Vidhan Soudha - It Has 22 Departments Of Karnataka State

Vidhan Soudha - It Has 22 Departments Of Karnataka State

Vidhan Soudha is the state legislature building located on Dr. Ambedkar road at the northern end of Cubbon Park. It houses the Legislative Chambers of Karnataka State. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Bangalore and also the largest Legislative building of India. This is one of the prime attractions of Bangalore city and also most commonly used to represent Bangalore.

Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the Chief Minister of Mysore, is credited with the conception and construction of the Vidhana Soudha. The foundation stone was laid by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, on 13 July 1951. It was completed in the year 1956 at a total cost of around Rs. 1.75 crore.

Vidhana Soudha was built in the Neo-Dravidian architectural style and has the elements of Indo-Saracenic, Rajasthani and Dravidian designs. The magnificent white building is spread over 60 acres of land. The imposing white building comprises of several carved pillars, bases, pediments, cornices and arches.

The structure has four floors measuring 700 m × 350 m. Its eastern face has a porch with 12 granite columns, 40 feet (12 m) tall. The central dome of the building is 60 feet in diameter and is supported by 8 pillars. The central dome is crowned by the four headed lion, the national emblem of India. It also has six small domes, four in the front and two at the back side.

The attractive staircase with 45 steps is 204 feet wide, 70 feet deep and gives direct access to the floor leading to Assembly Chamber. There are three hundred rooms in Vidhan Soudha accommodating about twenty-two departments of the state government.

Presently a replica known as Vikasa Soudha has been built by the government of Karnataka adjacent to the Vidhan Soudha as a secretariat building. The High Court of Karnataka is also located opposite to the building.

The admission to the building has been restricted and one has to take prior permission before visiting its interiors. It looks beautiful on Sunday evenings and on public holidays. The lights are kept on from 6 PM to 8:30 PM. It Has the distance of 3.5 km from Bangalore City Railway Station,

Kemmanagundi Hill Station - Sunset View Is A Photographer's Delight

Kemmanagundi Hill Station - Sunset View Is A Photographer's Delight

Kemmanagundi is a hill station in Tarikere taluk of Chikmagalur district. At an altitude of 1434 m, Kemmanagundi is a beautiful and picturesque hill station, situated on the Baba Budan range. Kemmangundi derives its name from three Kannada words - kempu (red), mannu (soil) and gundi (pit) means a place with red soil. It is among the popular tourist places in Karnataka and an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore.

Kemmanagundi is also popularly known by the name of KR Hills, named after the Mysore King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Mesmerized by the beauty of the place, he made Kemmangundi as his summer retreat. He later donated this resort to the Government of Karnataka. The Horticultural Department of Karnataka now develops and maintains the resort and its surroundings. The department grows a lot of ornamental plants here.

According to puranas, Kemmangundi was called Chandra Drona Parvatha. Water, gushing down through innumerable herbs and medicinal plants, is believed to cure many diseases, including the common cold and skin ailments. The region is covered with plantations of coffee and tea along with thick bamboo groves forming a dense forest cover.

Kemmangundi is a beautiful hill station with breathtaking views of the valleys amidst mountain streams and lush vegetation. The main attractions of Kemmangundi are Raj Bhavan, Z point, Rock garden, Hebbe Falls, Kalhattagiri Falls, Baba Budan Hill and Bhadra Tiger Reserve. The sunset view from the Raj Bhavan is a photographer's delight. Kemmangundi is popular among tourists for trekking routes, mountain trails and other adventure activities. Shanti Falls and Hebbe Falls are the two famous waterfalls located here that offer trekking opportunities.

Kemmangundi provides various accommodations in the form of homestays and resorts. Horticulture Department Guest House (known as Raj Bhavan), The Last Resort, Valley of Birds, Dhoopada Giri lodge, Kallahatti lodge, etc., are some of the places tourists can enjoy staying.

Mangalore airport is the closest airport which is 219 km from Kemmangundi. Birur (32 km) & Shimoga (68 km) are nearest railheads to Kemmangundi. Birur has trains from Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Kolhapur, Goa, Ajmer & Pondicherry. Shimoga has train connectivity from Bangalore, Mysore & Talguppa. Kemmangundi is well connected by bus services. Private and public transport buses connect frequently to Chikmagalur, Bangalore and Mangalore.

