See
Although Bangalore is not known as a tourist city, there is still a lot to see. If you only have a limited amount of time in the city, you should consider taking one of the half-day or full-day city tours offered by KSTDC, the government tourist office. They are cheap and cover the city's major attractions with English speaking guides.
KSTDC also offers longer full-day and multi-day trips to places outside of Bangalore. These include pre-arranged transit, hotel, meals, etc.
Typically, the tours (including the city tours) do NOT include entry fees into the attractions. Bangalore, as with the rest of India, has a habit of charging foreigners a lot more than locals. For example, Tipu Sultan's Palace, which is on the half-day tour, charges Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 100 (or $2 USD) to non-Indians.
Landmarks
* Vidhana Soudha - The legislative House of the State of Karnataka, this granite building was built by Sri K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of the then Mysore state 1951 to 1956. The then Prime Minister Sri Pandit Jawaharalal Nehru laid the foundation on 13th July 1951. It was built at an expenditure of Rs 1.84 crores. Marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture and one of the most imposing building not only in Bangalore but in India. One of the interesting feature of this building in grand stairs in its front. The grand stairs has a flight of forty-five steps 62 m (204 ft) wide 21 m (70 ft) deep giving a direct access to the foyer of first floor leading to an Assembly Chamber. The architecture of the building is based on Dravidian style, comprising richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials, etc; At the same time, the construction has been on modern designs, making use of the present-day materials like steel, reinforced cement concrete glass, plastic, etc.
* Vikasa Soudha - Is it possible to gild a lily? Well you judge for yourself. This ultra modern construction, adjacent to majestic Vidhana Soudha built in the same classic style, is supposed to come fitted with the latest gizmos to help govern the state. It was inaugurated sometime in February 2005.
* Seshadari Iyer Memorial is a distinctive building constructed of red sand stone in Cubbon Park. It houses a public library and the Bangalore High Court, while the grounds include a children's recreation area with a toy train, fairground and theater.
* Bangalore Palace was constructed by the Maharajahs of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction, but is now open to the public.
* Tipu Sultan's Palace, which dates from about 1790, is the summer retreat for Tipu sultan. The two story structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches.
Temples
* The Bull Temple is a typical Dravidian style temple, and is famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops, and that the offering was effective with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude.
* The Maha Bodhi Society Temple (see 'learn' section) is a relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at Bodh Gaya. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English.
* The Iskcon Temple, built on a hillock atop scenic surroundings, the Hare Krishna temple is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote vedic culture and spiritual learning. The annual Krishna and Balarama Rath Yatra is attended by thousands.
* Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple, was built by Kempe Gowda. This temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of Agni god of fire. The annual festival is on Makara Shankranti and thousands of devotees flock to see the suns rays fall on the Shivlinga.
* VenkataramanaSwamy Temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. This ancient temple was built by Maharaja Chikka Devaraya Wodeyar and is situated next to the summer palace of Tipu Sultan.
* Dodda Ganapathi - one of the oldest temples in Bangalore.
Parks
* Cubbon Park. A 121 ha (300 acre) green lung in the center of the city. Sitting in the shade of one its many magnificent trees and watching towering bamboo sway in the breeze, it is hard to imagine that you in the heart of a metropolis of over 6.0 million people and one of the world's most dynamic and fastest growing cities. There is also a toy train offering children's rides.
* Lumbini Gardens. A new attraction in Bangalore. It is located near hebbal flyover and is on the lake front of Nagarvala lake. It has been recently developed with a grant of Rs 10 crore. Major attractions of the park include boat rides, wave pool and children's garden.
* Wonder La Amusement park. A new attraction in Bangalore. It is India's biggest amusement and water part which belongs to V-Guard firm. This park boasts of several rides(both ground & water). This is one of the best spots to visit in Bangalore, which en dazzles in good quality. It is located in the outskirts of the city off Mysore Road.
* The Lal Bagh. A meticulously cared for garden located on the southern fringes of the city. Throughout its 97 ha (240 acre), there are lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and stone formations that date back over 3.0 billion years. Described as the most romantic garden in India, it was laid during the 18th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. There is a small entrance fee.
Do
* Experience the Bangalore pub scene, mostly around MG Road, Brigade Road, and Church Street.
* Go shopping at Banglore's famous malls and traditional markets, though leave your car as it's almost impossible to find a parking spot over weekends. Some of the more popular malls in Bangalore are 'The Forum,' 'Garuda Mall' and 'Bangalore Central.'
* Try your hand at go-karting.
* Attend a wonderful outdoor concert at Palace Grounds.
* Enjoy the unique shopping experience on Sampige Road at Malleswaram in the traditional south Indian styled shops.
* Visit the beautiful lakes in Bangalore."ulsoor lake" and "sankey tank" offer an enriching, pleasant experience.
Theater
There is a theater hall located in J. P. Nagar, called Rangashankara. 36/2/, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase. Tel: 26592777 or 26494656. Tickets range between Rs. 45 - 100. Usually the evening shows start at 7:30 pm. The theater hall management is very strict about starting time. They will not let you in even one minute after the show has started, so make sure you plan to arrive at least 4-5 minutes earlier. You will not be allowed to bring in any drinks or refreshments. Many local groups perform there, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring around India. Quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights and / or directors, as they can show you an "Indian" (or let's say "non-western") perspective. You can visit Rangashankara's website for information on what plays are running. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying / reserving tickets.
