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Bangalore Palace: My Royal Experience and Complete Visitor Guide

If you ever wanted to know what it feels like to live like royalty, minus the crown, of course, then Bangalore Palace is your golden ticket.

The first time I stepped inside, I couldn’t help but think, “So this is what Netflix missed when they were making The Crown!”

With its sprawling gardens, Tudor-style architecture, and interiors dripping with elegance, Bangalore Palace is less of a tourist spot and more of a time machine.

It whisks you back to an era when kings threw grand parties, horse carriages weren’t just for Instagram reels, and royalty meant something beyond binge-watching Bridgerton.

Bangalore Palace isn’t just a royal residence—it’s where history, architecture, and a dash of fairytale magic come together right in the middle of the city.
Tarriq Salaam, Bangalore Blogger and RealtorTarriq Salaam

But here’s the thing: Bangalore Palace isn’t just about history.

It’s about feeling the charm of a bygone era while standing right in the middle of one of India’s busiest, most modern cities.

And let me tell you.

There’s nothing quite like sipping filter coffee in the morning and then walking into a palace straight out of 19th-century England by afternoon.

That’s Bangalore for you.

Where tradition and modernity constantly bump into each other, usually over a plate of masala dosa.

Quick Information: Bangalore Palace

In a rush? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. 🙂

Here’s a cheat sheet for Bangalore Palace. But if you’ve got a little time, keep scrolling.

That’s where I spill the royal tea (with a side of filter coffee).

DetailInformation
LocationVasanth Nagar, Bangalore
Built in1878
Architectural StyleTudor Revival, inspired by Windsor Castle (UK)
Opening Hours10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (all days)
Entry FeeIndian visitors: ₹240,
Foreign visitors: ₹460
Camera charges extra
Nearest Metro StationCubbon Park / Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Station (Purple Line)
Famous ForRoyal architecture, lavish interiors, paintings, events, and concerts
Best Time to VisitOctober to March (pleasant weather)

My Visit to Bangalore Palace

Bangalore Palace

I spent a leisurely morning exploring every nook and cranny.

First, I strolled through the vast courtyard, admiring the ivy creeping up the castle walls and the vintage carriages parked under a sunny sky.

It felt like a scene from a historical film set!

Inside, I followed an audio guide (available in English and Hindi) through the rooms that are open to visitors.

One highlight was the Durbar Hall on the first floor: its high ceiling and giant carved elephant head mounted on the wall took my breath away.

I wandered from room to room, peeking at painted ceilings and antique furniture, imagining life in the palace a century ago.

My guide explained that the palace has about 34 bedrooms and a ballroom, though we only saw a fraction of it.

Even so, the rooms we did visit were richly decorated with wood-paneled walls, crystal chandeliers, and royal portraits.

The grand staircase alone was stunning – oak steps and banisters that felt like walking through history.

By the time I left, I had spent a good few hours exploring, taking tons of Bangalore Palace photos, and learning so much about the Wadiyar royal family and their lifestyle.

It truly felt worth every rupee of the entry ticket.

A Brief History of Bangalore Palace

History of Bangalore Palace

Bangalore Palace has a backstory as fascinating as the palace itself.

Built in 1878, this gem was inspired by England’s Windsor Castle, because apparently, even the royals of Mysore had Pinterest boards back in the day!

The palace was commissioned by Rev. Garrett, the first principal of Central High School (which later became Central College).

Later, it was acquired by the Mysore royal family, and Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar gave it his royal stamp of approval.

Walking through its halls, I felt like every brick had a story to whisper.

From portraits of the Wadiyar dynasty staring down at you like watchful ancestors, to artifacts that look like they could start speaking any second, the palace is essentially history’s way of saying, “Look at me, I aged well.”

And the stories don’t stop at the walls.

This palace has been a silent witness to elaborate balls, cultural events, concerts, and yes, even your favorite rock bands. Iron Maiden and Backstreet Boys once performed here!

Imagine a royal garden that’s hosted both kings and metalheads.

That’s Bangalore Palace for you.

Exploring the Interior: A Peek into Royal Life

Bangalore Palace, Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside, the grandeur only increased.

The Karnataka tourism department notes that the palace spans about 45,000 square feet and contains 34 bedrooms (plus even a swimming pool) – though only a few rooms are shown to visitors.

What you see is spectacular: carved wooden staircases, rich oil-painted ceilings, and ornate chandeliers everywhere.

One major highlight is the Durbar Hall on the first floor.

Its golden-yellow walls, tall columns, and the carved elephant-head at the center are absolutely unforgettable.

Another is the grand ballroom, which still holds a giant crystal chandelier and a polished wooden dance floor.

Every chamber felt like a museum of royal decor.

I spotted Victorian-era furniture, Neo-classical couches, and colorful paintings (even works by noted artist Raja Ravi Varma) on the walls.

In one drawing room, the ceiling was covered in floral motifs and cornices that looked straight out of a palace in London.

