Bright Lights, Bang City
Nothing captures the energy of Bangalore better than the bright signs that light up the city sky on a bustling night.
Stylishly Spare
Rooms at the Taj West End meld a contemporary minimalism with traditional accents. Opt for one that overlooks the hotel's 20 acres of landscaped gardens and pathways.
Kaleidoscopic Style
Designed by the British firm Conran & Partners, the boutique Park Hotel has a colorful mod style that makes up for its smallish rooms. Located in the heart of the city, it boasts Bangalore's "only all-season heated lap pool" and keeps Scrabble and Monopoly at the ready for guests.
Modern Meets Medieval
You can't do much better than the Leela Palace Kempinski, situated on a sprawling nine acres complete with gardens and lagoon. Ornate architecture pays homage to the Vijaynagar empire of medieval India, but the hotel is fitted with the most modern accoutrements (golf course included).
Noble Fare
At Jamavar, a stately restaurant in the Leela Palace Kempinski, diners can sample the best North and South Indian cuisines prepared in the tradition of ancient Indian nobility.
Middle Eastern Surprise
A leisurely Sunday brunch can't be beat at Olive Beach, a laid-back Mediterranean joint known for its gourmet dips (black bean hummus, chili jam) and unexpected pairings (chocolate fondant with licorice ice cream and balsamic glaze).
Local Fare
Thali means "plate" and refers to the ubiquitous all-in-one meal on a metal plate that provides a sampling of crisp chapati bread and condiments like the chili-based sambal.
Shopamallics
Bring your American Express (or maybe leave it at home!) to the Garuda Mall in Bangalore. The 11-story übergalleria has a multiplex, hotel, and food court as well as a parking structure that fits 1,000 cars.
Reinvent the Wheel
Get a peek at the city from an authentic point of view in an auto rickshaw, one of the most popular ways of getting around.
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