Movies
Take in a movie at one of the innumerable theaters around the city, splurge at the PVR Gold Class Cinema in Forum Mall or Inox theatre in Garuda Mall. Nani Cinematheque has film series almost every weekend programmed by local film clubs, like Collective Chaos and the Bangalore Film Society. A club membership (around Rs 500/year) is typically required for entrance. The Alliance Francaise and Goethe Institute also host frequent foreign film series and cultural events.
Spa
The professionals of India's "silicon city" work and play hard, and massages and spa treatments are easily available in Bangalore. Visitors might need a little respite from the roaring traffic and fast-paced lifestyle too. Spas are very much a part of Bangalore's East-meets-West culture, and new ones spring up across the city all the time. Among the best is "The 5th Elelment" Opp Dell office Inner ringroad and SPA.ce on Cunningham Road, run by an ex-pat Brit. It's best to book in advance for this spa's.
Learn Buddhism
* The Maha Bodhi Society, 14 Kalidasa Road, Gandhinagar, +91 80 2250684, (mahabodhi@vsnl.com), , has a very active temple in Bangalore. There are teachings on the Dharma in English on the first two and last Sundays of every month from 9:30-11:30AM, while on the 3rd Sunday there is a meditation retreat. Anyone is welcome to attend. The temple also has a good library and a beautiful garden - a great place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis outside.
* Choe Khor Sum Ling (CKSL), Ashwini, No. 24, First Floor, Domlur Layout, Tel: 080 41486497 (email: admin@choekhorsumling.org), . Tibetan Buddhist Meditation & Study Center is located in Domlur near Shanti Sagar Hotel on Airport Road. CKSL is a center for the study and practice of Mahayana Buddhism following the lineage and example of Lord Buddha. The Center, whose name means 'The Three Turnings of the Wheel of Dharma' was founded in 2003 by Lama Zopa Rinpoche under the guidance of HH the XIVth Dalai Lama. The Center offers courses in various Buddhist meditation techniques and teachings on different aspects of tBuddhism. Teachings are offered free to the public and are conducted in English or in Tibetan (with translation in English). In addition to regular teachings every few weeks the Center invites senior Lamas to give talks on important aspects of the Buddhist path. Such talks are also accompanied by instructions and initiations by the Lama into different meditation practices.
IT Education
* There are many IT training companies in the city that cater to the needs of the Knowledge hungry. Check what they have to offer and the kind of hands-on training they provide. Avoid companies that put out flyers, as they usually do not provide quality training.
Science and Stuff
Bangalore is famous for its innumerable educational and research institutes. The India Institute of Science, , set in sprawling grounds, is the largest and best in India. It does cutting-edge research on almost any topic imaginable. Also, there are other places like JNCASR (Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research), the various veternary and agriculture universities, the University of Bangalore, and NCBS (National Centre for Biological Sciences). There is also the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, which conducts two sky-gazing shows daily, and conducts many exhibitions and workshops by / for children. More information can be found at http://www.taralaya.org/.
Other places include the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, DRDO Defence Research and Devlopment Org.), ISRO Satellite Centre, Raman Research Institute, Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, Centre for Airborne Systems Studies and Analysis, Microwave Tube Research and Development Centre, Gas Turbine Research Establishment, Central Power Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), CSIR Centre for Mathematical Modelling and Computer Simulation (CMMACS), Indian institute of Management - Bangalore (IIM -B), Indian Institute of Information Technology - Bangalore (IIIT-B), Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology (IBAB), Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and National Institute of Mental Health & Neuro Science.
In short, Bangalore is the place to go to in India for post-graduation (graduate studies) or higher.
Work Non-Indians
With a little hard work and persistence finding a job is quite possible in Bangalore. Most of the available positions are in the IT field but not necessarily IT based. Several ex-pats do marketing, quality assurance, accent training and translation among other things. All jobs in India require either a business or employment visa which must be obtained abroad and sponsored by the hiring company. In general, the salary is very high compared to the local Indian wage. Internships in general, pay around Rs.10000-Rs.15000 per month while full-time jobs average between Rs.30000-Rs.50000 per month plus flights and housing. The best resource for jobs is through the expat community. Ask around but a good place to meet people are at the Sunday brunches at the 5 Star hotels or the numerous coffee shops in the MG Road area.
Buy Handicraft
* The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium, 45 M G Road, +91 80 2558-1118, is a large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of Mysore sandalwood are an especially good buy.
* Central Cottage Industries Emporium (CCIE), M G Road - A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Chennai.
* Royal Arts & Crafts, 21 K.H. Road, +91 80 2248-4797 has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and paper mache products.
* Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation, 45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, M.G.Road, +91 80 2558-1118 - specializes in Karnataka handicraft.
Books
* The Strand book stall, 1st Floor, Manipal Centre, Dickenson Road, +91 80 2558-0000, . Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices.
* Gangarams, 72 M G Road, +91 80 2558-6743, +91 80 2558-7277. Four floors crammed with books makes this book store one of the largest (as well the most organized) book store in India.
* Crossword, ACR Towers, Opp. Gateway Hotel, Residency Road, 91-80-25582411 - 16 A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks- music and movie section, children's section and a coffee sho- this proves to be a wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop.
* Higginbothams, 68 M G Road, +91 80 2558-7359, +91 80 2558-6574 - a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels
* Premier Book Shop, 46/1 Church Street (off M G Road), +91 80 2558-8570. Is a venerable Bangalore institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down!
* Landmark, In Forum Mall on Luskar Hosur Road, Koramangala, +91 80 2206-7777 / 78 / 80 - a modern bookshop. A good place to pick up the most recent publications. Various household appliances; CDs and DVDs of music albums, computer and video games (the quality varying from time-to-time) and movies can also be found on the next floor.
