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HomeGeneral InfoPlaces to Visit in BangaloreTake a Tour of the Grand Bangalore Palace and its Surroundings

Take a Tour of the Grand Bangalore Palace and its Surroundings

Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq

Bangalore, the third most populous city in India, is famously called the ‘Silicon Valley of India.’

Bangalore is home to a developing and vibrant economy, abundant gardens and parks, posh residential colonies, splendid malls, buzzing nightlife, and, of course, its treasure of heritage and culture.

Let’s explore one such spot in Bangalore – the Bangalore Palace.

Now, how is Bangalore Palace in your imaginary world?

Let’s have a quick overview of the very well-known BANGALORE PALACE.

An Overview

The sprawling Bangalore Palace was built in the 19th century with Tudor architectural influences typical of England during this era.

It was commissioned by the Wadiyar dynasty and is spread across 45,000 sq.ft with 454 ornately carved wooden pillars, three courtyards, and some extraordinary life-like dioramas depicting puppets dressed as Maharajas.

Architecture

Bangalore Palace Architecture

The palace was created in the 19th century with the grand vision of creating one of the most luxurious places of its time; a celebration of art and architecture.

The palace’s exterior remains unchanged since its construction to depict several stories from Indian mythology.

On the inside, it is also known to have hosted grand bouquets for weddings due to this beautiful balcony overlooking discourses in the courtyard below and richly adorned interior decor.

The temples inside further innovate the beauty of this spectacular creation and serve to honor various Hindu deities.

The palace features Tudor-style architecture with the famous ivory tower Ganda Bherunda at the rooftop.

Ganda Bheruda, believed to be inspired by the mythical eagle Garuda, consists of two entwined birds with beaks facing each other, serving as an outline of the powerful legacy and supremacy associated with this majestic structure.

Along the other side, there are features of the head of an elephant and a lion, showing royalty and power.

One of the most exciting features of the Bangalore Palace was the mural it displayed on its walls.

The famous Raja Ravi Varma paintings the mural depiction of an idyllic paradise with a picturesque backdrop of the Nilgiris mountain range.

History

The grandeur of the Bangalore Palace was not lost on its occupants.

The palace was ruled over by four generations of the Maharaja of Mysore.

Under their rule, the palace hosted many events and gatherings, such as extravagant weddings, ballroom dances, and other festivities.

The Reverend J. Garrett, the head of a school in the cantonment town, originally owned the Bangalore palace.

The Chamaraja Wadiyar’s guardians inherited it in 1873.

The initial stage of the construction started in 1874 and came to an end in 1878.

However, time slowly took its toll on the palace, and it fell into disrepair in later years.

Fortunately, it has since been restored and made available for public viewing.

Bangalore Palace Interesting Facts

If you are one for some interesting facts, here are a few!

1. Yellow seat, gifted by King Alfonso XIII

When King Alfonso XIII of Spain left the kingdom in 1931 due to a collapsing monarchy and widespread calls for a republic, the Spanish prince was at the safety gates in Bangalore Palace even though he spent most of his years in exile in France.

King Alfonso XIII sent the Wadiyar family a stunning yellow and blue seat decorated with Spanish tiles with animals, birds, castles, and exquisite floral designs as a thank-you for their hospitality.

2. Trophies in the Palace

The royals enjoyed hunting very much, and Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who ruled from 1940 to 1950, is thought to have gathered around 300 trophies, including bears, tigers, elephants, and Indian bison.

Furniture constructed from hunted animals, such as stools built from animal hooves, elephant feet, and an elephant trunk vase, are some of the most gruesome artifacts in Bangalore Palace.

3. Renowned musical center

The palace makes for a perfect concert setting. It was in the center of the city, away from residential neighborhoods, and featured an ample, open, breezy space that could hold up to 40,000 people.

The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Aerosmith, Bryan Adams, Elton John, David Guetta, Jay Sean, and Ludacris performed at this iconic venue, drawing music fans from all across India.

Things to do at Bangalore Palace

Things to do at Bangalore Palace

The palace is usually open to tourists from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm.

However, prior booking of tickets is required.

In Bangalore Palace, people can behold its unique architecture and admire the grandeur of the bygone era.

A lot of activities can be done here. Here are a few:

1. Explore the interior

Take your time, explore the ample halls, and take in all the palace’s grandeur. Check out ancient artifacts and furniture, and marvel at the intricate carvings on the walls and ceiling.

2. Visit the Garden

Bangalore Palace has a beautiful, sprawling garden. Take a walk along the gravel paths and admire the lush greens and colorful flowers. One can also have a picnic in the garden and enjoy the royal aura of the palace.

3. Attend events

Hosted by the palace, events take place throughout the year. Catch a movie screening, an art show, or a literature meetup to enjoy the cultural life of Bangalore.

4. Golf near the palace

The nearby Karnataka Golf Association offers an 18-hole golf course for those who wish to take a swing amidst the royal ambiance of the palace.

5. Shop at the market

There is a market near the palace where one can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and even furniture replicas inside the palace.

6. Have a royal brunch

There are several restaurants and cafes near the palace. Stop by for a quick snack or a leisurely brunch amidst the palace environs.

Bangalore Palace Timings

This beautiful palace is open to visitors, who can experience its grandeur.

The timings of Bangalore Palace are from 10.00 am – 5.30 pm.

Note: Entry may be restricted to the public if the palace is occupied for private events.

Bangalore Palace Entry Fee

Entry to the palace is as follows:

  • For Indian Citizens – Rs. 230
  • For the Foreigners – Rs. 460
  • Still Camera – Rs. 685
  • Mobile Camera – Rs. 285
  • Video Camera – Rs. 1485

Places to Visit Near Bangalore Palace

Will you never feel the want to enjoy a place’s rich culture and crafts when you travel there or live there?

