map

Click here to know the directions and for getting around Bangalore.

Bangalore for us also included visits to temples, a visit to the Visvesraraya Industrial & Technological Museum, and much more. With the passage of time, places to visit in Bangalore have increased and so also the different amalgam of experiences it offers.

Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore – Top Temples To Visit In Bangalore

Much before the city of Bangalore metamorphosed into the magnet which attracted millions of youngsters with IT dreams, it was known as a city of temples. Every temple small or big, new or old, had its own unique charm. Women selling fragrant flowers and coconuts lined the way to these temples which resonated with the divine sounds of temple bells.

You can feel that old-world charm of the city even today, all you need to do is step into a temple near you. There are over a thousand temples in Bangalore, and wherever you are, you are sure to find one, not far from your location. Here we give you a list of some of the top temples in Bangalore, that are also unique places to visit in Bangalore

Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is a place that is highly recommended for those interested in visiting mysterious temples that pose an enigma. The temple, also known as Gavipuram Cave Temple, is wrapped in intriguing layers of myths, legends, and mysteries. It is one of the oldest temples in Bangalore.

The temple is believed to have its origins dating back to the Vedic period, however, in more recent history, it was renovated by Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore, during the 16th century. The sanctum of the temple is in a subterranean cave and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The unique aspect of the temple is its architectural design. It is built in such a manner that the rays of the sun, strike the Shivalinga during the winter and summer solstice, at a particular time.

The other unique features to look out for in the Gavi Gangadharehwara Temple are the intriguing stone discs that adorn the forecourt of the temple.

Address: 5th Main Road, Gavipuram Extension, Kempegowda Nagar, Bangalore-560019.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.5 Kilometres.

Bull Temple or Dodda Basavanagudi – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Bull Temple is an iconic temple of Bangalore and lends its name to the area it is located in, Basavanagudi. ‘Basava’ in Kannada refers to the massive Nandi statue that is the centre of attraction in the temple, and ‘Gudi’ means temple.

The Bull Temple is unique in that it is dedicated to Nandi, the vehicle of Shiva. It has a colossal monolithic Nandi statue that towers above you. The Bull temple too is believed to have been built by Kempegowda in the 16th century. With a towering height of 15 feet and a length of 20 feet, the seated Nandi is believed to be the largest Nandi statue in the world. The Bull temple is located adjacent to another legendary temple of Bangalore, the Dodda Ganesha Temple.

Notable Feature: During the famous Kadlekai Parishe or Groundnut Fair that is held annually near the temple, the first groundnut harvest is offered to the deity by the farmers.

Address: 235, Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.2 Kilometres.

Sri Dodda Ganapathy Temple – Famous Places in Bangalore

Sri Dodda Ganapathy Temple or Dodda Ganesha Temple stands at a little distance from the Bull Temple. It is a very popular and iconic temple of the city. Celebrities from the film fraternity launching their films, students preparing for exams, proud owners of new vehicles, all make a beeline to this temple to seek the blessings of Ganesha, known as Dodda Ganesha.

‘Dodda’, in Kannada means big, and hence the prefix of, ‘Dodda,’ is added before the name of one of the most popular Gods of the Hindu pantheon. The idol of Ganesha in this temple is a massive monolithic rock shaped like Ganesha, complete with a trunk and pot-belly. It measures 18 feet in height and 16 feet in width and is believed to have self-emanated, or swayambhu .

Though some believe that the temple dates back to the times of Kempe Gowda in the 16th century, another opinion is that the idol of Ganesha could belong to that time, the temple structure is of more recent origin.

Halasuru Someshwara Temple – Top Places To See In Bangalore

Not far from the bustling Central Business District of Bangalore is located an ancient temple with origins dating back to the Chola Period. This is the beautiful Someshwara Temple of Halasuru or Ulsoor. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is believed that major embellishments were done to the temple during the period of the Vijayanagara Empire, under Hiriya Kempe Gowda II. The temple is built in the Vijayanagara Temple Architectural style.

Address: Someshwara Temple Rd, Someshwarpura, Halasuru, Karnataka 560008

Distance From M.G.Road: 2 Kilometres.

Sri Banashankari Amma Temple – Place to Include In Bangalore Sightseeing

This is a very popular temple that stands in the midst of chaotic traffic in the Banashankari area of South Bangalore. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess named Banashankari Amma. The temple sees huge crowds, especially on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, as these days are considered very auspicious for the worship of the deity. The temple was built in 1915, when the idol of the deity was brought from Badami, by a man called Somanna.

Address: Kanakapura Rd, Sarbandapalya, Banashankari Temple Ward, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560070.

Distance From M.G.Road: 11 Kilometres.

ISKCON – Must Visit Places In Bangalore

A contemporary temple with state-of-the-art facilities is the Krishna temple built by the International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The ISKCON temple complex includes temples to Radha Krishna, Krishna Balarama, Nital Gauranga. There are smaller temples dedicated to Srinivasa Govinda, Prahlada Narasimha, Hanuman, and Garuda.

Address: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010.

Distance From M.G.Road: 9 Kilometres.

Sri Kadu Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple – Best Tourist Places In Bangalore

A popular and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands in the vintage locality of Malleshwaram in Bangalore. This Shiva temple is dated to the 17th century. It is interesting to note that the temple was built by Venkoji, who was the brother of the iconic Maratha king, Shivaji. The temple is also known as Kadu Malleshwara temple, and the name of the area is derived from the name of the deity.

Address: 2nd Temple Street, Vyalikaval, Kodandarampura, Malleswaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003.

Distance From M.G.Road: 7.6 Kilometres.

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Swamy Temple -One Day Trip Places in Bangalore

A small temple dedicated to Hanuman stood atop a small hillock called Ragigudda, decades ago. At that time there were no steps to reach the temple, and one had to climb up the rocky slopes. With the passage of time, the temple has transformed into a grand temple complex spread over 5 acres and encompassing the hillock.

The temple is teeming with visitors throughout the week, especially on Tuesdays, and Saturdays. Hanuman Jayanthi, the birth anniversary of Hanuman is celebrated in a grand way in the month of December at the temple in Ragigudda.

Address: KSRTC Layout, Jayanagara 9th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.2 Kilometres.

Shrunga Giri Sri Shanmukha Swamy Temple – Places to Visit in Bengaluru

The temple is perched atop a hillock, and its gopuram which consists of the six heads of Shanmukha or Subrahmanya, crowned by a crystal dome, is visible from far. The temple is dedicated to Karthikeya or Subrahmanya, and the most striking feature of the temple is its unique Gopuram. The dome reflects the rays of the sun during the day and is brilliantly illuminated during the night.

Address: BEML, Kempegowda Rd, 5th Stage, RR Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098.

Distance From M.G.Road: 15.1 Kilometres.

Shivoham Shiva Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Shivoham Shiva temple is a contemporary temple that is famous for its 65 feet tall idol of Lord Shiva. The beautiful statue of Shiva seated in a yogic posture was consecrated by the Sringeri Shankaracharya in the year 1995.

Address: 97, HAL Old Airport Road, Kemp fort mall Parking, Ramagiri, Murgesh Palya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560017

Distance From M.G.Road: 6.9 Kilometres.

If you are looking for road trips from Bangalore, click here .

Famous Churches To Visit In Bengaluru – Things To Do In Bengaluru

The history of Christianity in Bangalore can be traced to the 17th century when the now-famous St Mary’s Basilica began functioning in a spartan, thatched hut. The advent of the British further boosted the influence of Christianity in the city. The many beautiful churches that ornament the city are not only architectural wonders, but also a part of its historical legacy. Here are a few of the churches of Bangalore, that you must visit.

St. Mary’s Basilica – Places To Visit In Bangalore

This is a beautiful church that was to first that was the first to become a Minor Basilica in the state of Karnataka. It is one of the oldest churches in Bangalore and is famous for the annual St. Mary’s Feast. The church is a beautiful structure with elements of Gothic architecture, including stained glass windows, Corinthian Capitals, and arches.

Address: MF Norrona St, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.9 Kilometres.

Infant Jesus Church – A Holy Place To Visit In Bengaluru

The Infant Jesus Church is a shrine dedicated to Infant Jesus. The church is very popular with people of all religions, who flock here to offer their prayers and light a candle. The Church is popular as the faithful believe that the Infant Jesus is endowed with miraculous powers.

St. Mark’s Cathedral – Religious Places To Visit In Bangalore

The St. Mark’s Cathedral dates back to over 200 years and is a magnificent structure that has been built in the classic English Baroque style of architecture. The design of the cathedral is modelled along the lines of the famous St. Paul’s Cathedral of London.

Address: 1, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.0 Kilometres.

Historical & Heritage Places To Visit In Bangalore

It is well known that the precursor of Bangalore as we know it was founded by Kempe Gowda within the walls of a mud fort that he built in the 16th century. However, evidence of a thriving settlement in the vicinity has been found that date back to the 9th century.

There are quite a few places of heritage value that a visitor must experience while in Bangalore. Here are some of the places to visit in Bangalore on a heritage trail of the city.

Pancha Linga Nageshwara Temple – Unique Places To Visit In Bangalore

Not far from the modern IT hub of Bangalore, Electronic City, in the area now known as Begur, exists evidence of the history of the city. The area was once an important centre of the Western Ganga Dynasty and the Chola Kingdom and dates back to the 9th century.

The Panchalingeshwara temple, as the name suggests is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ancient inscriptions, Hero stones, and the remains of a fort have been found here, which are crucial links to the history of the city.

Address: BBMP Office, Begur Main Rd, opposite to Begur, Begur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560068.

Distance From M.G.Road: 12.3 Kilometres.

Vidhan Soudha – A Must-Visit On Your Bangalore One Day Trip

The Vidhan Soudha is an icon of the city of Bangalore. It is the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. The majestic building was completed in the year 1956, and the architectural style of the building is classified as Neo-Dravidian. Its grand eastern facade and columned corridors are a sight to behold. Vidhan Soudha is one of the important landmarks of Bangalore.

Address: Ambedkar Bheedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 3.3 Kilometres.

Freedom Park – Places To Visit In Bangalore

What was once the Central Jail of Bangalore is today converted into a museum and memorial. This place is known as Freedom Park. The Freedom Park is also a venue for organized demonstrations and is located within the Central Business District of Bangalore.

Address: Seshadri Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560009.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.3 Kilometres.

Bangalore Fort – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The seeds of Bangalore City as we know it today was sown by its founder Kempe Gowda, more than 500 years ago. He envisioned an urban trading centre secured by a fort, with eater reservoirs, temples, and other public utilities and markets.

The fort that Kempe Gowda raised was a mud fort. Later on, the mud fort was replaced by a stone fort by Hyder Ali and further enhanced by his son Tipu Sultan. The ruins of the Fort are the only witness to the history of Bangalore.

Address: Krishna Rajendra Rd, New Tharagupet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.2 Kilometres

Bangalore Palace – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Bangalore Palace is an impressive structure with a striking resemblance to the Windsor Castle in England. The palace is another legacy of Bangalore’s colonial past and British architectural design. The construction of the palace was completed in the year 1878. The palace was built by the British for the use of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar and was later expanded and modified by Maharaja Jayachamraja Wadiyar.

The palace is a striking example of the Tudor style of architecture of the medieval age that was prevalent in England and Wales. The palace is a castle, complete with turrets, battlements, and fortified towers. Today part of the palace building and the grounds are used for events like exhibitions and weddings. A part of the palace is open to visitors through a ticketed entry.

Address: Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052.

Distance From M.G.Road: 6.2 Kilometres

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace – Places To Visit In Bangalore

The Tipu Sultan Palace stands in the heart of the city and dates back to the year 1791. It is a beautiful structure built profusely with teak wood. It is ornamented with graceful arches, pillars, and balconies.

There is a small museum within the palace that documents the life and times of Tipu Sultan. A notable exhibit is the replica of the famous Tipu’s Tiger, the original is in the Victoria & Albert Museum of London .

Address: Tippu Sultan Palace Rd, Chamrajpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560018.

Distance From M.G.Road: 5.6 Kilometres

Mayo Hall – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Mayo Hall is a historic building dating back to 1883. It is a part of the colonial legacy of Bangalore and is a beautiful building with cornices, and pedimented windows interlaced with graceful arches. The building came up as a tribute to Lord Mayo who was the Viceroy and Governor-General during the British Raj.

Originally the building stood in the midst of lush greenery, surrounded by terraced gardens. Today the building bustles with activity as it houses different Government offices and civil courts. A museum is located on the

Address: Mayo Hall, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 1.1 Kilometres

Attara Kacheri – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Attara Kacheri is a beautiful red building that lies opposite the Vidhan Soudha. It is a historic building that was built in the year 1867. The building now houses the High Court of Karnataka. The magnificent building was earlier the secretariat of the princely state of Mysore.

It was named, “Attara Kacheri”, as the kingdom of Mysore under the Wodeyars, had a secretariat that consisted of 18 departments. The “Attara”, refers to the number 18 in Hindu, while, “Kacheri,” refers to office or department.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Opposite Vidhana Soudha, Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 2.3 Kilometres

Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

The Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is a beautiful structure that is more than a century old. It is a standing ode to the memory of Dewan Seshadri Iyer, who is hailed as one of the key builders of Bangalore. The building has an apsidal plan, and its delightful blend of different architectural styles and design elements is really endearing. The beautiful building houses the State Central Library.

Address: Cubbon Park Road Near Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001.

Distance From M.G.Road: 4.3 Kilometres

Watch Towers Of Kempegowda – Places To Visit In Bengaluru

Kempe Gowda hailed as the founder of Bangalore, had envisioned a modern centre where trade flourished within the city enclosed by a fort. With a view to ensure the security of the city and its denizens, he erected watchtowers or observation points. The main watchtowers were four and these were installed in the four cardinal directions, at what was in those days the boundaries of the city.

Apart from these four, there were other minor watchtowers that were installed at different places in the city. These towers today lie in the heart of the city, many of them are ing good condition, while some are in ruins. Here is the list of the 4 watchtowers of Kempegowda, that you must visit on the heritage trail of Bangalore.

The structure of the watchtowers consists of four pillars crowned with a Gopura, the Kempegowda watchtowers have been immortalized as the emblem of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahangar Palike (BBMP).

Kempegowda Watch Tower In Lalbagh

The tower which must have guarded the southern boundary of the city hundreds of years ago stands on the top of a rocky hillock within the famous garden of Lalbagh in South Bangalore.

Distance From M.G.Road: 4.9 Kilometres

Kempambudhi Lake Watch Tower

The watchtower that once guarded the western-most extremity of the city lies currently in a south-westerly direction and is located near the Kempambudhi Lake in the Chamrajpet area of Bangalore.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.8 Kilometres

Ulsoor Lake Watch Tower

The tower that stood sentinel on the eastern extremity of Bangalore in the days of Kempegowda is located near Ulsoor Lake.

Distance From M.G.Road: 2.2 Kilometres

Mekhri Circle Watch Tower

The tower that guarded the northernmost extremity of Bangalore hundreds of years ago is located near the Mekhri Circle.

Distance From M.G.Road: 8.0 Kilometres

If you are looking for a one day trip from Bangalore, click here .

Museums | Art Galleries

Museums are windows to the history and culture of a place. They provide valuable insights that are not only fascinating but also help in a better understanding of a place and its people. Bangalore too has its share of museums that embrace a variety of domains. Here are some of the museum and art galleries in Bangalore that you must not miss.

Government Museum

The Government Museum of Bangalore is one of the oldest museums in India. It was established in the year 1865. The museum houses a rare collection of archaeological artefacts including an inscription in the Halmidi language, which is believed to be the oldest inscription in Kannada.

The Government Museum has 18 galleries that are spread over two floors and dedicated to the exhibition of sculptures, coins, musical instruments, paintings, weapons, neolithic pottery, and much more.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 2.4 Kilometres

Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum

The Visvesraraya Museum is a place that one must visit with kids. It makes for a very engaging and educational experience, as its exhibits make for an interactive introduction to science and technology. The museum has seven permanent galleries. These are Engine Hall, Science For Kids, Space Technology Gallery, Science Park, Electro-Technic Gallery, Fun Science, Biotechnology Gallery, and the BEL-Hall of Electronics.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Near Chinna Swamy Stadium, Ambedkar Veedhi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 2.5 Kilometres

Venkatappa Art Gallery

The Venkatappa Art Gallery is a museum and gallery dedicated to art. It has permanent exhibits and is also a place where talented artists can showcase their work. The Venkatappa Art Gallery is a tribute to the memory of the noted painter and Sculptor of Karnataka, Shri K.Venkatappa.

HAL Heritage Centre And Aerospace Museum

A visit to the HAL museum makes for a thrilling experience for kids and also aviation enthusiasts. The museum consists of two exhibition halls. The first hall showcases the history of aviation in India. The second hall is focused on the intricacies of different aero-engines, including the ones used in aircraft like Jaguar, Dornier, etc.

Another interesting aspect of the museum is the outdoor display of aircraft. An experience to look forward to is the simulators that give an experience of being in the pilot’s seat. There is also a library, souvenir shop, and children’s park.

Address: Police Station, Near HAL, HAL Old Airport Rd, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560037. Distance From M.G.Road: 10.4Kilometres

NIMHANS Brain Museum

This is a unique museum located within the premises of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Bangalore. The museum has over 500 brain specimens. These include brains that were afflicted with conditions like cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, etc. Apart from the specimens, there are information kiosks that provide details about various aspects for students and lay visitors alike.

Address: Hosur Main Road, Sattar Layout, Lakkasandra, Laljinagar, Wilson Garden, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560029. Distance From M.G.Road:5 .2 Kilometres

Kempegowda Museum

The Kempegowda Museum is located on the first floor of the historic Mayo Hall building. It is a museum that is exclusively dedicated to the life and times of Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. The museum offers a peep into the Bangalore that existed at the time of Kempegowda. A unique experience is walking on the floor of the museum hall, which consists of a real map of old Bangalore.

Address: Field Marshal Cariappa Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 0.5 Kilometres

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is a complex that consists of art museums, galleries, and archives. It also has a college dedicated to the dissemination of Fine Arts. It is a hotspot of art in Bangalore. The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath showcases the works of artists like Nicholas Roerich, and the collection of art connoisseur H.K.Kejriwal, among others.

There is a gallery dedicated to the traditional Mysore style of Painting, while another gallery is dedicated to leather puppets.

Address: Art Complex, 1, Kumara Krupa Rd, near The Lalit Hotel, Kumara Park East, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 4.6 Kilometres

National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore, is another art hotspot in the city. It is a centre of cultural and artistic activities including art exhibitions, seminars, and symposiums. The gallery also exhibits over 500 paintings of different artists including Raja Ravi Verma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Jaimini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, and others.

Address: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.3 Kilometres

Gandhi Bhavan

The Gandhi Bhavan, Bengaluru, is a museum that is dedicated to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi . The museum is located at a place where Mahatma Gandhi used to take a stroll. The museum houses rare photographs from the life of Mahatma Gandhi and a collection of his letters, apart from other memorabilia and artefacts.

Address: Kumara Park East, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.9 Kilometres

Indian Music Experience Museum

The Indian Music Experience Museum is a one of its kind museum in India. It is touted as the only interactive Music museum in India. It provides a hands-on experience of various music instruments, both from the classic and contemporary genres. The museum promises a unique musical experience to visitors.

Address: Brigade Millenium Rd, opp. Wood Rose Club, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078. Distance From M.G.Road: 11.9 Kilometres

Click Art Museum

This is a trick-art museum or 3D Art Museum similar to the ones you have in Singapore , Hong Kong , and Malaysia . The museum in Bangalore has trick images that include Charlie Chaplin poking your stomach, Mona Lisa pouring you a glass of water, Joker from Batman spraying water, etc. The place is a fun place for kids and families and provides opportunities for clicking some fun photos.

Address: Virginia Mall, Varthur Rd, Palm Meadows, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560066. Distance From M.G.Road: 16.1 Kilometres

Gardens | Parks | Aquariums

Bangalore was known as a “Garden City,” and rightly so as beautifully landscaped gardens dotted its perimeter. Though a substantial part of its green cover has been eroded by urbanization, Bangalore still boasts of more than 1,000 gardens big and small, spread across its length and breadth.

These gardens or parks offer a much-needed respite to the locals and tourists alike. Some of the important gardens in Bangalore that must figure in your itinerary are described here.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

The Lalbagh is one of Bangalore’s lung spaces. The garden is spread over a massive area of 240 acres and is a green oasis in the fast-growing urban metropolis. The Lalbagh was conceived by Hyder Ali and was completed by Tipu Sultan. It was enhanced and enlarged later by successive British superintendents. The history of the garden dates back to the 18th century.

The garden is bound by a wall along its perimeter and has four gates. The huge garden encompasses within itself a lake, the famous Glasshouse which is the venue for the famed flower shows during Republic  Day and Independence Day. One of the Watchtowers built by Kempegowda lies within the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Rocks that are believed to be more than 3,000 million years old are also located within the Lalbagh.

Address: Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 4.7 Kilometres

Cubbon Park

The Cubbon Park is another popular lung space in Bangalore. The park was created in the year 1870 across an area that covered 100 acres. Successive expansion of the garden saw it grow in size, and today it covers a massive area of 300 acres. The park has a rich flora with more than 96 species of plants and trees. Many historical buildings are found within the perimeter of Cubbon Park.

The Jawahar Bal Bhavan, a recreational centre for children is located within Cubbon Park. It is one of the best places to visit with kids in Bangalore, and one of the attractions for kids is a toy train.

Address: Kasturba Road, Behind High Court of Karnataka Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 1.7 Kilometres

Bannerghatta National Park

The Bannerghatta National Park includes a zoological garden which is known as the Bannerghatta Biological Park. The place includes a zoo and butterfly park. A Bear rescue and rehabilitation centre is also located within the Bannerghatta National Park.

The main attraction of the park is a guided safari within the National Park. Animals in the park include elephants, deer, Bengal Tigers, leopards, etc. The park is home to more than 100 species of birds. This is one of the best places to visit with children in Bangalore.

Address: Bannerghatta Main Rd, Bannerughatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083. Distance From M.G.Road: 21.3 Kilometres

Bannerghatta Nature Camp

The Bannerghatta Nature Camp is a delightful family getaway in the lap of nature, just on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is ideal for a day trip or even to spend the weekend, waking up to the sounds of nature, and far from the noise of the city. Activities here include a nature walk, safari, and visit to the Butterfly Park. Accommodation is offered in log cabins and tents. It is a resort of Jungle Lodges & Resorts.

Check out our detailed post for activities and packages at the Bannerghatta Nature Camp .

Address: Bannerghatta Biological Park Kaggalipura Road near Hakki-Pikki Colony, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083. Distance From M.G.Road: 24.8 Kilometres

Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park – Places To Visit In Bangalore At Night

This is a beautiful place to visit after sundown. The fountains here come alive in resplendent colours after dark and sway to mesmerizing tunes. The fountains are reminiscent of the more famous dancing fountains of Brindavan Gardens, near Mysore. The landscaped garden has two shows in the evening when the coordinated fountains come alive to the musical rhythm of music and light.

Address: Raj Bhavan Rd, Opposite to Jawahar Lal Nehru Planetarium, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.2 Kilometres

Bugle Rock Park

The Bugle Rock Park is a beautiful garden located adjacent to the Dodda Ganesha and Basava temples. It is located on Bull Temple Road in the Basavanagudi area of South Bangalore. The park is built around a rock formation which like the one inside Lalbagh is believed to be more than 3,000 million years old.

The rock is known as Bugle rock because of an old tradition where a sentry used to stand on the rock and blow a bugle to alert the citizens to be on their vigil.  The park is a peaceful place to spend some time and take a nice walk in the midst of greenery. The park includes a play area for children, an amphitheatre, and statues of eminent luminaries of Bangalore including D.V. Gundappa, and others.

Address: Bull Temple Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560019. Distance From M.G.Road: 7.4 Kilometres

Lakes Of Bangalore

The city of Bangalore was once flush with more than 200 lakes. The numbers have since dwindled, many of the lakes have been gobbled up by urbanization. Here are some of the famous lakes of Bangalore.

Ulsoor Lake – Places To Visit in Bangalore For Couples

The Ulsoor Lake is a place to head to for spending some quiet time while the world goes around in mad circles around you. You can opt for a boat ride in the placid waters of the lake, or just take a stroll around the periphery of the lake.

The lake is located in the Halasuru area of Bangalore and is quite near M.G.Road. It covers an area of 50 hectares and has some islands in the middle.

Sankey Tank – Places To Visit For Couples In Bangalore

The Sankey Tank is a man-made lake that was excavated in 1882. The reservoir was constructed by Col. Richard Hieram Sankey, and hence the name. There is a park on the banks of the lake and boating is an enjoyable activity here. A visit to the lake makes for a relaxed evening in the midst of nature. The lake here is spread over an area of about 15 hectares and is spread over the western suburbs of Malleshwaram, Sadashivnagar, and Vyalikaval.

Theme Parks/Amusement Parks/Planetarium

There is no dearth of entertainment options in Bangalore. There are numerous multiplex theatres, escape rooms, gaming centres, across the city. Here is a list of some of the major theme parks and other entertainment centres of the city.

Wonderla Amusement Park

One of the most popular family getaways near the outskirts of Bangalore is the Wonderla Amusement Park. It is a place that guarantees a day filled with fun and excitement for the entire family. The park has more than 60 different rides that are suitable for different age groups, and include water rides. If you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore for Kids Day-Out then Wonderla is the right place to go.

Address: 28th Km, Mysore Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109. Distance From M.G.Road: 33 Kilometres

Innovative Film City

The Innovative Film City is another family destination on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is a complete entertainment centre and has a wide range of activities to keep the entire family engaged. It has museums that include a Wax Museum, Tribal Museum, Oddities Museum, etc., there are activities ranging from indoor games to water rides, and 3D films, apart from a host of thrilling rides to choose from. Innovative Film City is one of the best places to visit in Bangalore with family.

Address: 24 & 26, Kiadb Estates, Birmangla cross, Bidadi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562109. Distance From M.G.Road: 37 Kilometres

Bangalore is a city with temperate weather, both summers and winters are moderate, however, if you want to experience snow in the city, head to Snow City. The place lets visitors experience snow at -5 degrees centigrade. Igloos, snow slides, and snow castles simulate the experience of snow, and you can have some fun and frolic in the snow.

Address: Fun World Complex, Jayamahal Main Rd, opposite TV Tower, J.C.Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560006. Distance From M.G.Road: 5.3 Kilometres.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a must-visit place in Bangalore, especially for children. It consists of a Science Centre for students as well as a planetarium. It has regular shows in Kannada and English that transports visitors to the fascinating world of outer space and gives glimpses of the Solar System and galaxies that are far, far away.

