Every city has a story to tell. A story that weaves together the fabrication of its existence, culture and civilization. Taking you through Bangalore’s history is our aim here as we are here to tell you the stories woven into its landmarks. In the middle of the city’s happy vibe, Bangalore’s historical places echo the whispers of an era gone by. This blog is your ticket to the past, a guide to the interesting tales tucked into the stones of Bangalore. From the majestic Bangalore Palace to the current high court, each place offers a glimpse into the city’s heritage. As we move ahead to explore these charms, uncovering the secrets and mysteries held by forts, temples, and monuments, we are taking you along. Bangalore’s history is full of narrative, and this blog invites you to look at these incidents that define its historical allure. So, get all set as we take you on this unique journey through Bangalore’s historical legacy.
Know about the Historical Places in Bangalore in detail
Get to know about the history of the IT Hub of India in detail as we have covered crucial details about these places for you.
Bengaluru Fort
Built in the 16th century, the Bangaluru Fort came into existence with its intricate carvings by artisans, ground that has the city’s aroma, and a history that goes long back to the time when it witnessed struggles and wars. The moment you enter the fort, the ancient stone walls, the detailing on them and the architecture just cannot be missed. While walking through the fort, you will also get to know about the towers that were also built for the safety of the city. While the place is not as huge in terms of area, it has the charm of the ancient times when people would have been present inside the fort. This monument is known to be built by the founder of the city of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda. This fort is one of the important historical places in Bangalore. Not just a monument, this fort has been used by several authorities for ocular events hosted to showcase the heritage and culture of the city. So if you ever happen to be in Bangalore, do visit this fort.
Timings: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Google Map link: Bangalore Fort. Bangalore
Entry fees: Rs 50
Government Museum
Another important place in Bangalore is the Government Museum which was established in the city on 18 August 1865. With such a long history since its inception, the museum has a lot to offer for all the history lovers. From Hoysala artefacts to the twisted paintings that have a lot of stories to tell, you will get to experience a lot here. Every corner and every tune takes you to a different place and era. It is not just a place of history but also a testament that carries some of the pieces from the bygone eras. So if you happen to be in the city and are planning a day to spend here, the government museum will leave you with a lot of knowledge while telling you so many things related to the establishment of Bangalore. Another interesting fact is that before a full-fledged museum, the place was established in the place of a building of a jail but later on, it was decided to construct a dedicated museum.
Timings: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Monday Closed) – Currently closed due to makeover
Google Map link: Government Museum, Bangalore
Entry fees: Adults: Rs 20
Kids: Rs 10
Tipu Sultan Palace
Standing tall as the perfect amalgamation of Indo-Islamic architecture is the summer palace of King Tipu Sultan from Mysore, who has played an important role in the history of India. The construction of the palace was set about by Hyder Ali and the palace was completed in 1791. This palace was used by the British administration for official work after the deal of King Tipu Sultan in 1791. After a long time, the administration moved to Attara Kacheri. In terms of its construction, the walls were adorned with intricate and complex detailing along with designs that were beautiful. Teak was used in the construction of the fort and pillars were added to enhance the grandeur. No wonder why this palace is one of the most essential historical places in Bangalore. The Indo-Islamic architecture used in the building makes this palace magnificent.
Timings: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Google Map link: Tipu Sultan Palace, Bangalore
Entry fees: Indians: Rs 15
Foreigners: Rs 200
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Cubbon Park
Officially named as ‘Sri. Chamarajendra Park’, Cubbon Park is a green deposit spread over 300 acres of land in Bangalore. With its history marking its establishment in 1870, the park comes as one of the important local historical places in Bangalore. The park was originally constructed under the supervision of Major General Richard Sankey, British Chief Engineer of that time in the honour of Sir John Meade. Meade was the then-acting commissioner of Mysore in the year 1870, and thus, initially, the park was called Meade’s Park. Later on, it was named Cubbon Park. Popularly known as the green heart of Bangalore among locals, this historical site has British architectural details in the park. With museums made inside, the park is a favourite among people for leisurely walks, picnics, and strolls taken for a fresh breath of air.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Google Map link: Cubbon Park, Bangalore
Entry fees: Free
Bangalore Palace
Next up on the list is one of the popular historical places in Bangalore. Built in the year 1878, the palace is a beautiful structure that is a relocation of the British Era. The architecture of the palace is the perfect combination of Indian and Tudor revival architecture building styles which increases the grandeur of the palace. The inspiration for the royal palace has been taken from Windsor Castle in England. The Bangalore Palace is traditionally known for the rich history of events that have taken place in and around the palace. In the present day, the grounds of the palace now act as hosts for public concerts and exhibitions. The palace also houses an amusement park which makes this historical site a special attraction among tourists. It is also one of the important historical places in India.
