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Best Historical Places in Bangalore

This exquisite royal palace tops the list of historical places in Bangalore. One of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in Bangalore, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace served as the summer residence of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore.

Like other Indo-Islamic buildings in different parts of the country, the ceilings and walls of the palace feature beautiful floral patterns and the arches display an intricate design. With a museum occupying its ground floor, the Summer Palace is an excellent treat for anybody who would like to learn about Tipu Sultan and the days of his reign.

Location: Chamrajpet, Bengaluru

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 4 km/ 6.6 km

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Founded as a mud fort in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore, this fort was rebuilt in 1761 by Haider Ali. Holding a great historical significance, Bangalore Fort is admired by all kinds of visitors, especially history buffs.

This imposing has stood through many important events in the past including the struggle of the Mysore Kingdom against the British. Islamic inscriptions and murals depicting Tipu Sultan’s contempt towards the British adorn the fort’s walls. Most part of the fort could not withstand the test of time except Delhi Gate and 2 bastions.

The Summer Palace, Fort Church, and Ganpati Temple are the major attractions located within the fort complex.

Location: New Tharagupet, Bengaluru

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 4km / 6 km

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The magnificent Bangalore Palace was built in 1887 and is spread across the vast area of 45000 square feet. The exceptional work inspired by Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture enhances the beauty of this impressive palace with imposing towers, battlements Gothic styled windows and so much more.

The wooden interiors are carved brilliantly and showcase multiple paintings; floral motifs display the royal customs. The palace is surrounded by vast green gardens which add to the beauty of this exceptionally exquisite palace. Furthermore, this palace hosts many rock concerts, cultural programs, and exhibitions. Owing to its distinctive antique stature and royal aura, Bangalore Palace is among the best monuments in Bangalore.

Location: Vasanth Nagar, Bangalore

Timings: 10:30 am to 5 pm

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station: 5 Km/ 4.6 km

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A magnificence fort that takes you back to the days of royal era, Devanahalli Fort is regarded as the birthplace of ‘The Tiger of Mysore’ or Tipu Sultan. It was built in 15101 by Mallebyre Gowda when Saluva Dynasty was reigning the region.

The complex sprawls across an area of 20 acres and is essentially built from stone and mortar. Centuries of negligence, fights, and battles have reduced the fort to ruins but the chief residence of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali are worth checking. In addition to being one of the most visited monuments in Bangalore, this fort is also important from an archaeological point of view.

Location: Bangalore - Hyderabad Highway

Timings: Opens from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 37.2 km 

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Take a walk through history and spirituality both at once at St Mary's Basilica in Bangalore. Standing tall like a proud symbol of diversity, this church consecrated in 1882 is one of the oldest in the region. The church amasses built in not only Christians but people belonging to all faiths.

If you are on a quest to discover the major historical places in Bangalore, this church has a lot to offer to not just history buffs but also to patrons of architecture. The Gothic style architecture gives the building a stunning appearance. Upon stepping inside the church, you will be delighted to witness the beauty created by statues of Mary and stained glass windows.

Location: Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru

Timings: 6 am to 9 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 5.4 km/ 5.5 km

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If you do not mind adding some shades of science to your overall experience palette in Bangalore, you cannot find a better place than Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium. An ideal place for kids as well as adults, this planetarium will virtually take you on a space tour and fill your head with some interesting facts pertaining to the science of astrology.

History enthusiasts will have a great time learning about the journey of human toward understanding outer space better and the advancements that have taken place since then. With brilliantly designed shows and a great wealth of information, this planetarium is worth visiting regardless of where your interest lies.

Location: Sankey Road, Bengaluru

Timings: 10:30 am to 5:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 3.7 km/5.1 km

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The aspect of this botanical garden that makes it important from a historical point of view is that its origin dates back to the era of Hyder Ali. It was developed by him in 1760 across an area of 40 acres which was later extended to 240 acres by his son Tipu Sultan.