* Blossoms, near Coconut Grove Restaurant, Church Street (parallel to MG Road),+91 80-2559733,+91 80-25320400 - For those rare- hard to get old books, there are 3 full floors of them- all second hand- good condition and at low rates. You definitely won't leave disappointed.
* Select Bookshop, off Brigade Road Behind Curzon Court Hotel, Brigade Road - Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books.
* Oxford Book Store, At the Leela Galleria (next to Hotel Leela Palace) - Has some of the latest collection of books and magazines but, doesn't offer any discounts. It has a Cha Bar attached offering 69 blends of tea.
* Tata Book House, At the Indian Institute of Science, Malleswaram - Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc.
* Bangalore Book shop,on 17th cross,Margosa Road Malleswaram has a wide range of books on Technical and other books spread over 5000 sq fts.This is one of the best places to buy books in Malleswaram. This is owned by the same people who run Tata Book House, above.
* Streelekha, This is a great bookstore to explore the feminist literature and activism that is being produced in India, as well as other texts on the research and work of Indian NGOs. The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting. The bookstore is located at 33/1-9, Thyagaraja Layout in Jaibharath Nagar, telephone: 91 80 25492783.
* Sapna Book House, This is a large bookstore on 3rd Main road, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar (Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand). They also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery through http://www.sapnaonline.com.
* Fusion Rental, First time in Bangalore, Company offering a service of online renting of books & movies. Vast collection of both books & movies at one place. Free Pick up & Delivery all over Bangalore. http://www.fusionrental.com
* The Bookworm, This is a small used book store in one of the by-lanes perpendicular to Brigade Road (near McDonalds). Good bargains on used and new books are available here.
* Elloor Library, A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Located at Blue Cross Chambers on Infantry Road, close to Commercial Street. Requires membership which includes a deposit.
Shopping
Bangalore provides wide range of options for shoppers. One can buy many things ranging from silk saree and latest clothings to hi-fi electronic goods and latest vehicles. Being IT city, Bangalore provides all kind of services but one might find things to be costlier.
Many visitors come to Bangalore searching only for sandalwood carvings and silk sarees and so miss out on the true Bangalore shopping experience. Here is a low down on shopping - Bangalore style:
The M.G Road/Brigade Road area is the most popular place for tourists, and these two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road).
Bannerghatta Road a tiresome approach it used to be (sounds yodaish)...but now it's much better..and you have 'Grasshopper' a space that exhibits clothing design from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! and if that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad resevoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. Enjoy
Brigade Road was used to be where once British soldiers bought their necessities. How things have changed! Today Brigade road is the centre of yuppie Bangalore, you'll see hordes of college students on the road anytime of day or night. Some of the stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis,Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, Titan (great Indian made watches) just to name a few... There are also many eateries on either side of the roads and on the side roads that lead of Brigade road, so that you can refuel yourself for shopping! There are your fast food outlets: KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut at the other end of the road and many cafes including the Indian Coffee Chain Cafe Coffee Day.Also includes a Tattoo parlor.
Commercial Street a legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) along side locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its tattoo and body piercing centers. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain.
Malls in India are a recent phenomenon, the first opened back in 1999, since then there has been a boom with malls around every corner in large cities (now also in smaller cities). Bangalore is no exception! Here is list of the major Malls in Bangalore, but beware that there are at least a dozen in the planning and construction stages!
Forum MallThe Forum on Hosur road is in the upmarket suburb of Koramangla, fast becoming a key shopping hub in Bangalore. Again like other shopping areas, you can find anything at the Forum, high international brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Swarovski Crystals to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. Other brands with outlets include: United Colours of Bennetton (much cheaper here than in the west), Pepe Jeans U.K, William Penn, Wrangler Jeans, Weekender and of course Nike. The Forum incorporates the clothing from international brands as well as haute couture boutiques including: Mustard, Isis, B and the Chai shop. For books head straight to Landmark and huge store has everything from books to perfumes and music. On the top floor of the mall you will find a PVR multiplex comprising 11 cinemas. For eating there is everything, Fast food (KFC, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Subway) Cafe Coffee Day and a food court with world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. Not to be missed is the Indian cusine at Sahib Sindh Sultan and the British style pub, Firangi Pani. So that is a forum for all your shopping needs under one roof! Its just a must see, especially the outside.
Garuda MallLocated on the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads, is the newest mall in Bangalore. This Mall is definitely catered to the upper class of Indian society. Many of the same brands as Forum are available as well as some that are not. One of the major draw points of this mall is that it houses the Indian department chain store: Shoppers Stop, which once stood across the road as a separate building but is now part of this new mall. The Mall also houses a INOX cinema multiplex on the top floor.
Bangalore CentralOpened around the same as the Forum, Bangalore Central is more of a large department store than a mall with separate retailers. It still is must visit for shoppers in Bangalore. It is located in city centre on the corner of M.G and Residency Roads (Opposite Mayo Hall), so unlike the Forum it is walkable distance to the main M.G/Brigade Roads shopping area. It has a huge range of everything (like department stores in the west), clothing (Indian and Western brands), electronics, perfumes, accessories as well as a supermarket on the top floor and food court plus a Cafe Coffee Day. They have a altering service with in the store and can be done in two hours depending on the rush.
Safina PlazaIs sale central in Bangalore, located on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers (Dockers, Lee Jeans, Titan too name a few) here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi).
Sampige Road,Malleswaram Tired of going to mall, and indulging in window shopping.Try Sampige (a flower name) Road. Sampige Road is the heart of Malleswaram and connects Sheshadripuram to IISc.Sampige Road is around 2 km, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road(aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience.Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go for the best departmental stores in Bangalore like Fabmall, foodworld, Nilgiris.