Timings: 10 am – 5:00 pm (Monday Closed)
Google Map link: Bangalore Palace, Bangalore
Entry fees: For Indians: Rs 230
For foreign tourists: Rs 460
Devanahalli Fort
The Devanahalli Fort has a significant position on this list of historical places in India. According to reputed historians and archeologists, the fort is known to be an important site. Originally built by Mallabairegowda in 1501, the fort has a series of history related to it. Situated 35 kms to the north of Bangalore city, the fort holds immense value in terms of heritage, history, culture, and architecture. According to archeologist facts, the fort was attacked by the Dalwai of Mysore in the year 1749, after which, the fort subsequently was handed over to Hyder Ali and then to Tipu Sultan, who is also also known to be born in or around the fort, which increases the fort’s historical value. The fort has seen a history of events due to which it has a significant value for Bangalore.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Google Map link: Devanahalli Fort, Bangalore
Entry fees: Free
Mayo Hall
Next up on the list of historical places in Bangalore is the Mayo Hall which holds a lot of importance in the history of the city. The hall came into existence due to the profound impact of the death of Lord Mayo, who was the fourth Viceroy of India in 1872 and was named after him as well. Lord Mayo was assassinated on his official overtake to the islands of Andaman and his death resulted in affecting the situation of the country. Later on, many buildings were constructed in his memory, Mayo Hall being one of them. Moving forward with time, other adornments were also added along with Mayo Hall to enhance the beauty of the building. Mayo Hall is a colonial-style construction with many intricacies involved in it. This historical site is both a walk for knowledge and architecture.
Timings: 9 am – 6:30 pm (Sunday Closed)
Google Map link: Mayo Hall, Bangalore
Entry fees: Free
The Big Bull Temple
Constructed in the year 1537, the Big Bull temple in Bangalore is known as one of the oldest temples in the history of the city. Dedicated to Nandi, who is one of the greatest Lord Shiva devotees, this temple came into existence during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The biggest attraction of this temple is the giant statue of Nandi, it is nothing less than a work of art. The carvings made on the statue and the temple exhibit the Vijayanagara architecture. Basava is a Kannada word that translates to Bull. Thus, Dodda Basavna Gudi is another name of the temple famous among the locals. This temple is a great historical landmark in Bangalore for those who have an interest in Hindu mythology and history.
Timings: 6 am – 8 pm
Google Map link: Basavanagudi, Bangalore
Entry fees: Free
Lal Bagh Botanical Garden
With an emergence that dates back almost 200 years ago, Lal Bagh Botanical Garden has a significant role in the history of India. It was founded and constructed by Hyder Ali in 1760 and covers 240 acres of land. The aim of this garden’s foundation was to dedicate land to grow numerous decorative plants as well as plants with commercial value. Followed by Hyder Ali, his son Tipu Sultan took charge of the management of these gardens. Later on, before the independence of India, several British administrators also took charge of it. As far as the name is concerned, the name ‘Lal Bagh’ came from the ample of red roses present here in the garden.
Timings: 6:00 am – 7:00 m
Google Map link: Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore
Entry fees: Adults: INR 25 (After 8:00 AM)
Entry for Children below 12 Years is free
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The Kempegowda Tower / The Four Watchtowers
The Kempegowda Tower or the four watchtowers of Kempegowda is another landmark in the historical places of Bangalore that signifies the rich heritage and history that the city holds. Kempegowda, who is believed to be the founder of Bangalore not only envisioned the boundaries of the city terrifically during its inception but also constructed four towers in 1597 to mark the boundaries of the same. Although the city has grown beyond these towers becoming one of the busiest metropolitan in the country, the significance of these towers is still monumental and has its roots in the history of the city. Bangalore not only served as a watchtower to monitor the city’s perimeter but also marked a significant boundary during Kempegowda’s time.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Google Map link: Kempegowda Tower, Bangalore
Entry fees: Free
Conclusion:
Walking through the bylanes of history of the busiest city around the country must have enlightened many possessions from the past. All these historical places in Bangalore have an important role to play in the development of the metropolitan. In this blog, we have tried to cover all the major historic sites of Bangalore which people do not know much about. These places are not just monuments but landmarks that have seen the city grow from nothing to an IT hub. Exploring these places gives you an insight into how people, places, and events from history come together toward the evolution of any city. These sites offer an insight into Bangalore’s progress throughout the ages, whether you’re a history buff or just interested in the city’s origins. Thus, the next time you find yourself in Bangalore, make sure to take a stroll down its ancient alleyways and lose yourself in its fascinating past.