Lal Bagh or 'Red Garden' got its name from red roses that are found here in abundance. The garden has an extensive range of attractions including a beautiful glass house, a rare collection of ancient trees, and some unique species of tropical plants.

Location: Mavalli, Bengaluru

Timings: 6 am to 7 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 5 km/ 7 km

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If you are setting out to explore historical places in Bangalore and its architectural gems, Vidhana Soudha deserves to be on top of your checklist. This magnificent structure designed in Neo-Dravidian style is the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka and was constructed in 1956.

Elements from British, Indo-Islamic, and Dravidian architectures can be seen in the design. Spread over an area of 60 acres, the grand edifice encompasses a total of 300 rooms. History buffs will have a rewarding experience exploring the classy nooks and crannies of Vidhana Soudha. However, it must be kept in mind that prior permission is needed to enter the building.

Location: Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bangalore

Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 2 km / 4 km

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Built between 1864 and 1868 during the rule of Tipu Sultan, Attara Kacheri housed various public offices initially. At present, the colossal red structure designed in Gothic Architecture is the High Court of Bengaluru.

Located opposite the building of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri appears absolutely stunning, confirming that the time could not steal away its magnificence.

Unfortunately, it is not open to the public for the purpose of tourism, so you will have to settle at admiring it from the outside. Owing to its praiseworthy design and historical significance, Attara Kacheri is definitely one of the best historical places in Bangalore.

Location: Opposite Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 3.5 km/3.7 km

One of those Bangalore historical places that receive huge praise from history lovers visiting the city is Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall. Exhibiting a fine specimen of European Architecture, the building was built in 1915 to immortalize the memory of the Dewan of Mysore, Sir K. Seshadri Iyer.

The building currently houses State Central Library with approximately 2,65,000 books and receives guests in huge numbers all around the year. Since it is located within Cubbon Park, a visit to this memorial hall can be clubbed with other prominent sites nearby.   

Location: Cubbon Park, Bengaluru

Timings: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 3.5 km/3.7 km

In addition to being a prominent religious site for Hindus, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is also one of the most interesting Bangalore historical places. This brilliantly designed ancient cave temple puts on display one of the finest examples of rock-cut architecture in the country.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the study reveals that the history of the temple traces it back to the 9th Century. The complex designs made on the rocks through carving will make you stare in disbelief. Certain aspects of the temple’s architecture involving astrological elements are nothing short of an unsolved mystery.

Location: Gavipura, Bengaluru

Timings: 6 am to 8 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 4km/5.7 km

Venkatappa Art Gallery, as the name indicates, showcases the work of one of the most celebrated artists of India, K. Venkatappa. The two-storeyed gallery and museum were inaugurated in 1975. In 1996 the government of Mysore decided to make a gallery to exhibit the paintings, musical instruments and work of various artists here.

Apart from Venkatappa’s famous paintings- the Ooty sunrise, the dazzling Nilgiri hills etc., work of various famous artists M.F.  Hussain, Rekha Rao, Vasudev to name a few are also commendable. Artworks dating back to the Stone Age give the visitors a clear understanding of the craftsmanship of ancient times.

The museum displays various sculptures, exquisite wooden work, antiques from Harappan civilization and so much more which will definitely amuse the history lover in you.

Location:  Ambedkar Veedhi, Bangalore

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station: 4.9 Km/4.4 km

Bugle Rock Park is one of the most famous places among Bangalore historical places. Bugle Rock, also known as the peninsular gneiss, is a formation of rock which is approximately 3000 million years old. During the reign of Kempe Gowda, a tower was built on this rock which gave a bird’s eye view of the city to make sure that no intruders were attempting to break in.

Here you can find many hollow rocks which were mainly used for lightning at that time. Bugle Rock Park also referred to as “walker’s paradise” has a serene atmosphere with a gushing waterfall and greenery all around. The park also houses a small Hindu temple.

Location: Basavanagudi, Bangalore

Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 AM

Entry fees: Free

Distance from Bangalore railway station: 4.7 Km/5.3 km

Government Museum is the second oldest museum in South India which showcases exquisite works of art. Government Museum first opened in a rented building in 1865 and later in 1879 construction of the new building designed by Colonel Sankey was completed which became functional in 1980.  

