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Local Sites in Bangalore

Local sights:
The Bangalore Palace & Fort
The Bangalore Fort was built by Kempe Gowda and expanded by Tippu Sultan. Within its walls is the well preserved 16th century Ganapathi Temple.
The Bangalore Palace was built by a Wodeyar king in 1887 on the 400 acre space. Inspired by the Windsor castle, this palace was built in the Tudor style, complete with Gothic windows, foiled windows, battlements and turrets resembling the Daria Daulat Palace in Srirangapatanam, this summer palace has been constructed largely of wood and is famous for its carving and paintings.
In June 2005 Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar decided to open the palace to the public to meet its Rs 20 lakh annual upkeep costs. The special attraction is a gallery of nearly a thousand historical photos, including those of viceroys, maharajas and other famous personalities inside and exquisite carvings and paintings.
Entry Fee Structure: Indian Citizens (Adult: Rs 100, Children: Rs 50), Foreign Toursits: (Adult: Rs 200, Children: Rs 100), Video Recording: Rs 1,000, Photography: Rs 500. Visiting Hous: 10 AM to 6 PM (Sunday Holiday). Phone: +91-80-2336 0818, 2331 5789
Lal Bagh
Hyder Ali laid out this famous botanical garden and his son added horticultural wealth to them by importing trees and plants from several countries. The garden today houses over 1000 species of flora which include rare and enchanting collection of tropical plants, trees and herbs. The Glass House, modelled along London's Crystal Palace, is the center of attraction in this 2400 acre park. Bi-annual flower shows attracting participants from all over India is held in the Glass House. In July, 2003 it was decded that the Department of Horticulture and Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) would jointly take up the development of Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens.
The structure was completely renovated and inaugurated by SM Krishna on Jan 15, 2004. Renovation details:
Cost Rs 5 crore
Renovation time 3 months
Glass: 60,000 tonnes, 3505 unbreakable panes
1,000 sq mtrs of galvanised steel
The 2.75 sq mts Glass House sandblasted using 75 microns of Zinc Chromide to prevent rusting.
325 gutters constructed along the eduges to drain out water.
Silicon gel 1,577 litres
Foundation stone laid by Diwan of Mysore Sir Mirza Ismail restored
75 lunx of illumination work done and special lighting that saves 40% energy put up inside
New benches made of cast iron with wooden frames constructed
Cubbon Park
This wooded and beflowered park was laid out in the heart of the cantonment in 1864. Since then, fairy fountains, an august bandstand and a wealth of atatury have been added. But the most important aspect of Cubbon Park is its newer buildings that have added beauty and cultural wealth. Lush green lawns, shady flowering trees, vibrant flower beds, make Cubbon park an ideal place for morning joggers and alike.
Government Museum
One of the important buildings, the Government Museum is one of the oldest in India(1886). A special attraction here are the antiquities from Mohenjodaro period. Situated nearby the museum is Visveswaraya Industrial and Technological Museum named after the great engineer-statesman .
Next to the VITM is the Visveswaraya Industrial Trade Center, the first of its kind in India. In addition to its trade promotional activities, the Center has two exhibition floors housing a permanent display of all that is manufactured in Karnataka.
Near the Museum is the K.Venkatappa Art Gallery which has a permanent exhibition of the works of the great artist, K. Venkatappa. The Gallery does much to encourage art in the state.
Also in the Cubbon Park are the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, which houses the public library, the High Court and the Jawahar Bal Bhavan. The Bhavan, with its toy train, fairgrounds and theatre, is a recreational, hobby and educational centre for children.
ISKCON
Situated on Chord Road, it is a must visit temple in Bangalore. It stands over a small hill and is a very clean and well maintained temple. Akshaya Patra program sponsored by the temple is very popular.
The Bull Temple
This temple, built by Kempe Gowda, houses the magnificent stone statue of the sacred bull, Nandi. It stands over 15 feet tall and is over 20 feet long . In Nov/Dec every year, when the groundnuts have been harvested, a groundnut fair is held near the temple. The first groundnuts are offered by the farmers to the sacred bull.
The Gangadhareshware Temple
Known for its four monolithic pillars and rare idol of Agni, the God of fire,this temple was built by Kempe Gowda. A unique phenomena is witnessed here on Jan 13/14th every year when the rays of the setting sun enter through the window, pass between the horns of the Nandi and shine on the Shivalingam.
The Dharmaraja Temple
Located at Nazarethpet in the suburbs of Bangalore, this temple is the starting point of the annual Karaga procession. The revered idols of this temple are the Shri Dharmaraja Swamy, hero of the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna.
Dargah Hazarath Tawakkal Mastan
This Muslim shrine,located in Cottonpet, a suburban locality, is associated with the Hindu Karaga festival too. The procession annually visits the Dargah of this Sufi saint, Tawakkal Mastan. His tomb attracts both Muslim and non-Muslim pilgrims.
