Abaya Hastha Swayambu Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

Abaya Hastha Swayambu Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a holy Hindu religious site in the village of Agaram Agraharam in Hosur taluk of Krishnagiri district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is located 15 km from Hosur on Rayakotta Road and 65 km from Bangalore.

Hosur is a rapidly growing industrial hub as well as a famous pilgrimage centre, and is also known as Dakshina Kashi ("Southern Kashi"), since the town is surrounded by the three hills of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, which are not seen anywhere else in India. 

As per Hindu legend, a demon king named Hiranyakasipu was troubling the Devas (celestial deities). He obtained limitless powers from Brahma, that no human could kill him, nor could he be killed in morning, noon or night, nor in air, water or ground. Contrastingly, his son Prahlada was an ardent devotee of Vishnu, whom his father hated. Hiranyakasipu tried to kill Prahalada numerous times, just for him to be saved by the divine grace of Vishnu.

During the last heated argument between the father and the son, Hiranyakasipu asked if Vishnu was present everywhere and went on to break a pillar with his weapon seeking to see Vishnu in it. Vishnu, pleased by the devotion of Prahalada, took the avatar of Narasimha and came out of the opening in the pillar. Narasimha's avatar was a lion-faced human and slayed Hiranyakasipu on an evening time in a doorway, which was neither land nor air. Ages passed by, when the sages were praying Narasimha to seek his blessings. They were guided by the pretext of Vishwamitra gaining the Rajarishi title with his prayers to Narasimha.

Myself, Swaminathan and Oracle Team we started at bangalore on 13th June, 2008 reached Tirupathi by about 12.30 am on 14th June, 2008. we had dinner next to the bus stand and took a jeep till alipiri, the starting point to climb up the hill. this is complete photos while climbing up the hill.

Tirumala by Walk 

We 3 i.e. Bhaktavatsalam, Swaminathan & Rajmohan decided to climb up the hill on April 13th at 12.50 A.m and reached up the hill at 5.30 A.m , these are the photos we took by mobile camera while climbing up the hill, the last snap is next to the chariot we saw an elephant and beautiful rangoli.

For those of you who would like to climb the hills to Tirumala to fulfil a vow, there are two well-laid stone footpaths leading to Tirumala. These paths are called "Sopanamargas" (stairways).

The more ancient of the two Sopanamargas starts from Alipiri at the foot of the hills, is about 11-km in length, and is the commonly used route. The other Sopanamargas is from Chandragiri, though only about 6-km in length, it's a difficult route and is mainly used by the local people and traders. TTD also provides several facilities for the pilgrims who walk up the hills to Tirumala.

FACILITIES FOR PILGRIMS TTD or Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam manages the affairs of the temple, the well-being of the pilgrims, the upkeep of the environs in and around the Tirumala hills and sponsors several undertakings that are religious, charitable, social and educational in nature.

The TTD provides ample conveyance and halting facilities to thousands of pilgrims. Many pilgrims climb the hill by walk to fulfil the vow they have taken. Facilities like shelters, drinking waters, toilets, canteens, medical facilities etc are provided for a quick and relaxing walk uphill.

|| Om Namo Venkatesaya ||

Destinations:Andhra Pradesh (AP)

Kapilatheertham:

A sacred Tank a mile and a half distant from Tirupati, where Lord Shiva is said to have blessed Sage Kapila with a vision of himself and his concert.

Govindaraja Swamy Temple:

The temple is dedicated to Govindaraja Perumal in contradistinction of the Venkatachalapathi shrine at the top of the hill. There is also a tower called Galigopuram, which is very famous. There are shrines of Sri Andal, Sri Parthasarathy and Sri Venkateswara in the temple.

Sri Kondandarama Swamy Temple

This temple is dedicated to Sri Rama is situated with n a distance of about a kilometer from Tirupati railway station. This temple was built to commemorate the visit of Sri Rama, Laksmana and Sita to Tirupati, while returning from Lanka.

