These Forgotten Heritage Homes In Bengaluru Are Now Open for Public Tours
Why Heritage Homes of Bengaluru Are So Special
Heritage homes located in Bangalore are more than unique buildings; these homes are like windows that tell the story and culture of the galaxy. These homes represent the amalgamation of the royal history and the blend of the cultures that gave birth to the city. Each of the heritage structures possess their own unique charm ranging from Indo-Saracenic structures to Victorian-style bungalows. Most of these houses were constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries when Bangalore was a key cantonment town during British rule. However, urbanization and ignorance over time led to the damages of these buildings. Fortunately, the neglect did not kill the structures, and with the help of the government, private organizing firms, and Heritage lovers these homes came back to life. This can help the visitors travel back in time.
1. The Bangalore Fort
The Bangalore Fort provides a glimpse into the history of the city, making it a notable heritage site. Kempe Gowda I. constructed the fort in the 16th century. It was later fortified by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before further modifications by the British. A museum was later established on the premises. Although the fort has managed to survive the constant test of time, the reside structures provide a peek into Bengaluru's military location. Even though the majority of the fort is a ruin, the remains, including the Delhi Gate, portray Bengaluru's architectural and militaristic past. 2 The Mayo Hall In order to commemorate Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India, The Mayo Hall was constructed and is an admirable example signifying colonial architecture. This hall served as a venue for social events and administrative activities which shows that it was an important building in the city. Now, the hall is a government office but its sophisticated design allows everyday people to gaze upon it. The grandeur the hall serves is unparalleled. The exquisite details of the dome and the wide verandas and polished pillars details the work done in the colonial period.
2. The Venkatappa Art Gallery and Government Museum
The Venkatappa Art Gallery and Government Museum boasts a building that's truly remarkable on its own. It is a colonial construction with red brick walls and arched entrances. It is one of the best examples of colonial artistry in a building. The museum features a large collection of artifacts such as coins, sculptures, and paintings from ancient periods while the art gallery boasts K. Venkatappa's works, the highly regarded artist from the state. Anyone interested in the history of Bengaluru will find this heritage site very appealing.
3. The Bangalore Palace
Bengaluru has many kings and queens' designed and built structures. One of the most famous ones is Bangalore Palace. Bangalore Palace is one of the most famous examples of historical architecture in the city. The palace was ordered to be built long ago and we can truly understand why the blueprints resembled Windsor Castle. First built by the Rev J Garrett, the headmaster of Central High School, it was later purchased by the Wadiyar Dynasty of Mysore. Vintage furniture mixed with stained glass and exquisitely carved wood gives the interior furnishings a royal touch. The expansive gardens surrounding the Palace are available to the public and serve as venues for cultural gatherings and concerts.
4. The Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace
This summer palace of Tipu Sultan is crafted solely from teak and now has the doors opened for tourists. It is situated next to the Bangalore Fort. This majestic place is one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic style architecture. In today's world, this palace serves as a museum that exhibits artifacts relevant to the life of Tipu Sultan. As the rhyme of a celebrated historical figure unfolds, viewers are treated with intricate carvings, floral motifs, and beauty beyond words. The palace has been restored for the modern inhabitants of the land to share in its glory.
5. The Attara Kacheri (High Court)
Just as famed as the Karnataka High Court, The Attara Kacheri is composed of red bricks. This building is a commemoration for the colonial history of Bengaluru. With lavish gardens cast aside for public usage, the royal head of the building is still functional and cloaked in archaic neoclassical design, gripping its Corinthian columns, vaulted windows, and regal dome. There is no doubt that the statue head of Kacheri beautifies the history of Bengaluru's ruler alongside the border of grandeur and beauty.
Maintaining the Heritage of Bengaluru
The reopening of these heritage homes and buildings is a step forward in maintaining the cultural and historical legacy of Bengaluru. These structures serve a dual purpose of being tourist spots and helping people understand the city's history. The efforts to protect and develop these heritage sites are most certainly important for the preservation of the unique identity of the city of Bengaluru for the future years to come.
Final Thoughts
The lost heritage buildings of Bengaluru are more than architectural attractions. Civilization is a thread, and such structures are stitches that keep the city or region's life intact. The uniqueness of Bengaluru comes to the limelight as these homes focus on ever welcoming the tourists. If they open their doors, a studious analysis of the culture and artistry spotlighted in these homes and the historical context behind it will emerge. It does not matter if you are new to the world of history, an architecture admirer, or just a tourist; these places should be visited if deeper comprehension of this heritage laden city is desired. So next time, if you are visiting Bengaluru, instead of the tech parks and malls, visit these splendid heritage homes and walk into the pages of history.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
8 hours ago
- India.com
World's largest residence with 170 rooms is in India, but only 5 people live there, who is the beautiful Maharani of this palace?