Jumma Masjid
The Jumma Masjid is probably the oldest mosque in the city. It is an imposing structure with tall ornamented granite pillars adorning the elevated prayer hall. Scores of devote Muslim worshippers throng this masjid during the annual festivals of the Muslims. It is located in the busy market area of Bangalore, K.R.Market.
Ravindra Kalakshetra
The Kalakshetra, built to commemorate Rabindranath Tagore's centenary, promotes cultural activity in the city. It has a superb theatre and houses the Cultural Akademi Offices. Next to it is the Gothic styled Puttannachetty Town Hall whose huge auditorium can easily accommodate over 1500 persons.
St. Mary's Church
Established by a French missionary Abbe Dubois in 1811, St.Mary's church is the only church in Karnataka state to be elevated to the status of a minor Basilica. Every September, The Virgin Mary's festival is celebrated with a procession that attracts people of all faiths. The church is situated near the Shivaji Nagar Bus Terminal.
Indian Institute Of Science (IISc)
Also known as the Tata Institute, is one of the country's finest research institutions, specializing in advanced science and engineering studies.
Gandhi Bhavan
The Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, housed in the Gandhi Bhavan, houses a comprehensive picture gallery and other exhibits of Gandhiji which depict the life and times of Gandhiji. The Bhavan is open on weekdays(10:30 Am to 5:00 PM).
Ulsoor lake
A picturesque lake with several tree-shaded islands in it, is an ideal picnic spot. You can go boating or go for a swim in the nearby swimming pool that is part of the recreational complex near the lake. You can also go to the nearby Gurdhwar, the largest Sikh shrine in Bangalore.
Vidhana Soudha
This splendid neo-Dravidian granite building that dominates the northern boundary of the Cubbon park, is the home of the State Legislature and the Secretariat. The massive sandalwood door of the Cabinet room is a spectacular feature of this imposing building. The Vidhana Soudha is bedecked in illuminated glory during special periods and is a sight worth viewing. The building is open for visitors only after 3 PM.
The Bangalore Race Course
The Bangalore Race Course is one of the finest in India, with racing events almost all year round (May to June and Nov to Mar). Some of the biggest field stakes in the country can be witnessed here.
Around Bangalore
Several places of tourist interest are located within easy each from Bangalore. Distance shown in brackets is from Bangalore.
Bannerghatta National Park (22 Km) Those interested in natural history can go to Bannerghatta. The park situated in picturesque surrounding has a wide variety of fauna. Among the attractions are crocodiles, picnic corner, serpentarium and pets corner, lion's safari. On Dec 25, 2001 the govt announced plans of starting a butterfly park in Bannerghatta (Area: 12 acres, Cost: Rs 3.62 crores)
Tipu's Palace Built in 1791, this beautiful two-storeyed ornate wooden structure with exquisitely carved pillars, arches and balconies was one of Tipu's favourite summer retreats.
Hesaragatta 25 Kms away, Hesaragatta is an interesting picnic spot offering water sports to the adventurous. Boating and wind-surfing is the major attraction. It also has a dairy & horticulture farm where you can picnic.
Ramohalli Ramohalli, located 28 Kms west is a popular picnic spot. A major attraction at Ramohalli is the 400 year old giant Banyan tree which sprawls over an incredible 3 acres.
Muthyalamaduvu Also known as the Pearl Valley, Muthyalamaduvu is 40 Kms away. The beautiful cascading water falls surrounded by verdant settings provide an ideal picnic getaway.
Ramanagaram Rock-climbers and adventure seekers need look no further. 49 Kms south-west from Bangalore, Ramanagaram, provides the ideal location with landscaped rock faces. Another major attraction at Ramanagaram is the silk cocoon marketing centre. One of the most famous Hindi movies Sholay was shot in Ramanagaram.
Janapada Loka Sprawling across 15 acres, Janapada Loka or "Folk-culture World" is a world of simplicity and art.Janapada Loka, a subsidiary of the Karnataka Janapada Parishath, is dedicated to preserve and promote folk art and culture. The complex has an art gallery, an open-air theatre, a studio and a museum. Janapada Loka is located near Ramanagaram and is 53 Kms away from Bangalore.
Channapatna A bustling town, 60 kms south-west from Bangalore, Channapatna is famous for its eye-catching lacquer ware and hand-crafted wooden toys. It is also a major silk centre of Karnataka.
Mekedatu Gushing waters, imposing landscapes, and untouched picnic spots is what Mekedatu is all about. The Cauvery river squeezing through a narrow gorge before traversing its south-bound terrain is a breathtaking sight .It is 98 Kms south of Bangalore.
Nandi Hills
One of the popular retreats of Tipu Sultan, the Tiger of Mysore, Nandi Hills offers breathtaking getaway of the weary tourist. Tipu's Drop, a 600m high cliff face provides a magnificent panoramic view of the beautiful terrain. Nandi Hills is 60 Kms north of Bangalore.
