A trip to the city of Mysore gives travellers the chance to visit the glorious past of Tipu Sultan and his father Hyder Ali, who put up a great fight against the British rule and were responsible for laying the foundation of places like Bangalore and Mysore over four decades. As the seat of power for the father-son duo and then later the Wodeyar King, Mysore is a historian’s delight.

Apart from the Jaganmohana Palace, the Jayalakshmi Vilas, Lalitha Mahal, Chamundeshwari Temple and St. Philomena’s Church, the biggest attraction of the Mysore is the Ambavilas Palace or better known as the Mysore Palace.

How to get there
The city of Mysore is about 4 hours from Bangalore and can be accessed by road and rail conveniently. Mysore also has its own airport now but has limited flights at the moment.

About the Palace
Standing just after Taj Mahal in statistics, the palace has seen over 2.7 million visitors. It serves as the residential quarters of the erstwhile royal family, Wodeyars. The first palace of the royal family was built in the 14th century but was demolished and subsequently rebuilt & expanded many times over till 1940. The Mysore palace saw a lot of restructuring due to inevitable circumstances like being struck by lightning, a fire in the later years and of course by Tipu Sultan. The current style of the palace is shaped by British architect, Henry Irwin, who was commissioned by Maharani Vani Vilas Sannidhna.

Following the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the building brings together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture. The palace is a three storied structure built of gray granite with deep pink marble. An impressive sculpture of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, good luck, and abundance with her elephants stands on the central arch of the palace.

Dussehra
Dusherra is the most important festival of the city of Mysore, and the palace becomes a focal point of all cultural activities that are showcased on this day. The ten day festival is presided over by the King. On the tenth day of Vijaya Dashami, an extensive parade with elephants and local floats passes through a well guarded city. The festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon, Mahishasur.

Entry Fee
International visitors are charged Rs 200 while national tourists have to pay an entry fee of Rs 20/-. Cameras are not allowed inside, but you can capture the grand structure from the gates. (This information is subject to change).

Opening Times and Days
The palace is open on all days from 10.00 a.m to 5.30 p.m. On Sundays, national holidays and Dusherra the palace is beautifully lit with strings of light bulbs. The timing of the lit palace is between 7.00 p.m and 8.00 p.m (This information is subject to change).

Best time to Visit
October through February is a good time to visit Karnataka. If planning in October, don’t miss to catch the Dusherra festival.

If you would like your next trip to include some of India’s most famous historic monuments then get in touch and we can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

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1. Things to do in Mysore
2. An Architectural Extravaganza – The City Palace, Jaipur
3. The romantic Lake Palace, Udaipur

1. Mumbai
The vibrant city of Mumbai is certainly one of the few destinations in India, which can claim to have nightlife at all. Safe for women to travel even late at night, Mumbai has a burgeoning pub and live gigs culture. Some of the places that one must visit are Totos in Bandra for an old school feel of grabbing a beer with a friend, amidst loud thumping music from the 70s and 80s. Bandra has a bustling nightlife with a few pubs strewn in the area. This is probably where one can hop from one place to another; else the distances in Mumbai are long to traverse in the middle of the night. Blue Frog and Jazz by the Bay are some other options for live gigs and karaoke nights. Stand up Comedy is high on the list of things to do for the younger generation. Catch some fresh Indian talent at the Comedy Store and Cafe Goa, and some alcohol to go along with.

2. Goa
Goa has always been the destination of deliverance where nightlife spots are concerned. Usually when the season in bustling with foreign internationals, so are the party spots of Goa. This is between October to March. For the rest of the year, it is not worth your while to go looking for a spectacular nightlife here. While Titos and Mambos were the stalwarts of nightlife for many years, now newer names like Butter Lounge and Shiros rule the roost. On Saturday night, join the party goers at Anjuna Beach to catch some trance and psychedelic music. Image credit by Berno

3. Delhi
Apart from the mainstream drink and dance places in Delhi, there is a whole new breed of underground music artistes who are bringing a fresh dimension for people who always want to be surprised.  Catch B.L.O.T, Sifar and others who are hitting some new genres in Delhi. Shalom, Djinns, Mirage, Sahara, Mezz and Ministry of Sound are some places where you can catch some action on the music and dance scene in Delhi. Be careful as to be escorted by known people only and book your cab ahead if everyone in the group is drinking.