Address: Sri T, Sankey Rd, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.4 Kilometres.

Government Aquarium | Bangalore Aquarium

The Government Aquarium is also known as Bangalore Aquarium is located on Kasturba Road, right next to the entrance to Cubbon Park. The Visweswaraya Museum, Government Museum, and Venkatappa Art Gallery are located quite close by.

The Bangalore Aquarium has a variety of exotic fishes that include Indian Tiger Barb, Hockey Stick Tetra, Angel Fish, Blue and Pearl Gourami, and many others.

Address: Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. Distance From M.G.Road: 3.0 Kilometres.

Shopping In Bangalore

Bangalore is a city where shopping is a religion of sorts. The options for shopping are wide.

Things to buy in Bangalore | What to shop in Bengaluru | Souvenirs from Bangalore :

• Sandalwood items
• Mysore Silk Sarees
• Channapatna Wooden Toys
• Rosewood inlay work paintings
• Wooden handicraft items
• Coffee Powder
• Mysore Pak ( sweet )
• Dharwad Peda ( sweet )

You can head to any of the numerous swanky malls that dot the length and breadth of the city, or any of the local shopping areas. But if you want to really experience shopping tinged with the special vibes of Bangalore, then these are the shopping areas that we recommend.

Commercial Street

This is one of the oldest and busiest shopping areas of Bangalore. It is always full of people jostling for space and shopping to their heart’s content. The most popular items on offer on Commercial Street are clothes, footwear, jewellery, and electronic goods. And if you feel the hunger pangs, after hectic shopping, there are many eateries around that serve delicious fare.

Gandhi Bazar

If you want to get a feel of the old world charm of Bangalore, head to Gandhi Bazar, which is a riot of colours with carts overflowing with flowers . It is a great place to shop and drive a bargain or two.

You can shop for flowers, fruits, and vegetables, pooja articles, as well as sarees and other dress materials. The icing on the cake is the legendary eateries located in the vicinity. Shopping or just ambling around Gandhi Bazar is an unforgettable experience.

Malleshwaram Market

Another endearing place that oozes the vintage charm of Bangalore is Malleshwaram. A place that comes alive in resplendent colours with flowers of all shapes and fragrances. A place where shopping rises above the ordinary and literally assumes divine proportion. Head to Malleshwaram market for a shopping experience above the mundane.

Brigade Road

If you are looking for hep and swanky showrooms selling premium brands, then Brigade Road is the place to head to. Cauvery Emporium on M.G. Road at the beginning of Brigade Road is a place where you can buy handicrafts of Karnataka. And if you are feeling thirsty or hungry, there are plenty of up-market cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the vicinity.

Restaurants & Eateries In Bangalore

Bangalore offers an eclectic mix of options when it comes to food. You can choose from a mind-boggling range of international cuisine, Pan-Indian cuisine, or explore the wonders of Karnataka cuisine. If you are feeling hungry, you are sure to find a bite at arm’s length, wherever you are in the city. You can grab a bite at any of the hundreds of Darshinis (self-service eateries), that dot the city or choose to head to an upmarket cafe.

Some of the best things to taste and not to miss in Bangalore | Famous Bangalore Food/Snacks :

• Filter Coffee
• Masala Dosa
• Bisebele Bath
• Obattu ( Puran poli ) ( Kayi Holige – Coconut Holige and Bele Holige – Dal Holige )

We serve here some of the famous restaurants of Bangalore that are quintessential to the Bangalore experience.

Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR)

The restaurant is one of the oldest and most iconic of Bangalore’s eateries. It was started in 1924 and has been dishing out delicious local fare to an egalitarian clientele, ever since. The original restaurant is located right opposite the Lalbagh Gate.

The restaurant now has branches in other parts of the city, but the experience of eating in this restaurant that retains its vintage charm is a different experience. When you are at the restaurant, do not forget to bite into its Rawa Idli, which is its own invention.

Address: 14, Lal Bagh Main Rd, Doddamavalli, Sudhama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027. Distance From M.G.Road: 4 Kilometres.

Vidyarthi Bhavan

A restaurant that dates back to pre-independence days and was founded in the year 1943 is the unassuming Vidyarthi Bhavan. It is a restaurant tucked away behind a pavement flush with flower sellers in Gandhi Bazar. It is known for its mouth-watering Masala Dosas, which have acquired legendary status over the years.

Address: 32, Gandhi Bazaar Main Rd, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 7.8 Kilometres.

Mahalakshmi Tiffin Room

You are likely to pass this restaurant without even a second glance as you walk across the D.V.G. Road in Basavanagudi. However, if it is a weekend, the motley crowd waiting on the pavement for the restaurant to open is sure to pique your attention.

The restaurant is very close to Vidyarthi Bhavan and has its own loyal set of clients who swear by its Masala Dosas and Idlis. The restaurant retains its old-world atmosphere with its flooring and wooden furniture, as well as a menu scrawled on a blackboard. The restaurant has been serving its customers since 1926.

Koshy’s Parade Cafe

Another iconic restaurant that defines the cosmopolitan character of Bangalore is Koshy’s, located at a prime location of the city. The restaurant started as a bakery in 1940 and became a restaurant in 1952. The restaurant serves a wide range of national and international cuisine.

Address: DVG Road, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 6.8 Kilometres.

VV Puram Food Street

If you are looking for a food adventure in the evening, you must head to VV Puram, where the evening sees the birth of what is popularly known as Food Street. The night is filled with the aroma of food wafting from the many stalls that line both sides of the street.

You can experience the pleasures of local delicacies like Masala Dosas, to Chats, and exotic concoctions made of Gulkand, butter, and cut fruits. There is a mesmerizing smorgasbord of food to entice and seduce the palate.

Address: Vishweshwarapura, Shankarapura, Bengaluru 560004. Distance From M.G.Road: 6.2 Kilometres.

Central Tiffin Room

A famous restaurant in the charming Malleshwaram area of Bangalore, Central Tiffin Room, popularly known as CTR, was started in the year 1920. The restaurant is now known as Sri Sagar Hotel. The restaurant serves an awesome breakfast and its Masala Dosas served with dollops of butter are all the rage. For locals, a visit to CTR is almost a daily religious ritual.

Address: 7th Cross Rd, Malleswaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003. Distance From M.G.Road: 5.9 Kilometres.

Bangalore Quick Facts

• The city of Bangalore is spread over an area of about 741 square kilometres
• Bangalore is a cosmopolitan city, and the languages spoken are Kannada, Hindi, English, Telugu, Tamil, and other Indian languages
• The currency is INR. and credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, digital forms of money transfer like PayTM, Google Pay, and others too are widely accepted
• Bangalore weather is pleasant throughout the year and you can expect rains in the months of May, June, and July, as well as in the winter months on account of the returning monsoons
• The population of Bangalore is about 1.2 crores

Getting To Bangalore

• Bangalore is the capital of the Southern Indian state of Karnataka
• Bangalore is well connected by road, rail, and air to different parts of India
• Bangalore is an international destination and is well connected to major cities of the world

R eaching Bangalore By Air

The city of Bangalore is served by the Kempegowda International Airport, which is about 37 kilometres from M.G.Road. The airport is connected to all major cities and towns of India, like Delhi , Ahmedabad , Kochi , Chennai, Goa , Mumbai , etc. It is also connected to major international destinations including Dubai, Paris , Colombo, Malaysia , Bangkok , etc.

R eaching Bangalore By Rail

Bangalore is a major railway junction that connects the city to places across the length and breadth of the country. There are many trains that originate and terminate in Bangalore. The main railway station is the Bangalore City Railway Station known as Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) station.

R eaching Bangalore By Road

Bangalore is well connected by the road network to other places within the state, as well as other states of India. KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation), has buses plying to locations across the state and beyond. The main KSRTC Bus Terminal is located in the Majestic area of the city, while there are satellite bus terminals at Mysore Road, Shanthinagar, etc.

If you are planning a trip to Bangalore in Karnataka , India then you can book a cheap flight through TripAdvisor or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline right here. If you are planning a road trip check out the options by self-drive car or cab or bus.

Getting Around Bangalore

Getting around Bangalore is easy and convenient, though you would need to factor in traffic delays, especially during peak hours, and in the commercial areas. The options for getting around Bangalore are as under:

• Namma Metro, depending on your destination, as only a few phases of the Metro is operational
• BMTC ( Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses ferry people to all nooks and corners of the city, it has ordinary buses as well as air-conditioned Volvo buses in its fleet, you can also opt for a day-pass that allows you to travel for the entire day on any route
• You can opt for app-based cab services like Uber, Ola, etc.
• You can also opt for the ubiquitous green and yellow autorickshaws which are also available app-based services
• You can also use environment-friendly options like app-based two-wheeler services
• To get a feel of the city and exercise your limbs you can walk around the city

Where To Stay In Bangalore

Bangalore is an international city and has a host of accommodation options to choose from. These depend on your budget and preference. You can choose from Uber-Luxury star hotels, resorts, or budget hotels, across the city.

You can book hotels in Bengaluru  ( Bangalore ) or resorts in Bengaluru (Bangalore) through,  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and save a lot by getting the best savings on booking your stay.

Bangalore FAQ

What are the top attractions to visit in Bengaluru? Bangalore has many attractions, from temples to gardens to heritage sites. Some of the top attractions are Vidhan Soudha, Bangalore Palace, Lal Bagh and the different temples and gardens of the city.

What are the best places to visit in Bangalore? Vidhan Soudha, Tipu Summer Palace, St Mary’s Basilica.

What are the top sightseeing places in Bangalore? The top sightseeing places in Bangalore are Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Bangalore Palace, Vidhan Soudha, Ulsoor Lake.

Which are the places to visit in Bangalore with family in the evening? Bangalore is a city of gardens and lakes, and these are great places to spend the evening with your family. Lal Bagh, Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, and Sankey Tank, are some of the places to head to in the evenings.

Where can I take my parents to Bangalore?

Bangalore is a city of temples, you can visit some of the famous temples of Bangalore like the Bull Temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple, or Ragigudda Hanuman Temple. Many of the churches and gardens like Cubbon Park and Lal Bagh, also are great places to take your parents to.

Where can I spend a day in Bangalore? Bangalore has a lot of places to spend a day, from museums to gardens to theme parks. You can also head to a theme park like Wonder La or Innovative Film City for a full day outing.

Which place is best for a family trip in Bangalore? Visvesvaraya Museum, HAL Museum, Wonder La Amusement Park, Innovative Film City, Government Aquarium, Planetarium, and Bal Bhavan, are some of the places to visit and enjoy with family.

What are the most popular things to do in Bengaluru with children? Visvesvaraya Museum, HAL Museum, Wonder La Amusement Park, Innovative Film City, Government Aquarium, Planetarium, and Bal Bhavan, are some of the places to visit and enjoy with children.

We hope you liked our complete guide to Bangalore that covers the places to visit in Bangalore for curating a typical Bangalore experience. Do let us know if you need any further information about Bangalore from locals, that go beyond this Bangalore travel blog post. We hope you find the place to head to in Bangalore, whether you are looking for places to visit in Bangalore with friends or the best places to visit in Bangalore for couples.

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17 thoughts on “60 best places to visit in bangalore – bengaluru travel guide”.

I was in Bangalore for around years and completed my post graduation there. Your list reminds me of so many amazing places that we have visited. And also there are so many that are yet to be explored. Would do soon. Thank you for the list.

Loved this post.✌. Bangalore has many places of tourist interest that guarantee an enjoyable time. But through your blog, I can say that Banglore has something for everyone. I have visited Banglore 4yrs back but 60 best places impossible to cover in one time 🙆‍♀️. Worth visiting again.

Wow this is so amazing and excited about it. I don’t visit place that. I am glad to know you shared that 60 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore and Bengaluru Travel Guide. I really loved it. Thanks for sharing.

I have spent 8 years in Bangalore, and this post brings back all those memories of visiting most of these places in Bangalore. Though, few I missed visiting from the list, but my favorite were visiting Bull Temple, Ragigudda Temple, MG Road, Cubbon park, Lalbagh, etc.

This is exhaustive and detailed places to visit. A complete guide.

I never knew that there are so many places to explore in teh city of Bangalore. In my visit to Bangalore I will take help of your post for preparing the itienary for sure.

I visited Bangalore very briefly for a business trip in 2019. And I didn’t get to see much, but I was staying near the St Marks Cathedral, so had a glimpse of that. Then walked around Cubbon Park. Now, all the others are on list, should I ever go again.

Wow!!! That’s quite a lot to comprehend but very informative as well. I didn’t know Bangalore have tons of amazing places to visit. As this Pandemic starts to fold off and we get to see more light with leisure travelling, this articles would come really handy on choosing a place to go to. Amazing writing! Take care of your body and it will take care of you. Make sure to do your Self-Care daily!😉www.mommywithagoal.com

I’ve visited most places that you’ve listed here especially the ones under the eatery section. Love the comprehensive list. Will check out the rest

That is such a wonderful list of places to visit in Bangalore. I am glad that I had been to many of these places when I used to stay in the city.

Wow! It is a big list of places to visit. The temples and the museums fascinates me a lot. Thank you for sharing.

Bangalore is often spoken about for the cosmopolitan lifestyle but such culturally rich monuments and places are often ignored.

Wow it seems like we haven’t seen India at all. So much to see in Bangalore alone. Proud of our nation

Wow such culturally rich places to visit. Never ever would think that there is another side of the save

Banglore is a beautiful place indeed. I have stayed in Bangalore for nearly an year but I now realise that I missed visiting so many good places. Will visit soon.

Very nice , informative and complete post. U have covered every possible aspect needed by a new traveller.

Bangalore is such a beautiful place… So many places to explore. This is very helpful travel guide for all. Thanks for sharing.

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The Ultimate Bangalore Travel Guide (2024)

Explore the vibrant charm of India’s Information Technology (IT) capital with our comprehensive Bangalore travel guide. Immerse yourself in the dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity as you navigate through the bustling streets and serene corners of the “Garden City.” Uncover hidden gems, from iconic landmarks to offbeat attractions, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this South Indian metropolis.

Have you ever observed how frequently people recommend places outside Bangalore when discussing things to do in the city ? A significant majority, around 60 to 70%, tend to do so. This inclination stems from the fact that despite Bangalore offering many activities, many residents prefer venturing beyond the city limits on weekends. However, Bangalore is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. In this post, delve into an elaborate travel guide that unveils the myriad attractions and activities within the city.

Page Contents

PIN for later reference – Ultimate Bangalore Travel Guide

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

Where is Bangalore?

Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, stands proudly as the capital city of Karnataka, India. It has become a bustling hub for the country’s Information Technology (IT) industry, earning various monikers such as the City of Lakes and the Garden City. The city’s landscape is dotted with numerous lakes, accentuating its natural beauty and earning it the title of the City of Lakes. Amidst the lush greenery and vibrant culture, Bangalore is renowned for its dynamic night scene, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Recognised as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore has a thriving IT sector has played a pivotal role in the country’s technological advancement. The city’s skyline is adorned with the headquarters of numerous multinational corporations, reflecting its status as a global IT destination. Beyond its technological prowess, Bangalore embraces a rich culture, blending tradition with modernity.

As day turns to night, the city comes alive with diverse entertainment options, from lively pubs and clubs to cultural events and music festivals. Bengaluru’s allure extends beyond its technological prominence, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and cultural charm that captivates visitors and residents alike.

How to Get to Bangalore?

There are four ways one can get into Bangalore city.

Being the epicentre of the IT industry, Bangalore serves as a pivotal hub for air travel, hosting the Kempegowda International Airport . This airport, operating internationally for various airline providers, features two domestic terminals, namely T1 and T2. Situated approximately 35 kilometres from the heart of Bangalore city, it efficiently connects the region to domestic and international destinations.

Indigo stands out as one of the preferred airlines for those seeking budget-friendly domestic travel options. The airline’s cost-effective approach provides a reliable choice for travellers exploring domestic routes from Bangalore.

As passengers navigate the Kempegowda International Airport, they can access the convenience of domestic terminals T1 and T2, enhancing their overall travel experience. Whether embarking on business ventures or leisurely escapades, the accessibility and diverse airline options from Bangalore’s airport make travel seamless and efficient.

India boasts one of the most efficient railway systems globally, with an extensive network connecting major cities and towns nationwide. Securing train tickets for your journey is convenient through the Indian Railways, and bookings can be easily facilitated via the official IRCTC website.

This streamlined online platform ensures a hassle-free experience for travellers exploring India’s diverse landscapes and vibrant destinations by train. Embrace the convenience of the well-connected railway system, offering a reliable and accessible mode of transportation to traverse the length and breadth of the nation.

Regular bus services efficiently link Bangalore to cities like Hyderabad , Chennai, Kochi , and other towns. Securing bus tickets for your desired routes is straightforward through the Redbus website. This user-friendly platform simplifies the booking experience, allowing travellers to conveniently plan their journeys and explore the connectivity offered by the extensive bus network connecting Bangalore to different regional destinations.

Bangalore enjoys excellent connectivity through well-maintained national highways, facilitating smooth travel. The roads surrounding the city are in impeccable condition, making it effortless to drive into Bangalore from other cities. Whether embarking on a road trip or commuting for business or leisure, the robust road infrastructure ensures a comfortable and efficient journey into the heart of Bangalore. Explore the convenience of well-connected highways, allowing seamless access to and from the city for a hassle-free travel experience.

How to Get to the City from Bangalore Airport?

There are two transportation options for commuting between Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore Airport) and various locations in the city:

By Airport Shuttle

The most economical mode of transportation to reach the airport is through the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) airport shuttles, known as Vayu Vajra. These buses, equipped with Volvo services, operate across 11 routes and have frequent pickups from various key bus stops in Bangalore. For the latest and most accurate schedule information, passengers can refer to the official BMTC website.

The fare for a single journey between the Airport and Majestic is approximately INR 270.

Below are the timings from the Kempegowda bus stop:

The fastest option is a taxi, and both Ola and Uber services are permitted within the airport premises. These ride-hailing services are more cost-effective compared to other taxi providers.

Meru Airport cabs are readily accessible and have a more extensive fleet, making them a convenient choice. Having experimented with various transportation options, I have developed a preference for Meru Airport cabs.

This choice stems from the fact that buses tend to consume a significant amount of time, and there can be instances where Uber/Ola cab drivers decline trips, leading to potential confusion and inconvenience. In my experience, Meru Airport cabs offer a more reliable and hassle-free mode of transportation to and from the airport. The fare for a trip to the airport typically ranges from INR 1200 to 1500 per ride.

For solo female travellers or parents journeying during unconventional hours, choosing Go Pink cabs, driven by female operators, is a viable option. I recently utilized Go Pink cabs and found them reliable, secure, and dedicated to providing complete protection to female passengers. It’s important to note that the fares for these cabs are slightly higher than regular Meru Cabs. You can conveniently hail them from the exact locations as Meru Cabs, ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for female passengers.

For complete information on how to get around Bangalore, read Transport in Bangalore .

Where to Stay in Bangalore?

Being one of India’s prominent cities, Bangalore offers many accommodation choices , catering to various budgets, including both economical and luxurious hotels, especially for families .

The prime areas for accommodation in Bangalore are MG Road, Cunningham Road, Commercial Street, and Ulsoor. Positioned at the city’s centre, these locations ensure convenient accessibility to other attractions. Notable options for consideration include Taj Westend Bengaluru or Jayamahal Palace Hotel , providing a diverse range of amenities and services for a comfortable stay.

I suggest considering the luxurious Taj Westend Bengaluru , a 5-star hotel on Race Course Road, The Oberoi , ITC Gardenia , Four Seasons on Bellary Road, Hyatt Centric on MG Road , and the historic Jayamahal Palace Hotel near the Cantonment railway station for a premium stay.

Alternatively, for those seeking budget-friendly accommodations, Zostel Indiranagar is a recommended option.

Best Time To Travel to Bangalore

Bangalore, with its moderate climate, can be visited throughout the year.

• Winter (October to February) is generally considered the best time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant. This is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Summer (March to June) can be warm, but Bangalore’s elevation provides relief compared to other parts of India. It’s a good time for those who enjoy sunny weather. February and March emerge as an ideal period to witness the vibrant hues of Bangalore, with flowers, including Pink Trumpets , blossoming across the city, adding a burst of colour to the landscape.
• Monsoon (July to September) is the rainy season. Bangalore experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The city turns lush green, and the weather is relatively cool.

Overall, October to February are often recommended for a pleasant visit to Bangalore.

Number of Days Required for Bangalore

Bangalore beckons with many activities and diverse attractions, ranging from the advancements of the IT industry to the serenity of religious temples. To truly capture the city’s essence, a minimum of 3 days is recommended, providing a glimpse of its multifaceted charm. Extending your stay to 5 days allows for a more comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of all Bangalore offers.

Suppose time is a constraint; fear not! For those with just a day to spare, I recommend perusing my post One Day in Bangalore for the perfect itinerary to make the most of your brief visit.

Bangalore Travel Guide: Places To See and Things To Do

Beyond the renowned aspects of weather, pubs, traffic, and IT, Bangalore holds a rich tapestry of history and culture. For a comprehensive understanding before planning a visit, here are the top 10 things you need to know about Bangalore .

For a delectable culinary adventure, dive into Bangalore’s food guide if you’re a food enthusiast.

Before exploring the landmarks, take note of the following:

• Religious Places: Ensure to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
• Photography Rules: In India, there are specific rules for taking pictures. Always check with security guards or staff before capturing photographs.
• Security Awareness: Beware of pickpockets and safeguard your belongings.
• Wildlife Interaction: Refrain from feeding wildlife, especially monkeys.
• Kindness to Animals: Be considerate towards stray animals .
• Littering: Avoid littering and maintain cleanliness at all places.
• Night Safety: Exercise caution at night. Opt for proper booking providers like Go Pink Cabs, Uber or Ola rather than hailing taxis or auto-rickshaws on the streets.
• Public Transportation: Utilize metros as they offer a safer mode of transportation.

Famous Landmarks of Bangalore

Bangalore fort.

Constructed in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I , the founder of Bangalore, the Bangalore Fort initially took the form of a mud fort. Situated near the KR Market metro station, just a few hundred meters away, the fort is easily accessible by metro train.

Visitors can explore the historical site without incurring any entry fee. The fort is open for visitation from Monday to Saturday, with operational hours from 10 AM to 6 PM. This schedule provides ample time for individuals to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural significance encapsulated within the Bangalore Fort.

Bangalore General Post Office (GPO)

Serving as the primary post office in the city, the Bangalore General Post Office (GPO) operates as the head office and is situated in the area with the pin code 560 001.

It’s essential to note that the Bangalore GPO is a functional office. Visitors are welcome to explore the premises without needing an entry ticket, providing a glimpse into the city’s operational hub of postal services.

Bangalore Palace

The Bangalore Palace stands as the city’s foremost landmark and ranks among the top attractions in Bangalore. Completed in 1878, this architectural marvel is crafted in the Tudor Revival style.

For those eager to explore, the Bangalore Palace welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. A ticket must be purchased, obtainable at the palace entrance to enter. The pricing is as follows:

• INR 225 for Indian nationals.
• INR 450 for Foreign nationals.

Chitrakala Parishath

Adored by art enthusiasts, Chitrakala Parishath is an art museum and gallery. The complex houses 18 galleries that regularly host engaging exhibitions.

Opening its doors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, Chitrakala Parishath invites visitors to immerse themselves in artistic splendour. An entry fee of INR 50 per adult is applicable for admission, providing access to the vibrant world of creativity within the premises.

Government Museum

As one of India’s oldest museums and the second oldest in South India, the Government Museum boasts a rich legacy since its establishment in 1865. Its collection features a diverse array of archaeological and geological artifacts.

The museum warmly welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. An entry fee of INR 10 per adult grants access to this treasure trove of historical and geological wonders.

HAL Aerospace Museum

Founded in 2001, the HAL Aerospace Museum is India’s premier aerospace museum, making it a must-visit attraction in Bangalore.

Operating daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, the museum invites enthusiasts to explore its exhibits. For admission, there’s an entry fee of INR 50 per adult, with an additional charge of INR 20 for camera usage, allowing visitors to capture memories of their aerospace journey.

Established in 1884, the High Court of Bangalore functions as an operational judicial court.

Important Note: The High Court is a functioning government office. Visitors are advised to approach with respect and adhere to the guidelines regarding permissible activities within the premises.

Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain

Unveiled in 1995, the Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain is India’s pioneer in computerized fountain parks.

Operating hours for the fountain park are as follows:

• Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM and 5 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Tuesday: 10 AM to 4 PM and 5 PM to 6:30 PM.
• Closed on Mondays.

Admission to the park requires an entry fee of INR 30 per adult.

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

Opened in 2009, the National Gallery of Modern Art is a distinguished art gallery housing exquisite paintings by eminent artists such as Raja Ravi Varma , Jamini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, and more.

The museum welcomes visitors during the following hours:

• Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
• Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

For admission, the entry fee is INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreigners.

Planetarium

The Planetarium holds a special place in my heart as my favourite spot in Bangalore. Operated by the Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE), it serves as a planetarium with captivating shows and functions as a science centre.

Opening its doors from 10 AM to 5:30 PM on Tuesday to Sunday, the Planetarium offers a fascinating experience. However, it is closed on Mondays. The entry fee for adults is INR 75, providing an affordable opportunity to explore the universe’s wonders.

Rangashankara

Rangashankara , a renowned theatre in Bangalore, is the premier venue for witnessing exceptional plays. Established in 2004 by the esteemed Kannada film star Arundathi Nag, Rangashankara has become a cultural hub for theatrical performances.

For information regarding ticket prices and timings, it is advisable to check the details specific to each play, as they may vary based on the production.

Sandesh Museum, a Museum of Communication

Sandesh Museum is a dedicated repository chronicling the evolution of Indian communication throughout history. Nestled on Museum Road, this museum finds its abode in a heritage building dating back to 1804.

Visitors can explore the museum’s treasures from 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Saturday. It’s worth noting that there is no entrance fee, providing an open invitation to delve into the fascinating journey of Indian communication.

State Library

Situated within Bangalore’s Cubbon Park is the State Library, a historic edifice constructed in honour of the longest-serving Dewan of Mysore.

The library operates from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, with closure on Mondays. Notably, there is no entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore the library’s rich heritage without cost.

Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace

Constructed in 1791, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace served as the summer residence for the ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan. The palace is a splendid representation of Indo-Islamic architectural style and a testament to historical grandeur.

Open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, visitors can explore the palace. Admission fees are INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals. While still cameras incur no additional charge, a video camera requires a separate ticket of INR 25 and the need to obtain permission.

Vidhana Soudha

Serving as the seat of the bicameral state legislature of Karnataka, Vidhana Soudha was built in 1956, showcasing the distinctive Mysore Neo-Dravidian architectural style.

The Vidhana Soudha welcomes visitors for external viewing from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. While there is no entry ticket for tourists, access to the interior is granted only with permission or for individuals engaged in government-related activities.

Fun Activities

Amoeba is an exciting entertainment complex in the heart of Bangalore. It serves as a trendy hangout spot where individuals can indulge in activities like pin-bowling and various other forms of entertainment.

Fly a Plane

Embarking on Microlight flying at Jakkur is an essential experience for anyone in Bangalore. The small aircraft accommodates only two individuals – the pilot and the co-pilot.

This thrilling experience comes with a cost of approximately INR 3500 (USD 50). For bookings, you can contact them via their Facebook page, “Microlight Flying Adventures.”

Fun World , located in the Palace Grounds of Bangalore, is an amusement park featuring a variety of rides and a water park.

Entry tickets range from INR 499 to INR 999 per adult. Conveniently, tickets can be purchased online for a hassle-free experience.

Meet Locals

The streets are brimming with adorable locals and furry companions. Make sure to pause and greet one of them, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the affectionate response you receive.

Do you love wildlife and want to volunteer in Bangalore? Then you must spend a day or two at the Bear Rescue Centre in Bannerghatta .

Bangalore is adorned with abundant street art, enhancing the city’s aesthetic appeal. These captivating artworks can be discovered throughout the city, with street art in Malleshwaram being a particularly picturesque location. Other notable spots to explore vibrant street art in Bangalore include Church Street and MG Road.

Religious Places

Dodda ganapathi temple.

Devoted to Lord Ganesha, the Dodda Ganapathi Temple stands as one of the most renowned religious sites in Bangalore .

The temple welcomes visitors daily from 6:30 AM to 1 PM and 4:30 PM to 8 PM.

Iskcon Temple

Nestled on the west side of Chord Road, the Iskcon Temple in Bangalore is a revered sanctuary dedicated to the divine couple Radha and Krishna. This iconic temple stands as a testament to spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.

The tranquil ambience of Iskcon draws devotees and visitors alike. The temple provides serenity and prayer by opening its doors on weekdays from 7:15 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 8:20 PM. During weekends, the temple extends its hours, welcoming devotees from 7:15 AM to 8:20 PM.

As you enter the premises, the divine atmosphere envelops you, creating a space for contemplation and connection. The temple’s architecture blends traditional and modern elements, making it a spiritual centre and an architectural marvel.

Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple

The Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a captivating and ancient religious site in Bangalore’s Malleshwaram area.

This serene temple invites devotees to offer their prayers during specific hours. It opens from 6 AM to 11 AM, providing a tranquil morning setting for worshipers. In the evening, the temple reopens from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, allowing visitors to experience the spiritual ambience as the day draws closer.

The Kadu Mahadeshwara Temple serves as a place of devotion and carries the weight of history, offering a glimpse into Bangalore’s cultural and religious heritage. Amidst the bustling city, this sacred sanctuary provides a serene retreat for those seeking solace and connection with the divine.

St Andrew’s Church

Situated on Dickinson Road, St Andrews Church is a significant landmark in Bangalore, embodying the rich history of Presbyterian worship. Consecrated in 1866, this architectural marvel was initially called St. Andrews’s Kirk. The church derives its name from the patron saint of Scotland, adding a touch of historical and cultural significance to its identity.

St. Andrews Church is a testament to the enduring legacy of Christian worship in Bangalore. The structure seamlessly blends architectural elegance with a spiritual aura, creating a sanctuary for locals and visitors.

As you step onto the hallowed grounds, the church’s neo-Gothic design and intricate detailing captivate the eye. The tranquil ambience within the church walls provides a space for reflection and prayer, allowing individuals to connect with their faith in a serene environment.

Preserving its historical charm, St. Andrews Church continues to be a revered place of worship, inviting individuals to delve into its heritage and partake in the spiritual journey it offers to those who seek solace and communion.

The Shiva Temple

Constructed in 1995, the Shiva Temple proudly hosts the most giant Shiva statue in Bangalore, towering at an impressive height of 65 feet, symbolizing a beacon of hope. Renowned sculptor Kashinath meticulously crafted this monumental representation.

Unlike conventional opening hours, the Shiva Temple opens its gates to devotees and visitors around the clock, making it accessible 24 hours a day. This perpetual availability allows individuals to immerse themselves in prayer and contemplation at any time that suits them.

Adding to its accessibility, the temple graciously welcomes everyone without imposing an entry ticket. This inclusive approach encourages people from all walks of life to experience the spiritual ambience and marvel at the majestic Shiva statue within the temple premises.

Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple

Tucked away as a hidden gem in Bangalore, the Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple in Malleshwaram unveils a unique charm—having been concealed under sand until its recent excavation.

The temple opens its doors daily, allowing visitors to discover its historical allure. Operating hours extend from 7:30 AM to noon and resume from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This schedule offers ample opportunities for devotees and curious explorers to witness the beauty and sanctity of the temple.

The Sree Dakshinamukha Nandi Teertha Temple not only stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage but also invites individuals to delve into the mystery and significance beneath its sacred grounds. A visit to this temple promises spiritual enrichment and a fascinating glimpse into the historical layers that make Bangalore unique.

Public Parks and Lakes

Bangalore is affectionately called the “City of Lakes” owing to the plethora of picturesque lakes that grace its landscape.

Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park , also recognized as Sri Chamrajendra Park, is a historic gem in Bangalore. Renowned as one of the city’s iconic destinations, it offers an ideal setting for a tranquil morning or afternoon amidst nature.

Opening its gates daily, Cubbon Park invites visitors from 6 AM to 6 PM. This expansive timeframe allows individuals to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings and lush greenery that define the park’s charm. Whether seeking a peaceful stroll, a leisurely break, or a moment of reflection, Cubbon Park stands as a welcoming haven within the bustling cityscape of Bangalore.

Hebbal Lake

Established in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, Hebbal Lake emerges as a splendid locale for witnessing breathtaking sunsets and observing the diverse avian species of Bangalore. Located approximately 13 kilometres from the Majestic bus stop, the lake beckons nature enthusiasts and sunset admirers alike.

Hebbal Lake graciously welcomes visitors from 7 AM to 8 PM, providing a generous timeframe to relish the natural beauty and serenity it offers. Whether it’s a stroll along the lakeside or a moment of birdwatching tranquillity, Hebbal Lake is a delightful destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Lalbagh , a botanical garden in Bangalore, derives its name from “Red Garden” and “Beloved Garden” in literal translation. Lalbagh is home to over 1000 species of plants and is a verdant haven for nature enthusiasts.

The botanical garden hosts two yearly flower shows, showcasing the vibrant blooms that grace its landscape.

Open to the public from 8 AM to 6 PM, Lalbagh provides a serene retreat for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of its diverse flora.

An entry fee of INR 20 per person is applicable to explore the botanical wonders within. This nominal fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of Lalbagh, ensuring that it remains a cherished botanical gem for generations to come.

Sankey Tank

Established in 1882 by Co. Richard Hieram Sankey, Sankey Tank is a picturesque lake in Malleswaram and Sadashivnagar’s suburbs. Renowned for its scenic beauty, it has become a popular destination for morning jogs and evening strolls.

While enjoying the natural surroundings, it’s essential to exercise caution regarding snakes. Having personally encountered one during an evening walk, I advise being vigilant and refraining from causing harm to these creatures. Generally, if left undisturbed, snakes will not pose a threat.

Sankey Tank welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 8 PM, providing ample time to relish its tranquillity. Boating is available for those seeking a more adventurous experience, and boats can be conveniently hired at the park. This additional activity adds to the charm of Sankey Tank, making it a versatile and enjoyable destination for nature enthusiasts.

Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake, a historical reservoir, served as the centrepiece of the British-built cantonment town and stands as one of the largest lakes in Bangalore.

Open to the public daily, Ulsoor Lake welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 8 PM, offering a serene environment to enjoy its historical significance and natural beauty. The only exception to its regular schedule is Wednesday. Whether for a peaceful morning stroll, a leisurely afternoon, or a delightful evening outing, Ulsoor Lake provides a scenic retreat in the heart of Bangalore.

Shopping and Street Markets

As per Mercer’s 2020 Cost of Living survey , Bangalore has secured the position of the fourth most expensive city in India. It’s crucial to be aware that shopping in the city may not come at a cheap price.

Commercial Street

Commercial Street, also known as “Comm Street,” stands out as one of the most renowned shopping destinations in Bangalore. The street’s allure lies in the vibrant colours of jewellery and clothing, captivating shoppers’ attention.

This bustling street is dedicated to many shops, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for those seeking a diverse and exciting shopping experience.

Malleswaram Market

Malleswaram represents a neighbourhood steeped in the heritage of born and bred Bangaloreans, belonging to the vintage era of old Bangalore.

The bustling shopping centre at the 11th cross of Bangalore within Malleswaram is a vibrant hub teeming with numerous street vendors, offering a lively and diverse shopping experience.

Jayanagar 4th Block

The Jayanagar 4th Block shopping complex is a trendy destination for shopping and food. Explore this vibrant complex for an enjoyable street shopping experience.

Shopping Centres and Malls

Bangalore boasts numerous shopping centres and malls with many brands and large stores. Visiting these malls is recommended if you’re searching for standardized prices and quality branded items.

It’s important to note that haggling is not customary in these shopping centres and malls. The prices are generally fixed, offering a convenient and straightforward shopping experience for those seeking branded products.

Discover Bangalore by Walk

Exploring the suburbs and areas of Bangalore is best done on foot, allowing for a more immersive experience. Numerous walks are available, covering heritage and history trails. Bengaluru Prayana , an initiative led by my friend and me, is dedicated to guiding tourists and locals through regular weekend walks, delving into trails that offer insights into the rich culture and history of the city.

Gallery Walk between the Trinity Circle and Church Street

Embark on a picturesque journey of discovery by taking a leisurely walk between Trinity Circle and Church Street in Bangalore. This enchanting stroll spans 2.5 kilometres, allowing you to savour the experience relaxedly.

Commencing from Trinity Circle and culminating at Church Street, this delightful walk unveils the beauty of Bangalore’s museum and gallery offerings. The 2.5-kilometre route is marked by a seamless blend of cultural and artistic treasures, creating an enriching experience for those participating in this exploration.

• Starting Point : Trinity Circle.
• Finishing Point : Church Street.
• Total Distance : 2.5 kilometres.
• Grade : Very easy.

The walk, graded as “very easy,” caters to all levels of walkers, ensuring that individuals of varying fitness levels can enjoy it. With each step, you’ll witness the vibrant tapestry of Bangalore’s cultural heritage, making this short journey a captivating and accessible excursion for locals and visitors alike. So, set forth from Trinity Circle and meander along this scenic route, immersing yourself in the cultural gems that unfold until you reach the charming destination of Church Street.

Walk Covering the Three Churches of MG Road

Embark on an effortless journey exploring the three churches near MG Road with a relaxed walk suitable for experienced and inexperienced walkers alike. This stroll requires minimal time, making it accessible for everyone.

Commencing at Trinity Church and concluding at St. Andrew’s Church, this 2.2-kilometer route encompasses the graceful beauty of Holy Trinity, East Parade, and St. Andrew’s Churches. Designed as a “very easy” walk, it caters to individuals of varying walking abilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

• Starting point : Trinity Church.
• Finishing point : St Andrews Church.
• Total distance : 2.2 kilometres.

As you set out from Trinity Church, meander through the enchanting path, absorbing these three churches’ tranquil ambience and historic charm. The brief yet enriching journey promises a glimpse into the architectural marvels and an opportunity to delve into the spiritual heritage embedded in these sacred sites. So, lace up your walking shoes, start from Trinity Church, and embrace the ease of this delightful exploration until you reach the serene destination of St. Andrew’s Church.

Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road and Brigade Road Night Walk

Engaging in a stroll along MG Road and Brigade Road used to be my cherished post-work activity on Friday nights. The lively streets pulse with energy as the city awakens, with crowds revelling in the weekend and the vibrant nightlife.

Note: Exercise caution, especially if walking alone, particularly during nighttime.

Walk between Malleshwaram and MG Road

Among the various walks, this stroll is slightly longer but promises a rewarding experience with abundant sightseeing opportunities. The journey from Malleshwaram to MG Road encompasses numerous landmarks and heritage buildings, providing a rich cultural exploration.

Commencing at Malleshwaram and concluding at MG Road, this 13-kilometer walk is graded as “moderate,” making it suitable for those seeking a more extended yet manageable journey. As you embark on this immersive experience, you’ll encounter the historic gems and architectural wonders that define Bangalore’s heritage.

• Starting point : Malleshwaram .
• Finishing point : MG Road.
• Total distance : 13 kilometres.
• Grade : Moderate.

So, commence your walk from the vibrant streets of Malleshwaram and let the journey unfold, offering a delightful blend of cultural richness and scenic beauty until you reach the bustling destination of MG Road.

Is Bangalore Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Bangalore is a notably safe city in India for solo female travellers. Nonetheless, exercising caution and staying aware of your surroundings, particularly during nighttime, is crucial. Avoid hailing auto rickshaws or taxis without prior online booking for night rides. Always ensure that a friend or family member is informed about your location and plans, enhancing your overall safety in the city.

Closing Notes

Nestled among India’s most enchanting cities, Bangalore beckons with its allure and abundant offerings. Beyond being a mere transit hub, it is a city deserving your time and exploration. This comprehensive Bangalore travel guide encompasses all the essential information to enhance your experience in this vibrant city. Should you have any further inquiries or seek personalized insights, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] . Happy exploring!

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Raksha Nagaraj is a versatile content creator, skilled writer, and dedicated blogger. With a passion for travel ingrained in her adventurous spirit, she has journeyed through over 50 countries across all seven continents.

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Must-see attractions in Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Cubbon Park

Bengaluru (Bangalore)

In the heart of Bengaluru’s business district is Cubbon Park, a well-maintained 120-hectare garden where Bengaluru’s residents converge to steal a moment…

National Gallery of Modern Art

Housed in a century-old mansion – the former vacation home of the raja of Mysuru – this world-class art museum showcases an impressive permanent…

Krishnarajendra Market

For a taste of traditional urban India, dive into the bustling, gritty Krishnarajendra Market and the dense grid of commercial streets that surround it…

Opera House

Recently restored to its former glory thanks to the financial might of Samsung, the British-era Opera House has been transformed into a temple of tech,…

HAL Aerospace Museum & Heritage Centre

For a peek into India’s aeronautical history, visit this wonderful museum past the old airport, where you can see some of the indigenous aircraft models…

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

A superb gallery with a wide range of Indian and international contemporary art, as well as permanent displays of Mysuru-style paintings and folk and…

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Spread over 98 hectares of landscaped terrain, these expansive gardens were laid out in 1760 by famous ruler Hyder Ali. As well as amazing centuries-old…

Janapada Loka Folk Arts Museum

A worthwhile stopover between Bengaluru and Mysuru, this museum is dedicated to the preservation of local rural culture. It has a wonderful collection of…

Iskcon Temple

Built by the Hare Krishnas, this impressive hilltop temple, inaugurated in 1997, is lavishly decorated in a mix of ultra-contemporary and traditional…

Bull Temple

Built by Kempegowda in the 16th-century Dravidian style, the Bull Temple contains a huge stone monolith of Nandi (Shiva’s bull), which is always…

Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technical Museum

One mainly for kids, this hands-on science museum makes you feel a bit like you’re on a school excursion, but there are some cool electrical and…

Adrenaline seekers should look no further than this huge amusement park, which has more than 60 well-maintained rides, a wave pool, water slides and a …

St Mark’s Cathedral

Atmospheric cathedral built in 1812 with a distinctive domed roof based on St Paul's Cathedral in London. Check out the entrance's ornate carvings. There…

Venkatappa Art Gallery

Here you can see several works by and some personal memorabilia of K Venkatappa (1887–1962), court painter to the Wodeyars (erstwhile maharajas of the…

Tipu Sultan’s Palace

The elegant Indo-Islamic summer residence of ruler Tipu Sultan is notable for its teak pillars and ornamental frescos.

Bangalore Palace

The private residence of the Wodeyars, erstwhile maharajas of the state, Bangalore Palace preserves a slice of bygone royal splendour. You can view the …

Government Museum

In an imposing red colonial-era building dating from 1877 you’ll find a dusty, neglected collection of ancient stone carvings and artefacts excavated from…

Bangalore Fort

This ruined 1761 fort, with a manicured lawn and pink stone walls, is a peaceful escape from the chaotic city surrounds. The fort remained in use until…

Vidhana Soudha

Located at the northwestern end of Cubbon Park, the colossal neo-Dravidian-style Vidhana Soudha was built in 1954 and serves as the legislative chambers…

State Central Library

At the fringes of Cubbon Park, this red-painted Gothic-style library is worth a look around. Its impressive reading room is a tranquil escape from the…

Attara Kacheri

In the northwestern section of Cubbon Park, the neoclassical Attara Kacheri was built in 1864 and houses the High Court.

Jamia Masjid

Built in 1940 and dedicated to Tipi Sultan, this large mosque is one of Bengaluru's most impressive.

Venkataraman Temple

This ornate Hindu Temple dates from 1689 and merges Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles.

Swee Dodda Ganapathi Temple

This temple has an enormous Ganesh idol.

More destinations you need to see

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 3.1.1 Airport to central business district
• 3.2 By train
• 3.3.1 Bus companies
• 4.1 By metro
• 4.3 By train
• 4.4 By auto-rickshaw
• 4.5 By car taxi or bike taxi
• 4.6 By private car
• 4.7 By bicycle
• 4.8 By rental scooter
• 5.1 Cubbon Park area
• 5.2 Forts and palaces
• 5.3 Museums and art galleries
• 5.4.1 Temples
• 5.4.2 Churches
• 5.5 Botanical and zoological gardens
• 6.1 Indoor activities
• 6.2 Outdoor activities and sports
• 6.3 Parks and stadiums
• 6.4 Fairs & exhibitions
• 6.5 Arts and theatre
• 6.7 Spa & massage
• 7.1 Shopping districts
• 7.2 Shopping malls
• 7.3 Markets
• 7.4.1 Jewellery
• 7.4.2 Handicrafts
• 7.4.3 Bookstores
• 7.4.4 Boutiques
• 7.4.5 Music and movies
• 7.4.6 Electronics
• 8.1 Hinduism
• 8.2 Buddhism
• 9.1 Indians
• 9.2 Non-Indians
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 10.4 Regional cuisine
• 10.5 European
• 10.6 Maharashtrian food
• 10.7 Odia food
• 10.8 South Karnataka
• 10.9 Bengali
• 10.10 Andhra
• 10.11 Tamil
• 10.12 Ice Cream Parlours
• 10.13 North Indian
• 10.14 Italian
• 10.15 Chinese
• 10.16 Kerala
• 10.17 Dhabas
• 11.2.1 Budget
• 11.2.2 Mid-range
• 11.2.3 Splurge
• 12.1 Budget
• 12.2 Mid-range
• 12.3 Splurge
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Cellular
• 14.2 Internet
• 15.1 Pharmacies
• 15.2 Hospitals
• 15.3.1 Currency Exchange

Bangalore , now known officially as Bengaluru ( Kannada : ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು Beṅgaḷūru ), is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka . It is a large, cosmopolitan city with a large working population. Bangalore is the major centre of India's information technology (IT) industry and is known worldwide as the "Silicon Valley of India".

Once called the "Garden City of India" and the "Pensioner's Paradise", these epithets don't apply to modern Bangalore.

The earliest records of a place named Bengaluru are found in a ninth-century temple in an area now known as "Old Bangalore".

The feudal lord Kempe Gowda has been given credit for developing parts of the city. In 1537, with the assistance of the local king, he constructed three districts protected by a walled fort on the site.

During the next three centuries, Bangalore existed very much in the shadow of the neighbouring city, Mysore , and control of the town changed hands many times. The year 1831 marked a major turning point for the city. Claiming misrule by king Krishna Raja Wodeyar III, the British took control of the Mysore Kingdom and, possibly influenced by the city's salubrious climate, moved the administrative capital to Bangalore. New telecommunication systems were laid, rail connections built, fine government buildings constructed, and the city's famous parks and gardens established. After independence, Bangalore maintained its position as the state capital of Karnataka and continues to grow.

For many years, Bangalore was regarded in India as the greenest, most liberal and forward-thinking city. These attributes have propelled Bangalore to the forefront of India's high-tech industry boom, and it ranks as one of the most developed cities in India and one of the world's fastest-growing urban areas.

A popular myth explaining the name Bengaluru is that it originated from Benda Kaalu Uru (Town of Boiled Beans). The story is told that the name was given to the city by King Vira Ballala who, while lost in the area, was offered boiled beans by an old woman.

Unlike the major cities of India which are extremely hot in the summer months, Bangalore enjoys a relatively mild climate all year round.

• Summer – February to May (peak temperature is during April and May)
• Monsoon – June to October (the heaviest rains are typically between June and August)
• Winter – November to January (with January being the coldest month)

Summer temperatures can reach 35 °C (95 °F) and early morning temperatures in the winter hover around 15 °C (59 °F). However, Bangalore has unpredictable weather, unlike certain western cities. It is quite common to have a warm sunny day followed by evening showers ending with cool nights. So, be prepared for rain for the better part of the year, especially from May to November.

Being the capital of Karnataka , the widely spoken and official language in Bangalore is Kannada . Most people can speak and understand English and Hindi . Other Indian languages such as Malayalam , Tamil , Telugu , Bengali and Urdu are spoken by the respective migrant and minority communities. As Bangalore is a commercial and cultural hub, it has a smattering of Konkani , Marathi and Tulu speakers.

Most auto rickshaw drivers, bus conductors and shop assistants can have a conversation in at least basic English. Some of them will be able to understand Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. Signs are generally written in both Kannada and English. However, a basic knowledge of Kannada comes very handy when interacting with locals.

Airport to central business district

• Buses Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) operates buses between various places in Bangalore to the airport about every 15 minutes. These trips cost between ₹50 and ₹250 depending on the distance. This is the cheapest and an extremely convenient way to get to the airport.
• Airport-approved taxis There is a dedicated taxi holding area for travellers arriving at the airport. Taxis at this holding area use meters at the rate of ₹19.5 per kilometer. You will also have to pay the toll charge of ₹120 when you enter the highway. It costs approximately ₹600 to get to Bangalore's central business district, and about ₹700 to Koramangala ]. Journeys to anywhere in Bangalore should not cost more than ₹800–1000. More information can be found on the airport site .
• Unofficial taxis You may be able to find a ride into Bangalore City at a much cheaper rate by taking a taxi not approved by the airport , but only if you are willing to take a risk . Taxi drivers driving such taxis will attempt to negotiate with you a much lower fare than that charged by EasyCabs sometimes as little as ₹200–300 for a ride to the central business district. These taxis can be found just beyond the terminal plaza at the covered walkway that leads to the car park. Once you leave the walkway, some taxi drivers may become fairly aggressive and may try to take your luggage without your permission. The best thing to do is to keep track of and be in control of, your belongings. Even the most aggressive taxi driver or tout will leave you alone if you stand firm and make it clear that you do not want his help. You should only use such taxis if you have an idea of what the appropriate taxi rates are, and are willing to bargain very hard to avoid being swindled. It is recommended that you agree on a price before you enter the cab; no tip is necessary once you arrive at your destination.
• Uber has a flat rate service from the airport to anywhere in the city for ₹549, including the toll charges.
• Ola also operates taxis via their app from the airport.
• Oneness Taxi best Chandigarh to Delhi taxi and Delhi to Chandigarh Taxi Services Provider.
• Limousines and self-drive cars Hertz and Akbar Travels provide pre-paid limousine and car rental facilities through counters at the airport terminal building. These cost above ₹1,200 for travel to the central business district. A pick up and drop off facility in town and at the airport are offered.
• Hotel pick-up You can arrange with your hotel to have a driver pick you up at the airport. Some hotels, especially the higher-end ones, provide this service for free if you are staying with them, although some may charge you anything around ₹2,500 (far higher than just taking a taxi). The driver will be waiting in the arrival area of the airport with a sign bearing your name.
• Helicopter If you are in a hurry and have a lot of money, helicopter services are offered by Birdie and Deccan Aviation . There are eight helipads across Bangalore. A ride from the international airport sets you back by about ₹5,000.

There are many railway stations in Bangalore, each serving certain trains:

Bookings can be done at either the railway stations or at the Indian Railways booking counters in major commercial and residential areas. Booking can also be done online [dead link] . If you are booking at Bengaluru City and are travelling to Mysore, there is a separate counter for travellers to Mysore. This is to cater for the large number of travellers between Bangalore and Mysore. If travelling to Mysore on a Sunday afternoon, arrive early as there is usually a long line for buying tickets.

As with all Indian railway travel, have some patience for delays. Trains are usually on time (within 20 min of scheduled time), but can sometimes be late. A digital departure board in the station will tell you what platform your train is on and what time it leaves.

For train arrival/departure and PNR status enquiries at various railway stations at Bangalore, call 139 or use ixigo or IRCTC RailYatri apps.

Travelling from Mumbai to Bangalore by train takes a long time (24 hr or so). Buses are comparatively faster and take 18-20 hr, provided there are no traffic jams in Mumbai and Pune en route. Effective travel time by train or bus is long. Air travel is recommended for traveling between Mumbai and Bangalore, the duration of which is about 90 min. Low-cost airlines charge the same fare as AC train or Volvo bus. However, sleeper class (non air-con) train travel from Mumbai to Bangalore is economical and you can have a view of some lush evergreen forests and river valleys across Western India. Traveling to Delhi can take 39 hours (or more) and the flight ticket just double than the amount of the slow train.

For the Foreign Tourist Quota , go to the big building on the left, before entering the train station through the main access. This is the "Unreserved Tickets" building (even if on the side door it says "Reservation Center"). On the first floor, there is the Chief Reservation Supervisor. The official will book the ticket for you (after showing a foreigner passport). They might refer you to the first counter on the main building. But there you must stand in the queue, while here you can sit at the office and wait they book the ticket for you.