Regional Science Center

The Regional Science Center is established by the Central Government for the benefit of School Children in particular and public in general to create the awareness about the scientific procedures and importance of Science education to human life. The Science Center conducts different Programmes for Teachers and Students regularly to improve the quality of Science Education. The Science Center also conducts science Exhibitions at least once a quarter, where in, they propagate the recent innovations in Science and Technology and provide guidance to the teachers in exploring the locally available resources and improvisations to make their Class room teaching effective.

S.V.Zoological Park

The changed concept of exhibiting wild animals in cramped cages to that of vast natural and simulated enclosures, has established the zoological Parks world over as centers of wild life conservations and environmental education in addition to research and recreation. The Andhra Pradesh Forest department which had two of India's Best Zoos to its credit at Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, has set up its third venture at Tirupati, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, with a daily visitation of about fifty thousand people from all

corners of the Country and a number of Academic and Professional Educational Institutions, Ideally suited to achieve the objectives of an ideal Zoological Park, named as Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park extending an area of 5532 acres.

Srinivasa Mangapuram:

It is a place where a temple dedicated to Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy, situated at a distance of 12 km on Tirupati Madanapalli Road. Puranas says that Lord Venkateswara Swamy after his Kalyanam with goddesses Padmavathi Devi at Narayana Vanam while proceeding to Tirumala Hills had stayed here for six months on the bank of the river Kalyani on the advice of Agastheeswara Maharshi. Hence this temple is named Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy.

Tiruchanur

In Tiruchanur which is five kilometers from Tirupati is the temple of Alamelumaga, the consort of the Lord on the top of the hill. A visit to Tirupati will not be completed unless a Darshan of this Goddess is also had.

Chandragiri Fort:

Chandragiri came in to prominence during the last days of Vijaya Nagar Empire. The Fort is said to have been built in 1000 A.D. and was later improved by the Vijaya Nagar Kings. The Fort is built on a Huge rock above 183 mts height. With in the wall of this fort lie the ruins of Palaces and Temples. Near the Fort there are two big Buildings, known as Mahals which are formerly used by the member's of the Royal Families. They present good examples of Vijaya Nagar architecture.

Kalyani Dam:

The scenic, Picturesque Tourist and Picnic spot Kalyani dam constructed on the river Kalyani, is located at a distance of 25 km from Tirupati on Tirupati - Madanapalli Road, attracts number of Tourists from Tirupati and sorrounding villages of Chittoor District

Srikalahasti:

This picturesque religious centre is famous for the temple dedicated to Vayu, the wind god. It is said that the Linga was worshipped by a spider, by spinning a web over it, a snake by placing gem upon the Linga and an Elephant by washing the Linga with water from its trunk and attain Mukti. Hence this place is called Srikalahasthi.

Karvetinagar:

Karvetinagar earlier ruled by Suryavamsa Dynasty with Narayanvanam as their capital. Having special importance of this place due to rabit hunding dog, the rulers of surya dynasty later built their new capital Nagaram at this place by clearing the forest. In Tamil Kadu means forest, and vetti means clearing. Hence this place is known as Kaduvettinagaram and later known as Karvetinagaram which is now the mandal headquarters. The Venugopala Swamy Temple, Skanda pushkarani and the Old Palaces are worth seeing here.

Narayanavanam:

The importance of this village is due to big temple dedicated to Lord Kalyana Venkateswara swamy. It is believed that the marriage of Lord Venkateswara Swamy with Goddess Padmavathi Devi took palce here. This is the temple where in we can see both Venkateswara Swamy along with Padmavathi Devi in one temple complex. This place is famous for handlooms.

Kailasanathakona:

Kailasanathakona water falls are situated in the valley of Nagiri hills near Puttur. The water here is said to be rich in minerals and possess curative properties. Puranas reveal that Lord Kailasanatheswara Swamy attended the marriage of Lord Venkateswara Swamy and Goddess Padmavati at Narayanavanam and selected this water fall for meditation for sometime. Hence this place is called Kailasanathakona which is a picnic, scenic and pituresque spot.

