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Bangalore has that sort of inimitable notion of laid-back, luxurious living that is unique to the city. Opulence abounds, yet pretension is thankfully absent amongst the warm, cosmopolitan population of India’s IT hub. From the expansive Cubbon Park, which sits in the center of the city (a mini-central park if you will) to the expatriate filled suburb of Whitefield, the city is a charming destination.
If you’re one of those travelers whose sole purpose is to add to your extensive wardrobe, Bangalore will not disappoint. UB city, the epicenter of all things fabulous in the city, is home to every label worth having in your closet, Ferragamo, Lanvin, Jimmy Choo and a handful of well-curated boutiques. In between the hours spent perusing the racks, you might want to pop up to the Tower Kitchen, which sits on the 16th floor and serves some truly spectacular food. If you’re feeling a tad bit more risqué grab a delightful cocktail (or three) at Shiro, a rooftop bar replete with a giant Buddha and a mojito worth writing home about. Maison, a boutique down the street from UB city is run by one of the city’s society doyennes and stocks cool, quirky pieces from brands like Phillip Lim, YSL, Marni and Givenchy. For a more traditional taste of South Indian shopping, visit the Mysore Silk Udyog and fill your suitcase with reams of some of the world’s most beautiful silk fabric and saris.
A remnant of luxurious colonial living and a staple in the social calendar of the City’s old family’s, no trip to Bangalore would be complete without a day at the races. Whether or not you back the winner, the thrill of watching those majestic horses sprint to the finish, is a victory on its own. Familiar candor and easy conversation flows between the Race club members, over tea, biscuits and a rather majestic sunset. Golfing is another favorite activity of the city’s elite and the KGA (Karnataka Golf Association) seems to be their course of choice. If you’re up for a bit of a trek, you could drive an hour out of the city to Eagleton, another prime golfing destination.
Brunching is highly ubiquitous concept in Bangalore. Olive Beach has one of the best spreads in town. Live music, oysters and sumptuous watermelon martinis will ensure you have a most lovely afternoon. If you can stomach another bite of food post-brunch, visit the Bangalore Club (a city institution) and try a crisp masala dosa (a thin rice pancake stuffed with spiced potatoes) on the lawn and wash it down with a cup of creamy, sweet South Indian coffee.
If you are hungry to take in the more traditional sights of the city, do not despair. The Vidhan Soudha (Karnataka’s seat of government), the Bangalore Palace (owned by the Mysore royal family) and the Iskcon temple (the temple serves delicious, but austere vegetarian cuisine) are enough to satisfy even the most discerning cultural palate. End a day spent taking in the rich cultural heritage of city with dinner at Karavalli, a restaurant that serves authentic south-Indian cuisine (try the spicy Rasam and Malabar fish curry).
June 24, 2023