World's largest residence with 170 rooms is in India, but only 5 people live there, who is the beautiful Maharani of this palace? Within its vast compound, the Palace complex consists of several other institutes, such as the Baroda Golf Club, Motibaug Cricket Grounds and The Maharaja Fatehsinhrao Museum. Advertisement Laxmi Vilas Palace- File photo Did you know that India is home to a palace so grand that it even outshines London's Buckingham Palace in size and luxury? This magnificent palace, called the Laxmi Vilas Palace (Lukshmi Villas Palace) , is not just a royal residence but the largest private residence in the world. Today, it is valued at over Rs. 24,000 crore, and visiting it feels like stepping into a real-life fairy tale. Located in Vadodara, Gujarat, the palace is about four times larger than Buckingham Palace. It was built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. At that time, its construction cost was around Rs. 27 lakh (about £1,80,000) a huge amount in that era. Even today, the royal family lives here—Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, his wife Radhikaraje Gaekwad, and their two daughters. Advertisement === The palace was designed by British architect Major Charles Mant and it showcases a unique blend of Indian and European architecture, known as Indo-Saracenic style. Inside, the palace is filled with grand chandeliers, mosaic works, rare paintings, and priceless artifacts. One of its most fascinating features is an elevator installed during that time, which was extremely rare in the 19th century. The palace complex is massive and includes several buildings like the Moti Baug Palace, the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, and LVP Banquets & Conventions. The museum inside the palace displays paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, miniature train models, and rare sculptures. There's also the Navlakhi Stepwell, built in 1405, which attracts visitors, and a small zoo where crocodiles can still be seen. Advertisement === Next to the palace is the Moti Baug Cricket Ground, which also has a swimming pool, clubhouse, gym, and a golf course. Interestingly, the golf course was built in the 1930s by Maharaja Pratapsinh to entertain European guests. Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad is often regarded as one of the most graceful royal figures in the country. She married Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad in 2002. Samarjitsinh himself was once a Ranji Trophy cricketer. Later, he renovated parts of the palace and opened it to the public, allowing everyone to experience its royal charm. Because of its grandeur and stunning interiors, Laxmi Vilas Palace has also been featured in several Bollywood films such as Prem Rog (1982), Dil Hi To Hai (1993), Grand Masti (2013), and Sardar Gabbar Singh (2016). More than just a palace, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a symbol of India's royal heritage and cultural pride. Visitors from around the world are left awestruck by its size, beauty, and historical significance. It truly stands as a shining example of India's art, architecture, and history. About Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad Radhikaraje Gaekwad is the daughter of Dr. MK Ranjitsinh Jhala, a man who gave up the privileges of royal life to dedicate himself to protecting India's wildlife. Born into the royal family of Wankaner in Saurashtra, Dr. Jhala chose a life of service, becoming an IAS officer so he could work on preserving India's forests and endangered species. Following in her father's footsteps, Radhikaraje also focused on education and personal growth rather than just royal traditions. From a young age, she showed a deep interest in academics. She studied at Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), one of Delhi University's most prestigious colleges, where she earned her Master's degree in Indian History. While completing her higher studies, Radhikaraje also explored journalism and briefly worked as a writer for The Indian Express. Highlights Built between 1878 and 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, holds the title of the world's largest private residence. The palace has witnessed the coronation of four Gaekwad kings — Maharaja Pratapsinhrao in 1939, Maharaja Fatesinghrao in 1951, Maharaja Ranjitsinh in 1988, and most recently, Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad in 2012. Today, Lukshmi Vilas Palace is home to His Highness Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh Gaekwad, his wife, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, their daughters, princesses Padmajaraje and Narayaniraje, and queen mother, Her Highness Shubhanginiraje Gaekwad, the Rajmata of Baroda. A part of the palace is open for visitors during the day 10 am to 5 pm. Monday is the weekly off day. The ticket cost Rs. 200 and it includes a complimentary audio tour guide in either English, Hndi & Marathi.
