Delegates 'hungry' for B'luru's best idli-vada, masala dosa

Where can one get the best piping hot idli-vada combo in Bengaluru? Which is the best place to savour masala dosa? Where can one get the best silk sarees and which is the best outlet to buy sandalwood sculptures ?  Where can I chill out with some cold beer?

These are some of the queries being posed by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who have registered for the three-day Pravasi Bharatiya Divas being held in Bengaluru from January 7. The delegates are also seeking information from the organisers on the best way to explore Bengaluru and also tourist attractions around the state capital.

According to official sources, the state government has been sending e-mails to the registered delegates about the rich heritage, culture and delicacies of the state besides places where they can explore the sights and sounds of Karnataka.

The sources said several delegates have replied to the e-mails stating that they will utilise the opportunity of their stay in the city to savour Bengaluru’s special delicacies including idli-vada and masala dosa. Minister of State for Tourism Priyank Kharge said his department will offer Bengaluru-circuit tours to delegates taking them to tourist attractions such as Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, Bannerghatta Biological Park among others. Special tours to the Nandi Hills, Savanadurga and longer duration tours to Kodagu, Bandipur, Nagarahole besides heritage packages will also offered, Kharge said. “We have roped in Karnataka State Development Tourism Corporation and the Jungle Lodges and Resorts to make the necessary arrangements,” the minister said.