Bangalore is located on the Deccan Plateau in the south-eastern part of Karnataka, about 500 km southeast of Goa. It is the fifth most populated urban area in India, and was the fastest-growing Indian metropolis after New Delhi between 1991-2001, with a growth rate of 38% during the decade. Bengalore is located about 1000 m above sea level and known for its sprawling gardens, well designed shopping arcades, art galleries, exotic restaurants and bars. Bangalore is also one of the fastest growing industrial and commercial centres of India in the areas of aerospace, electronics, defense and mainly IT sector software services.
Bengalore is also a major center of Indian classical music and dance. Classical music and dance recitals are widely held throughout the year and particularly during the Ramanavami and Genesha Chaturthi festivals.
Lalbagh Botanical Gardens is located 4 km south of the city centre. The gardens were laid out in the 18th century and many of the trees have been there since the beginning. They are home to one of India's largest collections of rare tropical plants and a glasshouse modeled on London's Crystal Palace.
A few minutes walk south of the City Market are The Fort and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. The fort was built in stone by Tipu Sultan on the site of an earlier brick one. Much of it was destroyed in the wars with the British and has not been restored or well maintained. Tipu's Summer Palace is built of wood and has notable teak pillars but much of its painted decoration has disappeared. the Bull Temple is 2 km further south at Bugle Hill, it dates from 16th century and contains a granite monolith of Nandi, the bull. There are often prayer gatherings, musicians and wedding processions to be seen.
