Bangarapet

Bangarapet, also known as B. K. J. or simply BKJ, is a town in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka, India. It lies on the banks of the Kaveri River and is situated roughly 50 km north of Bangalore. The town serves as a satellite retail and commercial centre for the greater Bangalore region and is part of the Bangalore metropolitan area. Historically, Bangarapet has been an important junction on the Bangalore–Mysore–Chennai corridor, and its growth accelerated during the 1960s when the Indian Railways re-routed major freight traffic through the Bangalore–Mysore line.

Geographically, Bangarapet sits at an elevation of approximately 1060 metres (3,480 ft) above sea level. The climate is tropical savannah, with hot summers that can reach above 40 °C and mild winters that rarely drop below 10 °C. The Kaveri River provides irrigation for surrounding agricultural areas, and the region is noted for its sugarcane and wheat production.

The population of Bangarapet is around 60,000 as per recent estimates, and the official language is Kannada. The town has a high literacy rate, above 80 %. Its economy is diversified, comprising agriculture, light manufacturing, and a growing retail sector that caters to the suburban population of Bangalore. Transport links include a well‑connected railway station on the Bangalore–Chennai line and a network of state highways that provide easy access to nearby cities. The main industries are wholesale trading of electrical goods, textiles, and a small but growing service sector.

Bangarapet is home to several temples and cultural sites, including the Sri Gowri Shankara temple and the nearby Mysore Palace area which draws regional tourists. The town hosts annual festivals such as the Karaga procession that celebrate local religious traditions. Overall, Bangarapet is characterised by its blend of historical significance, agricultural roots, and its role as a dynamic commuter town for Bangalore.