Bangalore is one of India's most progressive destinations. You'll see it in its strong café culture, growing craft beer scene and lively bars and restaurants. The city has paved the way for innovation ever since it became the first in the nation to offer electricity. During the high-tech boom, Bangalore became a hub for the computer hardware and software industry, earning it the nickname 'the Silicon Valley of India'. Today, visitors are lured by Bangalore's cosmopolitan atmosphere and temperate climate.
Bangalore's predominantly corporate suburbs surround a historic central district, and its notable cultural sites are spread throughout the city. Bull Temple, for one, dates back to the 16th century and contains a massive granite statue of a Nandi bull. The ISKCON Temple is more modern – a glassy structure featuring a gold-plated dome and interior octagonal hall painted with golden images of Krishna.
If you want to feel like a local in Bangalore, head to Commercial Street or Brigade Road – two busy shopping strips where both residents and visitors love to spend their spare time and loose cash. Cubbon Park is another worthy distraction, home to bamboo groves and shady corners along with the State Central Library and Chinnaswamy Stadium – a famous cricket ground.