While Bengaluru is famous for its IT industry and nightlife, the city also boasts a rich historical heritage that attracts history lovers worldwide. From ancient temples and royal palaces to colonial-era architecture and museums, Bengaluru offers diverse historical experiences. Here are the top five things to do in Bengaluru for history enthusiasts:
The Bengaluru Palace is a testament to the grandeur of the Wadiyar dynasty. Built-in 1878 by King Chamaraja Wadiyar, the palace's architecture is inspired by England's Windsor Castle, featuring Tudor-style design, fortified towers, battlements, and turrets. The palace is set amidst 454 acres of lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploring its interiors.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and furniture adorning the palace's rooms. The palace also houses a collection of 19th and 20th-century artefacts, including paintings, photographs, and royal memorabilia. A guided tour offers insights into the Wadiyar dynasty's history, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
Located in the heart of Bengaluru, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Constructed in 1791, the palace served as the summer residence of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. The palace is built entirely of teak wood and adorned with carved pillars, arches, and balconies.
The walls and ceilings of the palace are adorned with beautiful frescoes and floral motifs, showcasing the artistic prowess of the period. The palace also houses a small museum that displays artefacts from Tipu Sultan's reign, including his clothes, crown, and weaponry. Visiting this palace offers a glimpse into the life and times of one of India's most formidable rulers.
Originally built by Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bengaluru, in 1537 as a mud fort, Bengaluru Fort was later converted into a stone fort by Tipu Sultan in the late 18th century. Although much of the fort has been dismantled over time, the remaining structures still echo the fort's historical significance.
The fort's main attractions include the Delhi Gate, the main entrance, and the Kote Venkataramana Temple, an exquisite example of Dravidian architecture. The fort also contains remnants of Tipu Sultan's armoury and a small section of the original fortifications.
Cubbon Park, established in 1870, is a sprawling green space in the heart of Bengaluru, spanning over 300 acres. While primarily known for its natural beauty, the park is also home to several historical landmarks. One such landmark is the Attara Kacheri, an impressive red-brick building that houses the Karnataka High Court. Built-in 1867, this colonial-era structure is a fine example of Greco-Roman architecture.
The park also features statues of prominent historical figures, including Queen Victoria and King Edward VII, and the State Central Library, an elegant colonial building with a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts. Cubbon Park offers a unique blend of nature and history, making it a perfect spot for history lovers.
The Government Museum in Bengaluru, established in 1865, is one of the oldest museums in India. Located on Kasturba Road, the museum has an impressive collection of artefacts that span various periods of Indian history. The museum's exhibits include ancient coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and paintings, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's historical and cultural heritage.
One of the museum's highlights is the collection of artefacts from the Indus Valley Civilisation, including pottery, seals, and jewellery. The museum also features a gallery dedicated to the Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties, showcasing intricate sculptures and carvings from these periods. A visit to the Government Museum is a journey through India's rich histoy, offering valuable insights into its past.