Bengaluru Travel Guide
The Silicon Valley of India

Lauded as the classy, stylish and uber-cool capital of Karnataka, Bengaluru is an enigmatic cosmopolitan city of India. Spearheading the charm of South India, Bengaluru Tourism is a mise-en-scene of culture, religion, education and of course, entrepreneurship. Bustling with energy and mushrooming with an infectious hot-and-happening ambiance, tourists from all over the world travel to Bengaluru to experience a different identity of India, soaked in modernity and urbanisation.

This IT Capital of India was founded by Kempe Gowda, a feudal lord during the reign of Vijayanagara Empire. Later the Muslim ruler Mohammed Adil Shah annexed the empire in 1683 and administered it from Bijapur. The history of Bengaluru also witnessed the rule of Mughals, Wodeyar dynasty, Tipu Sultan and finally the British. All these cultural transformations, their remnants and nostalgic vestiges can be spotted while sightseeing in Bengaluru.

Following are the main attractions of Bengaluru

Attara Kacheri

Also known as the Karnataka High Court, it dates back to 1867. ?Its Gothic style of architecture signifies its enticing features. ?Thus, the European classic style of embellishing the two-storied building can be easily spotted, making it different from the rest. Tipu Sultan, the Ruler of Mysore had called this judicial building as ‘attara kacheri’, which signified eighteen departments.

Bengaluru Aquarium

Situated on the Kasturba Road, this sought after aquarium is located inside an octagonal shaped building, quite simple yet significant in its architecture. In fact, it acts as a charming entrance for the Cubbon Park and was inaugurated in 1983. It has impressive variety of aqua-life, including exotic, freshwater and indigenous fishes.

Cubbon Park

This beautifully landscaped park dates back to 1864. Sir Mark Cubbon, the Viceroy of India, had laid the foundation of this park. Sir Richard Shankey, the then engineer of Mysore, had engineered the layout of this park. One can also spot several neo-classical government style buildings within the park. Toy Train in Cubbon Park is a leading entertainment for children.

Ulsoor Lake

Peacefully located on the north-eastern contours of Bengaluru, this mesmerising lake was created by Kempe Gowda. In the past, it was also called as ‘Alasur’ or ‘Halsur.’ Spread over 1.5 km, several little islands dot this lake. Boating is definitely an added tourist attraction of Ulsoor Lake. The famous Ganesha Festival in Bengaluru is celebrated near the Ulsoor Lake every August/ September.

Tipu Sultan Fort

Initially built by Kempe Gowda, Tipu Sultan further extended the majestic construction of this fort. Dating back to 1537, this fort is an impeccable evidence of the precarious struggle in between the Mysore Kingdom and the British Empire. Islamic style of architecture has been adopted in the construction of this fort.

Excursions from Bengaluru

Travellers can explore nearby interesting destinations such as Thattekere Lake (25 km), Savandurga Hills (33 km), Devarayanadurga hill station (65 km), Anthargange hill range (70km) Kunti Betta (130km), Mysore (143 km) and Coorg (260 km).

Shopping in Bengaluru

Everything from exotic flowers, local wines to expensive South Indian Silk Saris are available in Bengaluru. The rise of innumerable posh malls in the city has boosted the shopping culture of the city.

When to Reach

One can indulge in Bengaluru Tourism anytime of the year, as it has a constant favourable weather. Tourists also love exploring Bengaluru during the prominent festivals like Pongal (January), Mahashivratri (February), Ugadi (March) and Ganesh Chaturthi (September).

How to Reach

Air: The International Airport at Bengaluru is located 40 km away from the main city. It is connected with domestic and international flights to other parts of India and the world.

Rail: The railway stations in Bengaluru are well connected with the important railheads in India.

Road: Frequent bus services are available to connect Bengaluru with other parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Maharashtra.