Bangalore, a vibrant city nestled in southern India, beckons travellers with its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From iconic landmarks like the Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace to serene gardens like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park, the city offers a captivating experience. The city's rich heritage, evident in its ancient temples and colonial-era architecture, adds to its allure. Its bustling markets, lively street food scene, and thriving arts and culture scene provide visitors with a truly immersive experience. The journey from Wellington to Bangalore is an adventure in itself, offering several options depending on your preferences and budget.

Direct flights between Wellington and Bangalore are typically not available, requiring at least one stopover. The average flight duration, including stopovers, ranges from 25 to 30 hours, but this can fluctuate depending on the chosen route and layover duration. Airlines that offer connecting flights often include Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates, with varying flight frequencies. Popular stopover cities include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Dubai, adding several hours to the overall travel time. However, these stopovers provide an opportunity for further exploration. The ideal months for budget-friendly travel are usually April to May or September to October, avoiding peak season in December and January. Booking flights well in advance, ideally 2-3 months before your departure, often secures the best deals.

The best time to visit Bangalore is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. This is also the city's peak tourist season, but if you travel during the shoulder season (April to May or September to October) you may find more cost-effective deals. Bangalore experiences a tropical savanna climate, with warm and dry summers (March to June) and mild and wet winters (September to February).

Bangalore enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter months (October to February), when the temperature is between 15°C and 29°C. Summers (March to May) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 38°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, making it less ideal for sightseeing. While summers are warm, they aren't excessively hot, making it an option for those seeking budget-friendly deals and fewer crowds. The humidity can be fairly high year-round.

Wellington has two main airports that operate commercial flights: Wellington Airport and Kapiti Coast Airport.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving Wellington City and the wider region. It's a relatively modern airport with a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights. Opened in 1935, it has undergone numerous renovations to adapt to increasing passenger numbers. It serves as a hub for Air New Zealand.

Kapiti Coast Airport

Kapiti Coast Airport is a smaller airport located near Paraparaumu, offering mainly domestic flights. It's a smaller, more regional airport with limited flight options and airlines compared to Wellington Airport.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Singapore Airlines
• Emirates

Bangalore is primarily served by one major international airport, Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), which is located 40 km north of the city centre. Currently, there are no other commercial airports operating in Bangalore.

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR)

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), opened in May 2008, is a modern and expansive airport with a large terminal building. It handles both domestic and international flights, serving as a major hub for various airlines in India and worldwide. The airport also features shopping, dining and free wifi.

To reach the city centre from the airport, you can use public transport, taxis, or hire a car. The BMTC operates frequent Volvo bus services to different locations in the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available at the airport. Renting a car provides flexibility but may be subject to traffic congestion.

Bangalore, a city of gardens, offers a captivating blend of history, nature and modern life. From exploring ancient forts to wandering through lush gardens and experiencing vibrant nightlife, Bangalore has something for everyone.

• Visit Bangalore Palace: Explore the Tudor-style architecture of this magnificent palace, reminiscent of Windsor Castle. The palace offers stunning views of the surrounding city.
• Explore Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Wander through this expansive garden, home to a diverse collection of flora from around the world. It's a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
• Experience Cubbon Park: Enjoy a relaxing stroll through this large park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Perfect for a picnic or simply unwinding amidst nature.