India.com
8 hours ago
- India.com
Things To Know Before Visiting Dalhousie: A Complete Travel Guide To Himachal's Hill Town of Pines & Colonial Charm
What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear Dalhousie? Colonial cottages? Misty pine forests? Honeymoon cliches? Here's the truth: this Himachali hill station is not just a postcard destination. It's a mood. A slower heartbeat. A place where chai stalls are social hubs and the fog sometimes becomes your only travel companion. But if you're planning your first trip, there are some things to know before visiting Dalhousie that no glossy brochure or Instagram reel will tell you. Why Dalhousie is Different From the Hill Stations You Think You Know Shimla has crowds. Manali has backpacker chaos. Dalhousie travel destinations? They feel like time travel. Built in the 1850s by the British as a summer retreat, the town still whispers with colonial charm — stone churches, gabled-roof cottages, and walking paths where even your phone signal feels too modern. For Gen Z and millennials who are always running — deadlines, dating apps, dopamine hits — Dalhousie is the pause button you didn't know you needed. Local Insights: Things To Do in Dalhousie Beyond the Tourist Map Forget the 'Top 10 Places to Visit in Dalhousie' listicle that everyone copies. Here's the raw, personal version: 1. Walk the Thandi Sadak Instead of Just Clicking Mall Road Mall Road is buzzing, yes. But Thandi Sadak is the real gem. Picture this: a quiet lane shaded by deodar trees, the air cooler than anywhere else in town, and barely another soul in sight. This is where locals jog at dawn, where couples escape the noise, and where solo travelers finally find that Instagram-free peace. 2. Chamera Lake Isn't Just for Boating Most blogs will tell you: boating is the highlight here. True. But sit by the banks at sunset and watch the hills turn gold. Or ask a boatman about local fishing tales. The conversations are as memorable as the views. 3. Dainkund Peak is a Trek That Feels Like Therapy Yes, it's called the 'Singing Hill' because of the wind. But what they don't tell you? The trek isn't just scenic. It's soulful. You'll pass through wildflower meadows, hear temple bells in the distance, and suddenly realize you're smiling without reason. 4. Churches That Still Echo St. John's and St. Francis aren't just architecture stops. Step inside and you'll hear wood creak, sunlight spill through stained glass, and an echo that feels like history breathing beside you. 5. Day Trip to Khajjiar — The 'Mini Switzerland' With a Twist Yes, everyone goes to Khajjiar. But most miss the small forest trails around the meadow. That's where the magic is — pine needles underfoot, horse bells clinking in the distance, and a sudden clearing that feels straight out of a Studio Ghibli film. Things To Know Before Visiting Dalhousie (That Google Maps Won't Tell You) Dalhousie is a walking town. Narrow lanes, steep shortcuts, and staircases connect most places. Wear good shoes. ATMs are limited. Cash still rules in smaller shops and cafes. Network drops often. Airtel and Jio work okay, but expect dead zones. Good excuse to log off. Weather mood swings are real. Carry a jacket, even in June. Fog can roll in within minutes. Food is simple, hearty, and local. Don't miss siddu (stuffed bread), madra curry, and endless cups of pahadi chai. Solo, Couple, or Group — Who Will Love Dalhousie Most? Solo travelers: The walking trails and homestays make it easy to connect with locals and find pockets of solitude. Couples: Cozy cafes, foggy sunsets, and quiet strolls = romance that doesn't feel staged. Adventure seekers: Paragliding at Khajjiar, treks around Kalatop, and cycling through pine roads will test your stamina. Basically, Dalhousie fits whoever knows how to slow down. Safety & Sustainability: Travel With Respect One of the most important things to do in Dalhousie is not sightseeing, but responsible travel: Don't litter on trails. Locals still believe the forests are sacred. Stay in homestays when possible. You'll support families directly and hear stories no hotel will tell you. Avoid peak summer traffic by exploring in shoulder seasons (March–April, September–October). Less crowd, same magic. So, Should You Add Dalhousie to Your 2025 Travel List? Yes. But not if you're expecting nightlife or luxury malls. Dalhousie travel destinations are about chai breaks, silent walks, and watching clouds sit on rooftops like lazy cats. Come here to reset, to breathe slower, to remember that not all trips need hashtags. Conclusion Travelers often chase what's trending. But sometimes, the places that aren't screaming for attention are the ones worth listening to. So the next time you're scrolling for your next hill escape, pause at Dalhousie. Bookmark it. Pack light. And when you finally walk its foggy roads, you'll know — this isn't just another hill station. It's a feeling. Time to pack that backpack?
