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Bangalore!

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Population

12 million

schedule

Best Time

September to February

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Time Needed

3-5 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Karnataka map South India 🗺️ Offbeat City Breaks Bangalore Bengaluru Karnataka South India Tech Hub Gardens Pubs

Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital of Karnataka and a major hub for India's IT industry. The city boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere, a vibrant pub culture, and numerous parks and gardens, earning it the nickname 'Garden City of India'. Bangalore is a blend of modern development and traditional charm.

Bangalore is worth visiting for its pleasant weather, diverse culinary scene, and historical sites. The city can be crowded and traffic can be heavy, making commutes lengthy. However, the numerous attractions and experiences make it a worthwhile destination for those interested in technology, history, and culture.

To explore Bangalore's key attractions, allocate at least 3-5 days. Getting around is best accomplished via the metro or ride-sharing apps, though traffic can still be a factor. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.

When To Visit

Best Time

September to February

20-30 degrees C

The weather is pleasant and dry, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Evenings can be slightly cooler, requiring light layers.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to explore gardens, historical sites, and enjoy the city's outdoor culture. Fewer chances of rain mean uninterrupted travel plans. Bangalore's pleasant weather makes it ideal for walking tours and exploring local markets.

Tip: Expect slightly higher hotel rates and more tourists, especially during festivals. Book accommodations and popular tours in advance.

Shoulder Season

March to May

25-35 degrees C

The weather starts to get warmer, with occasional heat waves. Afternoon temperatures can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds than peak season and potentially lower prices on accommodations. The city's parks still offer some respite from the heat. However, the heat can make sightseeing challenging during the day.

Tip: Carry water and sunscreen. Plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Avoid

June to August

22-28 degrees C

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. This can disrupt travel plans and make outdoor activities difficult.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting due to heavy rains which can cause flooding and traffic delays. Many outdoor attractions may be less enjoyable due to the weather. The humidity can also be uncomfortable for some travelers.

Note: If you must travel during this period, be prepared for delays and pack rain gear. Some indoor attractions might offer discounts.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Bangalore Palace

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹285 (Indians), ₹685 (foreigners)

Modeled after Windsor Castle, Bangalore Palace is a Tudor-style palace showcasing royal history. The palace was built by Chamaraja Wodeyar X in 1887....

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Cubbon Park

⏱ 2-4 hours Free

Cubbon Park is a sprawling green space in the heart of Bangalore, offering a respite from the city's bustle. It spans over 300 acres and features nume...

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Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture and served as the summer residence of the ruler Tipu Sultan. Constructed primar...

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Lal Bagh Botanical Garden

⏱ 2-4 hours ₹30

Lal Bagh is a sprawling botanical garden commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760. The garden features a diverse collection of plants, a glasshouse, and a la...

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Vidhana Soudha

⏱ 1 hour (exterior view) Restricted Access

The Vidhana Soudha is the State Legislative Assembly of Karnataka, an imposing Neo-Dravidian granite building. It's a significant architectural landma...

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ISKCON Temple Bangalore

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a major pilgrimage site for devotees. It is a modern temple complex with traditiona...

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National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bangalore showcases a collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. It features paintings, sculptures...

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Things To Do

attractions

Brewery Tour

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1500-3000 per person

Bangalore is known for its vibrant brewery scene. A brewery tour typically involves visiting multiple breweries and samp...

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attractions

Wine Tasting at Nandi Hills

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹2000-4000 per person

Take a day trip to Nandi Hills and visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience. Vineyards around Nandi Hills of...

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1200-2500 per person

Learn to prepare traditional South Indian dishes in a hands-on cooking class. These classes often cover a variety of reg...

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attractions

Cycling Tour of Bangalore

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹800-1500 per person

Explore Bangalore's streets and parks on a guided cycling tour. These tours often cover historical sites, gardens, and l...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Yakshagana Performance

2-3 hours | ₹200-500

Yakshagana is a traditional folk theatre form from Karnataka, combining dance, music, and dialogue. ...

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celebration

Kannada Drama

2-3 hours | ₹150-400

Attend a Kannada drama performance at Ranga Shankara, a renowned theatre in Bangalore. Ranga Shankar...

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celebration

Classical Dance Performance

1.5-2 hours | ₹300-700

Experience a classical dance performance, such as Bharatanatyam or Kuchipudi. These dance forms are ...