4. Bangalore
With a legacy of being the ‘beer and pub’ city of the country, Bangalore might have lost some lustre where the nightlife is concerned, but its easy paced fun is contagious. Still a great place to get a beer and enjoy the weather, Bangalore has a number of places to enjoy the evenings, except that one must wrap up by 11.30 p.m Jayamahal Palace for a slice of royalty, 13^th floor for the old timers and Toit, the latest addition, are all great places to catch up with friends. Places like Dewers, the first pub of Bangalore, are sorely missed by the locals. Another great pub for which many eulogies have been written but it still appeals to many, is Pecos. Known for its esoteric choice of music with jazz and blues, people still like Pecos for its impressive collection of cassettes. Try another classic place called Styx for some heavy metal. Though dancing is not allowed in Bangalore, Mynt is the only reasonable place where one can shake a leg. The central M.G Road area is known to have over 40 pubs in a radius of 1 kilometre.

5. Chennai
Unlike its image of a largely middle-class lifestyle, Chennai’s nightlife has been on an upswing for the last 5 years or so. Names like Dublin, Zara (an old time favourite), Hell Freezes Over, Bikes and Barrels and Geoffrey’s are names the young lot reckon with.  Be at any of these for a fun filled evening.

6. Hyderabad
10 Downing Street, Bottles and Chimneys, Touch, Liquids, N, Ahala, Excess and Torque are some of the places which are worth your while in the ever growing pub scene of Hyderabad. The music sometimes can be a disappointment, but the number and variety of places in Hyderabad that make the nightlife more exciting, are in plenty. Try some ‘Famous’ ice-cream after you are done for the night.

7. Varkala
A surprise entry on the nightlife sector, but Varkala certainly owns a special spot here! The calm beaches on the edge of a cliff are the perfect backdrop for a couple of drinks in the months of October to March.

If you would like your next trip to include some of our top picks for India nightlife then get in touch and we can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

For accommodation in India take a look at our homestay collection. Your hosts will be happy to help you find the best places locally for a good night out!

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1. Roll into Mysore
If travelling from Bangalore, try the train to Mysore! Why? Because this is where you get to mingle with the spirit of the place – the co-travellers, the food vendors and the hustle-bustle is sure to give you a more intimate experience. There is a huge assortment of 21 trains that ply on the route for your convenience. It is also a better way to spend 3 hours in the train than on the road with more traffic!

2. Palace by Night
Predictably put but this one is sure to make your trip worthwhile. Incidentally Mysore is also called the ‘City of Palaces’, and houses one of the most famous monuments in India, after Taj Mahal. The 1912 structure built by the Wodeyars is a wonder made out of white marble, fine gray granite and deep pink granite. There is an entry fee to go inside and photography is prohibited, but you can get a picture from the outside. The palace is lit beautifully every night and is sight which is sure to be etched in your memory making it one of the top things to do in Mysore! Try and visit during the Dusherra festival in October when the King leads a parade on caparisoned elephants and the whole town comes alive with music and dance performances of Karnataka.

3. Market Mania at Devaraja
A photographer’s delight, the Mysore Devaraja market is heady mix of sound, smell and colours! Flowers, idols, street food, vegetables and more line the street. A treat for the lenses and senses, this one is great in the morning hours!

4. Filling Station
The famous Vinayaka Mylari is where you would want to be for breakfast or lunch. The set up is decades old and has a host of veteran go-ers who line up for crisp dosas and idlis each morning! You cannot get more authentic food, so add this to the list!