If you have difficulty arranging a plane or railway ticket to/from your next destination, or you prefer a little more adventure, you can go by bus. Government and private buses run services to/from major cities like Mumbai , Goa , Chennai , Mangalore , Coimbatore , Madurai , Tirupati , Hyderabad , etc. Buses can be a regular service with only seats and no A/C, a normal luxury bus, a Volvo A/C bus or a sleeper bus for night travel. Buses are also good for coming from many towns in Karnataka without a good number of trains due to the increased service - most towns in Karnataka are essentially guaranteed to have service to the state capital.

• 12.95371 77.543661 9 Mysore Road Satellite Bus Stand ( MCTC ), Bapuji Nagar, Mysore Rd ( Majestic : KSRTC Shuttles, BMTC 220 to 235 ; Market : 220 to 235 series ; Shivajinagar : 222E,226N,121B ; Jayanagar : 60A to L ; Yeshvantapur : K-2 ; Jalahalli Cross : 248 ). One of the important bus stands of Bangalore, aimed at decongesting Majestic Bus Stand, this bus stand caters to all ordinary and Luxury services towards Mysore, as well as Interstate ordinary and Luxury services to Kerala, via Mysore, operated by Karnataka and Kerala state governments. Ordinary and Deluxe uses bound to Ooty, Coimbatore via Mysore/Kollegal also start from this place. All ordinary services operated by Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation to Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, Vriddachalam, Kanchipuram, Coimbatore and Trichy use this Bus stand for terminating their bus services. ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 12.9642 77.57773 10 City Market . Around 2.5 km (1.6 mi) away from Majestic. Could daunt newcomers, since it is very disorganised. It is a large dirt parking lot under an overhead highway and there is not much order to where the buses park.  
• 12.95475 77.59198 11 Shantinagar ( Double Road Bus Stand ), K.H.Road ( From Majestic : 171, all buses from 340 to 372; From Shivajinagar : 13, 13A to 13K, 27, 27E, 29,210F,G,GA,Q, K6 ). One of the important bus stands of Bangalore, aimed at decongesting Majestic bus stand, this bus stand caters to all Luxury services towards Tamil Nadu operated by KSRTC as well as SETC of Tamil Nadu. Some Kerala State Transport Corporation buses running via Salem to Kerala go through this terminal. ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 12.98343 77.60308 12 Shivajinagar . In the north. It is neatly organised, and there is an inquiry window to find out about buses. If you are changing buses, you may have to get down on the street and walk into the bus stand to catch your next bus. You can find a large map on display here too, which you can use to find the bus number you need to take if you know the area you are going to. Route maps are also sold on the platforms.  

There are also many unofficial stops that buses will go to on request (even on deluxe buses with reserved seats, you can ask the conductor to stop at such a stop as long as it is in Bangalore/the same city as the stop on your ticket) or even let passengers book tickets from. These places do not have any station infrastructure but are usually located near landmarks, on major streets/circles/squares and of course, can be spotted by the numerous buses crowded around. One particularly useful stop is Yeswanthpur Junction, which is next to the long-distance train station of the same name as well as the Yeswanthpur metro station.

The display boards for long-distance buses bus show the destination in the local language Kannada . If you don't speak Kannada, you will likely need to get some help to get on the right bus. However, the newer Volvo buses are all equipped with electronic displays that show the destination in Kannada and English one after the other. Non-Volvo buses are being gradually retrofitted with these electronic displays; this should make bus travel much simpler if you are unfamiliar with the local language. However, there are still many of the older Ashok Leyland and even some very old Tata buses plying the roads, so it is best to go by timings or ask the conductor where the bus is heading (usually by asking the destination name like its a question, such as "Mysore?", and hearing if the conductor responds with the same name or another one).

Bus companies

• Durgamba Motors
• Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC)- Operated by Govt. of Karnataka. Counters are present all over the city for reservations, list on the website.
• KPN Travels - From the direction of Tamil Nadu
• VRL Travels - From most places north of Bangalore
• City Travels - From the direction of Tamil Nadu

Driving in India can be very stressful. Lane discipline is practically non-existent, excessive honking, high vehicle density, lack of regard for traffic law, combined with razor thin passing margins are common. One ride in a taxi will most likely convince you that driving yourself is not worth the risk, so if you do want to arrive by car, you will probably want to hire a car and a driver. Cost varies, but most car and driver combinations cost ₹1,400-1,700/day. The fares for hired private taxis are usually in the multiples of 4hr/40 km (25 mi), fares for which start at around ₹450 for a non-air conditioned small car. Depending on where you are coming from, you may be able to negotiate a lower fare if the trip isn't far, and it may be a higher fare if you are travelling far and your driver has to travel back on his own time. Having an approximate idea of the fare or distance beforehand and persistent bargaining skills can lead to significant savings. Although it costs more, consider requesting an air conditioned car if you aren't used to the heat, especially in summer. An air conditioned car will also help filter out the air pollution, which is considerable, especially on congested roadways. If you want something even more special, such as a fancy car or SUV, be prepared to pay extra.

The Namma Metro is an efficient cross-city rail service in Bangalore. As of November 2023, there are two lines (green and purple) intersecting at Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic Terminal):

• Green Line   Green   (Nagasandra–Silk Institute)
• Purple Line   Purple   (Whitefield (Kadugodi)–Challaghatta)

Tickets can be bought at any station. Fares depend on the number of stations you travel. Minimum fare is ₹10 and maximum is ₹60. A card costing ₹50 will save you from the queues and can be recharged online (recommended to recharge in the counters). The cards offer a 5% discount on the ordinary fare. There is no other concession for seniors, women, etc. Tickets are to be purchased for children above 3 feet in height (independent of age).

If you get a smart token (the single journey ticket), remember that it has to be returned at the station you get off at, so make sure not to lose it during the ride. All trains are 6-coach trains with the front and the back part reserved to women

Buses are cheap and usually frequent (though expensive compared to other states). But travelling on them can be very difficult if you don't know the system well. Now, most buses have digital signage alternating between the local language Kannada and English but some buses still display the old printed signs with only the route number in English, with the destination and route information written in Kannada. Of course, even with digital signage the buses can take a long time to change the displayed language, meaning that it can be easy to miss your bus. This means you will have to know what route number you need before you get on, which you can find from BMTCRoutes.in website or Desiroutes , entering your starting point and end point on Google maps, or by asking locals.

Not all bus stops are clearly marked, so it can be a little tricky on your first trip. Groups of people standing around can be a good indicator that the bus will stop there. Also, it's a good idea to ask the driver or conductor if they stop at the stop you want to go to (a 500 and a 500Q will not go to all the same stops). Just ask the name in a questioning tone and you will get a response. Conductors (there is one on every bus and they collect fares and issue tickets - they are always in uniform) are also helpful in telling you where/when your stop is if you ask, as are fellow passengers if they frequent the route. Posted route maps of the bus system are rare, although maps are sold at the main bus terminals (Kempegowda Bus Stand and Shivajinagar). BMTC (toll-free) ☏ +1-800-425-1663 .

Watch out: some bus drivers put their route sign on the bottom right side of the windshield instead of its place on the sign holder on the top of the windshield.

Buses with black display boards run within the city. Red board buses cover long-distance and go to adjoining suburbs. The ordinary city buses are white & blue or green in colour. The newer city buses tend to be blue in colour and have LED display boards. There are blue Volvo buses, called Vajra , that operate mainly on IT sector routes like Electronic City, ITPL and Outer Ring Road routes, and to tourist places like Bannerghatta National Park and weekend Services to Wonderla . They offer a comfortable air-conditioned ride at higher prices (1½ to 2 times the regular bus fare) than the regular buses (which are not air-conditioned). Unlike most other buses, the Vajras have illuminated LED display boards on the front and sides which display the destination and route information in English as well as Kannada.

BMTC also operates Vayu Vajra services to Kempegowda International Airport from various destinations across the City. KIAS-9 is the most frequent of the routes, connecting the Airport to the Majestic Bus stand.

City buses are crowded during rush hours, which are at least 7-10AM and 5-9PM (M-Sa) but one can travel with little difficulty during the daytime. Bus services usually start by 5 or 6AM and are less frequent 9:30AM–10PM and rare after 10:30PM. Traffic in Bangalore is notorious: a trip across the city can take up to 4 hr, especially during rush hour times. There are no bus lanes, so buses, cabs and cars face the same traffic jams!

Major buses in the city have seats reserved for ladies in the front, between the front and middle doors. The first seat near the front door is reserved for ladies' senior citizens, while the first seat behind the middle door is for the physically challenged, and the seat facing the door is for senior citizens. Generally, you can board and exit the bus from either door.

It is always better to buy a daily pass if you plan to travel the whole day on the bus. The daily pass costs ₹70 as of January 2018 and it comes in handy if you need to travel on several buses in a single day. Daily passes are issued by the on-duty bus conductor or at the bus stand. Using this pass you can travel in any bus (other than the Vajra) for the entire day, any number of times. Senior citizens are given a 25% concession in all buses on the production of valid ID cards (e.g. passports). Children aged 4-12 are given a 50% concession. No charge for children up to 4 years of age.

Buses are available to all major localities of the city from these three bus stands. There have been a lot of developments due to the ongoing metro project as well as efforts to decongest the city. BMTC is adding more bus stations all the time. Better to check their websites for the latest situation.

There are DEMU (Diesel Electric Multiple Unit) and MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) trains run by the South Western Railway (SWR), which connect the city centre to various suburbs, especially in the IT corridor areas of Whitefield, Outer Ring Road and Electronic City. However, speeds are low and station infrastructure can be poor.

By auto-rickshaw

Auto-rickshaws (also called "auto") are everywhere at any time of day. They are green-and-yellow or black-and-yellow three wheeled contraptions. They are a fast (but unsafe) way to get around the city - in thick traffic, they are quicker than a taxi or bus.

Auto-rickshaws are supposed to charge fares as per the meter reading, which equals to ₹13 per distance kilometer, a minimum charge of ₹25 for the first 1.8 km (1.1 mi) or less, and a 50% surcharge after 10PM (called "one and a half"). They generally tend to charge on an ad-hoc basis depending on the distance of the destination, the chances of getting another customer from the mentioned locality, and their mood. You should simply refuse to board an auto where the meter is faulty or the driver refuses to use it. Saying "meter please" will usually do the trick. Drivers will give you endless excuses why they cannot use the meter. Remember that they are required by law to have a working meter and use it, and this will almost always be the cheapest for you too. If they still refuse, walk away: there are plenty of other rickshaws on the roads. In fact, drivers of rickshaws that you flag down from the streets (if practical and possible) will often be more agreeable than those waiting in stands, who demand more fares.

Tourists should be cautious when approaching auto-rickshaws at night, or during heavy rains. Chances are they will charge exorbitant rates (some drivers may demand 100% surcharge after 10PM or 11PM), but you must refuse to board in such a case. Help could be taken from the local traffic police to avail auto-rickshaws during such circumstances. If you are a visitor and do not know the route to the destination, it is a good idea to bargain and fix the fare before boarding to avoid long, convoluted routes being used by the driver - or check the route by recording a GPS track on your mobile.

Auto drivers commonly charge 1.5 rates for timings from 9PM to 6AM. For instance, if the meter reads ₹100, you are to pay ₹150. Catching autos on a normal fare at these times are tough.

Another thing to keep in mind is to be firm but not loud in an argument while travelling in the auto. Some of the less reputable drivers may team up with their friends midway to cause problems. Remember that although Bangaloreans are known for their polite and mild mannered behaviour, auto drivers are normally an exception. Some will think nothing of trying to rip you off. If in doubt, consult a local or your hotel travel desk.

If a rickshaw driver offers to show/drive you to some great places to shop, firmly refuse. A common tactic is to drive you to local shops where you will be pressured to buy Indian crafts that you probably don't want. Know your destination and insist upon it.

Rickshaw drivers are required by law to display their identification on the dashboard or the back of their seats. Refuse to get into a rickshaw that does not display one.

If an auto driver is problematic, their identification number and report to the BBMP Control room which is empowered to withdraw their auto license. This is a very effective technique to deal with them. The BBMP control room number as of December 2009 is ☏ +91 80 22975803 .

If you arrive in Bangalore via train, at the main train station there is an office near the taxis/auto-rickshaws which will print out a pre-paid receipt for your ride. The service costs ₹1, but will save you a potentially large amount of money by giving you an accurate value for your ride. This also allows you to avoid haggling with the driver, and acts as an official price agreement in the event that the driver wants to dispute the price of the ride.

By car taxi or bike taxi

Taxis are very convenient and comfortable. Most of the vehicles are Toyota Etios, Tata Indica cars or Mahindra Logan cars, which are much safer than auto-rickshaws, and the drivers are polite. If you are alone or going to an unknown destination, you are strongly advised to choose this option, even though the rates will be double that of an auto-rickshaw. Most taxi companies will charge a flat rate of ₹150 from anywhere to anywhere within city limits. Waiting or return trips will be charged extra, as will a lot of heavy luggage.

Unlike many other countries, taxis are not marked with 'TAXI' signs on the top. Instead, the cars are marked with the logo of the fleet operator or taxi company on the sides of the car. Only some companies like "Meru Taxi" are marked with the sign 'Taxi' on them. Some companies have a yellow sign with an identification number (usually a letter followed by two digits) on the top. Keep in mind that these taxis cannot be hailed from the street, but have to be called by telephone. When you call, you must give the operator your location, destination, and phone number. The operator will in turn tell you the charge (or will inform you that you must go by the meter) as well as the taxi number. The taxi will come to pick you up and call you when they are close. When you go out on the street, look at the license plate for the number they gave you—it will be the last four digits of the license plate. Alternatively, look for the yellow board atop the car with the taxi's identification number.

The license plate number is usually in the format "KA" followed by 01 to 05, followed by two letters, followed by a four-digit number. Taxis generally have yellow license plates with black letters.

On weekdays, especially during rush hours, be prepared to book a taxi a couple of hours in advance. Otherwise, the rush-hour traffic jams and high demand for taxis will make it difficult for a taxi to reach you in time. Private taxis are generally more reliable during this time – in many cases, radio cabs will be overbooked, and you might be unfortunate to be informed that your booking has been cancelled.

Although it can be hard for non-Indians to grasp at first, the system is actually very effective. If in doubt, ask a member of your hotel staff to help you

As early as 2015, Rapido started operating its 2 wheeler bike taxis & autorickshaws which are a great way to get around the city and cost slightly lesser than the traditional autos, and taxis.

Travel agents and hotels can arrange private chauffeur driven cars, and you may also hire cars to drive yourself. While expensive compared to taxis, these are the most trusted, secure, and comfortable ways to travel around the city. Driving in Bangalore can be difficult, because of poor driver discipline, but chauffeur driven services are very reasonable. These can be arranged by travel companies or online from the countries of origin.

By private car

Most taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers will be more than happy to offer you either a daily rate or an hourly rate, and take you around wherever you need to go. Alternately, your hotel or a travel company can arrange a private car.

If you find a good taxi or auto driver, this can be a great way to go for a foreigner. You'll certainly pay a lot more than if you bought individual rides, but you'll always have a driver waiting for you, and he can help with recommending local tourist sites, finding a good restaurant to eat at, and otherwise coping with day-to-day life. This can take a lot of the stress out of traveling.

Rates are generally something like ₹50–100 per hour for an auto-rickshaw, and ₹150–250 per hour for a taxi. Rates for a private car booked via the hotel will probably be more. Like everything else in India, rates are very fluid.

The weather in Bangalore is extremely pleasant, but the traffic is equally hectic. So if your plan is not to go towards crowded city, you can go around cycling .

Most of the sightseeing locations are within a range of 15 km (9.3 mi), so you can consider covering them on bicycle. Bicycle dealers charge ₹100-300 for entire day and you have to submit identity proof to hire bicycle.

By rental scooter

Travelling by rental scooter (light motorcycle) is increasingly common. Companies like Bounce , VOGO [dead link] and YULU offer rental scooters and electric cycles (solar powered models are available), to be unlocked using an app on your smartphone. VOGO and YULU have certain hubs where the vehicle has to be parked, whereas Bounce scooters can be parked anywhere. The rates charged are comparable with those of auto rickshaws, or may be slightly higher at times. You should carry your own helmet since most of these vehicles don't come equipped. The flip side to these services is that the price charged in the end is final and cannot be bargained and sometimes these apps have poor customer services.

There are city tours that can show you the city efficiently if you are short on time. Typically, tours do not include entry fees into the attractions. Bangalore, like the rest of India, has a habit of charging foreigners a lot more than locals for attractions. For example, Tipu Sultan's Palace, which is on the half-day tour, charges ₹15 for Indians/SAARC and ₹200 for non-Indians.

Cubbon Park area

• 12.9746 77.5907 4 Seshadari Iyer Memorial , Kasturba Rd ( metro: Vidhana Soudha    Purple   ). A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. ( updated Nov 2022 )

Forts and palaces

Museums and art galleries

• 12.89177 77.58372 14 Indian Music Experience Museum , Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar ( opposite Wood Rose Club ), ☏ +91 96866 02366 , [email protected] . 10AM–6PM (closed M) . The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. ₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Places of worship

• 13.0136 77.6521 21 Banaswadi Hanuman Temple ( between Sri Uma Maheshwari Temple and Bethel Church, northeast 5 km (3.1 mi) from centre ). Constructed in Dravidian style, attracts a large number of devotees, especially on weekends. It has smaller temples dedicated to Lord Rama, Shiva and Ganapathi within the walled compound. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 12.96574 77.58285 24 Dharmaraya Swamy Draupadi Devi Temple ( in the heart of Bangalore ). One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple is in existence since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishtra) & Consort Draupadi making it a unique one of its kind.  
• 12.94289 77.56823 25 Dodda Ganapathi . One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple.  
• 12.94829 77.56322 26 Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple , Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar ( right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi ). 7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM . Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of Agni god of fire. The annual festival is on Makara Sankranti and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the Shivlinga .  
• 12.97817 77.58069 28 Maha Bodhi Society Temple , No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar ( northwest rim of Freedom Park ). A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at Bodh Gaya . The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English.  
• Maruthi Mandir, Mahakalshmi Layout ( 5 min drive from ISKCON temple ). A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanumad Jayanthi during December is very attractive. ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 12.87495 77.59435 29 Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple , Bannerghatta Rd ( after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore ). Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is very cool and mind refreshing place to see. You will feel that you are in a temple at Tamilnadu, when in this temple.  
• 12.91465 77.42299 30 Mukti Naga Temple . Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city.  
• 12.91482 77.5933 31 Ragi Gudda , Jayanagar 9th block ( South of Bangalore ). This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanumad Jayanthi in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM.  
• Someshwara Temple , Halasuru ( close to Halasuru Police station; metro: Halasuru    Purple   ). Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the City. The inner sanctum santorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period with major additions and renovations done for preserving the temple. Free .  
• 12.9581 77.65664 32 Shiva Temple ( Shiv Mandir ), Old Airport Rd ( close to Vishweshwara College and Total Mall ), ☏ +91 80 2522 8444 . This temple has a massive monolith of Lord Shiva in the middle of an artificial pool. There is a cave-like walkthrough behind the statue. It is extremely crowded on the festival of Maha Shivaratri. One can't see or feel any kind of Bhakti in this temple, because at each move inside the temple there will be a person collecting money which creates such a disturbance for the concentration on Bhakti. On each step the devotees will be concentrating on the money boxes (Hundi in Kannada), and people standing to ask money as offerings. Free entrance, camera ₹25 .  
• Shree Guruvayurappan Temple ( at Nettigere, Bangalore South ). A Kerala style temple located in Kanakapura Road. A small and nice temple which gives a great vibration of peace and tranquility. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women).  
• Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple ( in RajaRajeshwari Nagar, just before Kengeri on Mysore Road ). A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvathi (RajaRajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visited. Week ends are very crowded. ( updated May 2020 )

• Sri Ramakrishna Ashram . There are many Ramakrishna Ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sri Sharada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 12.89541 77.55183 33 Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple ( Majestic 210E, 210R Shivajinagar 210G , Market : 210, 210D, 210E, Electronic City / Kengeri  : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road ). A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy.  
• VenkataramanaSwamy Temple , Visveswarapuram district ( metro: National College    Green   half km W ). A fine example of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple was built by Maharaja Chikka Devaraya Wodeyar and is next to the summer palace of Tipu Sultan.  
• 12.81357 77.57657 34 Champakadhama Temple , Bannerghatta, close to Bannerghatta circle ( Bannerghatta/Jigani/Anekal buses via Bannerghatta Road ). A old temple dedicated to Lord Champakeshwara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Name stands because of the presence of the "Champaka" flowers in the area that was used for worship. A small temple, dedicated to Lord Narasimha is on the hillock. A small Kalyani is present behind the Temple, close to the borders of the Bannerghatta forest in about 700 m walk from top of the Hillock. Visit to the Tank is prohibited in Wintry evening and late evenings owing to presence of elephant movement ( updated Feb 2018 )

Botanical and zoological gardens

• 13.0822 77.57627 38 Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden ( within the University of Agricultural Science campus ). ( updated Nov 2022 )

Indoor activities

Outdoor activities and sports.

• Adventure clubs: Bangalore is bestowed with rock climbers, aqua sportsmen and aero sportsmen. There are several clubs including Nature Admire, Care, Spark, KMA, Capture, Mars, Angel, Wildcraft and Adventure Works.
• Camping , Savandurga, Gunjoor Lake, Bhimeshwari, Rangaswamy betta.
• Cave exploration , Savandurga, Anthargange, Siddarabetta.
• Cycling . Art of Bicycle Trips organizes bicycle tours in and around Bangalore. The tours combine cycling with Indian art, culture and heritage. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Hiking , Nandi hills; Rangaswamy betta, Bhimeshwari - Muttati.
• Hill Climbing , Savandurga, Makalidurga, Kavaledurga (Skandagiri), Kabalidurga, Siddarabetta, Nijakal betta, Shivgange.
• Sports clubs . The Koramangala Club in Koramangala, and the Swimming club at the National Games Village (NGV), have facilities such as swimming pools and tennis courts. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 12.971062 77.643381 2 Trash Trail , Daily Dump , ☏ +91 80 41157311 , [email protected] . On this journey through the story of waste, you will meet people who silently clean up and transform all the stuff we throw away. In the process, you will visit places you haven't imagined existed!  
• Ultimate Frisbee . Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels.  

Parks and stadiums

• 13.0456 77.55641 7 HMT Area , BEL Junction ( 18 km (11 mi) ). This area is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. ( updated May 2015 )
• 13.03475 77.55057 8 J. P. Park ( Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park ), Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station ( 11 km (6.8 mi) ). The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. ( updated May 2015 )
• Lumbini Gardens. A public park on the banks of the Nagawara Lake in Bangalore, Karnataka. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a 12,500 square foot artificial beach and children's pool.
• 13.00991 77.57479 9 Sankey Tank . A pleasant lake ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 12.9825 77.6195 11 Ulsoor Lake ( Halasuru lake ). A pleasant lake ( updated Jul 2017 )

Fairs & exhibitions

• 12.99053 77.58234 13 Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) . An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed for traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency).  
• 12.945 77.56786 14 Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) . Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls.  
• Flower Show (Biannual) . 9AM to 5PM . A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens Bangalore, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above mentioned days. Main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. ₹50 entry fees .  
• Mango Mela . 9AM to 5PM . An annual affair, during the beginning of the summer season, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, Mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in the Bangalore rural districts as well as neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur districts are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must visit for mango fans. ₹30 entry fees .  

Arts and theatre

• Concerts at Bengaluru Palace Grounds . Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others.  
• Rangashankara , 36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase , ☏ +91 80 26592777 , +91 80 26494656 . Evening shows start at 7:30PM . Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by traveling groups touring India. Quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Tickets cost ₹45–100.  

Take in a movie at one of the innumerable theaters around the city. Some multiplexes:

• Cinemax ( Bangalore Central, Bellandur ).  
• Cinepolis , Royal Meenakshi Mall, Bannerghatta Rd; ETA Mall, Binny Pete; Forum Shantiniketan, Whitefield .  
• Gopalan Cinemas , Arch Mall, Mysore Rd, . Gopalan Mall, Mysore Road; Gopalan Mall, Near Jayadeva Hospital, Bannerghatta Road ; Gopalan Mal;, Old Madras Road, Near Baiyappanhalli Metro Station  
• Inox theatre , Bangalore Central, JP Nagar, Fame Cinemas, MG Road, Forum Value Mall, Whitefield, Garuda Mall, Magrath Road, Lido Mall, Ulsoor, Mantri Square, Malleshwaram, Garuda Swagath Mall, Jayanagar .  
• PVR Cinemas , Forum Mall, Koramangala, Orion Mall, Malleshwaram, The Phoenix Market City Mall, Whitefield; Vega Mall, JD Mara signal .  
• The Alliance Francaise .  
• Bangalore Film Society . A club membership (around ₹500/year) is typically required for entrance. Foreign film series and cultural events.  
• Goethe Institute ( Max Mueller Bhavan ), 716, CMH Road Indiranagar 1st Stage ( from M.G. Road: go down Old Madras Road; turn right before the Epidemic Diseases Hospital onto 100 Foot Road; at the next traffic light take a left onto CMH Road ), ☏ +91 80 25205305 . The Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan Bangalore (founded in 1960) offers language courses, organises cultural events and has a Library.  
• Urvashi Theatre ( Urvashi ), Lalbagh Road, Bangalore ( near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR ). A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Sampige Theatre ( Sampige ), Sampige Road, Malleshwaram; Next to Mantri Mall . One of the oldest theatres of Malleshwaram, and an important landmark. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Spa & massage

Massages & spas are very much a part of Bangalore's east-meets-west culture , new ones spring up across the city all the time.

• The 5th Element , Inner Ring Rd ( near Dell office ). Spa. All practitioners are from Thailand and offer authentic Thai massage, scrubs, and wraps.  
• Aroma Home Spa , Brookefields, ITPL Main Rd ( near Whitefield ). Natural eco-friendly products in use. Hydro therapy massage in addition to therapies suited to individual needs.  
• Ayur Sukha ( Malleswaram. ). Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000.  
• SPA.ce , Cunningham Rd . Run by an expat Brit offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials.  
• Sundaythespa , No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout , ☏ +91 80-25520757 , toll-free: +91 80-25520758 , [email protected] . Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. ( updated Dec 2016 )

Shopping districts

Bangalore provides a wide range of options for shoppers. One can buy many things ranging from clothing to electronic goods and vehicles. Being an IT city, Bangalore provides all kind of services but one might find things to be costlier.

