If you are new to Bangalore or have been here for a while but have never visited one of the city's most prominent palaces, here’s why you should. The imposing Bengaluru Palace (sometimes referred to as Bangalore City Palace) was built between 1874 and 1878, making it 146 years old as of 2024. Commissioned by the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore, Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, the palace is still owned by the current royal family of Mysore, the Wadiyars. The current head of the Wadiyar dynasty, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, owns the palace and even had his wedding here.
The century-old palace is designed in the Tudor style of architecture and is modeled after Windsor Castle, England. It is surrounded by vast grounds (known as Palace Grounds), which cover 450 acres, with the palace itself occupying an acre of space. Due to its resemblance to Windsor Castle, you’ll notice fortified towers, arches, an open courtyard, long columns, French windows, and parapets. One of the most distinct features of the palace is the green foliage that adorns its outer walls.
As you step into the palace, don’t miss the royal coat of arms – the Ganda Bherunda (double-headed eagle) – that greets you, alongside an elephant head trophy. Be sure to check out the unique weighing machine chair, carved into a horseshoe shape, once used to measure jockeys! But what truly takes your breath away are the stunning stained glass windows.
Take note of the beautifully detailed ceilings and delicate chandeliers that line the corridors and rooms. A solid wooden stairway leads you to the upper floors, where portraits of former monarchs, antique vases, and priceless paintings by Raja Ravi Varma will surely captivate art enthusiasts.
While the upper floors are not as grand as the rest of the palace, the Maharaja’s Courtyard stands out. In stark contrast to the rest of the palace, especially the drab Maharani’s Courtyard, it is bright and vivid. You’ll also find a brilliantly colorful Azulejo-tiled bench and a fountain that make for the perfect Instagram shot – try getting there just before sunset for the best lighting.
The palace has 35 rooms in total, and the Durbar Hall is perhaps the most Instagrammed space, with its Gothic style, stained glass windows, and yellow hues.
Bengaluru Palace Visiting Hours & Ticket Prices:
Bengaluru Palace is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day except Mondays. Entry costs INR 240 for Indians and INR 480 for non-Indians. Additionally, you can make the most of the free audio guide, which covers the entire premises and takes about two hours to complete.