Kemmangundi offers a pleasant climate throughout the year. The best time to visit the destination is from September to May; avoid visiting during the monsoons. Usually it takes 1-2 days to explore the major places here.At a distance of 62 km from Chikmagalur, 41 km from Kadur, 121 km from Hassan, 68 km from Shimoga, 205 km from Mangalore, 213 km from Mysore and 246 km from Bangalore,

Bangalore Palace – Nineteenth Century Paintings Ornamented In The Inside Walls Of This Palace

BANGALORE PALACE

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BANGALORE

Bangalore Palace is situated in the Palace Gardens, at the heart of the Bangalore city of India. Built in the year 1887 by Wodeyar dynasty, it is adorned with magnificent woodcarvings and Tudor-style architecture on the inside. Infact, the palace is quite similar to the medieval castles that were built in Normandy and England.

The Windsor Castle of London left a great impression on King Chamaraja Wodeyar of Wodeyar dynasty, on one of his trips to England. Inspired by the Tudor style architecture, he got the Bangalore Palace built in the city.

Once surrounded by beautiful gardens, the palace has now lost much of its original charm. However, it still succeeds in attracting tourists. Fortified towers, Gothic windows, battlements and turrets lend a great degree of magnificence to the Bangalore Palace of India.

Mainly constructed of wood, it boasts of splendid carvings and paintings. Today the palace serves as the venue for various exhibitions, concerts and cultural programs held in the city. The ground floor of the Bangalore Palace comprises of a massive open square.

The square is full of granite seats that are adorned with fluorescent blue ceramic tiles. Along with the courtyard is a ballroom, where private parties of the King used to be held.

As we move to the first floor, the foremost thing that comes into view is an ornate room, known as the Durbar Hall. The King used this hall for addressing the assembly. Mounted on the hall is a colossal elephant head, while its walls are ornamented with exquisite paintings. One of the walls of the Durbar Hall has a set of windows that are decorated with stained glass.

There is an abundant use of the yellow color in the hall, with the walls as well as the sofa being of the said color. One end of the room houses a screen, which provided a veil to the ladies when they used to sit and watch the assembly proceedings.

There are also a number of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, a renowned artist in the palace. The inner walls of the Bangalore Palace are also festooned with paintings belonging to the mid-19th century. The other attractions of the palace include a dining table of the Diwan of Mysore, Sir Mirza Ismail.

The interior walls of the palace are adorned by old paintings belonging to the mid-19th century, including some Greek and Dutch paintings.

Entry fee:  Entry Fee for Indians : Rs.210 Entry Fee for Foreigners : Rs.450

Timings :    Visiting Hours - 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

The palace is situated between Sadashivanagar and Jayamahal in the heart of Bangalore city. The city of Bangalore can be approached from any of the metro cities by road, rail or air. Many international flights also connect directly to the Bangalore city. After reaching Bangalore, one can take the metro, bus, or hired cars to reach the Bangalore Palace.

More Places To Visit In Bangalore


Hebbal lake – It Is Unique Place For Variety Of Colourful Birds

A Remarkable Milestone of 203rd Flower Show-Lalbagh Botanical Garden

TIPU SULTAN FORT

Cubbon Park - Banglore Is Named Garden City After Being The Park

Hebbal lake – It Is Unique Place For Variety Of Colourful Birds

HEBBEL LAKE

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BANGALORE

Hebbal Lake is one of the oldest and most popular lakes in Bangalore. It is well known as a habitat for numerous exotic local and migratory birds. The lake is situated in the northern part of Bangalore, along the Bellary Road. The huge lake covers an area of around 150 acres. The lake also possesses a beautiful garden adjacent to it.

The lake was under the management of Karnataka State Forest Department. In 2002 the responsibility for managing the lake was handed over to the Lake Development Authority, a non-profit society that was created for managing lakes in the Bangalore region.

The Hebbal Lake is a seasonal lake that dries up in the summer and regains its glory along with the monsoon rains every year. The surroundings of the lake are beautified by the presence of a large number of tall green trees. 

It is as if the lake stands as a green oasis in a city that is reshaping the skyline with new concrete high-rises every day. Various flowering plants having flowers of different colours make the lake more attractive for visitors. The walkway around the lake is well maintained and is a nice place to enjoy a leisurely walk.

The main attraction of the Hebbal Lake is the wide variety of birds that have made the lake their home. Visitors are often delighted to watch the various species of local birds and the confluence of migratory birds that flock to the lake every year. 

The lake was home to about 70 species of water birds that included some very rare birds from the Himalayas and other Central Asian regions. However, with the increase in pollution in the city in general and water pollution in particular, this number is on a decline.

One of the highlights of the lake is the small islands that are popular grounds for nesting and breeding by the birds. These islands provide the birds a secure place to rest and escape from the curious view of human beings.

Bangalore is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The city is well connected through air network, rail network and road network.

Hebbal Lake is one of the common tourist spots of Bangalore and is widely connected to all parts of the city. The lake can be accessed by auto rickshaws, private taxis and KSRTC buses.