Nagalapuram:

Nagalapuram Temple is said to have been built by Sri Krishnadeveraya in memory of his mother Nagamba. It contains a few rare stone images such as Vinachara, Dakshinamurthy, Hayagriva, Bhuvarbha and Trivikrama. The sun festival is March is very important here. During the festival the first rays of sun falls on the feet of the first day, on the abdomen on the second day, and on the face on the face on the third day. The temple is maintained by the T.T.D and annual Brahmostavam is being celebrated in large scale.

Talakona:

Talakona is famous for the temple of Sri Siddheswara Swamy and the scenic and picturesque water falls in the midst of thich forest. People from Chittor district and neighboring districts will gather on 1st January and Mahasivaratri festival days and week ends to pray god and enjoy the water falls. Puranas says that those who do not have children come here and pray god for children and name their children as Siddaiah or Siddamma. The water falls are four km from the temple.

Gurramkonda:

Gurramkonda is located in between Madanapalli - Rayachoti - Cuddapah road at a distance of 29 km from Madanapalli and 12 km from Vayalpad. This place was ruled by Lieutenants of Tippu Sultan of Mysore and they built a Fort on a huge hill and the Ragini Mahal and used to go to the Fort on Horses. Hence this place is called Gurramkonda, which has got historical and archaeological importance. The Ragini Mahal and Maqbara Tomb and the Fort are worth seeing here.

Reddemmakonda:

Reddemmakonda, the famous Pilgrim center is situated on Madanapalli - Gurramkonda - Cherlopalli - Rayachoti - Cuddapah road. The preceding deity here is a glorified and sanctified village "Lass Reddemma", Who lost her life in an attempt to escape molestation by sensuous lieutenants of Tippu Sultan, who chased her. On reaching huge rock during chase, finding no way to escape, she prayed protection in a sheer helpless state and the rock before her, left a cleavage enabling her to pass through it. Soon after she entered inside the cleft closed affording no entry for chasers. Ever since that time, people around started praying the sacrificed Lass Reddamma for begetting children.

Sompalyam:

Sompalli, which has got architectural importance, is situated in between Mulakalacheruvu and Thambalpalli civil road at a distance of 6 km from Mulkala Cheruvu. A temple of Chennakesava swamy is claimed as one of the finest temples in Andhra districts. A monolith of the most graceful proportions stand in front, presenting a beautiful spectacle. The rich carvings on the kalyana Mandapam are very attractive. According to local tradition a shepherd was responsible for the construction of this temple during Vijayanagar period.

Horsley Hills:

The most picturesque, scenic, picnic and summer resort, Horsley Hills is situated near Madanpalli in Chittoor District at an altitude of 4200 feet above sea level. Mr.W.D.Horsley, a British member of the civil service and then the District Collector of Cuddapah, who found the climate very hot, selected this part as his summer resort on the top of the hills. He constructed two houses, the Kachari Room and Milk Bungalow and developed as summar resort. The Governor's Bungalow, the Forest Bungalow, and Microwave station, View point, Enugumallamma Temple are worth seeing here.

Madanapalli:

Madanapalli is an educational and cultural center from the days of Dr.Anneie-Besant, the great theosophist. The medical institutions like the Government Hospital, M.L.L Hospital, and Rajkumari Amrutkour T.B.Research Center are worth mentioning. Here the climate is pleasant through out the year. The old house of Jiddu Krishnamurthy, the great Philosopher and the founder of Rishi valley public school is also worth seeing here. The said house is now renovated and proposed for housing of Public Library.

Boyakonda:

The famous hill located in between Madanapalli - Punganur - Chowdepalli called Boyakonda, came into prominence in the recent years. Because of location of the famous Gangamma temple on the top of the hill, attracted by more than 20,000 devotees per day, mostly from karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. People will visit this place for praying Gangamma for getting the grievances redressed. The devotees will ask the Ammavaru for flower (Pushpam Aduguta) to know whether their vows will be fulfilled or not.