Explore the galleries of this hub of knowledge which has a wealth of information pertaining to various sections like ethnology, natural history, architecture, sculpture, etc. It is now known as an archaeological museum with antiques from Indus Valley Civilization, specifically from Mohenjodaro and Vijayanagar and inscriptions, old jewellery, coins, sculptures are exhibited here.

Location: Ambedkar Veedhi, Bangalore

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Note: Closed on Wednesday

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/ railway station: 4.9 Km/4.2 km

HAL Aerospace Museum inaugurated in 2001, provides you with a chance to come across the legacy of aerospace and aviation of India. Get ready to go on a virtual trip while exploring the growth of the aviation industry and hall of fame.

You will also get to see models of aircraft like MIG-21, KIRAN, LAKSHYA, MARUT and many more assets of Indian Air Force. Visit this museum for an extraordinary experience which will enlighten and amuse you at the same time. Owing to its exceptional exhibitions and pieces of valuable information from the past, it is one of the best historical places in Bangalore.

Location: Sector 3, Marathahalli, Bangalore

Timings:9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station:17 Km/14.3 km

Although not essentially a historical place, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, constructed in 1955, should be visited to spend some easy moments with your dear ones. Encompassing vast space of the landscaped garden, this spot in Bangalore is an impressive combination of technology and creativity.

The most interesting thing about the park is the choreographed show involving lights, music, and fountains. Spending an evening enjoying the fountain show and leisurely strolls in the gardens will set your mood right.

Location: T. Chowdaiah Road, Bengaluru

Timings: 10 am to 8:30 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 3.8 km/3.9 km

Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum is a marvel of science and technology. The museum has various interactive sections like Fun Science Gallery, Engine Hall, Electro-Technic Gallery, Space Gallery and the most thrilling Dinosaur Enclave which is informative and fun at the same time.

For children, there is a section called Science for Children featuring fun science activities and various musical games. Do not miss to watch the exciting 3D show which shows you fascinating films using light speed and 3D effects.

Location: Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bangalore

Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station: 4.8 Km/4.3 km

Big Bull Temple is the biggest and one of the oldest temples in India dedicated to sacred bull Nandi, a devotee of Lord Shiva. An enormous statue carved out on a single granite rock is a spectacular work of art. The imposing statue of the bull is 6 m long and has a height of 4.5 m.

The legend has it that Lord Shiva placed an iron rod on the head of the statue so that it would stop growing. This temple with an interesting background is an excellent site for history buffs as well as for those who enjoy marvels of architecture and archaeology.

Location: Basavanagudi, Bangalore

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station: 4.7 Km/5.3 km

National Gallery of Modern Art Bangalore inaugurated in 2009 houses more than 14000 implausible works of art from various famous artists like Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, Raja Ravi Verma and many more. It is a perfect blend of art dating back to the 18th Century to a modern piece of work which showcases the cultural roots of India with passing time through many variations.

This gallery also hosts many workshops, educational tours, seminars, talks all related to art and culture which represents India. This gallery offers you an insight into the exceptional work of art which makes it a delight for history buffs and art lovers.

Location: Manikyavelu Mansion, Bangalore

Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Distance from Bangalore bus stand/railway station: 4.5 Km/4 km

If your plan is to cover all aspects of the history of Bangalore, Mayo Hall surely deserves to be on your bucket list. The building was constructed in the memory of the 4th Viceroy of India, Lord Mayo. A rich amalgamation of history vibes and great architecture makes it find its name among the most visited monuments in Bangalore.

Enhancing the visual appeal of the building, its chandeliers, furniture,  and stone arches are worth seeing. From here you can enjoy panoramic views that cover some prominent sites like Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore Race Course, and Parade Grounds.

Location: M.G. Road, Bengaluru

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Distance from Bangalore Bus Stand/Railway Station: 5.4 km/6.7 km