Konda Reddy Buruju – It Was A Guard And Was Used As A Top-Security Prison

KONDA REDDY BURUJU

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KURNOOL

The Konda Reddy Buruju or Kurnool Fort is located in the heart of Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh State of India, and is one of the prominent landmarks of the town.

It was believed to be built by Achyuta Devarayalu, belonging to Vijayanagar Empire and stands even today as the splendorous examples of the architecture of those times. Konda Reddy Fort is a site considered worth visiting for tourists in the district.

It was constructed between 14th and 16th centuries and the impressive fort reflects the glorious history of the Kurnool region. It was initially believed to have been built by Achyuta Devarayalu of Vijayanagar Empire.

Konda Reddy Buruju was a sentinel and was used as a prison. Chronicles has it that, a revolutionary named Konda Reddy was imprisoned by the Nawab of Kurnool when he tried to oppose him.

Konda Reddy (1597-1643), the last ruler of Alampur defeated KurnoolNawab who was a subordinate and an associate of the Golkonda Kings several times. After a prolonged battle Konda Reddy was captured and imprisoned in the fortress.

Because of his valour and untiringly resolve to fight the Muslim rulers, the fort came to be known as Konda Reddy Buruju. He escaped from the fortress digging a tunnel across the River Krishna toAlampur and ultimately lost his kingdom to Golkonda Kings.

There was once a tunnel across the River Tungabhadra to Alampur on other side. This is the site of the prison where Konda Reddy had breathed his last and hence the tower was subsequently named in his memory.

The bastion appears in the shape of a huge pillar and consists of two storeys. From the highest point of the monument, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of Kurnool. It is also believed that the rulers of Gadwal Kingdom used the tunnel here to escape from the Muslim conquerors during 17th century. The tunnel was closed many decades ago.

By Air 

Kurnool doesn't have its own airport. Hyderabad Airport is the nearest airport - at a distance of 213 km from Kurnool. It runs flights to and from all the major cities of India. Moreover, it has some international connections too.

By Rail

Kurnool Railway Station happens to be on the Secunderabad-Bangalore railway line. Owing to this fact, it is connected with all the stations falling on the line. You can approach either Hyderabad or Bangalore in order to reach other parts of India. From here, you can get passenger trains to Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Hubli.

By Road 

Kurnool has a good network of state as well as district roads. National Highway No.7 traverses through this city, connecting it with other parts of India. Places like Cuddapah, Anantapur, Chittoor and Hyderabad are well-connected by various state and private bus services. Private taxis can be hired from anywhere in the state to travel here.

Cubbon Park - Banglore Is Named Garden City After Being The Park

CUBBON PARK

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BANGALORE

Cubbon Park is one of the Major tourist attraction in Bangalore, spreading across 300 acres and houses several historical monuments and buildings inside the park.

The Cubbon Park is situated within the heart of the Bangalore city in the Central Administrative area is named after Sir Mark Cubbon who laid the park.This park of Bangalore spreads an area acres and is quite frequented by both walkers as well as joggers. 

The park houses buildings that are aesthetically designed magnificent statutes of famous personalities and rich flora and fauna. The park is so popular that Bangalore is named Garden City after the park.

The park was originally created in 1870 as Meade’s Park and used to cover an area of 100 acres. Later the park was renamed as Cubbon park in memory of Sir Mark Cubbon, the longest serving commissioner of the time. Future expansions to the park made it measure around 300 acres making it the biggest park in Bangalore.

The famous buildings and monuments inside Cubbon Park are Attara Kacheri, which is now the High Court of Karnataka, Venkatappa Art Gallery, Bal Bhavan which is dedicated to children including a toy train, An Aquarium which is referred as India’s second largest aquarium, Yuvanika which is State Youth Center, YMCA, a Children’s library, Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall which is now is Central Library and few other clubs.

The Park have hundreds of flower species and around 6000 trees inside the garden with beautiful walking paths for joggers and walkers.

A complete day can be dedicated to Cubbon Park visit to explore the entire park including the visit to the libraries, art gallery, aquarium, clubs. If not, it can be reduced to few hours just to visit fewer parts of the park.

There is also an amusement park for the kids known as Jawahar Bal Bhawan where children can enjoy their Puttani Empress ride along with other games and  exciting activities.

For those who are looking for some moments of peace and solitude in Bangalore, Cubbon  Park  is the  right option.

In the evening, when the fairy fountains are lit, the park attains such a magnificence which makes it cook incredible.

The park is open to the public at all times but the roads around the park are closed from 5:00A.M to 8:00A.M every day to provide more safety and  fresh environment for morning walkers and exercisers.

Cubbon park is  situated near Gandhi Nagar in the Centre Administrative Area of Bangalore, Karnataka. It is quite accessible from Hudson Circle MG road and  Ambedkar Veedhi.

