Bangalore: Bangalore is the fifth largest city in India and is the capital city of Karnataka. The presence of many parks and botanical gardens gave the name “Garden City” to Bangalore. The modern city of Bangalore (Bangaluru) was founded by Kempe Gowda, the Vijaynagar Chieftain of Yelahanka, over 400 years ago but the ancient inscriptions pointed to the existence of a village called Bangaluru prior to the 10th century A.D. The climate is moderate and pleasant through out the year. The city is connected by railways, airlines and roads to all parts of the country.

The Fort

Kempe Gowda built the original mud structure in 1537. In 1761 Hyder Ali rebuilt the fort in stone.  It was the strong hold of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and witnessed several fierce battles. Built in an oval shape it is a fine example of 18th century Indian military architecture.

Lal Bag

Spread over 240 acres of flowering paradise Lal Bagh has rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical trees, plants and herbs to quench the thirst of for scenic beauty by both a layman and a horticulturist. Hyder Ali was the force behind designing the park in 17th Century. But Tipu Sultan was responsible for enriching the vast collection by importing several specimens from Afghanistan, France and Persia. Lal Bagh is artistically designed with expansive lawns, flowerbeds, lotus pools and fountains. In 1840, Lal Bagh had a magnificent glass house built in the line of London’s Crystal Palace.

Bugle Rock

The rock was so named for its utility in keeping a watch and forewarning the advent of intruders via a bugle call. The huge rock is rare phenomenon, is 3000 million years old and has attracted world geological interest. The rock is situated adjacent to Lal Bagh.

Tippu’s Summer Palac

The construction of the palace was started by Hyder Ali and was completed by Tipu Sultan in 1791. It was his summer palace. The walls and ceilings are covered with paintings.

Vidhan Souda

The granite building built in a Neo-Dravidian style is one of the India’s most magnificent public buildings. On Sunday evening it is beautifully lit up.

Gangadhareswara Cave Temple

 It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a rare idol of ‘Agni’, the god of fire.

St. Mary Basilica

It is believed that Abbe Dubois, a French missionary built the Church in 1882. It is situated in Russell Market square and has stained glass windows from Paris.

Shopping

Bangalore is known for silk and artefacts. The known markets are MG Road and Brigade Road.