Outdoor Pool

Planning Your Trip

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Bangalore is the capital of the southern Karnataka state; it is often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India, thanks to its lightning-fast high-tech development in recent years. But with its charming architecture, important historical landmarks and lush greenery, it also lives up to its other moniker: Garden City. Here’s a packing guide for your vacation.

Circular rooftop bar with banquette seating, small round coffee tables and impressive skyline city views at night
Circular rooftop bar with banquette seating, small round coffee tables and impressive skyline city views at night
What to Pack

As befits any cosmopolitan city, Bangalore is dotted with trendy restaurants and bars. To partake in the nightlife offerings, bring a few sophisticated separates: skirts, blouses and strappy sandals for women, and trousers and button-down shirts for men.

Exploring the City

From shopping sprees on Commercial Street to tours of Bangalore’s many museums, palaces and buildings, there is much to see here. Pack versatile basics to easily get around town.

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking, so choose comfort over style in your shoes and opt for flat sandals or sneakers.

Bangalore is at an elevation of about 3,000 feet, the highest of India’s major cities, which means its temperature is relatively moderate with winters in the 60s Fahrenheit and summers in the 80s. However, it’s still prone to heat waves and rainfall, so be prepared with a few waterproof pieces and plenty of sun protection.

Bring along an extra carry-on for all the souvenirs you’re going to want to bring home.

Day Trips

Bangalore already has lots of green, but venture outside the city limits and you’ll find breathtaking hills and landscapes. Whether you want an easy stroll, a fabulous sunrise view or a visit to a temple, the hills are a magical escape.

Bring a pair of sturdy sneakers or hiking boots to climb the trails, even if you plan on doing one that is nonstrenuous.

Pack workout clothes (keep them conservative, no midriff-baring sports bras and micro shorts), along with a hoodie or sweater to account for temperature drops.

A light backpack will hold your essentials, like water, a camera and bug spray.  

Cultural Considerations

Bangalore’s strong and innovative tech sector makes it very westernized. Still, modesty is highly encouraged here and is also a way to show respect for India’s customs.

There’s no rule against wearing shorts and tank tops, however keeping in respect for the local culture, visitors may want to opt for maxi skirts, tunics and loose trousers in breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.

You’ll be required to take your shoes off when visiting temples. Leave complicated contraptions at home.

Embrace bright colors! They’re a big part of traditional Indian attire.

A woman relaxing in a large rectangular whirlpool beneath a ceiling of curved wood
A woman relaxing in a large rectangular whirlpool beneath a ceiling of curved wood
What to Reserve

With a rich cultural heritage and all the trappings of a modern metropolis, Bangalore is a perfect combination of old and new. From grand palaces to avant-garde art galleries, here are a few suggestions for your itinerary.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Itineraries

Once known as the Garden City of India because of its glorious parks, Bangalore today has emerged as the country’s technological hub. It is the fastest-growing major metropolis in the country, and a hotbed of Fortune 500 companies that have infused the city with creativity and wealth. Past and present collide here; plan a day trip of temple hopping and touring raj-palaces by day, before exploring brew pubs and star chef restaurants filled with the city’s tech elite at night. Scratch the surface and you’ll discover there’s more to Bangalore than its tech reputation.