Doing so is obvious!

You can use your excursion to learn more about art and craft in Bangalore city.

If you go to a pottery town, a women’s empowerment center, a gallery of cartoons, or an art gallery, don’t you feel the urge to see these things in person?

Selecting the most appropriate private tour for your budget can add to your vacation.

Apart from these, what places could you visit nearby Bangalore Palace?

Shrungagiri Sri Shanmukha Temple

It’s only a 17 min travel from the Bangalore Palace. The temple is surrounded by a clean and pleasant atmosphere. Do not worry about traveling with senior citizens. There is a cab service of Rs. 10/- per person. It is located on a scenic hill in Bengaluru. Famous for its six-headed Lord Murugan that can be seen from the Nice Road.

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat

The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat, or CKP, is a recognized art school in Bengaluru. It is 1.6 kilometers away from Bangalore Palace. This institute features a museum, a store, and a gallery that are worth seeing.

St. Mary’s Basilica

This church was the first in the state and is one of Bangalore’s oldest. Renowned for the celebrations held around the St. Mary’s feast in September of each year, which draws people from all over Bangalore. Located in Shivaji Nagar. 1.7km from the Bangalore Palace. Its architecture is in the Gothic style, with stained glass windows.

ISKCON Temple Bangalore

2.1 km from the Bangalore palace. Situated in the Chord Road, Hare Krishna Hill. 1997 was the year in which the ISKCON Temple was inaugurated. The temple is suitable for peace and a large area to express devotion. No photo capturing is permitted inside the temple. The surroundings are neat and clean, and so is the mind and soul of the people who visit the temple.

Ragigudda Sri Prasanna Anjaneyaswamy Temple

Situated 2.7 km from the Bangalore Palace.

Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri

The Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri in Bangalore, India, form the official seat of the government of Karnataka. The complex is divided into two parts – the Vidhana Soudha, which houses 18 chambers for various state offices and committees, and the Attara Kacheri, which comprises 11 courtrooms. Public entry is prohibited, but the official institute can be watched outside.

Commercial Street

This forever busy shopping destination is just 2.5 km from Bangalore Palace. Want to pick up something quickly? Try Commercial Street. On second thoughts, ‘quickly’ may be wishful thinking! 😄

ISKCON Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

The temple is situated to the west of Chord Road, Rajaji Nagar. The temple is 4.6km from the Bangalore Palace.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Love the gardens and open spaces? Lalbagh Botanical Gardens is a must-visit. It’s located 5.6 km from the Bangalore Palace.

Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum

This museum is best suited for children and adults to enhance their love for science. Exhibition halls on fun science, animated dinosaurs, space, life-size models of the wright brothers, everything makes it interesting to visit the place. 2.7 km from the Bangalore Palace.

Bangalore Palace Travel Tips

  • Photography is allowed but limited at specific points. Don’t forget to ask for prior permission for the capturing the palace
  • The materials and the things kept inside the palace are about 100 years old, approx. And if anything gets damaged, you will be charged a penalty
  • Make sure that some areas of the palace are entry-free or restricted. Because some areas may be limited for entry due to reconstruction and renovation work
  • Do not loiter anywhere in the palace. Some portions are restricted to the public
  • Maintain cleanliness. Do not throw anything in and around the palace
  • Under harsh sunny climates, wear something to protect yourself

Bangalore Palace Address

If you have any additional questions, you can speak with the Bangalore Palace staff:

Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar,
Near Mount Carmel Institute of Management,
Bangalore – 560052

Bangalore Palace Image Gallery

How to Reach Bangalore Palace?

If you’re a newcomer to Bangalore, you’d probably want to know the best way to reach Bangalore Palace.

Here is the route!

From the Majestic, it is only 5.3 kilometers to the Bangalore palace.

The distance from the International Airport in Bengaluru is 33 kilometers.

Bengaluru Cantonment, the closest railway station, is only 2.7 kilometers from the Bangalore Palace.

Consider the metro when planning your itinerary. The closest metro station is Mantri Mall Malleshwaram (4 km).

It is simple to reach the place using any public transportation method.

The following BMTC buses leave from the central bus station: 278A, 278B, 287C, 287D, AND 287E.

Location Map

FAQs

What is the entry fee for Bangalore Palace?

For Indian citizens – Rs.230 INRu003cbru003eFor Foreigners – Rs. 460 INRu003cbru003eTo use a still camera – Rs. 685u003cbru003eFor mobile cameras – Rs. 285u003cbru003eAnd, for the video camera – Rs. 1485

What is special in Bangalore Palace?

The palace is exquisitely decorated with wood carvings, plaster designs, and ceramic tiles depicting various scenes from Indian mythology. It also features an exquisite collection of royal treasures, including artifacts, paintings, and other memorabilia from the Wodeyar era.

Who is the owner of Bangalore Palace?

The owner of Bangalore Palace is HH Pramoda Devi Wadiyar.

How much time is required for Bangalore Palace?

You must set aside 2-3 hours to visit the entire palace.

Can we take photos inside Bangalore Palace?

Yes and no. There are areas where you can take photos and some places where you must ask for prior permission for photography.

Is it allowed to go inside Bangalore Palace?

Yes, it is allowed for public visits. But, certain areas of the palace are restricted. You must ensure with the palace guides before entering any portion of the palace.

How much does a wedding cost in Bangalore Palace?

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Tariq
Tariqhttps://tariqsp.com
An entrepreneur based in Bangalore with a passion for blogging and real estate. Connect with me on Instagram @imtariqsp.
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