Tourism
The following websites provide detailed information regarding the tourism in Bangalore and around Bangalore:
(1) In Bangalore
(2) Around Bangalore
Bangalore Palace
The Bangalore Palace in the heart of the city is a unique edifice inspired by Windsor castle and built in the Tudor style in 1880 at the cost of Rs 1 million. A built-up area of around 45,000 sq. ft., this 110 year old monument is a popular tourist attraction. Built by the Wodeyar King it is surrounded by a garden all around, almost giving it a fairytale setting.
Vidhana Soudha
This imposing edifice built almost entirely of dressed Bangalore granite is a tribute to temple architecture. Housing the Legislative Chambers of the state government, this 46 meter high seat of the government is Bangalore's best known landmark. This is one of Bangalore's most important buildings. Mr. Kengal Hanumanthaiah the then chief minister of Mysore decided to construct the Vidhana Soudha entirely along Indian style of architecture. There are four domes on all the four corners. The main entrance is overshadowed by the four headed lion,the symbol of Indian sovereignty. It houses 22 departments and 300 rooms.
Iskcon Temple
This temple is an exquisite blend of modern and traditional south Indian temple architecture. The building houses a multi-vision cinema theatre, ten mini computer aided presentation theatres, vedic library and a preaching library. The temple has varieties of accommodations to house various types of people, like bramacharis, members, devotees and people taking short term courses offered here. Finally we would like to say that this structure is on of the most beautiful buildings one can ever see. You really have to see it to believe it. So just say Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare and look forward to a visit to this place.
Lal Bagh Gardens
This 240 acre expanse of greenery forms one of India's most beautiful botanical gardens. The credit for this goes to the rulers Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, who laid out an 18th century paradise with rare trees brought from far off Persia, Afghanistan and France. At the heart of the gardens is situated the Glass House. Its design was obviously inspired by the Crystal Palace, London. Flower shows are held here every January and August, with an impressive participation.
The Bull Temple
The awesome monolithic deity in this temple, Nandi, draws devotees from all over the country. One of the oldest temples in Bangalore situated in Basavanagudi and dedicated to Nandi, the mount of lord Shiva. This 4.5 meters tall and six meters long monolithic bull is supposed to be older than the temple housing it. It is believed that the source of the river Vishva Bharti originates at the feet of the statue.
Nandi Hills
Nandi Hills is 60 Kms. via Devanahalli. A well-known summer resort. Tipu's Drop is an attraction here. Cottages are available here. Contact : Director of Horticulture, Lalbagh, Bangalore. Tel : 6672231. During season (July to February) contact the Special Officer, Horticulture. Nandi Hills. KSTDC's Hotel Mayura Pine Top has restaurant and accommodation facilities. Contact KSTDC (HO). Phone : 0802212901 / 902 / 903.
Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park is about 18 kms from Bangalore is this beautiful national park. The major attraction is the lion safari, which is a wild stretch of forest set apart for animals. A safari van is also available to tour the park. Tuesday is weekly off and this park is open from 09:00 to 17:00 on all other days. There is also an elephant ride available for children. Phone : 3344686 (Forest Department).