If you’re a foreign tourist planning to visit Bangalore, you may be wondering what it’s like to drive in this bustling Indian city. While Bangalore can be a challenging place to navigate, especially if you’re not used to driving in densely populated urban areas, it’s also a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas. Here are some tips and guidelines for driving in Bangalore as a foreign tourist.

Driving Rules in Bangalore:

First and foremost, it’s important to note that driving in Bangalore can be quite different from what you may be used to in your home country. Traffic in Bangalore can be chaotic, with a seemingly endless stream of vehicles, pedestrians, and animals sharing the roads. To help ensure your safety and that of others on the road, it’s important to follow some basic driving rules and guidelines:

Stay on the left-hand side of the road. In India, as in many other former British colonies, driving is done on the left-hand side of the road.
Use your horn liberally. In India, honking is a common way for drivers to signal their presence and communicate with other drivers.
Be aware of local driving customs. Indian drivers may not always obey traffic signals or follow the rules of the road as strictly as you may be used to.
Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. With the high volume of traffic in Bangalore, it’s important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid collisions.
Watch out for pedestrians, animals, and other hazards. Bangalore’s roads are shared by a wide variety of users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and animals such as cows and dogs. Be alert and watch out for these hazards.
Hiring a Car in Bangalore:

If you’re planning to drive in Bangalore as a foreign tourist, you’ll need to rent a car. Many car rental companies operate in Bangalore, and you can typically find a variety of vehicles to suit your needs and budget. Before renting a car, it’s important to ensure that you meet the following requirements:

You must be at least 18 years old to rent a car in India.
You must have a valid driver’s license from your home country.
You must have an International Driving Permit Bangalore (IDP). This is a document that translates your driver’s license into multiple languages and is required to drive legally in India.
You must have valid identification, such as a passport, to rent a car.
Touristic Places to Visit in Bangalore:

Once you’ve rented a car and obtained the necessary documents, you’re ready to explore Bangalore and its surrounding areas. Here are some popular tourist attractions that you can visit on a driving tour:

Nandi Hills: This scenic hill station is located just outside of Bangalore and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can enjoy a leisurely drive up the winding mountain road and take in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Bannerghatta National Park: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of exotic animals, including tigers, lions, and elephants. You can take a safari tour through the park and get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
Lalbagh Botanical Gardens: This beautiful garden is located in the heart of Bangalore and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can stroll through the lush gardens and admire a wide variety of plants and flowers.
Cubbon Park: Another popular park in Bangalore, Cubbon Park is home to a wide variety of trees and plants, as well as several historical buildings and monuments.
Long Drives:

If you’re up for a longer road trip, there are also several scenic drives you can take from Bangalore. One popular route is the Bangalore-Mysore Highway, which takes you through

the countryside and past several historical landmarks, including the famous Mysore Palace. Another great option is the Bangalore-Coorg Road, which winds through the lush hills and valleys of the Western Ghats and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Before embarking on a long drive, it’s important to ensure that your car is in good condition and that you have enough fuel, water, and snacks for the journey. You should also be prepared for the possibility of traffic jams and delays, especially during peak travel times.

In conclusion, driving in Bangalore as a foreign tourist can be a rewarding and exciting experience, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings on your own terms. However, it’s important to follow the rules of the road and stay alert to potential hazards. By renting a car and obtaining the necessary documents, you can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience and visit some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, as well as take scenic drives through the surrounding countryside.