Marathahalli Main Road and Factory OutletsLocated a distance from central Bangalore (although not difficult to reach), is Marathahalli (a village in a previous life). The main road of this suburb is now a haven for factory outlets for all major brands: Nike, Adidas, Pepe Jeans, Killer Jeans, Louis Phillipe, Levi's, Reebok etc.. You can expect prices here to be cheaper than in the Malls, at least 20-30% price difference but can be up to 50% cheaper when it comes to some of the major denim brands! As if India wasn't cheap enough. Although this is the best place to go to for factory outlet shopping, there are smaller factory outlets scattered across the city. Also look out for sales held by the major brands to get rid of end of season stock (again end of summer or end of monsoon), these are usually advertised in newspapers or look for signs posted on major roads.
Metro shopping mall Near Yashwanthpura railway station and ISKON temple.
Lifestyle near Globus/Garuda Mall
This two-storey store is located in the heart of the new mall shopping district with malls like Garuda Mall, Bangalore Central and Globus, all within easy walking distance and was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price.
ARNAV- The quaint little jewellery store located at Ashoka Pillar,Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique,restored,contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display.They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs,an in house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery.They could be reached at www.arnav.in,Tel:2656 8416/99860 01216.
Music and Movies
* Habitat, "Movies and Music" - Church Street, Off Brigade Road is tiny compared to other retail music/movie stores, but its a delight for lovers of good music especially Jazz. Also doubles up as a DVD Rental store with a prized collection of movie DVDs from around the world. Its worth getting a membership even if you're going to stick around only for a couple of weeks!
Eat
This guide uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:Budget Under Rs 150
Mid-range Rs 150-500
Splurge Over Rs 500
Bangalore is far from the sea, hence if you have a sensitive stomach and are new to the Indian cuisine you should stay away from seafood and fish in Bangalore.
Budget
Bangalore literally has hundreds of fast food joints serving south Indian vegetarian food. They usually are identified with small round steel tables and diners standing around them having food. Dosas, idlis, vada's, curd rice, Vegetable Pulao, rice with sambar, lemon rice are usually standard fare. Quality widely varies, since most of them cater to working people.
* Dumma's Multi-Cuisine. #18/1C, Bellandur Road, Off Sarjapur Road, Bangalore-560037, Ph: 9945150909/9945050909, , We Serve North-Indian, Tandoori, Chinese Food. For Free Home Delivery Call - 9945150909 / 9945050909 in and around Sarjapur, Bellandur, Marthalli Ring-Road, Koramangala, HSR Layout. Close to Wipro, Intel, Accenture, Sun City, Sobha, Akme Harmony & Kristal Apartments in south of Bangalore. We take Party and Catering orders.
* Anupams Coastal Express ,Shivanand Circle .. If you want to taste some real good sea food , you ought to go to this place. They make fantastic fish dishes . Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi ,Kori Roti and Chicken Ghee Roast are some things you really cant miss.
* Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR), 11 Lal Bagh Road, +91 80 2222-0022, +91 80 2222-1706. One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR everyday for the past 15 years. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12 course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around Rs.80 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends.
* New Shanti Sagar. This is an especially good chain of south Indian restaurants. Branches scattered all over the city, notably in Koramangala 80ft road, Jayanagar, Domlur, etc. Rs 50-200.
* The Adiga's chain of restaurants to the south of Bangalore. Prominent among them are the joints located in: Jayanagar 4th Block, take the road facing BHS First Grade College, Basavanagudi. Here is the list: Adiga's Park 585,10th Main,42nd cross,5th Block Jayanagar. 2. Adiga's Foodline,502,40th Cross,8th block. 3. Adiga's Delicacy,105,Dickenson's road,Manipal Centre. 4. Adiga's Majestic, Next to Fkcci Bldg, KG Road. 5. Adiga's Nalapaka, Opp.to HSBC Complex,Bannerghatta, Arikere
* Sree Krishna joint a little further from the road connecting Lalbagh Westgate with Basavanagudi.
* SLV chain of restaurants. Prominent among them are located in:Banashankari 2nd Stage, opposite BDA park and the one in J.P.Nagar 2nd Phase near Ragigudda Temple
* Vidhyarthi Bhavan, just off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi - A gastronomic haven - offering some of the best Masala Dosa in the world! This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change it's age old sign board (who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place)!!! Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit.
* Hotel Janatha, 8th Cross Road, Malleswaram - Makes some of the best Vada Sambhar and Masala Dosa in town.
* Corner House, Residency Road (2558-3262), BTM Road, Koramangala (Off 80ft Road), Airport Road (Arlton Towers), Marthahalli (Whitefield Road) is one of the best ice cream parlours offering a variety of treats. Their famed 'Death by Chocolate' (popularly known as DBC) is a must for all chocolate lovers and has attained a cult status.
* Central Tiffin Room (a.k.a CTR), Margosa Road, Malleswaram - Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne Masala Dosa', which literally melts in the mouth.
* Upahara Darshini, on DVG road, Basavanagudi. Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch Masala Dosa and Vada Sambhar
* Lake View Milk Bar, MG Road. Tel: +91 80 2558-7410 - excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers.
* McDonalds, Forum Mall - Don't expect to find any beef items.
* Shiv Sagar, Narayan Pillai Street, Off Commercial Street. Tel: +91 80 509-8892 - Don't get put off by the location! It's a great place to eat.
* Coconut Grove, Church Street - try the appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken source dish. Their lunch offer for 80rs is also really good.
* Koshy's, St. Marks Road (below Church St). A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. Warning: prices have risen considerably in recent years. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e., French) Toast. Appam and Stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) AC room. Rs 50-200.
