Bangalore

Where to stay

Indiranagar sits a short walk from its own stop on the Purple Line metro, which makes it the most practical base for getting around without hailing an auto for every trip. Koramangala's 5th and 6th Block has more hostel density and slightly cheaper beds, though you'll rely on BMTC buses or Namma Yatri autos since the metro doesn't reach there.

Getting around

• Take the BMTC Vajra AC-1 bus from Kempegowda International Airport to MG Road or Shivajinagar for a fraction of a taxi, roughly a quarter of what a cab costs at the same hour.
• Use Namma Yatri instead of Ola or Uber for auto rides. It runs on the city's metered rate with no surge pricing and drivers keep the full fare.
• Eat at darshinis, the standing-only canteens found on nearly every main road, for very cheap full meals. Brahmin's Coffee Bar near Shankarapuram Cross Road in Basavanagudi is worth the short detour and the morning queue.

When to go

Beds are cheapest during the June-to-August monsoon when leisure travel slows. January and February book up faster as the weather improves and conference season picks up.