Gudimallam:

Gudimallam is well known for its unique Sivalinga in the Parasurameswara Temple. The tmeple is of granite stone dated back to the Pallavas - Bana times. An insciption dated 1127 A.D. belongs to the period of Vikrama Chola records the reconstruction of the temple in stone. The sanctum enriches the unique Linga square at the bottom, seven sided in the middle and nut shaped at the top, corresponds to the errect of male organ containing the standing figure of Sivaparameswara over a stumpy dwarf figure in the front side. At present the temple complex has main Parasurameswara shrine.

Kanipakam:

Kanipakam is located on the northen banks of the river Bahuda at a distance of 13 km from Chittoor. The famous shrine of Varasiddhi Vinayaka, the deity of which is believed to be self manifest (swayambhu) and the annual celebrations of Varasiddhi Vinayaka Swamy Brahmostavam on the eve of Vinayaka Chaturthi (Aug - Sep) of the special attractions of this place attracted by about 15,000 devotees from all over the District on this special occation.

Mogili:

Mogili is situated at a distance of 30 km from Chittoor and 10 km from Palamaner on the Chennai - Bangalore highway. It is one of the sacred places in Chittoor District on account of the existence of the Mogileeswara Temple. Shiva is worshipped here under the title of Abbreswara, the Sanskrit form of Mogileeswara or Iswara of the Skies. There is Pushkarini in the premises of the temple with perennial water flow from the mouth of Nandi (the sacred bull) which is a good source of drinking water for public irrespective of seasons. The water coming from Nandi is also a good source of irrigation to local people. On the eve of 1st January, Sivarathri and other festivals about 15,000 tourists per day will visit this place.

Kalyanarevulu - Ganganasirassu Waterfalls Koundinaya Elephant Sanctuary:

The Ganganna Sirrassu and Kalyanarevulu water falls are located on the border of Tamilnadu and Karnataka which form part of the Kaudinya Elephant sanctuary. Both the waterfalls are seasonal, scenic and picturesque. The water flows at a height of 200 feet are attracted by number of tourists, mostly from Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Chittoor District. The four water pools formed due to flow of water on a single rock at Kalyanarevulu (popularly known as Kalyanarevulu). At a distance of 200 feet from Ganganna Sirassu the flow of water stream to a narrow valley, known as Ganganna Valley, shut on all sides by precipitous walls of rock is worth seeing.

Kaigal Water Falls (Dumukurallu Water Falls):

Kaigal Water Falls is popularly known as Dumukuralla water falls located at a distance of 2.5 km from Kaigal village on the Palamner - Kuppam Highway. The popular name Dumukurallu water falls came into Prominence because of its sound resembling the fall of stones from above. The water fall is natural, perennial and water comes from a big rock at a height of 40 feet, irrespective of seasons. The formation of lovely natural pond at water falls and water passing through sand plains with beautiful shrubs are other attractions of this place.

Kangundi:

Kangundi is located at a distance of 16 km from Kuppam on Kuppam - Vijalapuram Road. It is having a great Historical value since 11th century with its Ruined fort, Beautiful temples of excellent artistic value, structures of archeological importance, valleys, forests and Palar river etc., The Kangundi fort is situated on a white granite rocky hillock at the entrance of Kangundi village and it is circular in shape and the bottom resembles a coach.

Kuppam:

Kuppam, the headquaters of the Kuppam Mandal, lies in the South West corner of the Chittoor District is a busy Railway station on the Bangalore - Chennai Railway line. A bone meal Fertilizer factory, Scandal wood oil mills, and Dravida University are located here. Stone cutting and polishing is an important industry at this place. The Someswara Anjenaya, Tirupati Gangamma and Subramanyaswamy are the Temples worshipped here.