* KC Das, St. Marks Road and Church St. The most famous Bengali sweets shop in Bangalore. Stop here for infinite variations on rasgullah.
* Udupi Garden, 16th Main BTM Layout. Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north indian food.
* Nandini, the Andhra fast food chain serves some excellent biriyani and chicken dishes
* Shezan, on Lavelle Road and Cunningham Road, +91 80 22249319 +91 80 22249667 +91 80 22287895 +91 80 22262195, proposes Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines with a good menu choice where beef, fish, prawn, mutton and chicken meat are available.
Mid-Range
* HOT WOK - #297,100 Feet Road, Indra Nagar. "HOT WOK. It's not a restaurant, it's a way of life."* 100ft Restaurant - 100 Feet Road, Indra Nagar. westernized cooking, but notably better than any other pasta serving restaurant in the area. The restaurant is a bit of a hybrid, as a store/restaurant. rs 300-500
* Ebony, MG Road. On the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Road, this stylish eatery offers excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambience makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. Rs 200-400
* Little Italy, 100 Ft Road, Indiranagar. A chic italian vegetarian restaurant, faddish and over priced. Sometimes the staff switches off air conditioning if the tables are less than half-filled!
* Mainland China, Church Street (near Museum Road), +91 80 2227-7722, 2224-5864. Upscale Chinese food. OK food and good service. Serving lunch buffet. The one at St. Mark's Road is closed. Rs 100-500.
* Sahib Sindh Sultan, Address:Level 2, Forum Mall, Hosur Road, Koramangala, Phone: 22067878 Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining Firangi Paani. Rs 150-500
* Samarkand, Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Road (East of Central St), +91 80 4111-3366. North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. Rs 300-600.
* Shiok Far-eastern Cuisine, 2nd Floor, #12 CMH Road, Indiranagar (next to Citibank ATM), +91 80 4116-1800, . This restaurant offers the some of the most authentic South East Asian/Thai food in Bangalore. Rs 150-500
* T.G.I Friday's, Carlton Towers & Airport Road - Don't expect cheap Indian prices. But Happy Hours (1 + 1 free on alcoholic beverages) in the evening should make up for that.
* Pinx, Manipal center (off MG Road). A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. Rs 200-400 per head.
* Canopy , PU Building, M.G.Road,This restaurant is an open air paradise bang in the middle of the city and serves authentic North Indian food and also has a multi cuisine menu. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Rs.100-500
* Le Rock Pub Cafe, Rest House Road, (off Brigade Road), +91 80 41231001, Hot Coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana Cigars from Salads, Sandwiches, Jacket Baked Potatoes to Entree's. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar Bangalore's first. A must for every tourist visiting this city. Affordable prices.
Splurge
* Blue Ginger, Race Course Road (in the Taj West End). This high-end Vietnamese restaurant has a beautiful setting and excellent food. You may be shocked by the bill, though. Just next door to Blue Bar.
* Cafe Mozaic, 41/3 MG Road (in the Taj Residency). Western-style dining in a casual atmosphere with some pool-side seating. Sundays before 3:30 PM, there is an all-you-can-eat/drink champagne brunch for Rs 1000.
* Grasshopper, 45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Road, +91 80 2659-3999 (+91 98 4545-2646). Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on mondays. Prix fixe.
* Leela Palace has several upscale restaurants. All-you-can-eat/drink brunch on Sunday is Rs 2000.
* Sunny's at Embassy Diamante, 34, Vittal Mallya Road. +91 80 5132 9366/ +91 80 5132 9391/ +91 80 2212 0496. About Rs. 1,200 for a three-course meal for two, excluding drinks. Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the excellent range of starters with fantastic sauces (salads are fine here!) and the Pasta with a bottle of Grovers is to die for! Also recommend the Hot sandwiches for a lunch-time feast. Owned by an Indian Film director.
Ethnic
* Tijouri. North Indian restaurant inside the Hotel Atria.
* Kamat Yatrinivas, Gandhinagar. Serves special N Karnataka meals with jowar(Sorghum) rotis. They now have a branch on Bull temple road where they have local artists perform when you have dinner.
* Kadambam. Authentic Iyengar cuisine ranging from Puliogare, Sakkare Pongal, Thayir Sadham, of course Kadambam (which is actually a type of a heavenly concoction of Sambhar and rice, akin to Bisibele Huliyanna), and a wide array of traditional Iyengar sweets. It has two branches, one on Bull Temple Road, near Ramakrishna Ashram and another just off West of Chord road, near Modi eye Hospital in Rajajinagar.
Continental
* Herbs & Spice, Off CMH Road, Behind Domino's. Great desserts.
* Casa Picola, has interesting, tasty Italian and continental food in a casual ambience. An old favourite for many locals, it has a few branches.
* Spiga , 76/A Vittal Mallya Road, +91 80 22996781.
* Friends Fast Food, Jyoti Nivas College Road, Koramangala (300m from Forum). Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one.
* Cafe Y, Langford Road (Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Road-Langford Road junction), +91 80 511-44561. Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambience.
* Indi Joe, 1 Airport Road (Carlton Towers), +91 80 4111-3636, +91 80 4112-1234. Offers fondue, pizza, steak and Mexican food. Their Lunch buffet is good.
* Rendezvous, 80 Ft Road, Koramangala. Near Barista and Maharaja Hotel.
* Fiorano Ristorante/ 63, 100 ft Road, next to sukh sagar, 5th A block, Koramangala. +91 80 25534231. Finest and authentic Italian cuisine in Bangalore.
South Karnataka
* Karavalli, Residency Road (at the Gateway Hotel), +91 80 2558-4545. Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine.
