Bangalore's first claim to fame was in being India's 'Garden City' but in more recent years it has also earned the monikers 'City of Pubs' and 'IT City'. It hosts the Infosys campus in the south. Recently renamed 'Bengaluru' this IT boomtown is still however widely known by its old name by both citizens and visitors. It is a great city to party in, having many fine eateries besides the aforementioned pubs. Bangalore/Bengalaru is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka. Unfortunately the population boom that has accompanied the IT boom has taken its toll on the city, and housing and traffic woes have multiplied in recent years.

The main entertainment zone is centered at Brigade Road and Mahatma Gandhi Road (often called MG Road). Bangalore is also a spiritual hub with Satya Sri Sai Baba’s ashram, the Art of Living Foundation’s ashram and a big ISKON temple – all located in or around the city. It is not uncommon for its citizens to be involved in one or more spiritual pursuits besides having a regular day job. Overall, this is an interesting city with some nice attractions, good shopping options and is a convenient base for some short-distance excursions.