Freedom Park: Bengaluru's Transformation from Jail to Public Space
Explore Bengaluru's Freedom Park: Where history, recreation, and democratic expression converge in the heart of the city.
Freedom Park, located in the heart of Bengaluru, is a unique urban space that blends history, recreation, and democratic expression. Originally built by the British in 1866 as the Central Jail, it housed freedom fighters and political prisoners, most notably during the Emergency in 1975. In 2008, the jail was transformed into Freedom Park, opening its doors to the public as a space for recreation and remembrance. The 21-acre park retains several original structures, including the jail's watchtower, barracks, and entrance block, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The park also features a jail museum, sculpture court, and a freedom wall. A section of the park is dedicated to public protests, echoing London's Hyde Park and providing a space for democratic expression. Visitors can explore the park's gardens, walk along the joggers' track, and visit the children's play area. The park also hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub for the community. Freedom Park stands as a testament to Bengaluru's evolving identity, from a colonial prison to a modern public space that honors the past while embracing the future.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the park's peaceful atmosphere.
- Explore the Jail Museum to learn about the park's history as a former prison and its significance during India's independence movement.
- Check the park's schedule for cultural events, exhibitions, and public meetings to experience the park's vibrant community life.
- Take a walk around the park to view the historic buildings and colourful gardens.
A brief summary to Freedom Park
- Seshadri Rd, Bengaluru, Gandhi Nagar, Karnataka, 560009, IN
- +911123715084
- Monday 5 am-8:30 am
- Tuesday 5 am-8:30 am
- Wednesday 5 am-8:30 am
- Thursday 5 am-8:30 am
- Friday 5 am-8:30 am
- Saturday 5 am-8:30 am
- Sunday 5 am-8:30 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
Freedom Park is accessible via the Bengaluru Metro. The closest metro stations are Cubbon Park and Majestic. From either station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a ride-hailing taxi service to reach the park, which is less than 2 km away. The metro fare is typically ₹10-₹20 for a short trip. Auto-rickshaw fares are approximately ₹30-₹50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are readily available throughout Bengaluru. A short taxi ride from the city center or a nearby transport hub to Freedom Park will typically cost between ₹80 and ₹150, depending on traffic and distance.
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Walking
If you are near Maharani College, Vidhana Soudha, or Cubbon Park, walking to Freedom Park is a viable option. Freedom Park has two entrances, one on Seshadri Road and the other on Ramachandra Rao Road, making it easily accessible from different directions. Follow the main roads and look for signs directing you to the park.
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Parking
Freedom Park offers free parking. A multi-level car park (MLCP) at Freedom Park has been opened with parking fees starting at Rs 15 for bikes and Rs 25 for cars per hour. Right Parking MLCP-Freedom Park offers parking spaces as well.
Attractions Nearby to Freedom Park
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Steel Flyover Bangalore
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Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
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I love Bengaluru
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National Military Memorial Park
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Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
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Band Stand @ Cubbon Park
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Indiragandhi Musical Fountain Park
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Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park
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Shri Dharmarāya Swamy Temple
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Cubbon Park
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Sri Chamarajendra Park
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National Gallery of Modern Art (Bengaluru)
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Venkatappa Art Gallery Bengaluru
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Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum
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HAL Tejas Model Display
Landmarks nearby to Freedom Park
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Karnataka Vikasa Soudha
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vidhana soudha gate number 1
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High Court of Karnataka
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Chickpete Manchi Someshwara Temple 1855CE Kannada And Marathi Inscription
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Indian Flag Tower Bengaluru
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Sir Mark Cubbon Statue
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Government Museum
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Department of Archaeology and Museums
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Museum of Art & Photography (MAP)
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Statue of Edward VII, Bengaluru
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Mantri Square Mall
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St. Mark's Cathedral
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Jai Bheem Circle
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Pic place
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Mourya's kingdom