Bangalore, India

Though not a prime tourist destination, I think it's still worthwhile to have a look at what Bangalore can offer.

The third most populous city in India it is well known as the center of India's information technology sector - "the silicon valley of India". You'll find Infosys and Wipro headquarters here.

Nandi Temple

But for those who want to see more than just a couple of modern buildings, a visit to Nandi Temple should be one of your stops. The temple, also referred to as Dodda Basavana Gudi or Bull Temple is dedicated to the Hindu demi-god Nandi (a sacred bull). Nandi was a devotee of Shiva. It is said that this temple houses the biggest Nandi idol in the world.

There is also a temple for the elephant-headed diety Ganesha close by. And Bugle Rock garden is behind the Ganesha temple, so-called because of the massive rock formation from which a bugle call was made alert the citizens of any intruders to the city.

Bangalore Palace

Another place of interest would be the Bangalore Palace. Mistakenly believed to be a replica of the Windsor Castle, it was built by the first principal of the Central High School in Bangalore. It was then bought by the Maharaja of Mysore. In recent years, the palace grounds have been used for holding concerts for international artists such as Metallica, Elton John, Aerosmith, Enrique Iglesias and many others. And for those with children in tow, there is also an amusement park situated in the palace grounds complex.

If you are in Bangalore around Republic Day - January 26 - a trip to Lal Bagh Botanic Gardens is a must as they usually hold their annual flower show around this time. Lal Bagh Garden has the largest collection of tropical plants , even some rare species brought in from Pakistan, Persia and France, as well as trees that over 100 years old. The Lal Bagh Rock, which is said to be about 3,000 million years old is another attraction.

So there it is. You will still be able to find some interesting sites to see even in Bangalore.