LEISURE

Bangalore once had 117 lakes! Though in the recent years the number has dwindled, a few that are left add to the beauty and ecology of the city. Read more about Bangalore's lakes.1. HebbalDetails Adjoining Hebbal flyover, this lake provides vital lung space in an otherwise concrete jungle. Spread over an area of 150 acres, this lake is as old as Bangalore city. It is a natural lake maintained by the Forest department. The lake attracts migratory birds from Himalayan and Central Asian regions and is home to 70 species of water birds and a huge variety of aquatic vegetation.…

The best way to get acquainted with Bangalore is walk through it. Apart from the state-run tours, you can try the other conducted tours and walks suggested here. However, if you want to avoid going behind the usual backpacking crowd with a well-thumbed lonely planet book, try some of suggested walks given below.1. City SwapsDetails This is a guided bus tour modelled on London's open top double-decker buses. References www.cityswaps.in2. Bangalore WalksDetails The Bangalore Walks group organises walks in the city that aim at understanding the history and culture. Go for a walk on the MG Road and learn more…

Had a hectic week at office? Indulge yourself at Bangalore's spas and resorts.1. Angsana Spa & ResortDetails A perfect way to unwind and relax over the weekend after a hectic week. Angsana Spa & Resort is located on the Doddaballapur road near Rajankunte. This international chain is has an idyllic setting. The spa offers therapeutic massages and hydro therapy to rejuvenate your tired limbs. After a relaxing massage, you can indulge yourself on a sumptuous lunch that offers a diverse cuisine options. A pool, tennis and squash courts, yoga and aerobics, gym and a library are other facilities provided here.…

What can I see in Bangalore in a day? You'll be surprised at the number of places you could visit. Read on.1. Nandi HillsDetails Nandi Hills is a very popular weekend getaway for Bangaloreans because of its pleasant climate and location, just 60 kilometers from Bangalore. From the foot it is 8 kilometers to the top. Also called Nandidurg, this used to be a summer retreat of Tipu Sultan. You can see Tipu's fort here and get shivers down your spine looking down the Tipu's Drop, a steep precipice where Tipu apparently pushed criminals to death. There is also an…

For those with a penchant for museums, Bangalore has a collection of them. Admire the surreal paintings of yesteryear Bangalore or learn the principles of electronics or astronomy. Read on.1. Government Museum and Venkatappa Art GalleryDetails Situated in the verdant Cubbon Park, the Government Museum is one of the oldest museums in the country. Established in 1865, its main attractions are stone age relics from Mohenjodaro period. The museum also houses sculptures from Hoysala, Chola and Kadamba reigns that ruled over the state. Other artefacts are terracotta works from Bengal, water colours of old Bangalore and some fine wood carvings.…