Bangalore Travel Guide

Officially called Bengaluru, the "Garden City" of the state of Karnataka in the southern part of the country epitomizes India on the road to development. The birthing pains of progress -- horrendous traffic, air and noise pollution and dilapidated infrastructure-- stand alongside spacious open greens and intricate temples. Migrants from other Indian states flock to the Silicon Valley of India, spawned by the promise of a better future with the booming information technology business that has fueled the growth of the city. Surprisingly, it has retained its exuberant air of youthful enthusiasm. This is Bangalore -- India on the move.

Sights

There are many landmarks around Bangalore that are worthy of closer inspection. These include The Bull Temples, Maha Bodhi Society Temple, ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple and miraculous DakshinaMukhy Nandeeshwara Temple. Recharge in the many parks that shield you from the nearly inescapable pollution. Cubbon Park, Lal Bagh and the Bannerghatta National Park, which also doubles as a sanctuary for rescued animals, almost make you forget that you are smack-dab in the middle of the world's fastest growing metropolis. The kids will surely enjoy the rides at Lumbini Gardens, Wonder La Amusement Park, and Innovative Film City. Those who like more strenuous outdoor activities can visit Ramanagara for some rock climbing and Savandurga for trekking and rappelling.

Restaurants

Indian restaurants serving chapatti bread, mouthwatering curries and aromatic rice stand side by side with Western-style eateries with pizza on the menu. Head to Residency Road in the city center where the row of restaurants will surely have something to tickle your taste buds. If you want to experience vegetarian fare hawker's style, head to Shettara Beedi or Food Street that links up VB Bakery at VV Puram. Go after 6 in the evening where you can sample the variety of dishes in each of the stalls. Good eats can also be found along the restaurants on Church Street and Brigade Road.

Shopping

Tourists usually frequent the shops at M.G. Road and Brigade Road that sell anything and everything from local handicrafts to western clothing brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Levis. There are also numerous malls around Bangalore. The biggest one is the Forum Mall. Other malls to splurge at include the new Garuda Mall, the bargain-friendly Safina Plaza and the truly Indian Jayaganar Shopping Complex, where you can find jewelry, saris and sweet meats. Nike, Adidas and other well-known brands have factory outlets at Marathahalli Main Road some distance from the center.

Where to Go in Bangalore