5. For the Artist in You
The royalty of Mysore was known to patronize many artists and local skills. Taking a leaf from the lineage, the town still imbibes a discretionary taste for art. This can be experiences at the Jayachamerajendra Art Gallery. Built in 1861, the gallery houses memorabilia from the past – rare instruments, Japanese art, paintings by Ravi Varma and regal artefacts.

6. Chamnudeshwari Temple
One of the more noted places to see, Sri Chamnudeshwari Temple sits atop the namesake Chamundi Hill at a height of over 1000 meters. It will easily take you half a day to visit and come back. Regular autorikshaws ply from the town or alternatively you can take the local bus or a cab.

7. Brindavan Gardens
This huge stretch of neatly manicured gardens with fountains provide a lush respite during the warm months in Mysore. The gardens are about half an hour away from the city.

8. Silk Factory
Mysore and the adjoining region is known was silk breeding and weaving. In fact, if you drive from Bangalore, you can see the silk worms on concentric mats being bred for silk making. A state run silk factory is open for visitors where you can also pick up saris and materials.

9. Rail Museum
Mysore can safely boast of an impressive collection of railway engines and more rail paraphernalia. The Rail museum is a good one for children for an educative and fun experience.

10. The Craft Museum
Mysore has an extensive University campus which also houses the Crafts Museum where a plethora of local art and craft is on display. While the Cauvery shop in town might be more suitable to shop for souvenirs, visit the museum to know more about the famous wooden inlay work and more.

If you would like to try out some of our things to do in Mysore for yourself contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you plan a trip. Check out our Karnataka homestay selection.

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As the first shower of the season hits the coastal towns of India, off-beat traveller start planning a monsoon holiday. Not inhibited by clouds or even water wading moments, travelling during the Indian monsoons can be an invigorating experience. There is nothing better than a rain-washed, lush country side and of course discounted rates for many destinations. We take you through some of the best monsoon destinations in India and encourage you to head west!

Goa in monsoon season
Known for its sprawling beaches, an erstwhile legacy of hippy love and an alternative style made to fit, here’s Goa in a whole new light. There is such a distinct change in the environs of Goa between the hot summer months and the cloudy monsoons that it is even worth visiting twice in a year!

For those who want to feel the drizzle on their faces and have a different rendezvous with the sea, Goa should be on your list. While it rains ensure that you have a warm comfortable bed and some great conversation to bank on. Then take your weather beaten umbrella to the Vagator beach for a vantage view point at the Thallasa Greek Restaurant or sit at Fort Aguada to see the water from the skies and sea, mingle in a turbulent mess!

Travelling during the monsoon season is a great time to mix with the locals during some of the lesser known festivals. Bonderam is one such festival, which is specific to Divar Island, off Old Goa. To commemorate old battles fought, young boys and girls re-enact the times in costumes. Don’t miss their mock missiles made of berries and weapons of bamboos. The festival ends with a parade which has everyone joining in the merriment.

The monsoon season is also a good time to explore the wildlife of Goa. Take in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is is not too far from Usgaon. Alternatively, just off Canacona, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wild boar, langurs, bisons and plenty of avian life. Watch out for the leeches and be sure to carry some sturdy boots.

Kerala in monsoon season
The Western Coast remains one of greenest and freshest at this time, so Kerala should definitely be on the list. Depart from the coast onto the Northern and Western regions of the state. The Kasargod area still remains un-tread upon and of course Wayanad is an established getaway for the rains. While in Wayanad, see if you can catch the Splash Carnival, a Kerala Government endeavour where cultural programmes, indoor and outdoor games, and variety of competitions await travellers.

Maharashtra in monsoon season
Wander about on the Western Coast of the country and the delights don’t stop. For all of you who want to get out of jammed Mumbai roads in the thick of the monsoons, all you need to do is head out a short distance away. In Maharashtra take your pick from short hikes or long stays at Matheran, the Kondana and Kanheri Caves or just plunge into the frothy waters for a rafting trip.