Gudivanka:

Gudivanka is located at a distance of 16 km from Kuppam on the borders of Andhra and Karnataka. Here the Subramanyam Swamy Temple (gudi) is located on the top of a hillock, and at the foot of the hillock a small stream called Vanka is flowing. Hence this place is called Gudivanka. People in large numbers do gather here on Adikritika (Kavadi) Festival, during the month of August every year. On the back side of the temple a Reservoir, belongs to Karnataka state is located. It is a religious and picnic spot. The TTD has constructed a Guest House here to provide accomation to the visiting Tourists.

Gangamma Temple ,

Boyakonda or Boyikonda

Gangamma Temple is one among them and is on top of a hill named as Boyakonda. The locals call it as Boyikonda. It is a good trek up the hills and the top gives a nice view of the plains below and the surrounding hills.

The famous hill located in between Madanapalli - Punganur - Chowdepalli called Boyakonda, came into prominence in the recent years. Because of location of the famous Gangamma temple on the top of the hill, attracted by more than 20,000 devotees per day, mostly from karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. People will visit this place for praying Gangamma for getting the grievances redressed. The devotees will ask the Ammavaru for flower (Pushpam Aduguta) to know whether their vows will be fulfilled or not.

Capital of the Southern state of Karnataka, Bangalore today is Asia's fastest growing cosmopolitan city. It is home to some of the most high tech industries in India. The I.T industry views Bangalore as the 'byte-basket' of India. Bangalore is also home to some of India's premier scientific establishments. Blessed with a salubrious climate, gardens & parks, natural lakes, architectural landmarks, shopping malls, the best restaurants and pubs in this part of the globe, business opportunities, Bangalore is the ideal gateway to India and beyond. Bangalore offers something for everyone-music and dance concerts (Western and Indian), dramas, exhibitions, carnivals, conferences and more.

Lal Bagh

The structure was completely renovated and inaugurated by SM Krishna on Jan 15, 2004. Renovation details:

• Cost Rs 5 crore
• Renovation time 3 months
• Glass: 60,000 tonnes, 3505 unbreakable panes
• 1,000 sq mtrs of galvanised steel
• The 2.75 sq mts Glass House sandblasted using 75 microns of Zinc Chromide to prevent rusting.
• 325 gutters constructed along the eduges to drain out water.
• Silicon gel 1,577 litres
• Foundation stone laid by Diwan of Mysore Sir Mirza Ismail restored
• 75 lunx of illumination work done and special lighting that saves 40% energy put up inside
• New benches made of cast iron with wooden frames constructed

Government Museum

One of the important buildings, the Government Museum is one of the oldest in India(1886). A special attraction here are the antiquities from Mohenjodaro period. Situated nearby the museum is Visveswaraya Industrial and Technological Museum named after the great engineer-statesman .

Next to the VITM is the Visveswaraya Industrial Trade Center, the first of its kind in India. In addition to its trade promotional activities, the Center has two exhibition floors housing a permanent display of all that is manufactured in Karnataka.

Near the Museum is the K.Venkatappa Art Gallery which has a permanent exhibition of the works of the great artist, K. Venkatappa. The Gallery does much to encourage art in the state.

Also in the Cubbon Park are the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, which houses the public library, the High Court and the Jawahar Bal Bhavan. The Bhavan, with its toy train, fairgrounds and theatre, is a recreational, hobby and educational centre for children.

ISKCON

Situated on Chord Road, it is a must visit temple in Bangalore. It stands over a small hill and is a very clean and well maintained temple. Akshaya Patra program sponsored by the temple is very popular.

The Bull Temple

This temple, built by Kempe Gowda, houses the magnificent stone statue of the sacred bull, Nandi. It stands over 15 feet tall and is over 20 feet long . In Nov/Dec every year, when the groundnuts have been harvested, a groundnut fair is held near the temple. The first groundnuts are offered by the farmers to the sacred bull.