* Konkan, 6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala, +91 80 2552-1530. Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine.
* Vidyarthi Bhavan, 32 Gandhi Bazaar, 91 80 2667-7588. Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial.
* The Palms, 33 Church Street (at the Highgates Hotel), +91 80 2559-7172. Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations)
* Janatha Hotel, 8th Cross, Malleshwaram. Another great place, famous for its Butter Masala Dosas and Vadas.
* Halli Mane, 3rd Cross, Malleswaram (close to Malleswaram Circle). Truly authentic and top notch traditional Kannada fare
* Kamath Yatrinivas...Majestic, authentic Mangalorean meals
* Kamath Lookaruchi.... On Mysore Road just before Channapatna...amazing food and ambience.Authentic mangalorean meals
* Upaahara Darshini.... On of the bangalore's oldest food joints. Amazing dosas (pancakes!)
* krishna darshini.. vasavi temple street, basavanagudi offers replicas of mtr's delicacies, damn reasonable
* kudla.. for sea-food, attached to Ramashree comforts serves excellent dishes.
Bengali
* Bangaliana, 355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala, (Opp. HDFC Bank) Tel: +91 80 2571-1058 - Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets.
* Sonar Bangla, 88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Road, Malleswaram. Tel: +91 80 336-7622 - The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant.
* 6 Ballygunge Place, 1F., 612, 12th Main, Indira Nagar (above Café Coffee Day).
* Cinnamon, CMH Road (opp BATA Showroom).
* Bhuchu's, 80ft Road .
* Thontiz, 180ft Road .
Andhra
* Bheemas, Church Street, Off Brigade Road, The 'meals' here are to-die-for! Every dish is crafted to perfection by their cooks in strict Andhra tradition. If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you.
* RRs, Off Brigade Road, A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a saturday afternoon.
* Nagarjuna Chimney,(1) Residency Road, Near Old Galaxy Theatre, (2) Jayanagar 3rd Block, Near ICICI Bank, Possibly have a few more branches elsewehere in Bangalore. The Biryani is almost intoxicating, not to mention their 'meals' which are served ritually on a banana leaf. Reach early for lunch, for, there are hordes in the waiting always.
Tamil
* Krishna Cafe, Koramangala (Opposite China Pearl). Traditional Chennai-style food. Dosas, idlis, idiappam and the like with authentic Tamil sambar and chutney. Do note that this place is vegetarian-only, though.
* Ponnuswamy, Koramangala (near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock). Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry here - excellent fare! No alcohol or smoking.
Fast Food and Ice Cream Parlors
* U S Pizza, Church Street. Tel: +91 80 2559-9347 - If you are looking for a western tasting pizza this is the closest you get, try lamb-pepperoni.
* Richie Rich Icecream Parlor, With three branches around the city, this icecream parlor has a variety of natural icecreams, softies and many scrumptuous fast food items such as pav bhaji and vada Pav which will leave its customers with a craving for its foods. Try the elvis Presley speciality.. or the traffic Jam or Richie Rich Special. The three locations are on St. Marks R, Airport Rd. and Kumara Park East. Tel: +91 802226-9655.
* Phalaamritha Icecream Parlor, 8th Cross,14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram Tel:6567 5755
Serves 25 Super Smooth Home-made Ice Cream Flavours along with Health Drinks,Yummy varieties of Kulfi's,Milk Shakes,Ice Tea,Ice Cream Novelties and tasty Chaats.
* Corner House, 1 Airport Road (Carlton Towers). - If you are looking for the best desserts in town. The "brown bomb" and "hot fudge" are a must have. Not a place for calorie counters.
Indian
* Bay Leaf, Raheja Arcade, Opposite Forum Mall, Kormangala - A really nice place with reasonable prices.
* Queens, Church Street, Opposite Amoeba - Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices.
* D A L F R Y D A Y, Banerghatta Road,near IIM -B, besides HSBC Bank and above Fabmall - Now open, serves very good North Indian non vegetarian cuisine in a fine ambience.
* Rasilas,J P Nagar 7 Block, Close to Brigade Gardenia and Millenium - Nice place with very fine cuisine
* Mast kalander, Bannerghatta Road has some very nice North India cuisine. It is very reasonably priced
Italian
* I-Talia, The Park, M.G. Road. Tel: +91 80 2559-4666 - very expensive
* 100 ft Boutique, 100 ft Road, Indiranagar (after Fab Mall when you are travelling from CMH road side) - the food and drinks are good, but it's a bit pricey.
* Little Italy, Nice vegetarian restaurant in Indira Nagar - little expensive. Good food.
* Via Milano, Near Sony World, Koramangla - Very Expensive authentic Italian food. 3 Course meal for 2 will cost an average of Rs 2000/ (wine not included)
Chinese
* Shanghai Junction, No.8, Sri Sai, 60Ft. Road, G Block, Sahakarnagar, Bangalore - 560 092 ( Behind Big Market) Tel: +91 80 41744477 & 41744488
Kerala
* Claypot, Tippasandra - very tasty
* Malabar Cusine, MARATHA HALLI BRIDGE - very tasty
* Kairali, Near Forum Mall, Koramangala
* MAS, Madiwala, 2-3 km from Koramangala
* Gokulam Mess, GM Palaya, 3 km from Indiranagar
* Kerala Spice, Airport Road, Close to Diamond District
* Hotel Ruchi, Vignan Nagar
* Hotel New Malabar, Near level cross, Kaggadasapura
* Tharavadu, Bommanahalli, On Hosur road after silk board
* Priyam Restaurent, Jagadish Nagar, behind BEML
* The Paramount Restaurant, Koramangala , Near Jyothi nivas college
* Little Home, Koramangala, 80ft road, near Wipro K2 office. - Very good south and central kerala food. Bad service though.