Karnataka in monsoon season
Likewise, as you keep heading northwards, coastal Karnataka gets its fair share of monsoon magic in places like Dandeli and the Brahamgiri ranges. Apart from the fact that this time of the year is rather cooler and free of tourists the monsoon months also make many places affordable.

So pack your flip-flops and a sturdy umbrella and head out to towards the West coast of India.

If you would like to travel in India during the monsoon season contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans. There is currently 50% discount on selected homestays so curl up with a book, listen to fascinating stories from your hosts and enjoy delicious home cooked food while you wait for a break in the rain to explore the countryside at it’s lushest best!

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The hill station of Coorg is best known for being a cool respite during the hot summer months, where visitors can relax amidst colourful scenery, wooded slopes and beautiful undulating landscapes. The start of the monsoon season brings a new opportunity to the region for those seeking adventure, with the chance to try some exciting white water river rafting in Coorg.

Between the months of July and October visitors can experience the rush of adrenaline from a Coorg white water rafting adventure. Its a lot of fun, but at the same time its totally safe. Trained man power will assist the beginners in rafting and safety equipments like life jackets and helmets are provided and mandatory to use.

The rafting lasts about two to three hours depending on the speed of river flow. During this time you can expect to to experience about five or six rapids which are a memorable experience.

River rafting in Coorg is a must in the monsoon season. Outside of the monsoon there are still opportunities to try out still water rafting but to experience the river at it’s best the white water rafting experience is highly recommended.

White water rafting can be arranged for you at the Eco Habitat homestay. In an idyllic farm like setting two charming villas offer comfortable and private accommodation for guests.

If you are interested in white water river rafting in Coorg  yourself then our reservations team can help you plan a trip. Get in touch to find out more!

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1. Bangalore by bus or foot
These inexpensive half-day and full-day tours cover Bangalore’s most important landmarks. These are convenient ways to discover the city. Another option for exploring the city is to hire a  private cabs. Ask your homestay host to help you arrange a ride for a reasonable price with a guarantee of safety and efficient service.

Walking tours such as BangaloreWalks help people discover the lesser known aspects of the city. People can opt for a variety of tours like the Traditional walk, the Victorian walk or the Lalbagh walk, which cover different themes of this vibrant city. The tours start from Rs.300 and breakfast at popular restaurants is included in the package.

view of outer ring road, Bangalore

2. Tour of temples in Bangalore
Prime amongst Bangalore’s temples is the Bull Temple, which is built in Dravidian architecture. It is famous for the enormous statue of a bull that’s carved from one massive boulder. Other than this, in Rajajinagar you will find the beautiful ISKCON Temple where the annual Rath Yatra attracts thousands from all over the region. Just minutes from there is a Hanuman Temple where the annual Hanumanth Jayanthi is celebrated every December.

The Bull Temple in Bangalore

3. Monuments and historic sites of Bangalore
Foremost amongst such sites are Bangalore’s Vidhana Sabha (The State’s Legislative House), Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. The Bangalore Palace was built by Mysore’s Maharajahs and was only recently opened to the public. The Palace has suffered due to years of neglect which is very evident. In contrast visit Tipu Sultan’s Palace, which is over 220 years old and served as a lavish summer retreat for the king.

Bangalore Palace

4. Family spots in Bangalore
Cubbon Park is an enormous green oasis in the heart of the city. Spread in over 300 acres, the park serves as a lovely picnic spot and has many recreation activities. A children’s park, toy train, theater and more can keep the whole family entertained. The park itself provides a refuge from trappings of urban development. Lal Bagh is another place perfect for a family outing. Built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, the sprawling garden is considered the most charming and romantic in the country. It has lovely lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and historic stone formations. Horticulture lovers throng to the garden for the flower shows that are held three times a year.

