Bangalore

Situated in the southeast, Karnataka, the capital city of the state lies in the very heart of Mysore Plateau at an elevation of 920 m (3,018 feet). Spread over an area of 741 km², this IT city lies at an altitude of 12.97° towards North and 77.56° East.

The present name of the city Banagalore is an anglicized version of its Kannada name Bengaluru which is further proved by a stone inscription dating back to 9th century. Known as the 'City of Guards' in old Kannada, the city is believed to be a part of Ganga rulers until 1004.

The high elevation of the city contributes a great deal to its salubrious climate. But the summers at the city are getting considerably hotter by each passing year as a result of increased urbanization.

Banagalore is also known as the 'Silicon Valley of India' owing to its growing repute as a software centre. With an exceptional exponential growth, the city has surged from a tranquil garden city to India's 5th largest city today.

Believed to have been founded by a magadi chieftan, Kempe Gowda, the origin of the city dates back to 1537. A mud fort was made by Kempe Gowda marking the extent of the city by four watchtowers. It was further tended and fortified by Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan. Residency buildings made in a colonial style came to adorn the city during the reign of British. The high rising chrome structures standing on the arterial roads of Bangalore today offer a sharp contrast to the ancient colonial buildings.

An exuding night life at pubs and night clubs, science and technology parks, exclusive silk and handicrafts, health spas and resorts, frivolous shopping malls, exotic cuisine and a plethora of historic monuments all contribute towards a rich cultural heritage and modern life style of the city. Direct flights connect all the major cities like Kuala Lampur, Kathmandu, Singapore, Bangkok, Frankfurt, Colombo and Middle East to Bangalore International airport. Well connected by a smooth rail and road network, the city is very easily accessible to he domestic travelers as well.

Some of the must visit sites at Bangalore are Vidhan Soudha, Attara Kacheri, Cubbon Park, State Central Library, Lalbagh Gradens, Tipu's Place and the Government Museum. There are some religious sites also in and around Bangalore. The Bull Temple, built by Kempe Gowda in 16th century is the most famed one. The city is also known for its lakes. The Ulsoor Lake and the Sankey Boat Club are some of the famous lakes here that are thronged by both the tourists and locals equally.