The audio tour (given with a headset) filled in details, like how stained-glass windows and matching fans were imported from Europe.

I admit I moved slowly, marveling at the carved doorways and peeking into each display case.

Exploring the interior of Bangalore Palace really gave me a sense of how opulently the Wodeyars lived in the 19th century.

Bangalore Palace Grounds and Events

Bangalore Palace Grounds and Events

The beauty of Bangalore Palace isn’t just in the building – the surrounding Palace Grounds have their own history.

For many years, the Bangalore Palace Ground was one of the city’s premier concert venues.

Bands like the Rolling Stones, Guns N’ Roses, Deep Purple, Ludacris, and many others famously performed huge shows there in the 2000s. (I imagine the crowds of rock fans back then!)

These days, large concerts are much rarer due to a property dispute and government restrictions.

However, the grounds still come alive with cultural events.

Most notably, every December, the Palace Grounds host the annual Bengaluru Cake Show.

This whimsical festival of intricate cake sculptures (castles, animals, you name it) draws thousands of families.

I was lucky to visit just after the 2024 Cake Show ended – the giant edible castle displays were still set up, and I wandered the lawns taking fun snapshots.

Besides the Cake Show, the lawns sometimes hold other fairs and community events (flower shows, art expos, etc.).

Even without a concert or festival, the vast green lawns are a nice place to stroll or relax.

On my visit, I enjoyed sitting on one of the many benches under a banyan tree, gazing up at the palace tower.

If you have time, it’s worth walking around the perimeter to see the gardened sides of the castle and smaller pavilions on the grounds.

Why Bangalore Palace is Worth Your Time

Why Bangalore Palace is Worth Your Time

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I bother visiting Bangalore Palace when I can just Google pictures of it?”

Fair question.

But here’s the truth: no picture does justice to the feeling of walking through its grand halls.

First, it’s not every day you get to experience European-style architecture in the middle of Bangalore.

Second, the palace isn’t just about the past. It’s alive with the present, too.

Events, exhibitions, and concerts keep happening here, giving it a unique blend of heritage and modern culture.

Where else can you tour a palace in the morning and attend a rock concert in the evening at the same venue?

Plus, if you’re a photography enthusiast (or just someone who wants to make their Instagram followers jealous), this place is a goldmine.

Every arch, pillar, and wall practically begs to be photographed. I spent more time clicking selfies than I’d like to admit.

And finally, because let’s be honest, sometimes you need a break from Bangalore’s endless traffic and glass buildings.

Bangalore Palace is that escape.

A reminder that the city isn’t just about tech parks and filter coffee; it’s also about history, culture, and a dash of royal glamour.

Ticket Price, Timings, and Entry Information

Bangalore Palace Ticket Price, Timings, and Entry Information

  • Entry Fee: ₹230 for Indian nationals; ₹460 for foreign visitors.
  • Camera Fees: Mobile camera ₹285; video camera ₹1485. (Regular still cameras generally have no extra charge on weekdays.)
  • Timings: The palace is open 10:00 AM–5:30 PM, closed on Mondays. (It may also close on short notice for private royal events.)
  • Audio Guide: English and Hindi audio tours are available at the ticket counter.
  • Tickets: You can purchase Bangalore Palace tickets at the gate (they don’t sell out, but lines can form on weekends). Audio tour headsets cost extra or are often included.
  • Park Fun: Note that the Bangalore Palace Fun World amusement park (on the grounds) is a separate attraction with its own tickets. (I skipped that and focused on the palace itself.)

Plan to spend at least 1–2 hours here.

I found the entry counter staff helpful; just keep your ticket safe and wear it visibly.

Also, check ahead: if a big event is on, parts of the palace might be closed to the public.

How to Reach: Nearest Metro Station & Access

  • Metro: The closest Namma Metro stop is Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Station (Vidhana Soudha) on the Purple Line, about 2.2 km from the palace. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk (~25–30 min) to reach Palace Road. Another nearby station is Cubbon Park on the Green Line (about 2.7 km away).
  • Bus/Taxi: Bengaluru Palace is roughly 5.3 km north of the central Majestic bus station. Several city buses (e.g., routes that say “Palace Road”) go in that direction. It’s often easiest to take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from any part of town; the fare from MG Road or Shivajinagar is usually under ₹200.
  • Train: Bengaluru Cantonment railway station (Broadway) is the nearest train stop (about 3 km away). From Cantonment, you can hop in an auto or taxi in 10 minutes to the palace.
  • Air: The palace is about 33 km from Kempegowda International Airport. Depending on traffic, allow 1–1.5 hours by taxi. (Some travelers plan Palace as their first stop when visiting Bangalore; it’s closer to the airport than downtown hotels.)
  • Address: For GPS, the official address is Bangalore Palace, Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru 560052. It’s located right opposite the well-known CMH Road area.

Overall, getting there is straightforward.

I found Bangalore Palace is well sign-posted on Palace Road, and most taxi drivers know it by name. Just aim for “Palace Grounds” if their GPS is old.