A recent addition to the city is the Lumbini Garden. Located along the Nagvara Lake, the park offers enjoyable activities such as boating, a wave pool and a children’s park. The Bannerghatta National Park is a sanctuary where one can find wild animals like migrating elephants, bison, wild boar and if you are lucky the elusive leopard as well. The sanctuary, where rescued animals find refuge, is also home to a crocodile farm and a butterfly park amongst others.

In Bangalore thrill seekers will enjoy the Wonder La Amusement Park, India’s largest amusement and water park. The park is home to many thrill and water rides as well as rain dance sections. Fire crackers and laser light shows in evening are a delight to watch.

Cubbon Park

5. Coorg’s Madekeri Fort and waterfalls
This highly imposing fort is Coorg’s most important tourist attraction. It was initially built of mud, which was later replaced by concrete stone under Tipu Sultan. Inside the fort you will find the Palace of the Lingayat rulers. Located 8 kms from Madikeri are the charming Abbey Falls, a lovely place for picnics. Private vehicles are the best way to reach the falls and the visit should be clubbed with a visit to Madekeri Fort. Located 91 kms from Madikeri Fort is the Iruppu Falls. This beautiful waterfall is also an important pilgrimage. It is believed to have a historic connection with Lord Rama and there is also an important Shiva temple here.

Iruppu Falls

6. Raja’s Seat in Coorg
As the name suggests, this was a beloved spot of the Rajas from where they could enjoy panoramic vistas of the misty blue hills and lush green valleys. Even today, this destination serves as an important viewpoint and people come here in large numbers particularly to see the sunset and sunrise. A serene garden has also been created here for the use of the public.

Sunset in Coorg

7. Omkareshwara Temple
This temple was built 200 years ago in tribute to Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Other than for its religious importance the temple is also loved by people fond of architecture as it is a beautiful and rare example of Hinduism, Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture.

8. Activities in Coorg
Some of the most popular trekking trails here are trails in the hills of Brahmagiri, on the way to the Irrupa Falls, to Pushpagiri the second higest peak of Kodagu and to Tadiandamol, which is the highest peak. Golfers will love the 9-hole course of Virajpet. It’s a nice way of unwinding while honing one’s golf skills.

Valanoor is the backwater of the river Cauvery and people fond of fishing come here to try and catch the famous mahaseer. The best season for this is from October to May. Many camps around Coorg offer rafting down the Cauvery. For the experienced the route from Upper Barapole River to the south of Coorg in Brahmagiri is perfect.

Starting point of the Brahmgiri Trek

KARNATAKA TOURISM PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Coorg and Bangalore are about 260 kilometers apart.
• Coorg does not have an airport or a railway station. The nearest airport is at Mangalore, about 135 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is at Mysore, about 120 kilometers away. In Bangalore there are two main railway stations: Bangalore City Junction and Bangalore cantonment.
• KSRTC operates air-conditioned luxury buses between Bangalore and Coorg
• Learn more about and view homestays in Bangalore and Coorg
• Learn more about Karnataka tourism

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Coorg

Nestled in south-west Karnataka lies Coorg, a small hillstation that’s often called ‘The Scotland of the East’. In Mercara or Madikeri, one finds the proud Madikeri Fort, which was built in 17th century. Here, the Raja’s Seat overlooks a deep valley and from here you can enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. At the Abbey Falls water cascades to a depth of 70 feet into a rocky valley offering an unforgettable sight to visitors.

Tadiyendamol is the loftiest peak in Coorg challenging people to climb it. Located on the banks of the river Cauvery is the Valnoor Fishing Camp where avid fishing enthusiasts can indulge in the luxury of angling for the huge game fish mahseer. Over 5000 monks reside at the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe and it is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in the country.

Wayanad

This hill station is located in the northern part of Kerala. Its natural beauty has been left intact as it hasn’t been overrun by tourism. Wayanad is largely covered by spice plantations, paddy fields and forests. The region’s landscape is speckled with beautiful trekking trails. One important trail is the 10 hour climb to the top of the 2100m Chembra Peak, the highest point in Wayanad.