The Gangadhareshware Temple

Known for its four monolithic pillars and rare idol of Agni, the God of fire,this temple was built by Kempe Gowda. A unique phenomena is witnessed here on Jan 13/14th every year when the rays of the setting sun enter through the window, pass between the horns of the Nandi and shine on the Shivalingam.

The Dharmaraja Temple

Located at Nazarethpet in the suburbs of Bangalore, this temple is the starting point of the annual Karaga procession. The revered idols of this temple are the Shri Dharmaraja Swamy, hero of the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna.

Dargah Hazarath Tawakkal Mastan

This Muslim shrine,located in Cottonpet, a suburban locality, is associated with the Hindu Karaga festival too. The procession annually visits the Dargah of this Sufi saint, Tawakkal Mastan. His tomb attracts both Muslim and non-Muslim pilgrims.

Jumma Masjid

The Jumma Masjid is probably the oldest mosque in the city. It is an imposing structure with tall ornamented granite pillars adorning the elevated prayer hall. Scores of devote Muslim worshippers throng this masjid during the annual festivals of the Muslims. It is located in the busy market area of Bangalore, K.R.Market.

Ravindra Kalakshetra

The Kalakshetra, built to commemorate Rabindranath Tagore's centenary, promotes cultural activity in the city. It has a superb theatre and houses the Cultural Akademi Offices. Next to it is the Gothic styled Puttannachetty Town Hall whose huge auditorium can easily accommodate over 1500 persons.

St. Mary's Church

Established by a French missionary Abbe Dubois in 1811, St.Mary's church is the only church in Karnataka state to be elevated to the status of a minor Basilica. Every September, The Virgin Mary's festival is celebrated with a procession that attracts people of all faiths. The church is situated near the Shivaji Nagar Bus Terminal.

Indian Institute Of Science (IISc)

Also known as the Tata Institute, is one of the country's finest research institutions, specializing in advanced science and engineering studies.

Gandhi Bhavan

The Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, housed in the Gandhi Bhavan, houses a comprehensive picture gallery and other exhibits of Gandhiji which depict the life and times of Gandhiji. The Bhavan is open on weekdays(10:30 Am to 5:00 PM).

Ulsoor lake

A picturesque lake with several tree-shaded islands in it, is an ideal picnic spot. You can go boating or go for a swim in the nearby swimming pool that is part of the recreational complex near the lake. You can also go to the nearby Gurdhwar, the largest Sikh shrine in Bangalore.

Vidhana Soudha

This splendid neo-Dravidian granite building that dominates the northern boundary of the Cubbon park, is the home of the State Legislature and the Secretariat. The massive sandalwood door of the Cabinet room is a spectacular feature of this imposing building. The Vidhana Soudha is bedecked in illuminated glory during special periods and is a sight worth viewing. The building is open for visitors only after 3 PM.

The Bangalore Race Course

The Bangalore Race Course is one of the finest in India, with racing events almost all year round (May to June and Nov to Mar). Some of the biggest field stakes in the country can be witnessed here.

Around Bangalore

Several places of tourist interest are located within easy each from Bangalore. Distance shown in brackets is from Bangalore.

Bannerghatta National Park (22 Km)

Those interested in natural history can go to Bannerghatta. The park situated in picturesque surrounding has a wide variety of fauna. Among the attractions are crocodiles, picnic corner, serpentarium and pets corner, lion's safari. On Dec 25, 2001 the govt announced plans of starting a butterfly park in Bannerghatta (Area: 12 acres, Cost: Rs 3.62 crores)

Tipu's Palace

Built in 1791, this beautiful two-storeyed ornate wooden structure with exquisitely carved pillars, arches and balconies was one of Tipu's favourite summer retreats.

Hesaragatta

25 Kms away, Hesaragatta is an interesting picnic spot offering water sports to the adventurous. Boating and wind-surfing is the major attraction. It also has a dairy & horticulture farm where you can picnic.

Ramohalli

Ramohalli, located 28 Kms west is a popular picnic spot. A major attraction at Ramohalli is the 400 year old giant Banyan tree which sprawls over an incredible 3 acres.