Many visitors come to Bangalore searching only for sandalwood carvings and silk saris and so miss out on the true Bangalore shopping experience. Here is a low down on shopping - Bangalore style:

• The UB City and Vittal Mallya Road are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like The Collective which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road.
• 12.91112 77.6001 1 Bannerghatta Road . Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 12.9752 77.60817 2 Brigade Road/M.G. Road ( M.G. Road station (Metro east-west line) is right next to the intersection of M.G. and Brigade Roads. ). The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 12.98219 77.60824 3 Commercial Street . A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Sampige Road . The heart of Malleswaram district, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around 2 km (1.2 mi) long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris.  

Shopping malls

Malls typically have higher-end stores retailing apparel, footwear, and consumer electronics. Many malls also have food courts (with international cuisine) and movie theatres. Finding a parking spot for your car may not be easy though, especially on weekends.

The heart of the new mall shopping district is on Victoria Road, with malls like Garuda Mall, Bengaluru Central and Globus, all within easy walking distance.

Some of the more popular malls in Bangalore are:

• 12.97345 77.61125 4 Bengaluru Central ( Bangalore Central ), Residency Road . Bengaluru Central is more of a large department store than a mall with separate retailers.  
• 12.93459 77.61126 5 Forum Mall ( on Hosur road, Koramangala suburb ). One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 12.97004 77.60968 6 Garuda Mall . On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads.  
• 12.94594 77.57058 7 Gandhi Bazaar ( in the heart of Basavangudi ). One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls.  
• 12.9295 77.58451 8 Jayanagar Shopping Complex . From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 12.96683 77.61172 9 Lifestyle ( Sony World Junction, Koramangala ). A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price.  
• Marathahalli Main Road and Factory Outlets . Some distance from central Bangalore (although not difficult to reach) is Marathahalli (a village in a previous life). The main road of this suburb is now a haven for factory outlets for all major brands. You can expect prices here to be cheaper than in the malls, at least 20-30% price difference but can be up to 50% cheaper when it comes to some of the major denim brands. As if India wasn't cheap enough. Although this is the best place to go to for factory outlet shopping, there are smaller factory outlets scattered across the city. Also look out for sales held by the major brands to get rid of end of season stock (again end of summer or end of monsoon), these are usually advertised in newspapers or look for signs posted on major roads.  
• Metro shopping mall ( near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple ).  
• 12.97977 77.60696 12 Safina Plaza . The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi).  

The traditional markets have mom-and-pop stores that sell everything from fruits, vegetables, groceries to electronics, music, and mobile phones.

• 12.96563 77.57636 13 KR Market ( City Market, Krishna Rajendra Market ). The city's largest vegetable and fruit market is in the heart of the city ( updated Feb 2017 )

Smaller but more lively traditional markets can be found in residential areas such as Gandhi Bazaar , N R Colony , Banashankari , Malleswaram , Jayanagar , JP Nagar & Shivajinagar .

For other food options, you can do your grocery at Nature's Basket or Spar, More, FoodWorld, options are huge, all on the 80 ft (24 m) Road. At the 1st block you can find grocery shops more suited for the local residents, if you want it the traditional way!

• Ulsoor Fish Market ( Metro Purple: Halasuru ). ( updated Jan 2018 )

Individual stores

• C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons ( Diamond Flagship Store ), 2-1 Main Cross Rd ( next to Safina Plaza ), ☏ +91 80 4000 1869 . 14,000 square feet (1,300 m 2 ) dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors.  
• C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store , 35 & 36 Commercial St , ☏ +91 80 4000 1869 . Dedicated to gold and silver.  
• Giantti Luxury Ensemble ( at Shop No. C9, Level 2, The Leela Palace ), ☏ +91 80 4115 9766 . Diamond & gold jewellery along with silver articles and idols.  
• Bluestone Site No.89/2, Lava Kusha Arcade, Munnekolal Village, Marathahalli Outer Ring Rd.

Handicrafts

• The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium , 45 MG Rd , ☏ +91 80 2558 1118 . A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of Mysore sandalwood are an especially good buy.  
• Central Cottage Industries Emporium ( CCIE ), MG Rd . A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New Delhi , Mumbai , Kolkata , Bangalore and Chennai .  
• Miras Carpet Industries , No.7, Ground Floor, Suryodai Complex, Old Airport Rd, Kodihalli ( Opp. Hotel Leela Palace ), ☏ +91 80 4157 1894 , +91 80 2521 0786 , [email protected] . Daily 9AM-9:30PM . Manufacturers and exporters of carpets, rugs, kilims, Indian handicrafts, jewellery, pashmina shawls, cashmere scarfs, silk sarees, etc. Claims to be the biggest dealer of Oriental carpets and rugs in Bangalore, selling high quality and "locally priced" wares. Valet car parking available. ( updated Mar 2016 )
• Chandi - The Divine Gallery , MG Rd ( Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building ), ☏ +91 80 4112 3590 , +91 80 4112 3610 . Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship.  
• Kala Madhyam Store' , 2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurg Rd ( Benson Cross Rd corner ), [email protected] . Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta.  
• Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation , 45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd , ☏ +91 80 2558 1118 . Specialises in Karnataka handicraft.  
• Royal Arts & Crafts , ☏ +91 80 2248 4797 . 21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and paper mache products.  
• Gangarams Book Bureau , #3, Church Street, 3rd Floor , ☏ +91 80 2512 7888 , [email protected] . M-Sa 10AM-8PM . Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• Blossoms , Church St ( parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant ), ☏ +91 80 255 9733 . There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates.  
• The Bookworm ( Church Street, opposite Starbucks ). This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here.  
• Crossword , Residency Rd ( ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel ), ☏ +91 80 2558 2411-16 . A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop.  
• Elloor Library , Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd ( close to Commercial St ). A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit.  
• Gangarams Indiranagar , 330/9 Axis Road Domlur Inner Ring Rd. Domlur Layout. Near Indira Nagar Flyover , ☏ +91 80 4038 3838 , [email protected] . Daily 10AM-8PM . A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works, stationery, multimedia, movies, toys, art material and gifts.  
• Gangarams Mg road , Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St ( opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road ), ☏ +91 80 2512 7888 , [email protected] . M-Sa . A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works.  
• Goobes Book Republic , 46-1-1 Church St, Karnataka ( in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd ), ☏ +91 80 4112 4956 , [email protected] . Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books.  
• Higginbothams , 68 MG Rd , ☏ +91 80 2558 7359 , +91 80 2558 6574 . This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels.  
• Oxford Book Store ( at the Leela Galleria, next to Hotel Leela Palace ). Has some of the latest collection of books and magazines but, doesn't offer any discounts. It has a Chai Bar attached offering 69 blends of tea.  
• Premier Book Shop , 46/1 Church St ( off MG Rd ), ☏ +91 80 2558 8570 . A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly.  
• Sapna Book House , 3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar ( Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand ). This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery.  
• Select Bookshop , Brigade Rd ( off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel ). Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books.  
• The Strand book stall , Dickenson Rd ( 1st Floor, Manipal Centre ), ☏ +91 80 2558 0000 . Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices.  
• Streelekha , 33/1-9, Thyagaraja Layout, Jaibharath Nagar , ☏ +91 80 2549 2783 . This is a great bookstore to explore the feminist literature and activism that is being produced in India, as well as other texts on the research and work of Indian NGOs. The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting.  
• Tata Book House . At the Indian Institute of Science, Malleswaram. Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc.  

Apart from the numerous malls that have taken Bangalore by storm, the essential element and soul of the city comes through in its myriad small and unique boutiques that are all over the city, usually tucked away though. Have tried to list the must check out stores.

• Arnav , ☏ +91 80 2656 8416 . The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery.  
• Aura Creations , Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd , ☏ +91 85 5363 7531 . Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials.  
• Chilli Billi , ☏ +91 92 4179 9105 . Great for women's westernwear', especially the dresses, good collection of bags, shoes and jewellery. They also offer home decor solutions.  
• Levitate-InDiA in A RooM , 100 Ft. Rd , ☏ +91 80 6452 8190 , +91 98 4531 7776 , [email protected] . Silver & costume handcrafted Jewellery, Bohemian apparel, Indian kitsch, lifestyle accessories.  
• Mahendra Textiles , ☏ +91 80 4124 9900 . Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka.  
• Marmalade , Magrath Rd ( adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn ), ☏ +91 80 4122 1814 . Loads of affordable young designer wear.  
• Native Place ( behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road ). Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant.  
• One G , ☏ +91 80 4123 1231 . (Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd.  
• President's Groom Concepts , B.v.k.iyengar Rd and Kamraj Rd , ☏ +91 80 4147 0910 . Two menswear fashion stores. Fine fabrics for made-to-order and a large ready-to-wear collection. Bespoke suits and made to order clothing including tuxedos, business wear to traditional Indian kurtas and sherwanis.  
• Sakhi by Chandras , 6th main, HAL 2nd stage, Indiranagar , ☏ +91 80 4115 5551 . Combines traditional fabrics and craftsmanship with contemporary themes. Sakhi’s sarees, salwars and kurtis combine kanchivaram, tussar, chiffon, georgette, crêpe, organza and cotton with traditional techniques such as cut work, block print, kalamkari, badla, mirror work, chamki (sequins) and embroidery in a mélange of colours.  
• Stritva near ITPL , 294, 8th main, BEML Layout, ITPL Main Rd , ☏ +91 963 222 1615 . Sells readymade salwar suit, kameez, kurtas, dress material, sarees and nightwear. The store has a good collection at good prices.  

Music and movies

• Habitat , Church Street, Off Brigade Road . Tiny compared to other retail music/movie stores, it's a delight for lovers of good music especially Jazz. Has an excellent and varied selection of DVDs for rent as well, though membership is closed.  

Electronics

The Croma electronics showroom is opposite Lifestyle Mall. eZone, Reliance Digital, Pai, Sony, Panasonic electronics showrooms are all within the kilometre from here. So this is the ideal location if you want to do a survey before making your next expensive LCD/LED TV purchase.

• The Art of Living , Kanakapura Road, Udayapura , ☏ +91 80 67262626 , +91 80 6726262627 , +91 80 6726262628 , [email protected] . The campus is also the focal point of many service projects such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, scientific research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’ While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse.  
• ISKCON , ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna-Chandra Temple,Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd , ☏ +91 80-23471956 , +91 80-23578346 , fax : +91 80-23578625 . The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple in Bangalore city is huge cultural complex that was inaugurated in 1997 to carry out the vision of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acarya of ISKCON, to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning. ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna-chandra Mandir attracts visitors from different parts of the world and it is more than a place of rituals. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialized place and less of a religious centre.  
• Choe Khor Sum Ling , Ashwini, No. 24, 1st Floor, Domlur Layout , ☏ +91 80 41486497 , [email protected] . This Tibetan Buddhist meditation and study centre is in Domlur Layout near Shanti Sagar Restaurant on Airport Road. CKSL is a centre for the study and practice of Mahayana Buddhism following the lineage and example of Lord Buddha. The Centre, whose name means 'The Three Turnings of the Wheel of Dharma' was founded in 2003 by Lama Zopa Rinpoche under the guidance of HH the XIVth Dalai Lama. The Centre offers courses in various Buddhist meditation techniques and teachings on different aspects of Buddhism. Teachings are offered free to the public and are conducted in English or in Tibetan (with translation in English). In addition to regular teachings, every few weeks the Centre invites senior Lamas to give talks on important aspects of the Buddhist path. Such talks are also accompanied by instructions and initiations by the Lama into different meditation practices.  
• Maha Bodhi Society , 14 Kalidasa Road, Gandhinagar , ☏ +91 80 2250684 , [email protected] . This temple has a very active schedule. There are teachings on the Dharma in English on the first two and last Sundays of every month from 9:30-11:30AM, while on the 3rd Sunday there is a meditation retreat. Anyone is welcome to attend. The temple also has a good library and a beautiful garden - a great place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis outside.  
• Thubten Lekshey Ling ( Dharma Subhashita ), ☏ +91 98 80296930 , [email protected] . Nyingma Tibetan Buddhist meditation centre founded by the late His Holiness Pema Norbu (Penor) Rinpoche. The centre is close to MG Road on Ulsoor road, on the side of Manipal Centre. The centre conducts meditation classes, spiritual discourses and advanced study programs. Weekend teachings in meditation and philosophy are offered by lamas from Namdroling Monastery, Bylakupee .  

The best way to find employment in Bangalore is through job fairs, job portals, applying directly to companies of interest, and through headhunters.

Being referred as Silicon Valley of India, the city provides plethora of employment opportunities to youngsters from different corners of India.

Non-Indians

With a little hard work and persistence finding a job is quite possible in Bangalore. Most of the available positions are in the IT field but not necessarily IT based. Several expats do marketing, quality assurance, accent training and translation among other things. All jobs in India require an employment visa which must be obtained abroad and sponsored by the hiring company in India. In general, the salary for expats is very high compared to the local Indian wage. The best resource for jobs is through the expat community. Ask around but a good place to meet expats is the Sunday brunches at the 5-star hotels or at the numerous coffee shops in and around the MG Road area.

Bangalore has a wide variety of food options. Foreigners will want to look for cleanliness in choosing a place to eat. Also don't expect the exterior to be too fancy, observe the cleanliness of the inside and the servers when choosing a place to eat! Eating options include high end restaurants to chains to temples to mom and pop shops and of course street vendors! Restaurants usually label if they serve only vegetarian (veg or pure veg) or both veg and non-veg cuisine. If you haven't been in India long, it is safer to take bottled water. But juices and other drinks are usually ok.

There are numerous established south Indian joints that serve authentic dosais and idlis such as MTR, CTR, Vidyarthi Bhavan and so on! Make sure to try out the classic Benne Masala Dose and a cup of filter coffee at one of these places.

There are also hundreds of young coconut and sugar cane juice stands! A nice refresher as you go around town! Both are good for keeping cool and energized. A coconut goes for ₹25-30 (some stands may have smaller coconuts for ₹10-15). Sugar cane juice runs ₹10-15 per cup. Bangalore is far from the sea, and as such the quality of seafood can vary. Some of the higher end and popular seafood places manage this well, but foreign travellers may want to tread a bit carefully.

Foreigners might want to only drink bottled water and eat only chutneys that are made with bottled or filtered water. Also, beef is forbidden to be on the menu in Karnataka restaurants.

The 80 ft (24 m) Road is the Eat Street of Koramangala. Pizza Hut, Domino's, KFC, Taco Bell, Au Bon Pain are all found here. There are also many non-chains serving local Indian cuisine. Chandni Chowk is a great option if you want the rural Punjabi dhaba experience.

Wisdom Cafe, near the AlienWare showroom is a really cosy place to have some snacks or lunch. So is the Hole in the Wall cafe, on the back street behind Maharaja Hotel. Serves great coffee and English breakfast. So does Cafe Terra, near Wipro park crossing. Adjacent to it is a really popular food joint called Little Home. It serves nice North Indian food at a very reasonable price. It's really popular with the young working populace. Naturals Ice cream parlour is a hit with the hip crowd; on weekend nights you may find queues outside.

Bangalore has hundreds of fast food joints serving South Indian vegetarian food. They usually are identified with small round steel tables and diners standing around them having food. Dosas, idlis, vadas, curd rice, vegetable pulao, rice with sambar, lemon rice are usually standard fare. Quality widely varies, since most of them cater to working people.

• The Adiga's chain . Restaurants to the south of Bangalore. Prominent among them are in: Jayanagar 4th Block, take the road facing BHS First Grade College, Basavanagudi.  
• Adiga's Park , 585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar .  
• Adiga's Foodline , 502, 40th Cross, 8th block .  
• Adiga's Delicacy , 105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre .  
• Adiga's Majestic , ( next to Fkcci Bldg ), KG Rd .  
• Adiga's Nalapaka , ( across from HSBC Complex ), Bannerghatta, Arikere .  
• Anupams Coastal Express , Shivanand Circle . They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss.  
• Anand Bhavan , Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas.
• Brahmin's Coffee Bar ( off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi ), ☏ +91 87226 64284 . Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here.  
• 12.99826 77.56945 1 Central Tiffin Room (CTR) ( Shri Sagar ), 152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram , ☏ +91 80 2331 7531 . Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. ( updated Feb 2016 )
• Coconut Grove , Church St . Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look.  
• Corner House , Residency Rd, BTM Rd, Koramangala, Airport Rd, Whitefield Rd, Marthahalli and Shivananda Circle , ☏ +91 80 2558 3262 . One of the best ice cream parlours offering a variety of treats. Their famed 'Death by Chocolate' (popularly known as DBC) is a must for all chocolate lovers and has attained a cult status. Can be tricky to find a spot during peak times and you may find yourself being 'encouraged' by the staff to leave quickly once you do.  
• Fanoos ( adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd ). One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head.  
• Hotel Empire ( Other locations on Centre Street and Koramangala ), 14 Pottery Road Richards Town ( Next to Museum Inn ), ☏ +91 80 40 414141 . 10AM-3PM . Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cuisine until late night. Try the butter chicken, chicken kababs and parathas. Both the non-vegetarian and vegetarian food are good here and well priced.  
• Hotel Janatha , 8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram . Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town.  
• Indian Coffee House , Infantry Road . ( updated May 2015 )
• Janani, J.P.Nagar . A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150.  
• Java , ☏ +91 80 4137 8888 . G block of Diamond District apartment complex in Kodalli on the old Airport Rd. A hidden gem that serves buffet lunch and dinner for ₹150 on weekdays, ₹250 on weekends (prices 2008). The buffet consists of North and South Indian dishes and caters to vegetarians and to non-vegetarians. Reasonably priced (₹90-120 entree) a-la-carte selection is available outside of lunch and dinner hours.  
• Kanti Sweets . KG Rd, Majestic, Malleswaram Circle, RT Nagar. Very good samosas, kachoris and North Indian sweets like rasmalai. Rapidly expanding chain, so there are plenty of branches all over the city now, which serve parathas and other food items as well. The main branch in Majestic is the best, and serves only samosas, kachoris and sweets. ₹10-50 per head.  
• KC Das . This is a chain of Bengali sweets shops in Bangalore. The one on Church St is perhaps the most visible and famous but there are outlets on Coles Rd, BTM Layout.  
• Kohinoor , Brigade Rd . Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food.  
• Lake View Milk Bar , MG Rd , ☏ +91 80 2558 7410 . Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers.  
• 12.955186 77.58556 2 Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) , 11 Lal Bagh Rd , ☏ +91 80 2222 0022 , +91 80 22221706 . One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Nandini . The Andhra fast food chain serves some excellent biriyani and chicken dishes.  
• New Shanti Sagar , 80 Foot Rd . This is a reasonably reliable chain of vegetarian south Indian restaurants. Branches scattered all over the city, notably in Koramangala Jayanagar, Domlur. ₹50-200.  
• Richies , MM Rd ( Off Mosque Rd ). Serves the kind of biryani that is the Bangalore original. It is midway on MM Rd, and hard to miss because of the crowds that throng its takeaway counter. One visits Richies only for the food—tables and chairs made of synthetic wood, and dim light from gaudy chandeliers don’t exactly make for great ambiance. A motley bunch of diners cram the place for lunch and dinner (they have added 2nd and 3rd floors). The biryani here is delicious, and you must love meat to love Richies. The menu is limited; but the mutton and chicken biryani stand out and they are not flavoured with the same masala, or heaven forbid, rice, their kababs are something nice and unique too.  
• Savera Tea Shop . 24 hr tea shops near Russell Market in Shivajinagar and on MG Rd. Good place to go for a cup of tea in the dead of the night. Serves tea, Suleimani (honey+lemon) tea and a variety of biscuits. ₹3-15  
• Shettara Beedi ( food street ). The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, obbattu (sweet pancake) , akkirotti (rice pancake) , fried bondas , butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here.  
• Shezan , Lavelle Rd and Cunningham Rd , ☏ +91 80 2224 9319 , +91 80 2224 9667 . Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines with a good menu choice where beef, fish, prawn, mutton and chicken meat are available. Excellent steaks.  
• Shiv Sagar , Narayan Pillai St ( off Commercial St ), ☏ +91 80 509-8892 . Don't get put off by the location, It's a great place to eat.  
• SLV chain . Prominent among them are in: Banashankari 2nd stage, opposite BDA park and the one in J.P.Nagar 2nd Phase near Ragigudda Temple  
• Sree Krishna . Fast food a little further from the road connecting Lalbagh Westgate with Basavanagudi.  
• Udupi Garden , 16th Main BTM Layout . Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food.  
• Upahara Darshini , DVG Rd, Basavanagudi . Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar.  
• 13.00565 77.56924 3 Veena Stores , Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram . This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening.  
• Vidhyarthi Bhavan ( off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi ). A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit.  
• Meghana Foods , 1st Cross Road, 124, 1st A cross Rd, KHB Colony, 5th Block, Koramangala ( near Jyoti Nivas College ). Meghana, meaning rain, is a restaurant that was started in the year 2006 serving authentic Andhra style food. There are five branches in the city. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 100ft Restaurant , 100 Foot Rd . Indra Nagar. Westernised cooking, but notably better than any other pasta serving restaurant in the area. The restaurant is a bit of a hybrid of store/restaurant. ₹300-500.  
• Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant , ☏ +91 80 4091 7163 . Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbeque out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended.  
• Caesar's Restaurant , MG Rd . Indian and continental food. Ambiance is good though the food is tad expensive. Parking is a problem.  
• Canopy , PU Building, M.G. Rd . Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750  
• Ebony , MG Rd ( on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building ). Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400  
• The Egg Factory , St.Marks Rd , ☏ +91 80 4211 0041 . Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable egg . Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the Chlorophyll Fix , it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service.  
• Grill Maximus , 17th cross 4 main HSR Layout . Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500  
• 12.97579 77.60147 4 Koshy's , St. Marks Rd ( Below Church St ). A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices.  
• Little Italy , 100 Foot Rd . Indiranagar. A chic Italian vegetarian restaurant, faddish and over priced. Sometimes the staff switch off A/C if the tables are less than half-filled.  
• Mainland China , Church St ( Near Museum Rd ), ☏ +91 80 2227 7722 , +91 90 2224 5864 . Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800.  
• Pinxx , Manipal centre ( off MG Rd ). A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head.  
• Le Rock Pub Cafe , Rest House Rd ( Off Brigade Rd ), ☏ +91 80 4123 1001 . Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first.  
• Sahib Sindh Sultan , Level 2, Forum Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala , ☏ +91 80 2206 7878 . Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining Firangi Paani . ₹150-500  
• Samarkand , Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd ( East of Central St ), ☏ +91 80 4111 3366 . North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600.  
• Sue's Food Place , Krishna Temple Rd, Indira Nagar . A Caribbean style restaurant run by Sue (Susan John from Trinidad and Tobago). It has an excellent buffet. Their Jamaican jerk chicken, salads and desserts are lovely. A la carte menu is available on certain days. ₹200-500  
• 1947 Restaurant . Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003
• La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire , Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele ( Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. ), ☏ +91 80 3910 1000 , +91 80 3910 1111 . The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. ( updated Jun 2023 )
• Blue Ginger , Taj West End ( just next door to Blue Bar ). High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food.  
• Grasshopper , 45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd , ☏ +91 80 2659-3999 , +91 98 4545-2646 . Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays.  
• Graze , Taj Residency, MG Rd . Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore.  
• I.Talia , Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd . Has the best Italian food in town  
• Karavalli , Residency Rd ( at the Gateway Hotel ), ☏ +91 80 2558-4545 . Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR.  
• The Leela Palace Bengaluru Dining . All-you-can-eat/drink brunch on Sunday is ₹2,000. They have 4 restaurants, Citrus Lounge (Brasserie kitchen), Zen (Pan Asian), Library Bar (serves all cuisine) and Jamavar (Authentic Indian). Generally overpriced compared to the Taj outlets (Blue Ginger, Graze, Karavalli) ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Monsoon , Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd ( Next to Taj Residency ). 24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, South East Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties.  
• Olive Beach , Wood St . A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best.  
• The Raj Pavilion , ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. . 24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore.  
• Sunny's , 34 Vittal Mallya Rd ( at Embassy Diamante ), ☏ +91 80 5132-9366 , +91 80 5132-9391 . Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks .  

Regional cuisine

• Kadambam , Bull Temple Road, near Ramakrishna Ashram; West of Chord Rd ( near Modi Eye Hospital in Rajajinagar ).  
• Kamat Yatrnivas , Gandhinagar; Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi . Serves special N Karnataka meals with jowar (Sorghum) rotis. They now have a branch on Bull Temple Road where they have local artists perform when you have dinner.  
• Maiya's , 30th Cross Rd, Jayanagar 4 Block; 11th Cross Malleshwaram; Sajjan Rao Circle, Basavanagudi , ☏ +91 80 4341 4400 . Features a great amount of South Indian cuisine, and then lets you buy some more to take home. And in case that you don't like it, there are more places upstairs that have different cuisine (Jayanagar branch only).  
• MTR 1924 , Mini Forest, JP Nagar; St. Marks Road; Indiranagar; . New age chain from the folks who run Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR) on Lalbagh Road.  
• Nalapaka , Rajajinagar . Serves special N Karnataka meals with jowar (Sorghum) rotis, Holige (stuffed sweet rotis). Known for the distinctive Butter Dosa and different varieties of coconut chutneys.  
• South Indies , Indiranagar; Infantry Rd , ☏ +91 80 4163 6363 , +91 80 4163 6362 . An upscale South Indian restaurant in Bangalore, that gives you a taste of authentic south Indian cuisine in an ambience that is equally tasteful.  
• UpSouth , Mantri Square, Mallesharam; Orion Mall, Malleshwaram; Ecospace, Bellandur; 60 ft. Road, Koramangala , ☏ +91 80 2266 7378 . A quick service restaurant with an upbeat, contemporary look. Be it the vibrant, youthful interiors or the presentation of food in the form of combos, Upsouth is all set to break the dull clutter.  
• Cafe Y , Langford Rd ( Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction ), ☏ +91 80 5114 4561 . Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance.  
• Friends Fast Food , Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala ( 300 m from Forum ). Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one.  
• Herbs & Spices , 80 Foot Rd ( Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh ). On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts.  
• Kebab Ki , Koramangala . for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. ( updated Jan 2023 )

Maharashtrian food

• Kollapuri's , 429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar ( Near Jain Mandir ), ☏ +91 80 4121 1693 , +91 80 2653 5207 . An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non veg items  
• Rajvardhan Foods , 1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East ( Near Big Bazaar ), ☏ +91 98 8630 3088 , +91 98 8630 3089 . Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent.  
• Dalama , #37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd ( near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala ), ☏ +91 80 4166 0921 . Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies.  

