The Bangalore Palace was built under the commission of the Royal Wadiyar family in the 19th century. Maharaja Chamraja Wadiyar, the Maharaja of Mysore, made it as the family's summer retreat house. As the dynasty was under the British Empire, the Maharaja gave personal directions for the castle to be stylised after the architecture of the Windsor Palace of England. Reverend J. Garrett designed the castle personally, giving it a Tudor look as expressly ordained by the Maharaja.
That the Bangalore Palace was a supplement home after the Mysore Palace, or the Amba Vilas Palace to the Mysore Kingdom, tells us about the luxury that once ran in the region. The architecture of the castle is exquisite, characterised by Gothic windows, tall towers, steep roofs and crenellated parapets. With an imposing aura, the castle stretches wide in the premises with beautiful gardens and drafty courtyards. The interiors are dominated by richly intricate woodwork, floral motifs, huge glass windows and grand chandeliers. The walls of the castle boast several life-size portraits and paintings, vintage photographs and other artefacts that give the visitors a sneak peek into the lives of the royal members.
The palace has also been hospitable to international celebrities like Akon, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Backstreet Boys and Black Eyed Peas, among others. Travellers can enjoy the visual excess both inside the premises of the castle as well as outside, as there are many noteworthy places nearby.
The magnificent hall is a central attraction for the visitors. A notable highlight of the palace, it was used to accommodate royal gatherings during the Wadiyars. The hall is decorated with sumptuous floral motifs and stained glass windows.
The Bangalore Palace's gardens and courtyards are among India's most well-maintained gardens. Visitors can take leisurely strolls on the grass, having the imposing effect of the castle by their side all the while.
The palace grounds also serve as a venue for various cultural events, concerts, art exhibitions and other public events. While in Bangalore, travellers can always look for events at the Bangalore Palace.
Souvenir shops within the Palace present the visitors with unique and memorable mementoes related to the castle and its history.
Visitors can also go to the Fun World Amusement Park and enjoy the water-related games and rides.
Travellers can visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium and enjoy the mesmerising show at the place. The shows are held in both English and Kannada language. There are also science centers for educational activities.
Cubbon Park is nearby the Palace, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park. An old park established in the year 1870, it boasts 6000 trees that support the vibrant ecosphere.
The St. Mary's Basilica, another brilliant piece of Gothic architecture, is among one of the oldest churches in India. It is the first church in the state that has been upgraded to the level of a minor basilica.
Entry fee: Rs. 230 for Indian nationals and Rs. 460 for foreign nationals
Air: It can be reached from Bangalore International Airport, which is 33 km from the Palace.
Rail: Bangalore City Railway Station is just 4.5 km from the Palace.
Road: The Palace is fully accessible from all the cities nearby by Palace Cross Road, Bellary Road and Senkey Road.