Bengaluru Karnataka, India Travel Guide
Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are major mobile network operators. SIMS are sold at official provider stores; passport, visa copy, and a photo are customary. Activation can take a day.
Wi-Fi is widely found in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and malls. Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) also has free Wi-Fi.
Kannada is the official language of Karnataka. English has wide use, especially in the IT sector, hospitality, commercial areas, and among educated young people. Many also grasp basic Hindi.
A few phrases can enrich your interactions and show respect for the local culture. Pronunciation guides for common words follow.
General strikes, known as "bandhs," may occur, leading to temporary shutdowns. Local news channels can give updates during your stay.
Adhering to cultural norms can encourage good interactions and a travel experience.
Use "Namaskara" with palms together and a small bow. Handshakes are common among men or with Westerners; women may prefer Namaste.
Dress discreetly in public. For religious sites, cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes. Women may need to cover heads in some religious places.
Eat with your right hand for traditional Indian food. Eating family-style is common. Tipping is customary in mid-range to fine dining. Public drinking is frowned upon.
Photographing public spaces and landmarks is generally fine. Always ask for permission before taking close-close-up pictures of people, particularly women and kids.
Some practices are best avoided to show cultural sensitivity. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Showing respect for local customs may result in more meaningful and positive experiences during your visit.
Bengaluru's infrastructure has varying levels of accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.
India's infrastructure traditionally holds challenges for travelers with mobility issues, including irregular pavements, a scarcity of ramps, and full of people public spaces.
The Namma Metro system features accessibility. Modern shopping malls and hotels generally offer easy-to-access facilities.
Tactile paving is in some train terminals and newer public spaces. Audio guides are offered at some museums.
Researching specific sites and attractions prior to your visit is advisable. Online forums and travel blogs dedicated to accessible travel inside India may offer firsthand experiences.
Always have small denominations of local currency. This makes transactions simple for small purchases and tips where card payments are not accepted.