One of the main attractions is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary where it is possible to see deer, bears, macaques, elephants and even tigers. Other attractions include the ancient Sree Thirunelli and Valliyurkava Bhagavathi temples and the 5000 year old prehistoric rock-art in the Edakkal Caves.

Ooty

Ooty is known as ‘the queen of the Blue Mountains’ and is a beautiful hill station located in the Nilgiris. It is known for beautiful gardens, wooded rolling hills, pine and eucalyptus forests, coffee and tea plantations, ancient tribes and monuments. Ooty’s Botanical Gardens has developed over the last 150 years, and offers over 2,000 species of flowering plants.

A popular spot amongst families is the Ooty lake. This is an artificial lake, which was constructed in the early 1800’s.

Doddabetta is the highest peak in the Western Ghats and it stands at a height of 8,640 ft above sea level. It is accessible by road and the drive offers panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and valleys. Ten minutes from the Ooty Market is a Toda Village. The Todas are one of the oldest tribes to inhabit this region and you will find beautiful Toda temples in the area. For those who want to shop, handicrafts can be purchased right from the village at great prices.

Coonoor

Coonoor is the second highest hillstation in Nilgiris and it is perched at a height of 1,856 meters above sea level. Sim’s Park in Coonoor is located at an altitude of 1798 meters and is nestled in a deep ravine. The park is famous for great views to many of Coonoor’s popular tourist spots such as Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose and Lady Canning’s Seat.

Nilgiri’s famous Toy Train is a great way to reach Coonoor. The charming train started operating over a century ago and maneuvers the rocky terrain with ease. Many songbirds like nightingales, babblers, larks and robins, whoare found in Coonoor. The Pomological Station is a feast for those interested in horticulture. Many varieties of fruits are grown here for research purposes. The Law Falls are located 7 kilometers from Coonoor and water here drops from a height of almost 200 feet.

Yercaud

Located near Salem in Tamil Nadu’s Servarayan range at an altitude of 1,500 meters is Yercaud. Yercaud’s highest point is the Servarayan temple, which is perched at a height of 5326 feet. The hills here are rich with fauna and flora, which includes bison, deer, rabbits, hares, and many other native species. The Yercaud Lake is surrounded by well-groomed gardens and thick trees. One of the best views that Yercaud can offer is at the Lady’s Seat. Panoramic view of the ghats and beyond can be seen from here. Stargazing is a lovely experience at the Lady’s Seat.

The Kiliyur Falls in Yercaus fall from a majestic height of 90 feet andare popular amongst visitors.

Staying in a homestay is the perfect way to enjoy these hill stations. Our reservations team will be happy to help you with planning a perfect getaway, feel free to leave us a comment and we will get in touch with you.

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1. Hop on. Hop off
Cheap and comprehensive tours of the city are offered by KSTDC. These half-day and full-day tours cover Bangalore’s most important landmarks. Another full day tour called Bangalore Rounds is available to tourists for Rs. 250. But for people who prefer to have a more spontaneous tour of the city private cabs are readily available. All homestays can arrange such rides for a reasonable price with a guarantee of safety and efficient service.

2. Tour of temples
There are innumerable revered temples in Bangalore, prime amongst them are temples like the Bull Temple, which is built in Dravidian architecture. It is famous for the enormous statue of a bull that’s carved from one massive boulder. Located in Rajajinagar and in the midst of picturesque surroundings is the ISKCON Temple. The Krishna temple also serves as an important centre of vedic and spiritual learning.

3. Houses of meditation and spirituality
Bangalore is the hub of the Art of Living foundation. Their ashram attracts countless people from all across the world just like The Ramakrishna Ashram, located in Gandhi Bazaar. It is a vast sanctuary, which exudes peace and tranquillity. The Maha Bodhi Society Temple is another famous site for peace-seekers and meditation. The temple’s main shrine is a replica of Bodh Gaya’s revered stupa and houses precious Buddhist literature.

