In computer-savvy Bangalore (officially known as Bengaluru), you're in
India's overcrowded and cosmopolitan Silicone Valley, an IT hub with
fashionable bars, international restaurants and shopping malls all around. Wander around
colonial Cubbon Park or discover the ancient temples and palaces amid
India's futuristic city.
Background
Bangalore's busy city centre has been built up quickly to cope with
the huge IT boom. Central Bangalore is the hub of most attractions, with Cubbon Park
in the Cantonment area containing the colonial bandstand and museums. To its
east, commercial MG Road is lined with gold shops, bars and modern cafes
where hip locals gather for entertainment, day and night. To the south
you'll find the vast, serene Lal Bagh Gardens not far from the Bull Temple
in Basavanagudi.
First-time visit
Head straight to 18th-century Lal Bagh Gardens with 240 acres crammed with
tropical and medicinal plants. Climb the Kempegowda Tower for city views. At
the Bull Temple, in Basavanagudi, gaze at holy Lord Shiva's
granite bull with its garlands of jasmine. It's doused in coconut oil and
measures almost 16.5 feet by 20 feet. On the edge of Cubbon Park, see the
sculptures from Khajuraho and fourth-century Buddhist figures at the Government
Museum.
Return visit
Browse watercolour paintings of Indian hill stations at Venkatappa Art
Gallery, named after the local artist. Enter the faded grandeur of Bangalore
Palace, with its turrets, battlements and portrait-filled gallery. Then
recharge your batteries at a luxury ayurvedic spa, or seek spiritual revival at
ISKCON, the futuristic Hare Krishna temple, north of the city. Shop for
handicrafts at government emporiums along MG Road or Karnataka's
famous silks at the earthier City Market.
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