Dhabas
* There are few Dhabas catering to all tastes. Both South and North Indian fare is available at most places and is clean and cheap. A special mention is the green park dhaba on the outskirts on bellary road and Golconda Chimney on the airport road. Try the Chicken Kathi rolls and the Biryani.
Some of the Dhabas in South Bangalore Kanakapura Road 1. Friends 2. Queens court 3. Eden huts 4. Green Park (next to Queens Court)
* Try out Boby-ka-Dhaba near Ulsoor Lake. Take a left turn from MG Road - Trinity Circle and ask for Gurudwara (the Sikh temple). Stop your vehicle and get down. Right next to the Gurudwara is Boby-ka-Dhaba.
Drink
What
* Fresh coconuts are abundant in Bangalore, and the water sipped straight from the nut is a healthy, enjoyable and cheap way to quench the thirst.
* As in many parts of India, the yogurt based drink lassi is readily available in Bangalore. It is served plain or flavored with sugar or fruit, mango being a popular one. Lassi is particularly refreshing on a hot day and is also very effective in cooling and calming the stomach after an overly-spicy meal.
* Fresh lime soda, which is offered "sweet or salt".
* Kingfisher is the most popular and widely available beer in Bangalore. It is typically sold in 650 ml bottles, suitable for sharing between two or three people. Note: Indian beer may contain the additive glycerol, which can cause headaches.
Where
Cafes
* Cake Walk - #297,100 Feet Road, Indra Nagar. Tasty and Yummy desserts Cake Walk location
* Cafe Coffee Day - Can be found all over Bangalore. Cafe Coffee Day locations in Bangalore
* Barista - Can be found all over Bangalore. Barista locator
* Coffee World - Can be found all over Bangalore. Coffee World locations
The three places above are India's answer to Starbucks and serve snacks, teas, other drinks & coffee of exceptional quality.
* Coffee Workers Co-op - M.G. Road - a venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white.Have some delightful "masala dosa" here.
Pubs and bars
Bangalore is home to numerous pubs and bars - earning it the epithet the Pub City of India. Note that due to recent police crackdowns, pubs close at 11:30 p.m. in most cases.
Budget
Most bars and pubs in the city are somewhat upscale, but many inexpensive restaurants serve beer.and good quality food
Mid-range
* Pecos, Rest House Road (off Brigade Road). This 60's retro pub (a mural of Jerry Garcia greets you at the door) is often crowded on all three floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated.
* Bear Joint Pub (aka BJP), Indira Nagar
* Nasa, Church Street.
* Tavern at The Inn, Museum Road.
* Styx (next to Cauvery Handicrafts on M.G. Road) - known for its heavy metal and hard rock music. 'Happening' nights are Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
* Purple Haze, Residency Road. Popular for the classic rock that's played there. Now there is a new Purple Haze off Hosur Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College).
* Sparks,Brigade Road extension, next to Brigade Towers.
* Ego's, Castle Street, off Brigade Road.
* J'Cubez, Banshankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex - For all those rock lovers
* The Bunker, off Residency Road.
* Legends of Rock, 80ft Road, 6th Block,Koramangala.+91 80 41303232. The only pub in Bangalore that lives up to its name. Watch the Legends perform on large format TV's. Its more than a pub its an experience.
* Dewars, next to cantonment railway station - beautifull old bunglow.... slow but charming service (you don't need to order drinks - just buy the bottle!) - excellent tapas kind of food (primarily carnivorous and hell! spicy)no music!...thank god you can actually talk with the people you go out with - might just disappear very soon!
* Opus, Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Road, +91 80 23442580, . A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Sundays and Wednesdays (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights.
* SOS and Bull n Bush 4th Floor, Garuda Mall,
* Sultanate Of Swing:',' Free entry, mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ.
* Bull n Bush: Rs.500/- cover Charge, Plays Hip Hop, House and Occasionally Trance.
* Le Rock Pub Cafe, Rest House Road (off Brigade Road)+91 8041231001. The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large Plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. Open from 10 AM to 11.30 PM.
* Windsor Pub Just Off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building, Vasanth Nagar. A small place which serves only beer. Serves good food and nice for a family outing. But only limited tables!!
Splurge
Most hotels have spiffy bars with every imaginable concoction of drinks available.
* 13th Floor, Barton Center, M.G Road. Make a reservation.
* The Beach, 100ft Road, Indiranagar. Make a reservation. Starts with Retro Music, plays some good hip-hop and house towads the end. Makes you feel like you are in Goa.
* Aura, Cunningham Road
* Blue Bar, Race Course Road - Usually open past midnight. On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for 1500 rs to enter. Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar.
* Cosmo Village, Magrath Road, has 3 floors (including seating on the terrace). Lounge music played most of the time. This place is a hit with people from foreign countries (mainly European).
* F-Bar (Fashion Bar - a theme bar by FTV) inside Le Meridien
* Fuga The best place for House Music lovers, Richmond Town.
* Firangi Paani, Forum Mall, Koramangala.
* Geoffrey's, Airport Road (Royal Orchid). Really nice place.
* Hint, 5th Floor Bangalore Central, M.G Road. Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted).
* iBar, Park Hotel, M.G Road
* Spinn, just next to Brigade road circle. Closes early at 23.30. You have to pay a cover charge of 500rs to enter. Attention! - Saturdays is a party goers energy paradise with full-on house and some hip hop towards the end.
* Taika, Church Street (off Brigade Road) - Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night.
* Tuscan Verve (off Brigade Road).