Bangalore is well connected with other metro cities of  India through rail and air. It is easily accessible from all parts of the country. All locations of the park are accessible through walking paths.

A Remarkable Milestone of 203rd Flower Show-Lalbagh Botanical Garden

LALBAGH BOTANICAL GARDEN

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BANGALORE

Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is considered to be one of the most diverse botanical garden in South Asia. It is located in the southern part of the city, about 4 km from Vidhana Soudha and M.G. Road. Lalbagh has four approach gates.

The main gate is at the North facing towards Subbaiah circle, the West gate is towards Basavanagudi, the South gate is towards Jayanagar and the East gate is towards the Double Road.

The garden derived its name ‘Lal Bagh’because of a collection of red roses that remain blooming all through the year in this garden.

Lal Bagh is a 240 acre (971,000 sq.m. - almost 1 km²) Garden and is located on the southern part of Bangalore. It holds a number of flower shows, especially on the Republic Day (26th January).

The garden has over 1,000 species of flora. The Glass House, modeled on London's Crystal Palace (now re-modeled with a different layout), is the center of attraction.

The Lal Bagh Gardens were commissioned by the 18th century and over the years it acquired India's first lawn-clock and the subcontinent's largest collection of rare plants. The garden also has trees that are over 100 years old.

It comprises the largest collection of India’s rare tropical plants, many ancient trees, a decorated flower clock and an imaginary lawn surrounded by Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs.

Moreover, tourists can enjoy the beauty of a glasshouse, which is inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, one of Kempegowda’s watch towers, a peaceful lake and a topiary park as well.

The botanical garden is internationally famous for its scientific study and conservation of plants. For botany students, the place offers ample learning opportunities as rare species of flora are preserved here.

Every year on Independence Day and Republic day, flower shows are organized at the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. The event is jointly organised by Department of Horticulture and Mysore Horticulture Society, this flower show has been one of the most awaited events in the Garden City.

The 2016 Republic Day edition of Lalbagh flower show is the 203rd flower show! A remarkable milestone.  This year the flower show would use over 200 varieties of flowers and 20,000 pots for decoration. Over 500,000 visitors are expected to see this famous flower show.

Visiting Time: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Open: All days

Entrance Fee: Rs. 10.

By Air

Bangalore International Airport is 40 km away from the heart of the city, Majestic. It costs about Rs 300 by auto rickshaw and Rs 600 by taxi. Pre paid taxi facilities are available in Airport. Bangalore airport is well connected to almost all airports in India. International flights to major foreign cities are also operated from Bangalore.

By Train

Bangalore Majestic, Bangalore Cantonment (8 km to Majestic) and Yeshwanthpur (10 km away from Majestic) are the three main stations in Bangalore. Bangalore Majestic is connected to all major cities in India.

By Bus

KSRTC buses connect all cities in the state to Bangalore. Many super deluxe bus services are available from Bangalore to Hyderabad, Cochin, Trivandrum, Chennai, Mumbai, Goa and Mysore.

TIPU SULTAN FORT

Tipu Sultan Fort

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Bangalore

Tipu Sultan Summer Palace is the one of the major Historical Attraction of 

Bangalore.

Located in the most crowded market area, Tipu Sultan Fort represents the artistic talent that prevailed in the past. It was originally constructed by Kempe Gowda in the year 1537 using mud bricks.

 It was modified and extended by Haider Ali, who used granite stones in the process. It was Tipu Sultan who completed it during 1791 and it served as his summer retreat. 

The two-storied structure has pillars, carved arches and balconies. It represents Islamic style and you could find a temple of Ganesha, a Hindu god. This throws light on the religious tolerance exhibited by the ruler.

 If you love to go deep into historical facts, you need to visit the art gallery in the fort, which houses historical paintings, photos and carvings.

An inscription on a stone found in the palace describes the palace as an ‘Abode of Happiness and envy of Heaven’

The magnificent palace was built using wood, stone, mortar and plaster, and looks like a one storied pillared pavilion from outside. But the palace is actually a double storied building, typical of this style in architecture.

The walls and wooden ceilings of the palace are painted in beautiful floral motifs on madder red surfaces.

How to get

The Tipu Sultan Palace is located near the crowded City Market of Bangalore, Karnataka, India, at the junction of Albert Victor Road and Krishna Rajendra in the enclosure of the Tipu Sultan Fort. The city of Bangalore is well connected with other metro cities of India by rail and air. Many international flights come directly to the Bangalore city. The city is quite approachable from most of the important cities and towns of South India by road and rail.

Entry Timings: 10 Am to 6 Pm Except Sunday

Entry fee:  Per Person Rs. 5

Entry is free for below 15 years

Tickets are availed in main gate counter.