Bengaluru Palace: A Glimpse into Royal History
Explore the regal opulence of Bengaluru Palace, a Tudor-style architectural gem and a window into the lives of Mysore's royalty.
Bengaluru Palace, a captivating landmark in the heart of Bengaluru, offers a fascinating journey into India's monarchical past. Built in 1878 by Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar, the palace was envisioned as a private residence that mirrored the grandeur of British palaces, drawing inspiration from Windsor Castle. The palace's architecture is a unique blend of Tudor and Scottish Gothic styles, featuring fortified towers, turrets, battlements, and elegant wooden carvings. Spanning 454 acres, the palace grounds provide a serene escape from the city's bustle. Inside, visitors can explore the opulent Durbar Hall, view a collection of royal artifacts, vintage photographs, paintings, hunting trophies, and antique furniture, all offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Wodeyar dynasty. An audio tour is available in multiple languages, providing historical context and insights into the palace's significance. Throughout its history, Bengaluru Palace has served as the residence of the Wodeyars and a venue for cultural events and public gatherings. Today, it continues to host concerts, exhibitions, and social functions, adding to its vibrant legacy.
Local tips
- Check the palace's opening hours before your visit, as they may vary due to special events.
- Purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace and its grounds.
- Take advantage of the audio tour to learn about the palace's history and significance.
- Visit during the spring (March-June) to enjoy the palace grounds in full bloom.
A brief summary to Bengaluru Palace
- Bengaluru, Karnataka, IN
- +918022352828
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Bengaluru city center (Majestic), take a BMTC bus towards Jayamahal or Sadashivanagar. Several buses operate on this route with a typical fare of ₹30. Alight near the palace grounds. From Mantri Malleshwaram, the closest metro station (4km), take a bus or taxi to the palace. Metro fares range from ₹10-₹60 depending on the distance.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Bengaluru. A short taxi ride from the city center (Majestic) to Bengaluru Palace typically costs between ₹200-₹500, depending on traffic and the service provider.
-
Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Cubbon Park (4.5km) or Sankey Tank (3.8km), consider a pleasant walk to the palace. The walk will take approximately 45-60 minutes. Be aware of the traffic and weather conditions.