I’ve been in Bangalore for over 26 years (all my life basically) and its a shame that I haven’t explored my own city. To rectify this, Bangalore Palace was one of the prominent destinations on my bucket list. So, here’s a quick review of all about Bangalore Palace you need to know before you visit.
Do people even visit Bangalore Palace?
Yes, they do. I do not know why but people usually expect Bangalore Palace to be off limits or too not-in-the-hype place to be. Well, if you’re into bars, pubs and nightlife, this isn’t the casual Bangalore things to do but you definitely need to visit it once in a lifetime. We went at around 12 in the noon and the crowd got bigger by the time we left.
When is Bangalore Palace open?
Every day from 10 AM to 5:30 PM the Palace is open for visiting. It is open after COVID for the public with restrictions of using a mask, social distancing, temperature checks at the entry and sanitizers are available at key locations.
What is the entry fee for Bangalore Palace?
The entry cost is INR 240 per person with an additional INR 300 for mobile photography (for a group). For foreign tourists the costs shoot up to INR 450 and carrying a digital still camera or video cam can cost you around INR 700-1500. (Sorry, my memory is faulty here.)
Also, you get free audio tours available after you enter the palace. Just pay INR 30 for a new headphone.
Why should you visit Bangalore Palace?
The Palace was constructed in the 1870s for the then minor king of Mysore (Wodeyar) who was in the guardianship of the British. This palace was merely constructed to provide accommodation for the time he was under training before he took up the rule. A lot of sections have been added to the property spreading it over 45000 sq. ft.
The architecture is mostly Tudor Revival style with turrets and towers rising from the building with interiors done in touches of florals motifs coating the walls, wooden carved furniture with a European influence. Lots of artwork, pictures and portraits are hung on every wall giving it a cozy feel.
Is Bangalore Palace worth visiting?
Yes, it is. Many debate that the steep pricing and an entire left wing of the Palace closed for public being reasons not to visit. But we must agree that privacy is something that we should respect. The Bangalore Palace is a one-time visit for every person out there.
If you have any more questions, leave a comment and I’ll address them as soon as possible.