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Book NowAre you stuck in the daily facade of college assignments to project deadlines and looking for an escape for the forthcoming long weekend? The mesmerizing historical places in Bangalore are waiting to treat you with one of the most rejuvenating experiences.
Also known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is not only about humongous IT Tech Parks and great colleges, but it also has stunning historical places. It is a perfect destination to take an ideal break to relax and chill. From foodies to history buffs, from adventure enthusiasts to nature lovers, Bangalore is a city that never disappoints anyone.
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Best Historical Places In Bangalore
Here is a listicle of the best historical places in Bangalore, which allow you to tread back in time and gain insights into the rich history of the city.
1. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
The Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace constructed in 1791, portrays the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. This stunning palace was once the summer residence of Tipu Sultan, that is now converted into a stunning museum. The museum houses various achievements, paintings, the replica of the Sultan’s Tiger, and many other artifacts that are on display. One of the main attractions of the palace is the Sultan’s clothes and crown, which are presented on gold and silver pedestals.
Location: XH5F+PFR, Tipu Sultan Palace Rd, Chamrajpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560018
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Entry Fees: Indian: INR 20 and Foreigners: INR 200
2. Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall
The Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall, Cubbon Park was built as a tribute to the longest-serving Dewan, Sir Sheshadri Iyer of Mysore State, in 1910. The stunning museum boasts about its alluring neo-classical architecture, a collection of over 3,140,000 books, and vital historical significance. Also known as the state library, this dazzling red memorial hall, is a treat to the eye of the visitors. The library is a treasure trove for history buffs and avid readers.
The museum’s main highlight is the dedicated section, which houses books written in Braille script.
Location: Cubbon Park Road Near Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timings: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm (Except Mondays)
Entry Fees: Free
3. Lalbagh Botanical Gardens
Built in 1760, the mesmerizing garden has a rich history that dates back to more than 200 years. The alluring paths of the Lalbagh Botanical Garden allow you to witness and learn more about several plant species from all over the world. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a treasure trove for avid nature lovers, where one can witness the stunning botanical artwork and preservation of rare plant species. One of the main highlights is the glass house, which houses the Peninsular Gneiss, one of the oldest rocks in the world.
Location: Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
Entry Fees: Adult: INR 25, Camera Charges: INR 60
4. Vidhana Soudha
Visit one of the most prominent buildings, the Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the Secretariat and State Legislature. Built in 1956, the dazzling white structure displays mesmerizing neo Dravidian style architecture that has stood the test of time. The 300-room structure rises to 150 ft in height, which makes it one of the biggest legislative structures in the world. Visitors can explore one of the most prominent landmarks after seeking prior permission from the officials.
One of the major attractions is the spectacular light show, commencing from 6:30 pm to 8 pm,
Location: XHHR+VF9, Ambedkar Bheedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru – 560001
Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Book Your Private Tour: Bangalore City Tour Including Bangalore Palace and Vidhana Soudha here.
5. Someshwara Temple In Ulsoor
Dating to 900 AD in the Chola Period, the Someshwara Temple is the beacon of Bangalore’s architectural heritage. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple towers exhibit delicate paintings of gods and goddesses in Hindu Mythology. The intricate inscriptions and carvings on the walls and interiors of the temple tell the story of mythology, lore, and devotion. One of the main highlights is the eloquent Nandi pillar, which is positioned near the entry gate.
Location: Halasuru, Someshwarpura, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008
Timings: 6:00 am to12:30 pm, 5:30 to 9:00 pm
Entry Fees: Free
6. Bangalore Fort
The Bangalore Fort, one of the most historical monuments in Bangalore, traces its roots to 1537. The mud fort was built by Tipu Sultan, which was later upgraded to a stone fort by his successor Haider Ali in 1791. Although some parts of the fort were destroyed during the wars waged in the 18th Century, the fort’s remains stand as an example of 18th Century military fortification.
One of the main attractions is the Lord Ganesha temple, which displays the religious tolerance of Tipu Sultan. The ancient fort is known for its mesmerizing architecture, rich history, and alluring natural surroundings, which makes it one of the best historical places in Bangalore. The best time to visit this historical place in Bangalore is during the winter season from October to March. The weather is cool and soothing for exploring the ancient fort.
Location: XH7G+49C, Krishna Rajendra Rd, New Tharagupet, Bengaluru – 560002
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fees: Locals INR 15, Foreigners: INR 200
7. Mayo Hall
The Mayo Hall is one the best historical monuments of Bangalore tracing its roots back to 1872. The Hall is a government-built structure that was built in honor of the 4th Viceroy of India, Lord Mayo. The structure of the ancient building portrays the stunning amalgamation of European architecture and local artisans, which stands as a beacon of the British Colonial era.
The two-story building is renowned for its glitz furniture, stone arches, wooden floors, and stunning chandeliers, which attract tourists from around the world. The hall treats its visitors with a captivating panoramic view of Lake Ulsoor and Parade Grounds on one side, and Brigade Grounds and Bangalore Race Course on the other.