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celebration

Carnatic Music Concert

2-3 hours | ₹250-600

Attend a Carnatic music concert, a form of classical South Indian music. Carnatic music is character...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market

2-3 hours | Free (shopping costs vary)

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a local market like KR Market. These markets offer a g...

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celebration

Attend a Festival

Varies | Varies

Experience the cultural richness of Bangalore by attending a local festival. Popular festivals inclu...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Masala Dosa
Masala Dosa

Crispy crepe filled with spiced potatoes (try at Vidyarthi Bhavan)

Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath

A rice and lentil dish with vegetables (try at MTR)

Idli and Vada
Idli and Vada

Steamed rice cakes and lentil donuts (try at Brahmin's Coffee Bar)

Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee

Strong, aromatic coffee served in a traditional steel tumbler (try at any local coffee shop)

Where to Eat

MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms)

MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Rooms)

₹₹

South Indian

📍 Lal Bagh Road

A legendary restaurant serving traditional South Indian dishes since 1924. The atmosphere is simple and authentic, the food is delicious and affordable.

Bisi Bele BathMasala Dosa

₹400-600 for two

Vidyarthi Bhavan

Vidyarthi Bhavan

South Indian

📍 Gandhi Bazaar

Famous for its crispy Masala Dosa, this restaurant is a Bangalore institution. It's always crowded, but the food is worth the wait.

Masala Dosa

₹300-500 for two

Street Food Spots

VV Puram Food Street (Thindi Beedi)

VV Puram Food Street (Thindi Beedi)

💰 Budget: ₹100-300 per person

⚠️ Tips: Visit in the evening for the full experience. Be prepared for crowds and bargaining is not expected.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Bangalore

More restaurants & dishes from Bangalore

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Indiranagar

Indiranagar is a trendy area with restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It's a good choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action, but can be noisy.

Best For: Nightlife, Foodies

Koramangala

Koramangala is a residential area with a mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a good choice for families and those who want a quieter atmosphere.

Best For: Families, Foodies

MG Road

MG Road is a central area with shopping malls, restaurants, and historical landmarks. It's a convenient choice for those who want to be close to the city's attractions, but expect higher prices.

Best For: Sightseeing, Shopping

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹500-1200/night

Zostel Bangalore

📍 Indiranagar

A popular hostel with dorms and private rooms, good for backpackers. It has a social atmosphere and organizes events.

₹500-1200/night

Bloomrooms @ Koramangala

📍 Koramangala

Clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It's located in a central area with easy access to restaurants and shops.

₹800-1500/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹3000-5000/night

The Chancery Pavilion

📍 Residency Road

A well-regarded hotel with good amenities and service. Its central location makes it easy to get around.

₹3000-5000/night

Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake

📍 Ulsoor

Offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center. It's located near Ulsoor Lake.

₹2500-4500/night

Luxury

₹10000+/night

The Oberoi Bengaluru

📍 MG Road

An elegant hotel with luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options. It's known for its impeccable service and beautiful gardens.

₹10000+/night

Taj West End

📍 Race Course Road

A heritage hotel with lush gardens, luxurious rooms, and a range of amenities. It offers a blend of old-world charm and modern comfort.

₹9000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), 40km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC)

Main station, handles most long-distance trains, located in the city center.

Yesvantpur Junction (YPR)

Another major station, located in the northern part of the city.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 33 hours (₹1500-4000)
  • From Mumbai: 20 hours (₹1200-3500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

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By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic)
  • Shanti Nagar Bus Station
Routes:
  • From Chennai: 7 hours (₹700-1500)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

subway

Metro

💰 ₹10-60 per ride

Best for: Long distances, avoiding traffic

Buy a rechargeable smart card for convenience. Lines can be crowded during peak hours.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹40 (minimum) + ₹20/km

Best for: Short distances, negotiating narrow streets

Negotiate the fare before starting the ride. Insist on using the meter.

directions

Uber/Ola

💰 ₹100-500 depending on distance

Best for: Comfort, convenience

Book in advance during peak hours. Check the driver's rating before getting in.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is suitable for Bangalore's weather. Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹6000+

ATMs: Widely available

Cash vs Card: Cash is useful for small purchases and auto-rickshaws. Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops.

Bargaining: Expected in markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.

Common Issues: Traveler's diarrhea is common. Bring necessary medications and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. You'll need a passport and visa for purchase.

WiFi: Available in most hotels and cafes

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases is appreciated.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50

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