South Karnataka

• Halli Mane , 3rd Cross, Malleswaram ( close to Malleswaram Circle ). Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food.  
• Janatha Hotel , 8th Cross, Malleshwaram . Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas.  
• Kamat Lokaruchi , Mysore Rd ( just before Channapatna ). Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals.  
• Kamat Yatrinivas , Majestic; All around the city . Authentic Mangalorean meals.  
• Karavalli , Residency Rd ( at the Gateway Hotel ), ☏ +91 80 2558 4545 . Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine.  
• Konkan , 6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala , ☏ +91 80 2552 1530 . Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine.  
• Kodial's , 8th Cross Malleswaram . For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine.  
• Kudla , Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd . For seafood, serves excellent dishes.  
• New Krishna Bhavan , 1st Cross Malleswaram . For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa.  
• The Palms , 33 Church St ( at the Highgates Hotel ), ☏ +91 80 2559 7172 . Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations)  
• Upaahara Darshini , Jayanagar 3rd Block; DVG Road, Gandhi Bazaar . One of Bangalore's oldest food joints. Amazing dosas.  
• Vidyarthi Bhavan , 32 Gandhi Bazaar , ☏ +91 80 2667 7588 . Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial.  
• 6 Ballygunge Place , 1st Fl., 612, 12th Main, Indira Nagar ( above Café Coffee Day ). It has been rated best Bengali restaurant by times food guide Bengaluru. It serves excellent fish (esp their chital peti roast), dab chingri and luchis. (Its mocktails are avoidable however). Prices are slightly on higher side. May cost around ₹1,000 for two but the food quality is good. The owners have also added Kolkata-style chaat on top floor. ₹1,000 for two .  
• 36 Chowringhee Lane , 100ft Rd, BTM Layout ( opp Reliance Fresh ), ☏ +91 80 4124 0979 . Authentic Bengali Cuisine.  
• Bangaliana , 355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala ( opp. HDFC Bank ), ☏ +91 80 2571 1058 . Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets.  
• Bhojohori Manna , 668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd , ☏ +91 80 2550 3666 . Free home delivery  
• The Esplanade , KHB Colony , ☏ +91 80 4092 7878 . Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu.  
• Oh! Calcutta , St Mark's Rd . Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options.  
• Sonar Bangla , 88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram , ☏ +91 80 3367622 . The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant.  
• Bheemas , Church St . If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you.  
• Nagarjuna Chimney , Residency Rd; Jayanagar 3rd Block ( near Old Galaxy Theatre; near ICICI Bank ). Possibly have a few more branches elsewehere in Bangalore. The biryani is great, as are their meals which are served ritually on a banana leaf. Reach early for lunch, for there are always hordes waiting.  
• R₹ , off Brigade Rd . A renovation of the vintage R₹, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon.  
• Anjappar Restaurant , #50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala . Chettinad cuisine  
• Annachi , 100 Ft. Road, Indiranagar . Serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Has some good chettinad style dishes.  
• Annapoorna , Ulsoor ( near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station ). Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style.  
• Krishna Kafe , Koramangala ( beside Anand Sweets ). Traditional Chennai-style food. Dosas, idlis, idiyappam and the like with authentic Tamil sambar and chutney. This place is vegetarian-only. A vegetarian meal will cost you around ₹80. ₹40-100 .  
• Pongal , Jivan Bima Nagar ( near the Indiranagar telephone exchange ). Tamil Nadu food. Lots of dosa varieties, Podi dosa, parotta with kurma are good. Ambience is not that great, but this place is for those who need a quick bite without a big pinch on the wallet.  
• Ponnuswamy , Koramangala ( near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock ), ☏ +91 80 4151 1919 . Authentic south Tamil nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel.  

Ice Cream Parlours

• Corner House , 1 Airport Rd; All around the city , ☏ +91 96861 91973 . Carlton Towers. This is the place for foodies looking for the best desserts in town. The "brown bomb" and "hot fudge" are a must have. Not a place for calorie counters.  
• ibaco , Basavanagudi; Basaveshwara Nagar; BTM Layout; Coles Road; Indira Nagar; Jayanagar; Koramangala; Mantri Square; Phoenix Mall; RR Nagar; Wood Street; Yelahanka .  
• Naturals Ice Cream , Indiranagar; Koramangala; Sarjapur; Dollars Colony, RMV Extension; St. Marks Road; Jayanagar; Basaveshwaranagar; Frazer Town; Malleshwaram; Arekere .  
• Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream , Wood Street, Ashok Nagar , ☏ +91 80 6453 0000 .  
• Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour , 8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram , ☏ +91 80 6567 5755 . Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats.  
• Richie Rich Ice Cream Parlour , ☏ +91 80 2226 9655 . Three branches around the city, with a variety of natural ice creams, softies and many fast food items such as pav bhaji and vada pav.. Try the 'Elvis Presley' specialty or the traffic jam or 'Richie Rich' special. The 3 locations are on St. Marks Rd, Airport Rd. and Kumara Park East.  
• Swensen's , Mantri Square, Malleshwaram; 80 ft. Road, Koramangala; 60 ft. Road, Sahakara Nagar; Ascendas Park Square Mall, Whitefield; Bangalore Central, Bellandur; BDA Complex, HSR Layout; J.P.Nagar (Marenhalli); Jayanagar , ☏ +91 80 4117 8235 . The ultimate sundae experience.  
• Yogi's , #86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage ( near BDA Complex ), ☏ +91 98 4584 9025 , +91 98 4539 7363 . The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available.  

North Indian

• Bay Leaf , Raheja Arcade, opposite Forum Mall, Kormangala . A really nice place with reasonable prices.  
• Grameen , Raheja Arcade, opposite Forum Mall, Kormangala . One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food.  
• Hyderabadi biriyani , Banerghatta Rd ( near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall ). Serves good biriyani  
• Mast Kalandar , All around the city . Very nice North India cuisine. It is very reasonably priced.  
• Queens , Church Street, opposite Amoeba . Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices.  
• Rasilas , JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony ( close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout ). Nice place with very fine cuisine.  
• Tijouri , Hotel Atria, Palace Rd , ☏ +91 80 2220 5205 .  
• Kund . 303, Ashoka Terrace, 5th Main Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038.
• 100 ft Boutique , 100 Foot Rd, Indira nagar ( after Fab Mall when you are travelling from CMH Rd side, and a few stores after Benetton on the LHS if you're coming from Airport Rd ), ☏ +91 80 4150 1781 . Comparable to most continental resto-bars. The best part about it is that its a Boutique Restaurant, which means you can shop, while waiting for your meal to arrive, even after 9PM, which is when most other shops close in Banglaore. The Boutique houses many young designers. Levitate , showcases a wide array of eclectic street fashion and handcrafted kitsch from all over India.  
• I-Talia , The Park, MG Rd , ☏ +91 80 2559 4666 . Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town.  
• Italia ( previously Little Italy ) , Indiranagar . Nice vegetarian restaurant in Indira Nagar, a little expensive. Good food.  
• Via Milano , Koramangala ( near Sony World ). Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included).  
• Beijing Bites . 11AM-3:30PM, 7PM-11PM . Chain restaurant inspired by Chinese & Thai cuisines, spread across Bangalore. ₹200-₹400 .  
• Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant , Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. ( beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank ). 6:30PM–11:30PM . Variety of tasty food. Classic environment.  
• Golden Lights , No.4032, 100ft Rd, HAL-II Stage, Indranagar , ☏ +91 80 2559 7722 .  
• Shanghai Junction , No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar ( behind Big Market ), ☏ +91 80 41744477 .  
• Mainland China , Church St; 100 Foot Rd. Indiranagar .  
• P!ing , No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala . Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices.  
• BigBoy Fried Chicken, (BFC) , Vignan Nagar .  
• Coconut Grove , Church Street .  
• Continental Spice , Airport Rd ( close to Diamond District ).  
• Gokulam Mess , GM Palya ( 3 km (1.9 mi) from Indiranagar ).  
• Hotel New Malabar , Kaggadasapura ( Near level crossing ).  
• Hotel Ruchi , Vignana Nagar .  
• K K Bakers , Malleshpalaya .  
• Kaayal , AECS Layout; Jeevan Bhima Nagar .  
• Kairali , Near Forum Mall, Koramangala .  
• Kalavara , Vignana Nagar .  
• Kerala Pavilion , Domlur ( behind Shanti Sagar ). Authentic Kerala food  
• Little Home , 80 ft. Road, Koramangala ( near Wipro K2 office ). Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though.  
• The Paramount Restaurant , Koramangala ( near Jyothi Nivas College ).  
• Priyam Restaurant , Jagadish Nagar ( Behind BEML ).  
• Tharavadu , Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd ( After Silk Board ).  
• Vayal , Outer ring road (around Central mall) ( After Silk Board ).  
• There are few dhabas catering to all tastes. South and North Indian fare is available at most places and is clean and cheap. A special mention is the green park dhaba on the outskirts on Bellary Road and Golconda Chimney on the old airport road in Marthahalli, opposite Shankara Eye Hospital. Golconda Chimmney has been renovated and has A/C and non-A/C sections, the non-veg spread is simply amazing, but the rates are steep if you have a traditional dhaba in mind. The ambience is nice. Try the chicken kathi rolls and the biryani.
• 12.98369 77.61391 5 Bobby-da-Dhaba , Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor , ☏ +91 96 6367 8382 . 12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM . The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush).  
• 12.99772 77.621902 6 Manjit ka Dhaba , 107, 1st Floor, Wheeler Road, Near Railway Cross, Cox Town, Frazer Town , ☏ +91 80 4965 3065 . noon to 4PM, 7PM-11PM . Budget dhaba. Tasty parathas (with butter) and couple of assorted vegetable curry options. Lassi. Dont expect ambience in dhabas. ( updated Apr 2015 )
• In Koramangala, Legends of Rock is near the Pizza Hut on 80 ft. Road.
• Also great is the Jimi's Beer Cafe nearby, has a really nice ambience.
• Firangi Paani at Forum Mall is a nice but expensive option.
• Costa Coffee, Barista and CCD have their presence near Maharaja Hotel. Young working people spend a lot of their time here. You can get a truly multi national multi cultural feeling as there are several restaurants serving Spanish, Italian, Thai, Chinese, Indian, Mexican food. Hence, it is really popular with expatriates.
• The area around Jyoti Nivas college is a popular hangout for the college going crowd, with a lot of eateries and cafes in the area. This area has a very hip/ fashionable feel to it.
• Barista Lavazza , ☏ +91 80 4207 5023 , [email protected] . An Indian startup cafe chain established in 1997 and more commonly known as Barista and now owned by Lavazza. The chain has more than 200 stores in India. It is found all over Bangalore with 32 retail outlets, most of them near IT corporate offices.  
• 12.9713 77.60712 1 Café Coffee Day , ☏ +91 80 4001 2345 . Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore.  
• Caffe Pascucci , 690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar , ☏ +91 80 4091 2134 . Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar.  
• Cake Walk , #297, 100 Feet Rd, Indra Nagar , ☏ +91 80 2520 5393 .  
• Coffee Workers Co-op , Church St's Brigade Gardens . A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here.  
• Coffee World , ☏ +91 80 4111 2111 , +91-9845296898 . Can be found all over Bangalore.  
• Costa Coffee , ☏ +91 80 4348 8888 . British coffeehouse chain. Koramangala 4th Block, in Indranagar and another opposite Goethe-Institut, RMZ Eco Space on Sarjapur Rd and Sigma Mall, Brookesfield, Cunningham Rd, JNC Rd, and Jayanagar. Besides Coffee, Costa lays heavy emphasis on food with sandwiches, paninis, tostatos, pastas and many kinds of deserts, English muffins, a wide variety of cakes and desserts.  
• Java City , Church St. . Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road.  
• Travel on Menu Café . Popular for TOM Coffee.  

Pubs and bars

The pub scene is concentrated around the commercial business district in the heart of Bangalore. MG Road, Brigade Road, Residency Road, St. Marks Road, and Church Street have numerous pubs. Happy hours is typically between 6-8PM and at most pubs, the time for the last order is around 10:30PM.

Formerly having a reputation as the Pub City of India, Bangalore's buoyant pub and nightlife has been curtailed by police and regulatory action, and all bars and nightclubs must now close no later than midnight.

Most bars and pubs in the city are somewhat upscale, but many inexpensive restaurants serve beer and good quality food.

If you just need to go out you could go to one of the bars, but if you would like to have a great social experience and are in the city for a considerable period of time consider becoming a member of one of the social expat clubs in the city. The IVES Club offers a meeting for its members every Saturday at one or the other popular nightclubs in Bangalore; its members are interns, expats, volunteers and exchange students residing in the city.

• Beer Joint Pub, (aka BJP) , Indiranagar , ☏ +91 80 2525 0346 .  
• Bull n Bush , 4th floor, Garuda Mall . Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. ₹500 cover charge .  
• Carpe Diem , Church St . It's a Power Metal haven.  
• Ego's , Castle Street, off Brigade Rd .  
• J'Cubez , Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex . For rock lovers  
• Jimi's , Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd . A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket.  
• Le Rock Pub Cafe , Rest House Rd ( off Brigade Rd ), ☏ +91 80 4123 1001 . Open from 10AM-11:30PM . The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar.  
• Legends of Rock , 80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala , ☏ +91 80 4130 3232 . Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs.  
• Olio , Koramangala , ☏ +91 80 4092 7888 . Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food.  
• Opus , Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd , ☏ +91 80 2344 2580 . A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights.  
• Nasa , Church St .  
• New Night Watchman , Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd . Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games.  
• 12.97373 77.60717 2 Pecos , Rest House Rd ( Off Brigade Road ) , ☏ +91 80 4090 5462 , +91 944 982 7428 . 60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated.  
• Purple Haze , Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) . Popular for the classic rock that's played there.  
• Sparks , Briage Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers .  
• Styx ( next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road ). They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal!  
• Sultanate of Swing , 4th floor, Garuda Mall . Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. Free entry .  
• Take 5 , 54, MSK Plaza, HAL II Stage Indiranagar . A Jazz themed restaurant that serves great American style food and offers a large selection of beers. They don't always play jazz but the food and drink is consistently good.  
• Tavern at The Inn , Museum Rd .  
• The Bunker , off Residency Rd .  
• Windsor Pub , Vasanth Nagar ( off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building ) . A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables.  
• Zeus , #174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd ( above Health n Glow ), ☏ +91 80 2532 3355 . 11AM-11:30PM . Sports bar and lounge.  

Most hotels have spiffy bars with every imaginable concoction of drinks available.

• 13th Floor , Barton Centre, MG Rd . Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor  
• 12.97027 77.61089 3 Arbor Brewing Company ( ABC ), 8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar ( Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd ), ☏ +91 80501 44477 , [email protected] . Daily noon to 12:30AM . Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• Aura , Cunningham Rd .  
• Athena , The Leela Hotel, Airport Rd . Really popular on most days of the week. The upper VIP lounge is the best part of the club, but the rest of the club is beautifully appointed and attracts a hip crowd.  
• Barleyz - The Brew House , Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala . Microbrewery  
• Blue Bar , West End, Race Course Rd . Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. .  
• F-Bar , Le Meridien, Sankey Rd . Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV  
• Fuga , Richmond Town . The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable.  
• Firangi Paani , Forum Mall, Koramangala .  
• Geoffrey's , Royal Orchid, Airport Rd . Really nice place  
• Hint , 5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd . Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted).  
• iBar , Park Hotel, MG Rd .  
• Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) , 81 Ali Askar Road Cross ( Off Cunningham Road ) . 3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele.  
• Taika , Church St. ( Off Brigade Rd ) . Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night.  
• The Beach , 100 Foot Rd . Indiranagar. Make a reservation. Starts with retro music, plays some good hip-hop and house towards the end. Makes you feel like you are in Goa.  
• The Biere Club , Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, ( opp Sunny's ). . Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers.  
• Toit , Indiranagar . Microbrewery  
• Vaayu , 5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd . It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city.  
• Windmills Craftworks , #331, Road 5B, EPIP Zone, Whitefield , ☏ +91 80 2569 2012 , +91 72 5902 4652 , [email protected] . Microbrewery  
• Xtreme Sports Bara & Grill At Earthen Bowl [dead link] , Ferns City, Doddanekkundi, Bengaluru, 77609 44477, [email protected]

A large number of budget hotels near the Bangalore City Railway Station are crowded in the area around the Dargah Tawakkal Mastan , O.T.C. Road, Chickpet, Near Sreenivasa Hospital, 1 km (0.62 mi) from the Majestic bus station. Ask for Brahmins Bakery area.

• Citizen Lodge , Lady Curzon Rd ( near Bowring Hospital, about 1 km (0.62 mi) from MG Rd ). Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 .  
• FabHotel 29th Church's Inn ( formerly Church Street Inn ), #29th Church Street, off M.G. Road , ☏ +91 70424 24242 .  
• Address 24 Inn , #54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall, 560024 , ☏ +91 95177 79377 .  
• Hotel Grand Park , OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic , ☏ +91 80 22374786 . ₹900 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Manju Lodge , Near Abhinay Theatre& Menaka Theatre Hospital Road Avenue Road , ☏ +91 80 22200679 . ₹600 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Naga Residency , OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic , ☏ +91 80 41220539 . ₹500 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Omshakthi palace , OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic. , ☏ +91 80 26707927 . ₹400 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Railway Retirement Room ( inside the Central Railway Station ). ₹850 . ( updated May 2015 )
• Red Mount Lodge , OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic , ☏ +91 80 41580000 . ₹1,200 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Royal Regency Lodge , S. C. Rd ( next to Movieland theater ), ☏ +91 80 4113 0202 . Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. From ₹1500? .  
• Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj , Gandhinagar ( near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle ). A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". Costs ₹50 .  
• T.A.P.paradise , Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre , ☏ +91 80 22280522 . ₹700 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• U. G. Classic , OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic . ₹1,200 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• UG Deluxe , Majestic, Thulsi Thotta ( stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right ). You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 .  
• Vardhaman Paradise , Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic. , ☏ +91 80 26707552 . ₹250 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• 12.97109 77.58765 1 YMCA , Nrupathunga Rd ( Near Cubbon Park ), ☏ +91 80 2221 1848 . No-frills hotel.  
• Others around Majestic , If you are free for an hour, you can just go around the Majastic theatre and the Kempe Gowda Bus Station and look for a budget hotel yourself, as there are many on small streets and roads around this place. Or, you can even trust (to some extent) a broker who voluntarily offers help, but be sure you take a good look at the rooms before you pay any money to the lodge and the broker. But there is a wrong notion in the minds of people in and around Majestic that whenever you go in pairs, they tend to look at you with a wrong and suspicious look. If coming with family, especially newly married, avoid the Majestic area.
• Art of Living Hostel , Kanakapura Road , ☏ +91 8026080204 , [email protected] . Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). ₹400 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
• 12.97926 77.6377 2 Treebo Trend 9 Marks Inn , 9 St Marks Rd , ☏ +91 93228 00100 . Complementary breakfast.  
• Ajantha , 22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd , ☏ +91 80 2558 4321 , [email protected] . Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 .  
• 12.98246 77.5945 3 Best Western The Capitol , Raj Bhavan Rd , ☏ +91 80 2228 1234 , +91 80 2228 1800 .  
• The Bouvice , 141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 , ☏ +91 80 4152 4429 , +91 93 4285 6034 , [email protected] . A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala.  
• Chairman's Club & Resort , No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) ( 22 km (14 mi) from the airport ), ☏ +91 80-40703703 , [email protected] . Check-out: 24 Hours . Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000++ .  
• UPAR Hotels Indiranagar , 614-615, 12th Main Rd, 7th Cross, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar ☏ +91 78248 24969. Hotel is situated within 2 kilomteres from Indirangar Metro Station and within 200 meteres from 80 feet road
• Fantasy Golf Resort ( opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport ), ☏ +91 99 7209-2701 .  
• Fortune Park JP Celestial , Race Course Rd ( 1.5 km (0.93 mi) from railway station and easy access to airport. ), ☏ +91 80 4044-1234 .  
• Hotel Bangalore Gate ( [email protected] ), 9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd ( opp. Maneka Theatre, 500 m away from Majestic & Bengaluru City Railway station; Metro Purple Sir M. Visveshwaraya ), ☏ +91 99 4533 3999 , [email protected] . Check-in: noon , check-out: noon . Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. ₹3,600-4,800 .  
• Hotel Komfort Terraces , No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road , ☏ +91 80 4009 7000 . Check-in: noon , check-out: noon . ₹2381 .  
• Hotel Presidency , No. 22 Sadahalli Gate, Devanahalli Taluk , ☏ +91 80 2846-7175 , [email protected] . 24/7 reception.  
• Hotel St. Marks , St. Marks Rd .  
• Hotel Vrindavan , off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction . Nice hotel with great South Indian food.  
• Hotel Woodlands , No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd ( near Richmond Circle ), ☏ +91 80 2222 5111 . Mid-range hotel, very clean, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street.  
• Maple Suites , #142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage ( off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. ), ☏ +91 80 4282 2428 . Check-in: noon , check-out: noon . Long and short-term stay. ₹1,999 .  
• Olde Bangalore , Tarabanahalli ( near Bangalore airport ), ☏ +91 99004 28729 , [email protected] . Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• Prakruthi Club & Resort , Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli ( 11 km (6.8 mi) from the airport ), ☏ +91 80 2849 4002 , [email protected] . Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. Cottages and roms, ₹2,500-9,000 .  
• Silicon Hearth ( formerly Silicon Suites ), 174, Nagvarapalya, Rahat Bagh, Behind Big Bazaar ( off Old Madras Rd, near Indiranagar ), ☏ +91 99860 53292 , [email protected] . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• Villa Camelot , #94/95, 4th Cross, ECC Rd, Prithvi Layout, Whitefield , ☏ +91 80 3272 3965 , [email protected] . Bed and breakfast run by a North Indian couple in the back lanes of ITPL. Cosy atmosphere. From ₹1,500 .  
• 13.044742 77.626451 4 Howard Johnson Bangalore Hebbal , 132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction ( near Manyata Embassy Business Park ), ☏ +91 8046 4670 00 , [email protected] . ( updated Jul 2018 )

• 12.96582 77.59868 6 Chancery Pavilion , Residency Rd . Nice business hotel, good service and food About $200 .  
• 12.97675 77.57528 7 The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru , 66, Residency Road , ☏ +91 8066604545 , [email protected] . The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. ( updated Jan 2019 )
• 12.99414 77.58597 10 ITC Windsor , Sankey Rd , ☏ +91 80 22269898 , [email protected] .  
• 12.99225 77.58188 12 Lalit Ashok Hotel , Kumara Krupa High Grounds , ☏ +91 80 22 2404 2211 9 , [email protected] .  
• Park Hotel , 14/7 MG Rd ( Metro Purple: Trinity ), ☏ +91 80 2559 4666 , [email protected] .  
• 12.95375 77.63943 15 The Paul , 139/28, Domlur Layout ( off Intermediate Ring Rd ), ☏ +91 80 4047 7777 .  
• Streling Mac Hotel , 134, HAL Rd , ☏ +91 80 42494949 . ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 12.98671 77.73762 19 Vivanta Bengaluru Whitefield . ( updated Jun 2023 )

Bangalore is a relatively safe city during day time. However, most of Bangalore practically shuts down a little before midnight, even very safe residential areas can be very desolate by 11PM. In the morning people start getting out from 5AM or 6AM, but it's usually still dark outside at that time, so exercise caution if you are in an unfamiliar area.

Some of the lower-income areas can be somewhat unsafe once it gets dark. Exercising caution and good sense will increase your chances of staying safe.

• It is not advisable to walk alone along deserted alleyways or lanes after dark. Avoid doing so in areas that you are not sure are reasonably safe
• Avoid using an auto-rickshaw if the driver is not alone, especially at night
• Do not flaunt jewellery, high-end mobile phones, laptops, watches etc.
• Do not withdraw large amounts of cash from ATMs in deserted areas.
• Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas such as exhibitions, cricket matches, train stations, etc.
• If you are returning late from a party, it is advisable to pre-book cabs through reputed companies such as Meru, Ola, or Uber as against flagging down an auto-rickshaw on the road
• Exercise caution in stopping to help if you see a broken down vehicle at night, especially in lonely streets and in cases where you will be outnumbered

Rising incomes has brought an influx of people including white and blue collar immigrants, leading to disparities in earnings between locals, the casual labour immigrants and expatriates (people from other parts of the state and also from other countries) which arguably has resulted in a substantial increase in crime rates.

The area code for Bangalore is 080. When calling from overseas, dial +91 80 XXXX XXXX (if the phone is a land-line connection). If you don’t have an Indian phone number, it is strongly recommended that you get a pre-paid calling card if you plan on using your phone frequently. Because of new government regulations, you need a photocopy of your passport (visa and the ID pages), a color photo, and proof of local address (in Bangalore) when buying a pre-paid card. If you do not have the required paperwork, it is recommended that you ask a local friend to buy a pre-paid card on your behalf. Pre-paid cards are sold in a few of the shops that sell mobile equipment.

Public telephones are a good option and are available widely. Most shops that offer public phones sport easily visible "STD/ISD/PCO" signages. More often than not, public pay-phones are post-pay and there will be a person at the shop to take the payments. Check the bill generated from the machine and make the payment accordingly. Payments are always in Indian Rupees.

Mobile phone coverage in the city is excellent. There are many service providers ( Airtel , BSNL [dead link] , Reliance Jio , Idea- Vodafone [dead link] ) offering a wide variety of plans. If you are planning on travelling around outside the metropolitan area it might be a good idea to buy a mobile phone and use one of the pre-paid plans to get yourself connected whilst you are still in the city. However, there may be network congestion in certain areas and hence, slow internet connections.

There are plenty of Internet centres which charge between ₹10-₹25 per hr. If you have a laptop with Wi-Fi connection, free internet services are available at some malls, restaurants, and hotels. However, free public Wi-Fi is not the norm. MG Road and Brigade road now has street-wide free Wi-Fi. Hop on to the Namma Wi-Fi wireless network and register using your mobile number for a one-time password for internet access.

High speed USB data cards are very common and all telecom providers (see Connect section) offer these over-the-counter at their stores. Typically need some proof of identity and address to activate these. Nowadays, it is easier to just buy a sim card with 4G data and host a WiFi hotspot.

