Top 10 Historical places to visit in Bangalore

Bangalore, often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India," is a city known for its vibrant tech industry, bustling streets, and pleasant climate. However, beneath its modern facade lies a treasure trove of historical wonders waiting to be explored. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the top 10 historical places in Bangalore that offer a glimpse into the city's rich past.

1. Bangalore Palace

^{Bangalore Palace}

The Bangalore Palace is a magnificent structure that exudes old-world charm. Built in 1887, it was inspired by the Windsor Castle in England. The palace boasts exquisite architecture, beautiful gardens, and a fascinating history. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, including the Durbar Hall, which is adorned with a striking chandelier and elegant paintings.

Major Highlights:

• Impressive Tudor-style architecture with beautiful turrets and battlements.

• Lavish interiors, including the Durbar Hall, adorned with a magnificent chandelier and paintings.

• The palace's picturesque gardens with lush greenery and fountains.

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Sundays).

Entry Fee: INR 230 for Indians, INR 460 for foreigners.

2. Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace

^{Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Bangalore}

Located in the heart of the city, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace is a true testament to the city's historical significance. Constructed entirely of teak wood, this architectural marvel served as the summer retreat of the legendary ruler, Tipu Sultan. Inside, you can marvel at the intricately carved pillars, arches, and ornate frescoes.

Major Highlights:

• Remarkable teakwood architecture featuring intricately carved pillars and frescoes.

• Exhibits showcasing artifacts and anecdotes from Tipu Sultan's reign.

• Well-maintained gardens surrounding the palace.

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners.

Historical Importance: This palace was Tipu Sultan's summer retreat, built in 1791. It offers valuable insights into the life and times of the Tiger of Mysore, known for his fierce resistance against the British East India Company.

3. Bull Temple

^{Bull Temple, Bangalore}

The Bull Temple, also known as Nandi Temple, is a revered religious site that houses a massive monolithic Nandi (bull) statue. Carved out of a single granite rock, this stunning sculpture stands 15 feet tall and 20 feet long. The temple is a place of worship and a fine example of Dravidian architecture.

Major Highlights:

• Enormous monolithic Nandi (bull) sculpture carved from a single granite rock.

• Intricate Dravidian architecture with a colorful gopuram (tower).

• Religious ceremonies and rituals that take place regularly.

Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Entry Fee: No entry fee (donations welcome).

Also read: 5 Best Hill Station Getaways Near Bangalore 2023

4. Vidhana Soudha

^{Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore}

Vidhana Soudha is the legislative building of the state of Karnataka and an architectural masterpiece. Designed in the neo-Dravidian style, it houses the state's legislative chambers and government offices. The illuminated building is particularly captivating at night and has become a symbol of Bangalore's governance.

Major Highlights:

• Grand neo-Dravidian architecture with an imposing central dome.

• Houses the Karnataka State Legislature and government offices.

• Impressive lighting during special occasions and evenings.

Timings: The exterior can be admired at any time. For interior visits, contact the Karnataka Government Tourist Office.

Entry Fee: No entry fee for admiring the building from the outside.

5. Lalbagh Botanical Garden

^{Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore}

While Lalbagh is renowned for its botanical beauty, it also has historical significance. It was originally laid out by Hyder Ali and later expanded by his son, Tipu Sultan. The garden houses the famous Glass House, modeled after London's Crystal Palace, and a rare collection of plants and trees.

Major Highlights:

• Glass House inspired by London's Crystal Palace, hosting flower shows.

• Extensive collection of exotic plants, trees, and serene pathways.

• The Lalbagh Rock, a prehistoric rock formation, and the serene Glass House.

Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Flower shows are held during certain seasons.

Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 230 for foreigners. Additional charges apply for flower shows.

6. St. Mark's Cathedral

^{St. Mark's Cathedral, Bangalore}

St. Mark's Cathedral, built in 1812, is an elegant Anglican church that reflects the city's colonial history. Its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The churchyard is also the resting place of many notable British soldiers and civilians from the colonial era.

Major Highlights:

• Gothic-style architecture with exquisite stained glass windows.

• Churchyard with graves of notable British soldiers and civilians.

• A serene oasis amidst the bustling city.

Timings: Open from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

Entry Fee: No entry fee, but donations are appreciated.

7. Bangalore Fort

^{Bangalore Fort}

The Bangalore Fort, originally constructed in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I, is a reminder of the city's ancient roots. Although the fort has seen multiple renovations, it still retains some of its historical charm. Explore its bastions and the Ganesha temple within the fort premises.

Major Highlights:

• Fort bastions, remnants of a moat, and a Ganesha temple.

• Stone inscription commemorating the establishment of Bangalore.

• A glimpse of the city's early defensive architecture.

Timings: Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Entry Fee: No entry fee.

8. Venkatappa Art Gallery

^{Venkatappa Art Gallery Bangalore Img: Tripzilla}

Named after the renowned artist K. Venkatappa, this art gallery is housed in a beautiful colonial-era building. It showcases a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage of Bangalore and the works of the artist himself.

Major Highlights:

• A collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.

• Diverse art forms and styles, including traditional and contemporary Indian art.

• Exhibits honoring the contributions of the renowned artist, K. Venkatappa.

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).

Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners.

9. HAL Aerospace Museum

^{HAL Aerospace Museum, Bangalore}

For aviation and history enthusiasts, the HAL Aerospace Museum is a must-visit. It showcases the growth and achievements of the Indian aerospace industry, with a focus on the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Explore aircraft, helicopters, and engines on display.

Major Highlights:

• A vast collection of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and avionics.

• Outdoor and indoor displays, making it an aviation enthusiast's paradise.

• Educational exhibits on the growth of the Indian aerospace industry.

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).

Entry Fee: INR 30 for adults, INR 20 for children.

10. Kempegowda Museum

^{Kempegowda Museum, Bangalore Img: Bengaluru Prayana}

Kempegowda Museum is dedicated to the founder of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda. The museum exhibits various artifacts and inscriptions related to the city's origins and its historical importance. It's a great place to learn about the city's heritage and the vision of its founder.

Major Highlights:

• Artifacts and inscriptions related to Bangalore's founder, Kempe Gowda.

• Displays showcasing the city's origin and its historical importance.

• A repository of knowledge about the city's roots.

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children.

Read more: Bangalore to Kanyakumari by Bike in 2023: The Ultimate Road Trip Experience

Bangalore's history is a tapestry woven with diverse threads, and these top 10 historical places offer a glimpse into its rich and fascinating past. So, whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the city's heritage, make sure to explore these historical gems when you visit the Garden City of India.