Imagine watching the city’s daily hubbub unfold in front of your eyes from the stunning porticos of the Hall. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Bangalore.
Location: 14, 7, M.G. Rd, FM Cariappa Colony, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, 560001
Timings: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm(except Sundays)
Entry Fees: Free. Visitors need to seek prior permission to visit certain areas of the hall.
8. Government Museum
Visit the Government Museum Bangalore, to explore the wide collection of ancient artifacts, inscriptions, and coins from prehistoric times, that date back to 450 CE. The prehistoric museum has separate dedicated sections, which house stunning paintings and terracotta sculptures from various eras like Deccan, Tanjore, and Mysore dynasties.
The main highlight of the stunning museum is the first-ever recorded Kannada inscriptions, dating back to 450 CE.
Location: Venkatappa Art Gallery Building, Kasturba Rd, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timings: 1:00 am to 5:00 pm (except Mondays)
Entry Fees: Adults: INR 20, Children: INR 10
9. Cubbon Park
The Cubbon Park, located in the heart of the city, is a green haven that provides a perfect break from the daily city hustle. Cubbon Park was the vision of Sir Mark Cubbon, which was built in 1870. Spreading over 300 acres of green foliage, the alluring criss-cross paths in the park are dotted with gulmohar, oaks, and cassia trees, which are perfect for children, joggers, and walkers.The park stands as a testament to colonial influence and nature conservation, which makes it one of the best historical places in Bangalore.
The park proudly adorns various statues of Queen Victoria, Sir Mark Cubbon, King Edward VII, Major General, Sir K. Sheshadri Iyer, and Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar.
Location: Kasturba Road, Ambedkar Veedhi, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, 560001
Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, except Mondays and the second Tuesdays of the month.
Entry Fees: Free
10. The Bull Temple
One of the best historical places in Bangalore, the Bull Temple also known as the Nandi Temple traces its roots back to the 16th Century. An exemplification of stunning Dravidian architecture, the temple houses a humongous statue of Nandi, attracting tourists from all around the world. Rising to a height of 4.3 meters and 6.1 meters in length, the Nandi monolithic statue is one of the biggest bull statue in the world. The temple is the epitome of religious traditions, where the air is filled with devotion and resonates with a spiritual vibe.
Location: Bugle Hill, Bull Temple Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004
Timings: 6:00 am 8:00 pm
Entry Fees: Free
11. Attara Kacheri
The Attara Kacheri is one of the most prominent buildings that houses the Karnataka High Court, attracting tourists worldwide. Tracing its roots back to 1867, the building was constructed by the Emperor of Mysore, Tipu Sultan. The sparkling red building is a two-storeyed building that flaunts its mesmerizing neoclassical Gothic style of architecture. Attara Kacheri is one of the oldest historical places in Bangalore, which has stood the test of time and is a witness to the rule of various dynasties through centuries.
Location: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Road, Bangalore, Karnataka
Timings: Monday to Friday:10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Entry Fees: Free
12. St. Mary’s Basilica
Consecrated in 1882, the St. Mary’s Basilica is one of the oldest churches in Bangalore, which dates back to the 17th Century. The St Mary’s Basilica is the first church in Karnataka to be upgraded to the status of a Minor Basilica. The church was constructed in the captivating Gothic style of architecture, with tinted glasses, towering arches, and stunning motifs. The St. Mary’s Feast is a jovial celebration of St. Mary’s birthday, which is celebrated on 8th September, every year. The Feast is known for its festivities which attract more than 5000,000 devotees from around the globe.
Location: XJM3+QQ3, MF Norrona St, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051
Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
Entry Fees: Free
Also Read: 14 Fascinating Things To Do In Bangalore
From the sheer brilliance of the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and grandeur of the Vidhana Soudha to the monolithic Nandi Temple and the fortified Bangalore Fort, Bangalore allows you to uncover distinct periods of history. The above-mentioned brief of the best historical places in Bangalore highlights Bangalore’s rich culture and heritage, dating back to prehistoric times.
Please let us know which of the listed historical monuments in Bangalore made it to the top of your list in the comment section below.
FAQs
The city of Bangalore was originally named as Benda-Kaal-Uru, which translates to ‘town of boiled beans’.
The Chokkanathaswamy Temple is the oldest in Bangalore, which traces its roots back to as early as 1200 CE making it one of the best historical places in Bangalore.
Built in 1944, the Bangalore Palace is a 19th-century palace, which makes it an 80-year-old monument.
Photographs are prohibited inside the Palace. The visitors can click pictures, but only after buying a token from the token counter inside the building.
Visitors can pay a visit to St. Mary’s Basilica Church without paying a single penny.
The best time to visit Nandi Hills is during the winter season, which oscillates between September to February. The cool and soothing days accompanied by pleasant evenings are ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.