Other attractions are Tipu's Drop, Yoga Nandishvara Temple, a beautiful Chola temple, Dravidian-style Bhoganandishvara temple and Muddenahalli, hometown of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, architect of modern Karnataka at the base of the hill.
In March 2005 the Toursim department decided to make Nandi Hills a popular destination by introducing a 5-star hotel, ropeway and para-sailing facility.
Essentials
Getting Here
Bangalore is well connected by air, rail and road to all the major cities such as Delhi, Madras, Bombay, Calcutta and to most other important cities and towns.There are regular train services from Madras(4 trains per day), Mysore(7 trains per day), Calcutta(weekly twice), New Delhi(1 service daily). Bangalore Airport is used for both domestic and international flights.
ShoppingShopping is a delightful experience in Bangalore. You'll find some of the most exquisite silks here. You can also take home handicrafts in sandalwood and rose wood, available in state-owned emporia and private stores. For gold and jewellery, you can visit the quaint Jeweller's Street. Some of the favourite shopping haunts are M.G.Road, Brigade Road, Residency Road and Commercial Street. Bargain hunters tend to favour K.G.Road, Malleswaram and Shivajinagar. The main shopping areas of Bangalore are:
Brigade Road
Commercial Street
M.G. Road
Residency Road
Some of the popular Shopping Centres at Bangalore are:
M.G. Road: Public Utility Building, Shrungar Shopping Centre, Bombay Store
J.C. Road: Unity Building
Residency Road: Pinto Towers and lots of furniture shops
Brigade Road: Curzon Complex, St.Patricks Complex,Mota Chambers & 5th Avenue.
Infantry Road: Safia Plaza and Copper Arch
St. Mark's Road: Sophia's Choice
Shoppers Stop
Lifestyle (near Football stadium)
Weather
If you visit very old houses in Bangalore you will not find a hook for the fan. The weather was so good in Bangalore even in 1970s. Compared to other cities even today Bangalore has excellent weather but the temperature seems to be rising year by year. Highest temperature recorded are as follows,

May 22, 1931...38.9 degree Celsius (highest)
2000...37.7 degree Celsius
2001...35.3 degree Celsius
2002...36.5 degree Celsius
2003...37.6 degree Celsius
2004...34.6 degree Celsius
2005...37.4 degree Celsius
2006...37.0 degree Celsius
2007...35.8 degree Celsius

Raichur recorded the highest temperature in Karnataka with a temperature of 45.6 degree Celsius on May 23, 1928.

The average maximum temperature of North interior Karnataka is 37.9 degree Celsius, coastal Karnataka is 34.5 degree Celsius and Western Ghats is 27.5 degree Celsius.
Tourist Information
If you need any assistance with booking in any hotel in Karnataka or India in general click here
Department of Tourism. 1st Floor,'F' Block,Cauvery Bhavan,K.G.Rd. Tel: +91-80-2215489 Tourism Information CounterBangalore Airport: +91-80-5268012.Railway Station: +91-80-2870068Govt. of India Tourist Office: KSFC Building,48,Church Street. Tel: +91-80-558517.
Conducted Tours Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation organizes a half-day Bangalore Sightseeing Tour. For details please call the KSTDC Head Office-Tel: +91-80-2212901/2212902/2275883/2275869. Fax: +91-80-2238016Also see
Care for some facts or dates?
Bangalore Habba
Bangalore Vs other southern cities
Choultries in Bangalore
Clubs in Bangalore
Hotels in Bangalore
Lakes and drainage system in Bangalore
News related to Bangalore
Pubs in Bangalore
Restaurants in Bangalore
Service Apartments and Bread & Breakfast in Bangalore
Shopping Malls in Bangalore
Useful phone numbersExternal Links:
Ask Laila - Bangalore Search Engine
Bangalore Classifieds
EasyAuto - book an auto.
Art Galleries in Bangalore
Bangalore Expatriate Club
Bangalore Night Life
Bangalore Walks - Revisit Victorian Bangalore!
Grover Wines
Hungry Bangalore - order food online
iDiscoveri - Personality Development
Indiranagar Sangeetha Sabha
Kalari Academy of performing Arts
Kunigal Stud Farm - A leading stud farm promoted by Dr. Vijay 'King of Good Times' Mallya
My Own Private Bangalore - Kamat.com
Nature Admire - They develop leadership, learn and experience wilderness skills. Nature Admire participants say, the experience had and the leadership lessons learnt in the camp are more important than ever in these changing times. In the wilderness, the consequences are real, and so are the lessons.
RangaShankara - for the theater buffs in Bangalore!
Unlock Bangalore - Get involved to change Bangalore.
Who is Sadashivanagar named after?
Wonder La - Amusement water park on 28th KM, Mysore Road in Bangalore. Phone: +91-8113-324441-5