4. Monuments and historic sites
Bangalore is filled with examples of great architecture and rich history. Foremost amongst such sites are Bangalore’s Vidhana Sabha (The State’s Legislative House), Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. The Bangalore Palace was built by Mysore’s Maharajahs and was only recently opened to the public. The Palace has suffered due to years of neglect which is very evident. In contrast, we have Tipu Sultan’s Palace, which is over 220 years old and served as a lavish summer retreat for the king.

5. For the family
Cubbon Park is an enormous green oasis, which is spread in over 300 acres. It serves as a lovely picnic spot and has many recreation activities such as a children’s park, a toy train, a theatre and much more. Lal Bagh is another place where a family outing can be hosted. Built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, the sprawling garden is considered the most charming and romantic in the country. It has lovely lotus ponds, fountains, glass houses and historic stone formations. A recent addition to the city is the Lumbini Garden. Located along the Nagvara Lake, the park offers enjoyable activities such as boating, a wave pool and a children’s park. In Bangalore, one will also find the Wonder La Amusement Park, India’s largest amusement and water park. The park is home to many thrill and water rides as well as rain dance sections. Fire crackers and laser light shows in evening are a delight to watch.

6. Wildlife watch
The Bannerghatta National Park is a sanctuary where one can find wild animals like migrating elephants, bison, wild boar and if one is extremely lucky, the elusive leopard. The sanctuary is a refuge for rescued animals and also houses a crocodile farm and a butterfly park.

7. Nightcrawl
Bangalore is a young city and pubs, restaurants etc have become an integral part of its nightlife. Many upcoming local bands make their debut at the local pubs many of which are famous patrons of live music. Staying at a local homestay will help enormously in finding the latest, happening hotspot of activity.

Find out about staying in a homestay

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3. Bangalore Business Hotel? Homestays Now Available

Bangalore business hotel? Photo: bharatte

Trendy Bangalore is known as India’s Silicon City and attracts thousands of business travellers each year.

If you’re a sophisticated executive who’s grown tired of sterile hotels and cold, cultureless trips, then we have some good news: Mahindra Homestays are now in Bangalore; business hotels are no longer a necessity.

Hear our recent podcast about why homestays make sense for business travellers, or if you want some more details on our Bangalore offering read on.

A fantastic base in Bangalore homestay is Carmel Homestay at Sarjapur Road, Bangalore. The homestay gives you the best of both worlds – while it is not far from the city centre, it also gives you a break from the madding crowd.

If you just want to relax, then you have a wide variety of options, whether you just want soak in the sun on the lawns, or play some indoor games like snooker or chess. Or you can sit down for a movie marathon in the home theatre. For the weary, there’s the option of a oil massage or yoga classes.

Read more about Carmel Homestay and if you’re planning a trip get your booking in quickly.

This homestay is likely to be popular among those looking for a warm alternative experience to a Bangalore business hotel.

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Book before 30 September 2009 and you can secure bargain holiday accommodation all over India. Dozens of friendly hosts in some stunning Indian homes are waiting to welcome you.

Here we show you ten views that are close to our half price India homestays.

Click on the destination the links to go straight to our website and reserve yourself irresistible views at irresistible prices.

1. A breathtaking sunset near our Alleppey homestays, in Kerala, shimmering on the backwaters.

2. Thadiyandamol, the highest peak in Karnataka, near our Coorg homestays – the ‘Scotland of the East’.

3. The awesome Bahá’í House of Worship, near our Delhi homestays.

4. Outside the Palace of Winds, near our Jaipur homestays.

5. The verdant rolling hills near our Munnar homestays, Kerala.

6. An old train rattles through the quiet countyside near our Ooty homestays.

Click to our main site to see the full list of our India homestays.

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