Bangalore is the capital of southern Indian state of Karnataka. Area wise, Bangalore is the seventh largest city of India. A hub of trade, industry,tourism and professional education in present times, there are many labels attached to Bangalore. It is called the Garden City for its many beautiful gardens and parks. It is also called the Silicon Valley of India because of the presence of the booming IT industry. Bangalore is also appreciated for its quality civic amenities and fun loving nature of Bangaloreans. Though moderate climate prevails throughout the year, the best time to visit Bangalore is October-March.

Accommodation and Connectivity

Bangalore can be reached easily from almost all parts of the country. Located just 13 kms away on the outskirts of the city, there are direct flights to Bangalore from most national and international destinations. Apart from major towns and cities of India, there are also direct trains to Bangalore from far-off destinations like Jammu and Guwahati. Bangalore has good road connectivity with all parts of Karnataka and neighbouring states. The Inter State Bus Terminus of Bangalore is located near the railway station. Thousands of buses enter and leave the place on a daily basis.


There is a wide range of accommodation available in Bangalore for the tourists. From economy to high-end, there is variety available to the tourist to make his choice. Infact, the accommodation infrastructure is well laid out in the city. Economy range hotels are near the bus terminus area. MG Road and Racecourse area are dotted with mid-range hotels while most star hotels are in MR Road, Sankey Road and Racecourse area.

Tourist Attractions

The Vidhan Soudha

Built in the year 1954, the Vidhan Soudha or the State Secretariat of Karnataka is a must-see for tourists. The building can be described as a modern architectural marvel. The building well combines traditional Dravidian styles with the modern trends of architecture. Special permission could also be taken to witness proceedings of the Vidhan Sabha.

Cubbon Park

Located very near to the Vidhan Sabha is the Cubbon Park on a 120-hectare land. The park may be regarded as a paradise for morning walkers and little children. There are a number of neo-classical styled government buildings here.


The Bangalore Museums

There are two museums in Bangalore. The Government Museum of Bangalore is one of India's oldest museums. Visvesvaraya Technological and Industrial Museum is another important museum. Both the museums have a good collection of items belonging to Karnataka's historical period including the Hoysala and Gowda periods.

Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens

The Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful of Bangalore's many gardens. This well laid out garden has many different varieties of flowers. A major attraction is flower shows that are periodically held here. The flower show held on Republic day is most popular.


Tipu Sultan's Fort and Palace

Most part of Tipu Sultan's fort is in ruins. However, the beautiful palace near the fort still stands. It has now been converted into a government museum. The two storeyed building has been richly decorated with precious metals and glass and a beautiful garden is laid out in front of the palace.

Gavi Gangadhareswara Cave Temple

Built by Kempe Gowda, the cave temple is popular for its four monolithic pillars and a rare idol of Agni. An interesting phenomenon observed here on 13th and 14th of January is that the rays of the sun during sunset enter through the window and pass between the horns of Nandi-the bull.

It may be mentioned that all the important temples are actually located on the outskirts of Bangalore. The other temples worth a visit are Venkataramanaswamy Temple and Someshwara Temple.

Excursion Delights

Mysore

The historic city of Mysore lies at a distance of 139 kms from Bangalore. Known as the city of palaces, the city is most famous for the Mysore Palace of Wodeyar rulers. The monuments belonging to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan are also widely visited.

Nrity Bangalorem Village

This small place houses a classical dance academy. Most music lovers make it a point to visit the place to enjoy classical music or for learning. The place is 30 kms away from Bangalore.


Bannerghatta National Park

Bangalore does not let down wildlife enthusiasts either. At a short distance of 21 kms is the Bannerghatta National Park. A wide variety of animal species are found in the park.


Devarayandurga and Ramanagaram

Both these places are famous for adventure activities like trekking and rock climbing. Trekkers and rock climbers frequent these places in large numbers.

Whitefield Ashram

Whitefield Ashram, the summer staying place of Shri Sathya Sai Baba is visited by a number of devotees. The place is at a distance of 20 kms from Bangalore.

Ranging from industry to education to tourism, Bangalore remains full of visitors all throughout the year for variety of reasons.