Bangalore Information

Getting Around

Heading for town from the airport, you can either take a taxi or the bus. Prepaid taxis do ply the route. Once you are in the town you have the option of using auto rickshaws besides the bus and taxi. While the auto rickshaw drivers are legally supposed to use the meter to calculate the fare, many of them do not. So you need to bargain and fix the fare before you get into the vehicle.

There is also a flat 50% extra charge on the accepted daytime fare after 10 pm at night, no matter where you are headed. You can also head for Bangalore by train from any of India’s major cities. A word of caution, there are three stations in Bangalore so if you are arranging for someone to meet you make sure you know which one the train rolls into. There is no local train service or metro in Bangalore as yet.

Weather

Bangalore has a temperate climate and can be quite pleasant in the evenings. It used to be a 'no fan' location but overcrowding has made a difference in that status. For those suffering from asthma, Bangalore’s high pollen count can make trouble. Carry your inhaler, and if you feel the onset of an attack don’t continue to stay in Bangalore.

The weather is usually cooler than surrounding areas most of the year. The Indian summer does touch Bangalore, but winters are not too bad. Monsoons should be avoided if possible.

Good to Know

Most major airlines fly into and out of Bangalore now. The international airport is a considerable distance away and many taxis avoid going all the way as they are not sure of a return fare. It makes sense to hire a prepaid taxi if you intend to catch a late night flight.

If using the bus, mind your wallet. Pickpockets thrive in these crowded areas. Also if you are a single woman traveling alone it is not a good idea to take a bus after dark.

Since most of Bangalore’s sightseeing involves excursions it makes sense to hire a taxi for an eight-hour day and travel in relative comfort. If you are on a budget, share with others.