Bangalore is a clean city (compared to other major Indian cities such as Mumbai and Kolkata ) and epidemics are rare. However, foreign tourists should be cautious about consuming water and eating at roadside stalls. It is recommended to use bottled water if the source of drinking water is unknown.

It is recommended to use mosquito repellents, either as a cream applied on the skin (ask for Odomos at local medical stores) or in the electronic form, during the evenings.

It is always a good idea to carry a minimal medicine kit with medicines for common diseases and conditions. Most of the international medicines are available in medical stores, though the name and brand may be different. So, it is advisable to do some research on the alternatives or consult a general physician, if needed.

Ambulances can be requested by calling 108.

Pharmacies are dime a dozen and you should not have any problem locating one. You do not need any prescription for Modern Medicine Over the Counter drugs, or for ayurvedic medicine (proprietary and traditional), which are available for most common ailments like fever, headache, etc., But you will need prescription for other medicines, which are categorized as Schedule H drugs.

• 13.0546 77.5919 1 Aster CMI Hospital ( after Bellary Rd/Hebbal Flyover continue straight onto NH44 then take slight left and then turn left ), ☏ +91 80-43420100 , [email protected] . 24 hours . A super-speciality hospital, part of Aster DM Healthcare group. It has contemporary state-of-the-art facilities accommodating close to 500 beds and offers comprehensive primary care to quaternary care services with Centres of Excellence in Cardiac Sciences, Neurosciences, Gastroenterology Sciences, Surgery and Allied Specialties, Integrated Liver Care, Organ Transplant, Urology and Nephrology, Orthopaedics, Women’s Health, and Child & Adolescent Health. ( updated May 2017 )
• 12.98125 77.72935 3 Sri Sathya Sai Super Speciality Hospital ( metro: Sathya Sai Hospital    Purple   ). A hospital with an impressive architectural marvel. ( updated Jun 2023 )

Currency Exchange

You will not find money exchange kiosks/counters in all parts of Bangalore, because Bangalore is not a primary destination for most tourists nor is it the entry point for most tourists entering the region. However, most banks offer currency exchange in all their branch offices, as do some travel agencies. Exchange rates can vary somewhat, so it is advisable to shop around. Typically, travel agencies will offer a better exchange rate than banks. Some "extraoficial" agencies can be found around the commercial area of M.G. Road. Those will offer a good rate, without asking to take a copy of your passport. Price could be bargained. Always double check the bank notes once the exchange is made.

• Anshi National Park or Kali Tiger Reserve (500 km (310 mi) from Bangalore — River rafting and Kayaking is offered at Kali River near Dandeli .
• Badami — A town in Bagakot district known for magnificent temple architecture of the Chalukya period. World Heriage site Pattadakal and Aihole are nearby to Badami.
• Bandipur National Park (225 km (140 mi)) — Famous for elephants, tigers, and precious sandalwood trees. It is spread over an area of 890 square kilometres (340 sq mi) and is considered one of the most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries.
• Bangalore Rural — Home to Bangalore Airport and Devanahalli Fort
• Bannerghatta National Park - a popular tourist destination with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park.
• Bhadra Tiger Reserve (280 km (170 mi)) — A tiger reserve on the catchment area of river Bhadra.
• Nagarhole National Park or Rajiv Gandhi National Park (220 km (140 mi))
• Nandi Hills (57 km (35 mi)) — Provides a panoramic view of sunrise and sunset. One of the ways to go there is to go on a bicycle. The hill station has become a popular tourist spot because it is blessed with a pleasant environment throughout the year.
• Srirangapatna , Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary , Mysore and Chamarajanagar come in a straight line. You will need half a day each for the first two places and two days each for the next two places. South of that line, around 34 km (21 mi) east from Mysore, Keshava Temple of Somanathapura offers marvellous architecture and stone sculptures.

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• Bangalore Travel Tips: A Handy Guide For First Time Travelers To Enjoy The Best Time At Silicon Valley Of India!

06 Jun 2023

Bangalore is a Mega City in South India. It is one of the best cities to take a City tour in all seasons. It is popular for its modern city, skyscrapers, gardens, royal palaces, nightlife, and the IT hub of India. It has something to enjoy here for all ages of people. Bangalore is a tourist-friendly place. This Bangalore travel tips will help any first-timer to see the Bangalore attractions. Apart from enjoying the city life, it is a cultural place too. It has one of the imposing ancient temples worth visiting to see the Dravidian architectural marvel. Most of these temples are on hilltops and in the rainforest near lakes and rivers. You can taste authentic south Indian dishes once in Bangalore. A weeklong holidaying is advisable to take to see all of the attractions of Bangalore city and its outskirts.

10 Bangalore Travel Tips

Here, we have included the most important Bangalore travel tips for all types of tourists.

1. Bangalore Climate

Image Source Bangalore is an all-season tourist place in South India. It enjoys a tropical savanna climate. It is a cool place throughout the year due to the vast vegetation present here for more than 1000-years. Moreover, it is present on the Deccan plateau, which is at an elevation of 3,000-ft above the mean sea level. This geographical feature and its savanna climate make this place an evergreen flora throughout the year. Therefore, one can feel cool weather even during the summer. Similarly, one can experience very cool weather during the winter. The average summer temperature is 30-degrees Celsius. The winter temperature may drop below 20-degrees Celsius. It receives monsoon rain from June to November. Therefore, Bangalore experiences only 2-months of the summer season. This is why one cannot compare climate-wise Bangalore city with any other cities in India. Due to its pleasant climate, many people wish to settle here for a lifetime.

Must Read: 10 Best Illuminating Museums In Bangalore Not To Be Missed Out

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2. Clothing Necessary To Wear In Bangalore

Image Source Bangalore City does not have any restrictions on the dress code. However, few of the posh nightclubs have a dress code to enter as a stag or couple entry. You have to check this before booking a nightclub in Bangalore to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment. It is advisable to carry warm clothing during the winter season. This is from November to February. You have to bring sweaters, woolen shawls, mufflers, and warm jackets. The rest of the months, you can wear any type of clothing. This is because; cool weather prevails here throughout the year. You will not sweat while wearing jeans clothes during the summer. Bangalore is a cost-effective place to buy all types of fabrics. It is advisable to buy trendy fashion clothing from this city on your Bangalore trip. Yet, clothing travel tips for Bangalore visit is important, when you visit here in the winter season only.

Suggested Read: 17 Most Popular Temples In Bangalore To Visit For A Spiritual Retreat

3. Packing Essentials To Visit Bangalore

Image Source It is advisable to carry your travel materials in standard size bags. This is for solo tourists or coming in a group. One can cover most of the Bangalore City attractions traveling through the public mode of transportation. If you are carrying a small luggage, it will be convenient to commute at a much affordable cost without making any disturbance to other commuters. You must not forget to bring your photo and video cameras. The gardens and lakes in Bangalore City is a picturesque place to take photos. It is advisable to pack minimal as this city has all other travel-related stuff to buy within a few distance walks. You can avoid a bathroom kit and footwear too. This is the best for a day trip city tour travelers. If you are staying in a lodge, you can carry all of your travel essentials. This is because Bangalore is a crowded city. Exploring this city with large luggage will be difficult.

Suggested Read: 35 Gorgeous Places To Visit In India In December With Your Loved Ones

4. Currency

Image Source The foreign tourists must have Indian Rupees (INR) to do all types of financial transactions. Bangalore City has one of the highest currency exchange service providers in India. Therefore, foreign tourists need not convert their currency to INR from their nation. This is apart from national banks and multinational banks with foreign exchange counters. The foreign tourists visiting Bangalore can exchange their nation’s currency from any of the banks and Forex service providers present in the city. Moreover, 90% of the shops, establishments, hotels, travel agents and restaurants accept various forms of e-payments. You can avail of their POS facility. You can also withdraw cash from thousands of ATMs available in the city and its outskirts. Most of the shopping malls, entertainment centers, and hotels do accept traveler’s cheques.

Suggested Read: Street Food In Bangalore: 20 Delicacies You Can’t Miss

5. Bangalore Cuisines

Image Source Food is one of the most important and interesting things to know before traveling to Bangalore. This city conducts hundreds of food festivals of domestic and international cuisines in a year. Apart from major food festivals, international hotels do conduct various varieties of food festivals during the weekend. It is the best city to taste the food you prefer in your Bangalore vacation. These are happening due to the presence of foreign tourists year-round in this city. The best part to be in Bangalore is the fill your appetite with the delicious South Indian dishes served here. You can find them in a local restaurant, hotels, and resorts and with street vendors too. Local cuisines are something much affordable and worth the money for its taste and aroma. Therefore, domestic and foreign tourists need not worry about their food. You can get the one you like if you are diabetic or need a pure vegetarian food apart from non-vegan foods.

Suggested Read: Diwali Celebration In India: An Extensive Guide To The Festival Of Lights

6. Tipping Culture In Bangalore

Image Source Bangalore is an international tourist destination in India. Therefore, the tipping culture prevails in the city and its outskirts too. However, it is not compulsory to pay tips until they serve you their best. It is not a compulsion to pay tips for any of the services you receive in lieu of payment. However, can pay INR 50 in a local restaurant up to 2-members having food. In big hotels and restaurants, you can pay up to INR 100. If you are hiring a local guide to see Bangalore attractions, you can pay them up to INR 500 apart from their guide charges. You can pay from INR 100 to INR 500 in pups, bars, and nightclubs with food and beverage facilities. You can pay INR 500 when there are more members with you. The hotels and resorts you stay do need to pay tips to waiters, maids, servers, laundry, and cleaners. You can pay them if you are satisfied with their services.

Suggested Read: 20 Monsoon Getaways Near Bangalore One Must Visit For A Scenic Escape

7. Accommodation In Bangalore

Image Source Finding an accommodation is not a constraint in Bangalore while taking a city tour in any seasons. The outskirts of Bangalore City are popular to promote resort tourism. They are luxury to premium resorts with spa, massage, and party facilities. There are star rated hotels of international presence in Bangalore. They are the best to book suites and luxury rooms. This will be inclusive of the indoor-outdoor pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a gym, and a bar. You can also find a budget hotel for your long-term vacation in Bangalore. If you travel to the remote attraction places in Bangalore, you can find many homestays with food. Therefore, anyone can find a perfect accommodation according to his or her budget once in Bangalore City. Yet, the price of rooms may vary according to the city events, festivals, sports, and celebrations happening throughout the year. You can find the best hotels in the latest Bangalore city travel guide.

Suggested Read: 29 Enthralling Spots For Camping Near Bangalore That Are Worth A Visit

8. Commutation In Bangalore

Image Source The public mode of transportation is the best way to travel while in your Bangalore city tour. This is because; the public transportation available here touches almost all tourist attraction places within the city and its outskirts too. Traveling in the Bangalore metro is the best way to avoid busy traffic during peak hours. It is the most affordable way to travel within the city limits. The government bus services are available from morning 05:00 Am to 11:00 PM. They are with a/c and non-a/c buses. The ticket price is the best for a long-distance journey. The standard bus is much affordable than the deluxe busses with a/c. Apart from the public mode of transportation, there are auto-rickshaws and taxis. However, you have to fix the price before traveling. You may have to bargain if they charge you a higher price. The passing by auto will be affordable than you hire from an auto stand. You can find prepaid taxis and auto near to the railway station and airport.

Suggested Read: 12 Amusement And Water Parks In Bangalore That Are Ideal For Summer Vacay

9. Uber Cab Facilities

Image Source Uber is the most affordable way to travel is solo and joining with other travels on a cost-sharing basis. However, they will serve you from a proper address only. This can be from your hotel you stay in. They will not serve you from public places, where you stand. Uber cabs serve 24/7 in Bangalore city. Uber is the best option to travel when the public mode of transportation is not available on odd hours. The latest Bangalore travel guide will help you to find your location and destination to travel.

Suggested Read: 35 Road Trips From Bangalore You Must Plan With Your Friends

10. Wi-Fi And Internet Services In Bangalore

Image Source Free Wi-Fi is available in most of the hotels, resorts, and restaurants present in Bangalore City. There are no restrictions to use your international SIM in Bangalore. There are many mobile and internet service providers in Bangalore. You will get free Wi-Fi in metro stations and while in the 100-ft road. Therefore, you can make use of your GPS devices and smartphones to capture photos and videos and upload them on your social media networking sites from Bangalore tourist attraction places. Therefore, mobile service and internet traveling tips for Bangalore are not necessary to know in this Mega City.

Further Read: Choose The Best Travel Insurance In India With Our Guide

For the people who are planning to visit Bangalore any time soon, keep these travel tips in mind to enjoy your best time in the city. Often called the Silicon Valley, this city has a lot to offer which every travel must experience. So now when you plan you vacation in Bangalore , make sure to not miss out on these handy travel tips.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bangalore Travel Tips

Is Bangalore a tourist-friendly place in South India?

Yes, Bangalore is a Mega City of India. Nearly, 30 % of its revenue comes from the tourism industry. The foreign tourists do visit under a global city tour to Bangalore. Yet, it is a tourists-friendly place too.

Are there any restrictions to enter the ancient temples present in and around Bangalore?

No, the tourists of any religion and ethnicity can enter the ancient temples present in and around Bangalore. They are major tourist attractions with cultural importance too in Bangalore.

Does Bangalore City permit nightlife?

Yes, Bangalore has many standard types of premium pubs, bars, and nightclubs. You must be 18-years and above to enter those clubs. They are women-friendly clubs too which permits couple entry. You must book a pub in advance during the weekends.

Is a day trip is enough to see the Bangalore Palace?

Yes, a day trip is enough to see the Bangalore palace attraction. This palace is in the heart of Bangalore City.

How many days it will take to explore all the gardens of Bangalore?

The gardens in Bangalore are more beautiful to see in the day and night hours. A weeklong holidaying is the best to enjoy the Bangalore gardens and its fountains and recreational activities present for children.

How many days it will take to see the lake attraction in Bangalore?

It will take at least a 3-days trip to see all of the lake attractions present in the Bangalore City. This is because most of the lakes have a boating facility and gardens attached to the lakeshores.

Is Bangalore the best for weekend getaways?

Yes, Apart from Bangalore City nightclubs, it has many places for weekend getaways in hill stations, resorts, camping sites in National Park and in riverside camping in the rainforest areas.

Is a day trip is enough to explore Bangalore film city?

Yes, a day trip is enough to see all the attractions in Bangalore film city. This is a ticketed place and it will be worth seeing some film-shooting going on here every day.

Is it possible to explore Bangalore City without a local guide?

Yes, most of the Bangaloreans speaks English. It will not be constraints to ask people and go to your destination in public transportation and through private travel vehicles in and around Bangalore.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

7 Day Bangalore Travel Itinerary

Officially known as Bengaluru, Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka state in India. With rich traditions and modern technology, Bangalore is a vibrant city. Also known as Garden City and City of Lakes, Bangalore has plenty of things that it can offer to its visitors. Being born and brought up in this amazing city, I have immense fondness towards its culture, heritage, and party scenes. This 7 day Bangalore travel itinerary will take you through the flavours and charm this city provides.

Bangalore welcomes visitors with pleasant weather year-round, making it an appealing destination anytime. However, for those seeking the enchanting crisp mornings and romantic breezes, the winter season from November to February stands out as the ideal time to experience the city’s delightful climate. If you want to see Bangalore decorated with the Pink Trumpet Flowers , then you must visit the city during the spring season from March to May.

– Written by Raksha Nagaraj from Bengaluru Prayana

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Gavipuram heritage walk, gavi gangadhareshwara temple, mavalli tiffin room, vidhyarthi bhavan, thindi beedhi at vv puram, kadu malleshwaram temple, sankey tank, malleshwaram street art walk, day 5: nandi hills, ulsoor someshwara temple, cubbon park, vidhana soudha, commercial street, volunteer at bear rescue centre, share this:.

PS – Useful Travel Resources that will help you plan better for your Trip to India to tick off the 7 Day Bangalore Travel Itinerary –  

• Book the best Bangalore Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in Bangalore on Agoda or Booking.com
• Book your flights at the cheapest rates on Kiwi.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass to enjoy premium Airport Lounge access before flying to India
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in India

Pin this 7 Day Bengaluru / Bangalore Travel Guide and Itinerary

Days 1 and 2: Basavanagudi and Gavipuram

On your first two days of Bangalore itinerary, spend time exploring and wandering around the two oldest areas of Bangalore city.

Following your breakfast on any of the day, head to one of the oldest public parks in Bangalore, Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Spread across 240 acres, Lalbagh Botanical Garden was commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 and later completed by his son Tipu Sultan. Lalbagh translates to “Red Garden” in English, named after the vibrant Lalbagh Rock that stands majestically in the garden.

Home to a diverse collection of exotic plants, flowers, and trees, Lalbagh is a horticultural paradise and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The garden houses a unique glasshouse, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, which hosts bi-annual flower shows attracting enthusiasts from around the country. Lalbagh’s famous flower clock, designed with seasonal flowerbeds, is another attraction. With plenty of things to do in the park, stroll around and see some of the highlights.

With old buildings and houses, Gavipuram Heritage Walk is perfect to see and explore the oldest area of the city. Starting from Kempambudhi lake and finishing at Hari Hara Gudda, this trail is for history enthusiasts. The walk is around 1.5 kilometres and passes through many landmarks and historical places.

Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is a unique and ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Gangadhareshwara. Believed to have been built in the 9th century by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore, the temple features a large Shiva Linga and intricate sculptures. One of the remarkable aspects of the temple is the phenomenon that occurs during Makar Sankranti when sunlight passes through the horns of the Nandi (bull) idol and illuminates the Shiva Linga in the inner sanctum. This celestial event draws devotees and tourists alike to witness the temple’s unique architecture and natural alignment. Carved out of a monolithic rock, the temple is known for its architectural marvel and historical significance.

Top Restaurants to Try in Bangalore/Bengaluru 

On one of the days, start your day by having a delicious and authentic breakfast at Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR). Founded in 1924, MTR is a renowned vegetarian restaurant located next to Lalbagh Botanical Garden. You must try the Bisibele Bath and filter coffee.

Founded in 1943, Vidhyarthi Bhavan is another popular restaurant serving authentic South Indian food. With more than 3000 people walking in each day, this heritage restaurant is something not to be missed.

Bangalore has an entire street dedicated to street food. With many food stalls serving all kinds of food and dishes, ending the day at Thindi Beedhi is a unique experience to have.

Days 3 and 4: Malleshwaram and Surrounds

Situated in the northern part of Bangalore, Malleshwaram is another area that is one of the oldest areas in the city.

Dating back to the 17 th  century, Kadu Malleshwara Temple is an ancient temple in Bangalore. The area of Malleshwaram is named after the deity of the temple, Malleshwara. It was built by Venkoji, brother of Maratha King Shivaji and has a huge religious importance among the residents.

Built in 1882 by Colonel Richard Hieram Sankey, the then chief engineer of Mysore, Sankey Tank was initially created as a reservoir to meet the water needs of Bangalore. The tank is one of the oldest artificial lakes in the city and has historical importance. The tank area has been developed into a picturesque park, offering a serene and green environment amidst the bustling city. You can visit Sankey Tank for leisurely walk, and to enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Malleshwaram is popular for its art. And hence has a Malleshwaram Street Art Trail with 12 murals, depicting and showcasing the childhood memories of Malleshwaram area. Created as part of the project Malleshwaram Hogona by a group of artists Geechugalu, these murals hold a dear place among the locals. The walk is just around 2 kilometres and can easily be done in less than an hour.

Top Places to Eat in Bangalore/Bengaluru 

Famous for its Benne Masala Dose, Shri Sagar CTR is a famous food joint in Malleshwaram. The restaurant is favourite among the locals, tourists, and celebrities. As it is usually very crowded, be prepared to wait in a long queue to get in.

With authentic vegetarian food and traditional ambience, Halli Mane in Malleshwaram is a must-visit restaurant. It has plenty of food options, but you must try their Akki and Ragi rottis.

Nandi Hills | Photo by Vishal Anand on Unsplash

On the fifth day of your itinerary, go on a journey to the nearby hill station of Nandi Hills, approximately 60 kilometers from Bangalore. Nandi Hills is a popular destination celebrated for its breathtaking scenic beauty and historical importance. Standing at an elevation of 1,478 metres, the hill provides sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding villages and towns. The hill station derives its name from the ancient Nandi Temple situated atop the hills, and the area has abundant natural landscapes with lush greenery and delightful weather. En route, make sure to make a pitstop at the historic Devanahalli Fort , dating back to the 16th century, adding an enriching historical dimension to your excursion.

Note that the highway has plenty of eateries and you can stop at any of them for local food and dishes.

Day 6: Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road and Surrounds

On the sixth day of your Bangalore itinerary, explore the MG road and the surrounding streets and areas.

Situated in the Ulsoor locality of Bangalore, Ulsoor Someshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the name of Someshwara. Believed to date back to the Chola period, the temple has intricate architecture and has major cultural significance in the city. It showcases Dravidian style of architecture with detailed carvings and sculptures depicting mythological stories. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity, Lord Someshwara, while the complex also features other shrines dedicated to various gods and goddesses.

Established in 1870, Cubbon Park covers an area of 300 acres. Offering a refreshing retreat in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park is one of the favourite public parks among the locals. Named after Sir Mark Cubbon, the then Commissioner of Mysuru, the park is adorned with a diverse range of indigenous and exotic plant species, enhancing its botanical charm. Visitors can see the massive trees, vibrant flowerbeds, thematic gardens, and ornamental structures within the park. Cubbon Park also houses important government buildings and cultural institutions, making it a central hub for leisure, recreation, and cultural activities in Bangalore.

Completed in 1956, Vidhana Soudha is the seat of government in Karnataka and serves as the legislative assembly building for the state. Built in Neo-Dravidian and Indo-Saracenic architectural styles, the structure showcases a grand facade, intricate carvings, and a central dome, showcasing an amalgamation of cultural and architectural heritage. The landmark is a symbol of political and administrative prowess.

Located in the heart of Bangalore, Commercial Street is one of the most iconic and bustling shopping destinations in Bangalore. The street is home to both street markets and upscale boutiques, catering to the varied tastes and preferences of shoppers. From traditional Indian wear to trendy Western clothing, Commercial Street has it all.

Unique Restaurants to Try in Bangalore/Bengaluru 

If you love tea, then Infinitea is the place for you. You can try various tea flavours at this restaurant enjoying Italian cuisine. Situated on Cunningham Road, this restaurant is a personal favourite.

Started in 1940 as a bakery, Koshy’s on St Mark’s Road is the city’s legendary restaurant. Ensure you try the sandwiches and coffee.

Day 7: Bannerghatta National Park

On your last day, experience one of the most rewarding activities available in the city.

At Bannerghatta National Park, you can volunteer at the Bear Rescue Centre for one or multiple days. With around 60 rescued sloth bears, activities include data entry of health records, preparing bear food, cleaning enclosures, and crafting enrichment items for the bears. This activity is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and for people who want to make a difference in society. It is important to note that close contact or touching the bears is not permitted during these meaningful volunteer engagements.

With this 7 day Bangalore travel itinerary, you will have visited most of the city highlights and places. From the green Lalbagh Botanical Gardens to the bustling street of Commercial Street, each day in Bangalore provides a new adventure.

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Having evolved gradually from being the Garden city to the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is India's third-largest city. Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks and the many lakes here. Bangalore is renowned for its eateries, street food corners, quirky cafes, coffee roasters and pubs dotting every corner of the city, serving cuisines from all over the world. Brunches, buffets, burgers, rooftop cafes, late-night eats - Bangalore has it all.

Here, one can choose to take a long stroll through the beautiful Cubbon Park, shop in the many malls or street markets or hop into one of the many acclaimed breweries for a cold and refreshing drink. There are a huge number of beautifully decorated parks in the city that are ideal for going on a morning stroll or a jog. One walk through the 300-acre Cubbon Park, or the botanical gardens of Lalbagh, and you'll know precisely why Bangalore is so famously called India's 'Garden City'. But just like every big city, the unprecedented growth of IT in Bangalore has reshaped quite a few things including rising temperatures, polluted lakes and heavily congested roads, especially in the newer areas. Aside from the central business and commercial districts (and the roads leading up to them), the neighbourhoods of Bangalore are mostly quiet and serene, especially the older parts of the city like Jayanagar and J.P Nagar.

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The political hub of the region, Bangalore is a world apart from the rest of the state and in many ways India ’s most Westernised urban centre. The charming, verdant “Garden City'' of just over 600,0000 people at Independence has been completely transformed by the technology boom into both a trendy business hub and a bustling, smog-choked megalopolis of nearly twelve million. Signs of the West are thick on the ground: big-brand fashion stores and branches of CCD or Barista on nearly every corner; an international airport and ultramodern metro (still far from completion); and legions of hard-working, free-spending young adults.

The best travel tips for visiting Bangalore

Best things to do in bangalore, best areas to stay in bangalore, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit bangalore, how many days do you need in bangalore, how to get here, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

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Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

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Indian Wildlife Safari

Meet Bengals, birds, monkeys, leopards and more on an amazing wildlife extravaganza visiting India's famous national parks. Experience the countryside by rail, soak up some culture at the Taj Mahal and Rantahnbore Fort and finish with some shopping and sightseeing in the bustling capital, Dehli.

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India: from the Ganges to the Golden Triangle

From Dehli's bustling dusty streets to 'the pink city' of Jaipur and Agra's Taj Mahal, this trip ensures you experience all of India's Golden Triangle highlights. You'll visit sacred Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges and Khajuraho's famous temples too.

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Magical Kerala

The intense greens of the Kerala backwaters, overhung by innumerable coconut palms, encapsulate tropical India like nowehere else. Enjoy a lazy cruise on a converted rice barge; visit fragrant spice plantations, explore Cochi and spot local wildlife.

Despite its lush environs and cosmopolitan air, Bengaluru’s few attractions are no match for those elsewhere in the state.

That said, it’s an efficient transport hub, well served by plane and bus, and paired with first-rate shopping, dining and nightlife. It has a calendar packed with big-ticket events in music, dance, art, literature, theatre or folk arts, this vibrant city can still deliver a few days’ respite from south India’s more taxing inconveniences.

The centre of modern Bengaluru lies about 4 km east of Kempe Gowda Circle (and the bus and railway stations), where you’ll find most of the midrange accommodation, restaurants, shops, tourist information and banks, although Indiranagar further east is the up and coming area for leisure.

Leafy Cubbon Park, and its less than exciting museums, lie on its eastern edge, while the oldest, most “Indian” part of the city extends south from the railway station, a warren of winding streets at their most dynamic in the hubbub of the City and Gandhi markets.