Muthyalamaduvu

Also known as the Pearl Valley, Muthyalamaduvu is 40 Kms away. The beautiful cascading water falls surrounded by verdant settings provide an ideal picnic getaway.

Ramanagaram

Rock-climbers and adventure seekers need look no further. 49 Kms south-west from Bangalore, Ramanagaram, provides the ideal location with landscaped rock faces. Another major attraction at Ramanagaram is the silk cocoon marketing centre. One of the most famous Hindi movies Sholay was shot in Ramanagaram.

Janapada Loka

Sprawling across 15 acres, Janapada Loka or "Folk-culture World" is a world of simplicity and art.Janapada Loka, a subsidiary of the Karnataka Janapada Parishath, is dedicated to preserve and promote folk art and culture. The complex has an art gallery, an open-air theatre, a studio and a museum. Janapada Loka is located near Ramanagaram and is 53 Kms away from Bangalore.

Channapatna

A bustling town, 60 kms south-west from Bangalore, Channapatna is famous for its eye-catching lacquer ware and hand-crafted wooden toys. It is also a major silk centre of Karnataka.

Mekedatu

Gushing waters, imposing landscapes, and untouched picnic spots is what Mekedatu is all about. The Cauvery river squeezing through a narrow gorge before traversing its south-bound terrain is a breathtaking sight .It is 98 Kms south of Bangalore.

One of the popular retreats of Tipu Sultan, the Tiger of Mysore, Nandi Hills offers breathtaking getaway of the weary tourist. Tipu's Drop, a 600m high cliff face provides a magnificent panoramic view of the beautiful terrain. Nandi Hills is 60 Kms north of Bangalore.

Other attractions are Tipu's Drop, Yoga Nandishvara Temple, a beautiful Chola temple, Dravidian-style Bhoganandishvara temple and Muddenahalli, hometown of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, architect of modern Karnataka at the base of the hill.

In March 2005 the Toursim department decided to make Nandi Hills a popular destination by introducing a 5-star hotel, ropeway and para-sailing facility.

Essentials

Getting Here

Bangalore is well connected by air, rail and road to all the major cities such as Delhi, Madras, Bombay, Calcutta and to most other important cities and towns.

There are regular train services from Madras(4 trains per day), Mysore(7 trains per day),

Shopping

Shopping is a delightful experience in Bangalore. You'll find some of the most exquisite silks here. You can also take home handicrafts in sandalwood and rose wood, available in state-owned emporia and private stores. For gold and jewellery, you can visit the quaint Jeweller's Street. Some of the favourite shopping haunts are M.G.Road, Brigade Road, Residency Road and Commercial Street. Bargain hunters tend to favour K.G.Road, Malleswaram and Shivajinagar. The main shopping areas of Bangalore are:

• Brigade Road
• Commercial Street
• M.G. Road
• Residency Road

Some of the popular Shopping Centres at Bangalore are:

• M.G. Road: Public Utility Building, Shrungar Shopping Centre, Bombay Store
• J.C. Road: Unity Building
• Residency Road: Pinto Towers and lots of furniture shops
• Brigade Road: Curzon Complex, St.Patricks Complex,Mota Chambers & 5th Avenue.
• Infantry Road: Safia Plaza and Copper Arch
• St. Mark's Road: Sophia's Choice
• Shoppers Stop
• Lifestyle (near Football stadium)

Weather

If you visit very old houses in Bangalore you will not find a hook for the fan. The weather was so good in Bangalore even in 1970s. Compared to other cities even today Bangalore has excellent weather but the temperature seems to be rising year by year. Highest temperature recorded are as follows,

If you need any assistance with booking in any hotel in Karnataka or India in general.

• Department of Tourism. 1st Floor,'F' Block,Cauvery Bhavan,K.G.Rd. Tel: +91-80-2215489

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Conducted Tours

Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation organizes a half-day Bangalore Sightseeing Tour.