India.com
9 hours ago
- India.com
Step Back In Time: The Shocking Differences Between Old Mysore And Today
Mysuru, earlier referred to as Mysore, is a city rich in heritage, culture and history. It is located in southern India and has been famously known as the 'City of Palaces' for a long period of time. The one hundred year old map of Mysore is an extraordinary object because it reveals how the city's urban setting, its infrastructure, cultural identity in addition to other factors, has continued to change over the decades. This city has been modernized but holds on to its rich history and culture. Studying this document gives an insight into the city's past. By understanding the document, we are better able to appreciate the city's achievements in modernizing while also viewing how it adapted over the years in conjunction to preserving its strong legacy. The Historical Context of Mysore The rich history of Mysore goes all the way back to the 14th century during which The Wodeyar dynasty was ruling in the southern part of India. It came into existence when the Wodeyar's made it their capital. The city developed art and culture and also became a center for governance. During the early part of the twentieth century, Mysore was already popular for having well set up infrastructure, being one of the best in education in the state and being administratively well organized. A map from this period captures the city during the peak of its development as a modern city, while transitioning from a princely state under British suzerainty. Comparison of the layout of the City in the Past with the Layout of Today The hundred-year-old map of Mysore depicts a well-planned city with clear divisions of residential, commercial, and administrative areas. The Mysore palace, which is the most famous landmark in the city, is still majestic. The tree-lined boulevards around the palace showcase the Wodeyar rulers' love for beauty and city planning. The map also features the Chamundi Hills which have always served as a cultural and religious symbol for the city. When you compare the historical map of Mysore to its modern layout, you will notice some changes as well as some similarities. The core regions surrounding the palace and the central business district have maintained their prominence. However, the city has grown tremendously in size. The formerly rural outskirts are now suburbs filled with the growing population of Mysore. There have also been new residential layouts, IT parks, and industrial areas which illustrates how the city is meeting modern economic and social needs. The Old Map: A look at Infrastructure and Connectivity The city's infrastructure advanced building to building even before the city was constructed, as evident in its old map. Like most civilizations in India, Mysore was one of the first cities in the country which pioneered in having an organized sewage system, an underground drainage facility, and even paved roads. The city had already designated significant roads joining the Palace to other civil buildings like the market, railway station, and universities. Most of these roads are frequented up to this day, and they were essential in forming the city's transport network. As a modern city, Mysuru's infrastructure now meets modern standards. The historic roads still exist, but now they are accompanied by modern highways, flyovers, and improved public transport services. Within and outside the city, the launch of the Mysuru Metro and the extending railway lines have greatly enhanced connections to other regions of Karnataka. Once again, the city's development is stymied by the task of modernizing without losing the charm of the old city. Cultural and Educational Institutions Mysore's 100-year-old map provides insights on the commitment towards education and culture in the region. The Maharaja's College, which was inaugurated in the late nineteenth century, is prominently featured on the map. These institutions served as stepping stones towards creating a reputation of an educational hub for the region, which is still carried forward to this day with the presence of renowned universities and research institutions. Likewise, this map captures other cultural landmarks, including the Mysore Zoo, which is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in the country, as well as the Jaganmohan Palace that features an art gallery. These institutions have survived, and indeed, thrived as they are now quintessential for the identity of the city. Mysuru's Dasara festival, which is celebrated for centuries, is one more cultural tradition that continues to flourish and attract tourists from across the world. Social and Environmental Changes As we view the old map, Mysore is embellished with innumerable parks and water bodies. Mysore was famous for the lakes, parks, and gardens that had a sizable share of the municipality area. However, Mysore has faced rapid urbanization over the years, which has resulted in the loss of some of these areas, which raises issues regarding the sustainability of the environment. Currently, steps are being taken to clean and maintain the lakes and green cover of the city of Mysore as it contributes to the ecological balance and quality of life. Mysore has also changed significantly in social terms. The city's population is more diversified as people from other parts of India as well as foreigners have made it their home. This diversity surely enriches the culture of Mysore, but makes it difficult to plan the infrastructure and manage the resources at the same time. Conclusion The 100-year-old Mysore map is not just a historical document; it is a glimpse into the heart of the city. The map reveals a city that has always cherished culture, education, and meticulous planning – facets that define it to this day. Mysore continues to modernize and develop, but unlike many cities in the world, it has been able to preserve its identity and heritage. As the city progresses, the lessons from its past, as captured in this map, will ensure that Mysuru remains a unique and tranquil city in relation to the rest of India while also being a blend of traditions and modern ideals.
