Bengaluru City Guide

General Information / Guide

Bangalore, also referred to as Bengaluru, is the capital of Karnataka and the third-most populated city in India. Because of its location on the Deccan Plateau, it has an appealing atmosphere. It has an extensive history, with its roots dating back to the sixteenth century. Bangalore evolved to become an important urban center with the end of British rule and the independence of India. It is known to be the "Silicon Valley of India" and serves as a vibrant center for aerospace organizations, research institutions, and tech firms. One of India's fastest-growing metropolises, the city is also a well-known sports destination.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Bangalore features a tropical climate, with an average temperature of around 22-24 °C. October to February are ideal for traveling to Bangalore, as the temperatures are 20 °C at the lowest, with the highest of 28°C with generally pleasant weather. Meanwhile, from March to June, temperatures can rise to a high of 34°C, with hot and dry weather, and from June to September Chennai experiences heavy monsoon rainfalls.  

How to Get There

Kempegowda International Airport, located around 40 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. To reach the city center, travelers can opt for taxis, which are available 24/7, or bus, which is available every 15 to 30 minutes, and go to numerous designated spots in the city. 

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Bangalore offers a diverse culinary landscape, with a blend of traditional South Indian flavors and a cosmopolitan dining scene. Some must-try dishes include Masala Dosa, a crispy rice crepe filled with spicy potato filling, Idli, fluffy steamed rice cakes, Bisi Bele Bath, a flavorful rice dish, and authentic filter coffee, a local favorite.
For an array of dining experiences, you can explore popular eateries like Vidyarthi Bhavan for authentic South Indian breakfast, MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room) for traditional snacks, and Koshy's for a classic Bengaluru dining experience. The city is also home to a wide range of international cuisine, trendy cafes, and upscale restaurants.

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Lalbagh Botanical Garden: A stunning garden known for its diverse plant species and the famous glasshouse.
• Cubbon Park: A lush green space ideal for strolls and picnics.
• Bangalore Palace: A magnificent palace inspired by England's Windsor Castle, offering a glimpse into the city's royal past.
• Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace: A historic structure showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture and artifacts.
• Nandi Hills: A scenic hill station offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Bannerghatta National Park: A wildlife sanctuary home to diverse flora and fauna.
• Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum: An educational museum for science and technology enthusiasts.

What to Do

When in Bangalore, be sure to explore the city's vibrant culture. You can start with a visit to the bustling MG Road for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Brigade Road and Commercial Street for a shopping extravaganza.
Tech enthusiasts can explore the innovative startups and co-working spaces in the Koramangala area. For a taste of Bangalore's thriving nightlife, head to UB City, which houses upscale bars and restaurants. Don't forget to explore the city's art galleries, theaters, and cultural events that showcase the dynamic arts scene in Bangalore.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Bangalore's nightlife is lively and diverse, with options for every taste. To enjoy a rooftop experience with a view of the city, you can visit High Ultra Lounge, Bang, or Skyye. For a casual evening, explore the microbreweries and craft beer scene at Windmills Craftworks, Toit Brewpub, or Arbor Brewing Company.
If you're in the mood for live music and entertainment, you can check out venues like The Humming Tree and Blue Frog. For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Smoke House Deli, Social Offline, or Windmills Craftworks for delicious food and drinks.

Shopping / What to Buy

Bangalore offers a plethora of shopping options, from bustling markets to high-end malls. To purchase traditional silk sarees, handloom fabrics, and handicrafts, visit Chickpet and Commercial Street. Brigade Road and MG Road are known for their branded stores and boutique shops.
For tech enthusiasts, SP Road is a haven for electronics and gadgets. Additionally, you can explore Bangalore's many street markets and boutiques for unique and artisanal products.

Festivals/ Events

February: Bangalore International Film Festival (BIFFES)
February- March: Holi
April: Karaga Festival
August- September: Ganesha Chaturthi
November: Bengaluru International Arts Festival (BIAF)
November: Diwali or Festival of Lights
October: Dussehra or Vijayadashami
December: Bangalore Literature Festival

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New Year's Day 
16 January: Republic Day 
18 February: Maha Shivaratri
22 March: Telugu New Year 
4 April: Mahavir Jayanti 
7 April: Good Friday 
14 April: Dr Ambedkar Jayanti 
14 April: Tamil New Year 
1 May: May Day 
15 August: Independence Day 
19 September: Ganesh Chaturthi 
2 October: Gandhi Jayanti 
14 October: Mahalaya Amavasye
23 October: Maha Navami 
24 October: Vijaya Dashami 
28 October: Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti 
1 November: Kannada Rajyothsava 
12 November: Deepavali 
25 December: Christmas Day 
Eid Al-Fitr
Eid Al-Adha
Muharram

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

When visiting Bangalore, it's essential to respect the local customs and cultural diversity. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places. Be cautious while crossing busy streets, as traffic can be hectic.
Ensure that you choose registered taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging. Bargain in local markets for better prices. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas to prevent theft. Given Bangalore's unpredictable weather, it's wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases can be helpful for communication.

Transportation

Both locals and visitors have access to a variety of transportation choices in Bangalore. BMRCL runs the Namma Metro, which is operational from 05.30 to 23.00 and takes tokens, transit cards, and QR codes as forms of payment. The Majestic bus station serves as the center of the extensive and reasonably priced bus network that BMTC Buses offers. There are metered auto rickshaws available for quick rides. 
Through their apps, Uber and Ola Cabs can be booked for easy transportation, with payment options and OTP security. The higher-priced "Go Pink Taxis," which are solely used by women for safety reasons, are available just for female passengers.