Photography Tips & Best Time to Visit

  • Best Season: October–March (winter) is ideal for Bangalore’s mild climate. The Palace looks splendid in the cooler months, and this is also when the Cake Show happens (mid-December, early Jan). Summers can get hot (though not as scorching as other cities), and the monsoon season (June–Sept) brings rain that can make the grounds muddy.
  • Time of Day: Try to arrive early morning or late afternoon. The soft sunlight at those times bathes the sandstone facade in a golden glow – perfect for Bangalore Palace photos. I got my best shots around 4–5 PM when the light was warmer and shadows dramatic on the towers. Midday sun can be harsh, and many tourists arrive right at 10:00. If you prefer fewer crowds, aim for late afternoon.
  • Photo Spots: The palace’s front courtyard and lawn are classic photo backgrounds. I recommend framing the building with the decorative horse carriages. Indoors, the Durbar Hall and the main staircase are very photogenic – just remember, no flash on the antiques, and ask guides if photography is allowed in each room. If you have a wide-angle lens, stand at the far end of the courtyard to capture all the battlements and towers in one shot.
  • Permission: A friendly guard reminded me to be careful with my camera – photography is generally allowed, but large tripods or professional equipment may require prior permission. If you plan to use a DSLR or drone, ask ahead. Also, please don’t touch any century-old artifacts or furniture. I saw signs in the palace politely reminding visitors to keep their hands off delicate paintings and carvings.
  • Dress & Gear: Wear comfortable walking shoes; you’ll be on your feet on marble and sandstone floors. It gets sunny on the open terraces, so bring a hat and sunglasses as suggested by travel tips. Even though parts of the palace are shaded, the outer courtyards have little cover. I carried a water bottle (though there’s a café near the exit), and I recommend sunscreen if you’re visiting in summer.
  • Other Tips: Check the official Palace website or local listings for any event closures before you go. The last entry is usually about 30 minutes before closing time, so plan accordingly. There’s an audio tour (in both English and Hindi) if you like guided info. And of course, keep your ticket handy – guards sometimes check it when moving between floors.

Bangalore Palace Location

FAQs About Bangalore Palace

Where is Bangalore Palace located?

Bangalore Palace is located in Vasanth Nagar, right in the heart of the city. If you’re anywhere near MG Road or Cantonment, you’re just a short drive away.

What are the Bangalore Palace timings?

The palace is open to visitors every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. But, here’s a little tip: try visiting in the morning for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.

What’s the entry fee for Bangalore Palace?

For Indian visitors, the entry fee is around INR 240. For foreign nationals, it’s about INR 460. There’s an extra charge for photography. Yes, even your DSLR has to buy a ticket!

How long does it take to explore the palace?

If you’re like me and get distracted by every chandelier and stained-glass window, you’ll need at least 2–3 hours. If you’re brisk, you could finish in an hour. But honestly, don’t rush it, the palace deserves your time.

Is photography allowed inside Bangalore Palace?

Yes, but as I said, you’ll need to pay an additional fee. And trust me, it’s worth every rupee because the interiors are Instagram heaven.

What’s the best way to reach Bangalore Palace?

Autos, cabs, or your own vehicle—it’s easily accessible. The nearest metro station is Cubbon Park Metro (Purple Line), and from there, it’s a quick ride.

Final Thoughts

Bangalore Palace is one of those rare spots where time slows down.

Standing inside those grand halls, I felt a sense of awe that’s hard to put into words (though I clearly tried!).

For me, it wasn’t just about ticking off another tourist attraction. It was about connecting with the city’s royal roots and soaking in a side of Bangalore I don’t often get to see.

So, the next time you’re looking for a royal escape without leaving Bangalore, don’t think twice, head over to Bangalore Palace.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture admirer, or just someone who wants a killer Instagram post, this place ticks all the boxes.

👉 And if you’re exploring Bangalore like I do, keep following my blog for more first-hand stories, tips, and hidden gems around the city.

Trust me, I’ve got plenty more up my sleeve!

Until my next adventure, keep exploring, keep discovering, and remember. Every palace visit deserves at least one royal selfie! 👑📸

Found the article informative? Was it helpful?

Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you. 🙂

Follow me for more insider guides, lesser-known facts, and unforgettable experiences across Bangalore and beyond.

Until next time,

Exploring Bangalore, one story at a time — right here on tariqsp.com.

Tarriq Salaam, Bangalore Blogger and Realtor

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Tarriq Salaam

Tarriq Salaam #Blogger
Tarriq Salaam #Bloggerhttps://tariqsp.com
I’m Tarriq Salaam, a Bangalore-based blogger and realtor with a passion for exploring the city’s vibrant culture, luxury spaces, and dynamic lifestyle. Through this blog, I aim to serve — by sharing honest recommendations, unique finds, and helpful insights that bring the best of Bangalore to locals and visitors alike.
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