Sleep
Due to demand vastly outstripping supply, good hotels in Bangalore are insanely expensive — with average rates pushing US$500/night, it's possibly the most expensive city on Earth to a businessman expecting a Western-style experience to sleep in. Fortunately prices at the lower end of the spectrum are rather more reasonable.
Budget
* Ajantha, 22 MG Road. Good simple hotel with veggie restaurant. Tel:+91 80 2558-4321.
* Royal Lodge, S. C. Road (Next to Kapali theater),Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. Tel:+91 080 2226-6951 Web:royallodge
* Sri Rama Krishna Hotel (good, cheap hotel) - in the "Majestic Area" near City Rail and Bus Station. Rs.450 (close to $10) per night will get you a very secure single with morning Freezing cold water, tea/coffee TV, phone in room and a good views if on upper floor (request). However, if you have a problem with cockroaches, then you'll probably want to look else where. Also, make sure you bring mosquito netting as there are vents that are impossible to close. The hotel also has a very popular, large restaurant serving South Indian food. - closed for renovation in late August 2006.
* Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj (good, very cheap staying for gujaratis) - just behind "Majestic Area" Nr Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda circle - a secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. Costs only 50 rs for a day / bed. A nice canteen just inside the place with gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food / lunch named "SLV". Good value for money.
* UG Deluxe (Majestic) Thulsi Thotta, need to get down by the small road opposite to Upparpet Police station and next to Navruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right. You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will catch up dirt. Non-A/C rooms cost around Rs. 550 (approx. $13), A/C rooms may cost a Rs. 200 ($5) more than that.
* YMCA, Nrupathunga Road (near Cubbon Park), no-frills hotel. Tel:+91 80 2221-1848
* Others around Majestic, If you are free for an hour, you can just go around the Majastic theatre and the Kempe Gowda Bus Station and look for a budget hotel yourself, as there are many on small streets and roads around this place. Or, you can even trust TO SOME EXTENT a broker who is volunteerly offering you help, but be sure you take a clean look of the rooms before you pay any money to the lodge and the broker.
Mid-range
* Hotel Vrindavan - Located just off M.G. Road.very near to M. G. Road/Brigade Road junction (Also called cauvery handicraft junction). Nice hotel for lodging & great south indian food.
* Church Street Inn - 46,1-1 Church Street (Opposite Night Watchman Pub. Tel: +91 80 30577190 Web: www.churchstreetinn.in The hotel Church Street Inn is. Complementary wi-fi access and an in house library from Dr. Seuss to Dostoyevsky! Friendly and "intelligent staff". Overpriced though for what are really budget level rooms. Walls are also dirty and the decor is very dated.
Splurge
* Grand Ashok Hotel, Kumara Krupa High Grounds. Tel:+91 80 22-2404-2211 (9 lines). Email: grandashok@nivalink.com
* Taj Residency Hotel], 41/3 MG Road. Tel:+91 80 5660-4444. Email: residency.bangalore@tajhotels.com . Besides the Leela, this is considered the Best Business Hotel in India.
* Chancery Pavilion, Residency Road. Nice business hotel, good service and food. About $200 US
* Park Hotel, 14/7 MG Road. Tel:+91 80 2559-4666. Email: resv.blr@theparkhotels.com
* ITC Windsor Sheraton Hotel, Sankey Road,
* Oberoi Hotel, 37-39 MG Road. Tel:+91 80 2558-5858.
* Taj West End Hotel, Race Course Road. Tel:+91 80 5660-5660. Email: westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com
* Leela Palace Kempinski, Tel:+91 80 2521-1234. Email: bangaloresales@theleela.com . . The Leela has been voted 'The Best Business Hotel in the World' by Conde Naste Traveller, for this year.
* Le Meridien, Tel:+91-80-2226 22 33. Email: leme.bangalore@lemeridien.com
Talk
Being the capital of Karnataka, the official language in Bangalore is Kannada. English is the common denominator. Other languages like Telugu,Tamil and Hindi are also widely understood.
One common expression probably peculiar to Bangalore would be the "By two coffee" meaning a coffee shared between two people. Mostly overheard at the stand-and-eat darshinis. A very basic use of kannada may be necessary to harangue with autorikshaw drivers.
Contact
The dialing code for Bangalore is 080. When calling from overseas, dial +91 80 XXXX XXXX. If you have a non-working phone number with only 7 digits try to add a "2" in front of it.
If you don’t have an Indian phone number, it is strongly recommended that you get a pre-paid calling card if you plan on using your phone frequently. Because of new government regulations, you need a photocopy of your passport (visa and the ID pages), a color photo, and proof of local address (in Bangalore) when buying a pre-paid card. If you do not have the appropriate paperwork, I would recommend asking a local friend to buy a pre-paid card on your behalf. Pre-paid cards are sold in a few of the shops that sell mobile equipment.
PCOs are a good option. You will find them almost every 100m. These are public pay-phones (post-pay) and there will be a person on the shop to take the payments. Check your bill generated (from the billing machine) and make the payment accordingly. Payments are always in indian rupees.
Internet
There are plenty of Internet Centres which charge around Rs.20 per hour.
Stay Safe
Bangalore is a relatively safe city during day time. But it is equally unsafe once it gets dark. It is not advisable to walk along deserted alleyways or lanes after dark. Rising incomes has brought an influx of people from outside the city, leading to extreme disparities in earnings between locals and expatriates (people from other parts of the state and also from other states) which arguably has resulted in a substantial increase in crime rates. Most of the victims are from IT industry who are waylaid on their way back home, and robbed of their belongings.
Avoid using an autorickshaw if the driver is not alone.