Live like a local: Bangalore

The fourth in our ‘Live like a local’ series that tries to give you the insider scoop to what the long term residents love about their city. Read our Mumbai and Delhi posts also! Where to stay Villa Camelot. Hosts Yamini and Raghu will offer you more hospitality than the average Bangalorean is used to, but their cosy […]

Created by Harsh Sonawala

Last updated on Mar 14, 2016

The fourth in our ‘Live like a local’ series that tries to give you the insider scoop to what the long term residents love about their city. Read our Mumbai and Delhi posts also!

colourful nightlife, clubs in Bangalore — *Nightlife in India*

Where to stay

Villa Camelot. Hosts Yamini and Raghu will offer you more hospitality than the average Bangalorean is used to, but their cosy three-storey in Whitefield blends in seamlessly with the homes of the upper-middle class that bought up the plots when the city was still young.

*Have a cup of coffee and one of the many chill coffee shops while you read a book or work*

What to eat

Bangalore is a haven for India’s beer lover. The breweries blossoming on every corner epitomize the cooler-than-cool vibe of the city with 60s tunes piped gently into the dimly lit interiors. Toit, Biere Club and Biere Street will make for a great start. Get your fill of a deep-fried South Indian breakfast at Benne Masala Dosa at CTR or Airlines Hotel, go to Faanoos Siddique Kebab or Misbah Kebabs near Johnson market for seekh kebabs, veal, and other Mughlai food. Chicken wing-y finger are best licked at Plan B. Get at least one plate of Ice-cream at corner house, not because they’re mind-melting, but because it’s just what people do. Burgers at Thulp Cafe. Roadside momos.

Delicious meat treats, Street food in Bangalore, Live like a local — *Juicy kebabs at Shivajinagar, Bangalore*

Where to go

The Bangalore garden city is slowly being mismanaged into environmental oblivion, so pack a picnic and head to Cubbon Park while you still can. If you’re up for a trek and don’t mind sharing the view with hundred-odd other tourists, drive up to Nandi Hills. Book lovers, carve out a whole day for Blossom Book House. Indiranagar is a hub of night-time activity from plays and sketches to stand up and live music. If the night still seems to stretch endlessly ahead of you, we recommend Pebble to dance on the grass under the stars.

peaceful lush green parks — *Cubbon Park*

What to say

Kannada gothilla. It means ‘I don’t know Kannada’. Not that you’ll be required to speak it, most shopkeepers and auto drivers speak basic English. Call anybody boss for a quick response.

Bonus tips:

If your auto driver won’t use the meter, get out. Radio cabs are a much safer bet, they cost the same for none of the hassles
If you want to start a conversation with a local, compliment the weather. They will embrace you as one of their own
Bangalore rick captured in motion, speeding!

F.A.Q.'S

Which neighborhoods offer a more local experience in Bangalore?

While areas like Koramangala and Indiranagar are popular expat and young professional hubs, consider areas like Basavanagudi, Malleswaram, Jayanagar, and even parts of old Bangalore like Chickpet for a more authentic local feel. These areas retain a strong sense of community and tradition.

How can I experience the local culture and daily life in Bangalore?

Visit local markets like KR Market or Malleswaram Market early in the morning. Attend a Carnatic music or Bharatanatyam performance. Spend time in parks like Lalbagh or Cubbon Park where locals relax. Take a ride on the Bangalore Metro to see how locals commute. Visit local temples like the Bull Temple or ISKCON.

What are some must-try local foods in Bangalore and where can I find them?

Bangalore is a foodie’s paradise! Don’t miss masala dosa (try Vidyarthi Bhavan in Basavanagudi or CTR in Malleswaram), idli-vada (many darshinis like Brahmins’ Coffee Bar), benne dosa (Davanagere Benne Dosa in various locations), bisibele bath (MTR), and filter coffee.

Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

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Harsh Sonawala

Co-Founder

Since his childhood, Harsh Sonawala he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. Sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Tips from Harsh are some of the most hands on that you will ever get.

Abbas Slatewala

Co-Founder

Having lived in Brussels, Belgium, Abbas has developed a keen understanding of the Western travellers’ mindset. Tips from Abbas are some of the most practical that you will ever find.

Aalia Shaikh

Head of Bookings & Customer Support

Playing to her strengths of multi-tasking and attention to every detail, Aalia has always figured out the best solutions to every itinerary. Tips from Aalia will have you satisfied that you have left nothing out of your intended trip.