Bengaluru’s tourist attractions are spread out: monuments such as Tipu’s Summer Palace and the Bull Temple are some way south of the centre.

Rough Guides tip: Planning a trip to India? Perhaps our local experts in India can help you!

Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore © Shutterstock

From Cubbon Park, a well-maintained 120-hectare garden in the heart of the city, to the world-class National Gallery of Modern Art and atmospheric temples, here are the best things to do in Bangalore.

#1 Chill out at Cubbon Park

A welcome green space in the heart of the city, shaded by massive clumps of bamboo, Cubbon Park is entered from the western end of MG Road, presided over by a statue of Queen Victoria.

Several prominent historic landmarks are located within its sprawling expanse, including the State Central Library, one of the oldest and largest in the country, housed in the impressive red Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, and the colonnaded, red-brick High Court of Karnataka (Attara Kacheri), while the famous Chinnaswamy cricket stadium and domed St Mark’s Cathedral sit nearby.

#2 Delve into the prehistoric artefacts of the Government Museum

The poorly labelled and maintained Government Museum features prehistoric artefacts, Vijayanagar, Hoysala and Chalukya sculptures, musical instruments, paintings and Deccani and Rajasthani miniatures.

It includes the adjacent Venkatappa Art Gallery, which exhibits twentieth-century landscapes, portraits, abstract art, wood sculpture and occasional temporary art shows.

#3 Visit Vidhana Soudha, India’s largest civic structure

Built in 1956, Bengaluru’s vast State Secretariat, Vidhana Soudha, is the largest civic structure of its kind in the country.

Kengal Hanumanthaiah, chief minister at the time, wanted a “people’s palace” that, following the transfer of power from the royal Wadiyar dynasty to a legislature, would “reflect the power and dignity of the people”. In theory its design is entirely Indian, but its overall effect is not unlike the bombastic colonial architecture built in the so-called Indo-Saracenic style.

#4 Wander the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Inspired by the splendid gardens of the Mughals and the French botanical gardens at Puducherry in Tamil Nadu, Sultan Haider Ali set to work in 1760 laying out the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, 4km south of the centre.

Originally covering forty acres, just beyond his fort – where one of Kempe Gowda’s original watchtowers can still be seen – the gardens were expanded under Ali’s son Tipu, who introduced numerous exotic species of plants, and today they house an extensive horticultural seedling centre.

The British brought in gardeners from Kew in 1856 and built a military bandstand and a glasshouse, based on London’s Crystal Palace, which hosts wonderful flower shows. Now spreading over 240 acres, the gardens are pleasant to visit during the day, but tend to attract unsavoury characters after around 6pm.

Great sunsets and city views can be had from the central hill, which is topped by a small shrine.

#5 Check out Tipu’s Summer Palace

Just southwest of the crowded City Market (aka KR Market), near the fairytale like Jama Masjid – whitewashed and rambling and still in regular use – lies Tipu’s Summer Palace, a two-storey, mostly wooden structure built in 1791.

Similar in style to the Daria Daulat Bagh at Srirangapatna, the palace is in a far worse state, with most of its painted decoration destroyed.

Next door, the Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple, dating from the early eighteenth century, was built by the Wadiyar rajas.

#6 Be wowed by the Bull Temple

Lying 6 km south of the Kempegowda Bus Station, in the Basavanagudi area, Kempe Gowda’s sixteenth-century Bull Temple houses a massive monolithic Nandi bull, its grey granite made black by the application of charcoal and oil.

The temple is approached along a path lined with mendicants and snake charmers; inside, for a small donation, the priest will offer you a string of fragrant jasmine flowers.

Don’t miss the Dodda Ganesha Temple, featuring a mammoth monolith of Ganesha, 5.5m tall and 5m wide, below the Bull Temple.

#7 See the gold-plated dome of Sri Radha Krishna Mandir

Some 8 km north of the centre lies ISKCON’s (International Society of Krishna Consciousness) gleaming temple, a hybrid of ultramodern glass and vernacular south Indian architecture.

Also known as Sri Radha Krishna Mandir, it’s a huge, lavish showpiece crowned by a gold-plated dome.

Barriers guide visitors on a one-way journey through the well-organised complex to the inner sanctum, an octagonal hall resplendent with colourfully painted ceilings and golden images of the god Krishna and his consort Radha.

Collection points throughout and inescapable merchandising on the way out are evidence of the organisation’s highly successful commercialisation.

#8 National Gallery of Modern Art

Set in a former Wadiyar mansion, the beautifully designed and laid out National Gallery of Modern Art (one of three in India – the others are in Delhi and Mumbai) is a fabulous repository of 17,000 paintings, sculptures and graphic prints capturing Indian art from the early eighteenth century to present times.

Bangalore Palace is a famous iconic landmark in Bangalore City, India © Shutterstock

From the upscale and cosmopolitan vibes of Indiranagar and Koramangala to the serene and green surroundings of Jayanagar and Malleshwaram, Bangalore offers a range of options for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the city.

Around Central Bus Stand

Due to the great number of business visitors it receives, Bengaluru offers a wealth of upmarket lodgings, as well as serviced apartments. Decent budget accommodation is also available, mostly concentrated around the Central Bus Stand and railway station.

Subedar Chatram Road

There are few good cheap digs, but most hostels can be found along Subedar Chatram Road.

Indiranagar

This upscale neighbourhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes, and boutiques. It offers a wide range of accommodations and is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring other parts of the city.

Koramangala

Another popular residential and commercial area, Koramangala is known for its bustling food scene, shopping malls, and entertainment options. It has a mix of budget and luxury accommodations and is well-connected to other parts of the city.

MG Road/Brigade Road

Located in the heart of the city, MG Road and Brigade Road are bustling commercial areas with a variety of hotels and guesthouses.

Known for its tree-lined streets and quiet residential areas, Jayanagar is a peaceful neighbourhood with a range of accommodation options .

Browse the best hotels in Bangalore.

Bengaluru’s profusion of cafés and restaurants makes up for its deficit of tourist sights with a gastronomic variety unparalleled in south India.

Drinking alcohol does not have the seedy connotations it does elsewhere in India; you’ll even see young Indian women enjoying a beer with their mates.

While some prefer an elegant tipple in five-star hotels, it’s the latest crop of microbreweries serving craft beer that are now all the rage. Here’s where to go.

MG Rd, Indiranagar and Koramangala

Around MG Rd, and in Indiranagar (east of the centre) and the southeastern suburb of Koramangala, pizzerias, burger chains, ritzy ice-cream parlours and gourmet restaurants stand cheek by jowl with regional cuisine from cuisine from Andhra Pradesh , Tamil Nadu , Kerala , Bengal and Punjab , besides Mumbai chaat cafés and snack bars.

Stand-up local eateries called darshinis are popular for a quick bite.

Brigade Rd, Residency Rd and Church St

A night on the town generally kicks off with a bar crawl along the old colonial quarter of Brigade Rd, Residency Rd and Church St, which are lined with scores of swish pubs.

Cubbon Park in Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

While Bangalore's traffic can be challenging, there are multiple transportation options available to help you get around the city. From utilising the metro or ride-hailing services, here’s how to do it.

Bengaluru’s extensive bus system radiates from the Kempegowda Bus Station near City railway station. Most buses from platform 17 travel past MG Rd.

Along with regular buses, BMTC also operates a deluxe express service, Pushpak, on a number of set routes as well as a handful of night buses.

Other important city bus stands include the City Market Bus Stand at Kalasipalayam near the railway station, and Shivaji Nagar to the northeast of Cubbon Park.

In June 2017, the first phase of Bengaluru’s Namma Metro was completed. The east– west Purple Line links the main train and bus stations (via City Railway and Majestic stations) with points east including Cubbon Park, MG Road and Indiranagar.

The north–south Green Line travels south via Yeshwantpur before intersecting with the Purple Line at Majestic and continuing south via Chikpete, KR Market and Lalbagh.

Payment is by single-use tokens or Varshik smart cards, which give a slight discount.

By auto-rickshaw

The easiest way of getting around is by metered auto-rickshaw, which can now even be summoned by app (mgaadi.com).

Most meters do work and drivers are usually willing to use them, although you will occasionally be asked for a flat fare, especially during rush hour.

You can book chauffeur-driven cars and taxis through several agencies including EZI Drive or Carzonrent or use Ola or Uber.

Lalbagh Botanical Park, Bangalore, India © Shutterstock

The best time to visit Bangalore is winter (October to February). Due to its elevation, Bangalore enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, but these months offer cooler temperatures and lower humidity, creating a more pleasant environment for exploring.

During this period, the weather in Bangalore is comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 28°C (82°F). This makes it an excellent time to venture out and discover the city's parks, gardens, and outdoor attractions without feeling overly hot or sweaty. While occasional drizzles may occur, the overall weather remains enjoyable.

Summer (March to May) can be hot as temperatures soar to 36°C (97°F) or higher. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, and the city tends to be crowded during the summer vacation period.

Bangalore also experiences the monsoon season from June to September, characterised by heavy rainfall.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Most, if not all, can be seen on a half-day tour, but if you explore on foot, be warned that Bengaluru has some of the worst pavements in India. To fully immerse yourself in the city, allocate 3 days for exploration.

On day 1, begin with the magnificent Bangalore Palace and then head to Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Lastly, explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. Wander the bustling markets of Chickpet and Commercial Street for delicious street food at night.

Dedicate day 2 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, where you can learn about astronomy and marvel at the wonders of the universe. For a hands-on experience, head to the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on science and technology. Afterward, find solace in the serene surroundings of Cubbon Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city.

On Day 3, escape to the tranquil Nandi Hills, a scenic hill station that offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Alternatively, explore the historic town of Srirangapatna, known for its ancient temples and palaces that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

With the busiest airport in south India, some travellers will fly into Bangalore but most arrive by train.

Bengaluru International Airport is 35 km northeast of the city in Devanahalli. It’s the busiest in south India and the most spacious in the country, with top-notch facilities.

Until the much-discussed high-speed rail link is up and running, you can get into the city by Meru Airport Taxi or efficient a/c Vayu Vajra bus.

Bangalore is well connected by train to all parts of India. Bangalore City railway station is west of the centre, near Kempe Gowda Circle, opposite the main bus stands; for the north of the city, it’s better to board or disembark at Bangalore Cantonment station north of the centre.

Bangalore City has prepaid auto-rickshaw and taxi booths in the forecourt, and is connected (via Majestic station) to MG Road and points east in the city by Namma Metro’s Purple Line.

Long-distance government buses, including those from other states like Goa and Maharashtra, arrive at the busy Central Bus Stand, opposite the railway station.

There is a comprehensive timetable in English in the centre of the Central Bus Stand concourse. Most services can be booked in advance at the computerised counters near Bay 13.

By private buses

Tickets for the numerous private bus companies can be bought from the agencies on Tank Bund Rd, on the opposite side of the bus stand from the train station.

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updated 07.06.2023

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Food & Drink

Explore the local culinary scene, from breakfast to michelin-starred restaurants. sip cocktails, savor desserts, and discover the best local markets., the best bars in east bangalore, india.

The Best Restaurants In North Bangalore, India

The Best Craft Beers And Microbreweries In Bangalore

The Best Bars in Bangalore, India

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Plan your sightseeing and activities with our recommendations. explore attractions, book tours, and immerse yourself in the local culture., immerse yourself in the local arts, literature, and design. explore the cultural fabric of the destination through art, literature, and design..

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First Time Visiting Bangalore, India

When a work opportunity to travel to Bangalore, India, presented itself, I was so excited. I had never been to India before! Then, the questions started. What will Bangalore be like? Do I need a visa to travel there? And, of course, what do I pack!? Read on for my tips, advice and favorite moments from my trip.

Why Bangalore?

With a population of over ten million, Banglore is the third most populated city in India. It’s also home to many top engineering universities and tech industry talent, which has attracted many top technology companies to Bangalore. So much so, the city is now nicknamed, “The Silicon Valley of India.” . However, it’s not allll business in Bangalore. Those who enjoy craft beers and cocktails will find tons of cool options throughout the city. Plus, the city is also home to a number of temples, shrines, parks, museums and more.

Before You Go

As a U.S. citizen, whether I was going to India as a tourist or on business, I needed a visa. The process is actually fairly easy, as you can apply online. I found the website a little clunky and some of the fields did not have enough space for the number of characters needed, so be prepared to get creative. Oh, and give yourself time. It took me over an hour to fill out the online forms for the business eVisa. However, it’s still far better than lining up at an embassy! To learn more about the process and to see if you need a visa, visit this website .

The Arrival

I flew British Airways to India and was lucky to score a premium economy, non-stop flight from London to Bangalore. Confession: the plane British Airways has on this route is rather old and does not even have plugs to charge your laptop or USBs to charge your phone (the horror, I know). I was very surprised given the price of the flight, but it is what it is, I suppose. From London, you can also fly Emirates with a layover in Dubai, which I would absolutely do during the times of year when a stopover for a few days there would be welcome.

Old school!

At least there’s bubbly!

My Stunning Hotel – The Leela Palace Bangalore

After a 10+ hour redeye, an hour in the airport and another 1.5-hour drive, we arrived at The Leela Palace Bangalore . It was one of those pinch yourself moments. Just off a very busy street in Bangalore, we pulled into what is best described as a fairytale pale pink palace surrounded by a tropical oasis. I stepped out of the car to the sounds of birds chirping and the faint sounds of car horns, completely in awe of the beauty surrounding me.

We were greeted warmly by the hotel staff, who immediately took our bags and whisked us into the equally stunning air-conditioned lobby to check in. I would later learn from a lovely member of the hotel staff, who insisted on personally walking me around the hotel when I asked for directions, that the design of the Leela Palace Bangalore was inspired by the royal residence in Mysore and translated into a stunning hotel. With four restaurants and a charming Library Bar, a full-service spa, gym, pool, the hotel oozes style. From the exotic Indian music playing quietly in the background to incredible floral arrangements, every inch of this hotel has been thoughtfully designed – and it shows. It’s no surprise to me that TripAdvisor (where I have previously worked) awarded the hotel a 2018 Traveler’s Choice award – quite an honor, but very well-deserved in my opinion.

From the stunning hotel facilities and grounds to my oversized bedroom (arguably the size of my London flat), I felt a bit like royalty staying there. I could not recommend it enough. For more of a tour, you can watch my travel vlog at the end of this blog post ( or link here )!

My only regret? Not getting to spend time around – and in – the Leela Palace’s stunning hotel!

Exploring Bangalore

As I was in Bangalore for work, this will not be my usual travel blog filled with recommendations of sights to see (but TripSavvy does have a nice list if you’re in the market for that – click here !). However, whether you are coming for work or for leisure, I thought I would share my overall observations as a first-time traveler to both India and Bangalore.

It May Be The Silicon Valley of India – But There Are Still Cows In The Streets Perhaps this is a silly insight, but I was so struck by how impressive the tech scene is in Bangalore. There are so many world-class talent and companies in Bangalore, yet there’s such a difference between the big office buildings and the city’s streets. I know it’s such a stereotype of India, but I even saw cows in the streets!

Bangalore’s Reputation For Bad Traffic Is True – Embrace It As I told friends that I was going to Bangalore, every one told me to brace myself for the traffic. After visiting, I can tell you that the rumors are true. However, as I didn’t get many opportunities to sightsee, I took the time in the car to observe. In doing this, I realized that the traffic in Bangalore is part of the experience.

To someone not from Bangalore, it can feel chaotic, but the more you drive around, you realize there’s an order to the chaos. There’s much more awareness of what and who is around you and the horns are used with purpose to alert others that you’re there. Everyone is trying to get somewhere in the fastest way, the best way they know how to. It’s an experience to watch it all in motion.

Packing Tips – What To Wear & Bring

In planning for the trip, I asked so many women either from India or with a lot of experience traveling there for advice on what to wear in Bangalore. What actually helped the most was when my dear friend Gabi went through my closet with me and pulled out a few maxi, shift and tunic-y dresses that I could either wear with jeans or with leggings. I only bought a pair of the 3/4 leggings from Lululemon for this trip – everything else was my own!

Bill’s NYC tunic dress – originally a Marshall’s find, but here are some similar options: https://fave.co/46hBdxc and https://fave.co/3ZKYvJm and https://fave.co/3ZQ4EEj and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13mX and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13m0 Long navy cardigan – originally a Marshall’s find, but these are cute too: https://fave.co/45iFm2D and https://fave.co/46EatXy and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13l3 and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nL 7 For All Mankind High Waisted The Skinny in Indigo: https://shopstyle.it/l/b13pN and https://fave.co/45hj2GL Converse All Star sneakers: https://fave.co/3ZII948 and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13pK

Navy Michael Kors dress – no longer available, but here are similar ones: https://fave.co/3S46VKr and https://fave.co/3F57cVr and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nq and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nr Me Too Beige Ballet Flats: https://fave.co/3tkjEy3 and https://fave.co/46giG4E and https://fave.co/46iKAwJ Long navy cardigan – original a Marshall’s find, but these are cute too: https://fave.co/45iFm2D and https://fave.co/46EatXy and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13l3 and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nL

Cynthia Rowley floral dress – old out but similar: https://fave.co/3LPalMO and https://fave.co/3rFHYdf and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nV and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nW and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13mk Converse All Star sneakers: https://fave.co/3ZII948 and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13pK Long navy cardigan – originally a Marshall’s find, but these are cute too: https://fave.co/45iFm2D and https://fave.co/46EatXy and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13l3 and https://shopstyle.it/l/b13nL

In general, I felt like I nailed it in terms of wardrobe compared to what I saw other women wearing as well. Despite people telling me that Bangalore is more Western and I could show more skin, I mostly saw women wearing long tunics with leggings or jeans, dresses and leggings, sarees or jeans and a flowy top.

Watch My Bangalore Travel Vlog!

To see more of my Bangalore trip, check out my vlog! Tune in for a tour of my stunning hotel, The Leela Palace, tips on what to pack, shopping highlights and what I saw in Bangalore.

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India Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 23, 2023, india - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

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Bangalore, India – The Ultimate Travel Guide to History

Bangalore is India’s third largest city after New Delhi and Mumbai. Located in the south of the country, it has a population of 9 million and is also known as the country’s IT capital. As a result, it has great appeal for Indians looking to build a future here. The city is best known for the beautiful gardens, such as Lal Bagh or Cubbon Park. You will also find a vibrant nightlife full of pubs and a host of nice restaurants, from Indian to Western food.

Are you planning a visit to Bangalore? And would you like to learn more about the special history and culture of this great city in southern India? In this travel guide, I tell you more about its interesting history, read all about the best sights and discover the city’s best accommodation. A history-rich visit to Bangalore starts here…

This Travel Guide to Bangalore contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking through one of the links on this website, Travel4history gets a small compensation for it. This does not cost you anything extra by the way! *This article is also available in Dutch – Bangalore Reisgids

What would you like to know about Bangalore?

Practical information & Travel Tips

Exploring history in Bangalore?

Top 5 Places to visit

Accommodation – Where to stay?

Transport – How to get there?

Plan your trip to Bangalore & India

Practical Information & Travel Tips

• Best Time to Travel? Bangalore is good to visit all year round. The temperature is between 25 and 35 degrees all year round. The months from May to October see the most rain, but compared to other areas, it is not too bad for this time of year. Therefore, you can visit the city all year round just fine.
• How many days? Compared to other cities in India (Delhi, Mumbai), you can see the main sights in 2 days.
• Accommodation? Wondering where’s the best place to stay in Bangalore. Basically, around Cubbon Park and MG Road, you’re always well and centrally located. I myself stayed in Indiranagar, but that’s a few kilometres east.
• Tours & Tickets? You can think of Cubbon Park as the centre of the city. From here, you can catch the metro north for Bengaluru Palace or south for the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden.
• Transport? KSR Bengaluru City Junction is the city’s main railway station. Kempegowda Bus Station is also located there. From here, you can travel further across India. Kempegowda International Airport is located 35 kilometres north of the city centre.

History – What makes historically interesting to visit?

Bangalore has officially been called  Bengaluru  since 2006. It is a reference to an 890 AD stone inscription found in the  Nageshvara temple.  But it was the feudal ruler  Kempe Gowda I , who ruled the area as part of Vijayana empire, who officially founded the city with a  mud fort  (see photo). That fort can still be visited. And Bangalore became and remained the region’s most important city for centuries.

At the end of the 17th century, the city became part of the  Kingdom of Mysore . Sultan Hyder Ali (1720-1782) had the  Lal Bagh gardens  laid out. This is why Bangalore is also known as the City of Gardens. In 1830, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore.  Bengaluru Palace  is one of the palaces built for the sultan. During the British colonial period (1858-1947), it was a real industrial city. Now it is one of India’s most advanced cities with a significant IT sector. Bangalore is therefore also called the  Silicon Valley of India .

Top 5 Places to visit in Bangalore

Bangalore is a big city with a number of interesting sights. Below are the 5 best attractions to see or do.

1. Wander through the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden

The Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is a highlight during your visit to Bangalore. In 1760, the then Sultan Haider Ali of Mysore commissioned the development of a beautiful garden. The garden covers 900 square metres and you can discover more than 1,000 species of plants and trees. Many of these trees are more than 100 years old. The Lal Bagh garden is located south of the city centre.

2. Visit Bangalore Palace

This palace, also better known as Bengaluru Palace dates back to the 19th century. It was commissioned by King Chamaraja Wadiyar of Mysore in 1887 and was inspired by the British Windsor castle. The palace now houses a museum, but it is also used for concerts and other events. Bengaluru Palace lies north of the city centre.

3. Relax in Cubbon Park

The city’s most famous park is called Cubbon Park, officially Sri Chamarajendra Park. It is centrally located and is therefore also known as the heart of Bangalore. British officer Richard Sankey ordered the construction of this 400-square-metre park in 1870. In and around it you will find many impressive buildings, including the 1956 Vidhana Soudha. This park also has an impressive flora and fauna history with more than 6,000 plants and trees.

4. Explore the ISKCON temple

The city’s most impressive temple is the ISKCON temple. It has a short history, having been inaugurated in 1997 by India’s ninth president Shankar Dayal Sharma (1918-1999). So why is it so popular? Because it is among one of the largest Krishna Hindu temples in the world. Thus, you will find 6 different shrines there. The ISKCON Temple is located northwest of the city centre.

5. Explore Bangalore Fort & the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan

One of the oldest foundations of this city can be found at this famous fort. It was Sultan Kempe Gowda I who had this mud fort built to protect the newly emerged settlement from enemies. In the 18th century, Sultan Hyder Ali had it replaced by a stone version. The British captured the fort in 1791, giving them control of the city. Within walking distance, you can also visit the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali’s son.

Accommodation – Where to stay in Bangalore?

Bangalore is India’s third-largest city. It has a population of over 8 million and is also one of the most progressive cities in the country. A visit to the city is definitely recommended. There are several districts where you can find good hotels and hostels.

Around Cubbon Park, for instance, you’ll find plenty of accommodation and be nice and central in Bangalore. You can also find plenty of hotels near MG Road, Mahatma Gandhi Road. I myself stayed in Indiranagar district, more towards the east of the city. Here, besides good accommodation, you will also find many nice restaurants.

Looking for accommodation in Bangalore? Book your hotel or hostel here .

Transport – How to get there ?

By Plane: Bangalore’s international airport is called Bengaluru Kempegowda Airport. Many national as well as international flights depart from here daily. KLM, for instance, has been flying to this city three times a week since October 201. The airport, located 40 kilometres north of the Bangalore has an excellent network of Airport Shuttles that can take you to the city centre.

Train: Bangalore’s main railway station is City Railway Station. From here, many trains leave for the rest of India, including Chennai, Hampi, Goa and Mumbai.

Bus: The city’s main bus station is next to City Railway Station. From Kempegowda bus station, hundreds of buses depart daily to many destinations in India. Generally, you could purchase a bus ticket online, however, the preferred option would be to do so from a local travel agent. You will usually get transport to the bus station from there.

Metro: More and more cities and major towns in India are getting a metro network (Namma Metro). Currently, there are two metro lines (green and purple), but there will be some additions in the coming years. For instance, the purple line will take you from City Railway Station to the east or west of the city.

• Accommodation?   Hotel  via Booking of  Hostel  via Hostelworld?
• Activities:   Tickets & Tours
• Transport:   Bus & Train Tickets
• Flight tickets to Bangalore & India? Skyscanner

Do you have more tips, ideas or comments about this Travel Guide to Bangalore, India? If so, feel free to leave a message below.

Other travel guides and destinations in India?

Historian and Backpacker/World Traveler. In Travel4history I write about special destinations from a historical point of view. How else can you get to know and understand the world better than by learning about its history....

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India Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in India. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles May 28, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in India within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in India, OR
• People planning to stay in India for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Cholera is  presumed to be present  in India. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to India.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to India. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to India.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of India take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for India.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in India.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in India, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

• Arrive within 6 days of leaving an area with risk for YF virus transmission, or
• Have been in such an area in transit (exception: passengers and members of flight crews who, while in transit through an airport in an area with risk for YF virus transmission, remained in the airport during their entire stay and the health officer agrees to such an exemption), or
• Arrive on a ship that started from or touched at any port in an area with risk for YF virus transmission ≤30 days before its arrival in India, unless such a ship has been disinsected in accordance with the procedure recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), or
• Arrive on an aircraft that has been in an area with risk for YF virus transmission and has not been disinsected in accordance with the Indian Aircraft Public Health Rules, 1954, or as recommended by WHO.
• Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda
• Americas: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago (Trinidad only), Venezuela

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Avoid skin contact

Antimicrobial-resistant (ar) ringworm.

• Close contact with infected person
• Shared objects (e.g., towels, bed sheets)
• Shared surfaces (e.g., locker room and shower floors)
• Keep skin clean and dry.
• Do not share bedding, towels, or clothes.
• Avoid touching the infected area so it does not spread to other parts of your body. 
• Consult a healthcare provider for treatment and testing.
• Avoid steroid creams, as they can make the ringworm worse.
• Use prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) antifungals exactly as directed and contact a healthcare provider if treatment is not working.
• Topical antifungals and oral terbinafine are frequently ineffective against AR ringworm.

Emerging Severe and Antimicrobial-Resistant Ringworm | Ringworm | CDC

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in India, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in India. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in India—such as dengue, Zika, filariasis, and leishmaniasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in India include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in India. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call India’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in India. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of India may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in India, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in India.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in India, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for India .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in India, dial 100 or, from a mobile phone, 112. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about India before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on India from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for India for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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