Government Museum in Bangalore

The Government Museum of Bangalore was established in the year 1865 in August, and it is one of the oldest museums in India. Located on Kasturba Gandhi Road, it is just 4 km away from Bangalore City Railway Station and is close to the famous Cubbon Park. The Government Museum’s impressive collection of artifacts attracts art lovers and history buffs. It is an attractive red colonial-era structure that exemplifies old-era architecture. Colonel Sankey outlined its main building design, and several wings were added to this building later. It has welcomed the public since 1886 and has become one of the best tourist attractions in Karnataka.

Features of Government Museum

This museum has 2 exhibition floors divided into 18 galleries and comprises various sections. These sections are art, geology, numismatics, natural history, and sculpture that display the rich collection of coins, art, and relics from the Mohenjodaro, Halebid, and Vijayanagara. Each gallery keeps some fascinating elements that will give you an awe-inspiring moment. In addition, it is home to 5000 years old relics that will amaze you.

The painting gallery of this museum exhibits elegant and rare paintings in Mysore and Tanjore styles. Visitors can also witness the painting from Rajasthani and Pahari schools. Moreover, the antique collections of the museum will give you a glimpse into the civilization of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. Besides, many artifacts, like ivory carvings, inlay work, and sandalwood caskets, are some of the most admirable.

Fun Facts

• This Museum is also known as Tamasha House, which means Entertainment house.
• It is the second oldest museum in the southern region of India.
• It functioned as the Cantonment’s jail building before the museum was opened.

Attractions of the Government Museum

• The 600 paintings under Venkatappa Art Gallery
• Sculptures from Hoysala, Nolamba, and Gandhara eras
• Majestic artifacts were received while excavating at Chandravalli, Mohenjodaro, Hampi, and Halebeedu.
• The ancient epigraph of Begur inscription from 890 AD, Halmidi Shasana from 450 AD, and Atakur inscription from 949 AD
• Musical instruments of the ancient time
• The epic scale model of Tipu Sultan’s Fort, Srirangapatna
• Artifacts of Terracotta from Mathura (birthplace of Lord Krishna)
• Weapons related to Kodagu warriors

   

Timing of Government Museum:  10 AM till 5 PM (Open all days except Monday)

Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Famous For: History and Art

Entry Fee of Government Museum:

• For Adults: 20 INR
• For Children: 10 INR

How to Reach Government Museum:

This Government Museum is located on the Cubbon park campus, around 5 km from the Bus stand and 36 km from Bengaluru Airport. Reaching this building using the Bengaluru Metro is one of the ideal ways, and Cubbon Park metro station is the nearest one. You can also take a taxi or bus to any part of Bengaluru city.

Best Time to Visit Government Museum

The best time to visit the Government museum is between September and February as the climate is mild and perfect for sightseeing. However, the building is not air-conditioned. Thus, it is advised to visit early in the morning or the evening for a better experience.

Nearby Attractions

You can get many tourist attractions near this museum, where you can unravel the other beauty of Bangalore. Here is the list of the best places to visit near the Government Museum:

• Cubbon Park
• Lumbini Garden
• Lal Bagh Botanical Garden
• Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
• ISKCON Temple

Nearby Restaurants

There are many places to eat near this attraction to take care of your hunger. With a wide variety of cuisines, these eateries offer lip-smacking foods. Check out the list of best restaurants near the Government Museum.

• JW Kitchen
• Barbeque Nation
• Rajdhani Thali Nation
• Mainland China
• The Only Place

Places to Stay Near This Museum

The ample facility of accommodations in Bangalore befits every kind of budget. One of the best accommodations options is JW Marriott Bengaluru, a luxury hotel opposite Government Museum. Apart from that Octave Suite Residency, Hotel Ramanashree Richmond Circle, and Casa Cottage are other options for staying near this museum.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable footwear as you need to cover the building area by walking.
• Within the premises of the Museum, Photography is not allowed.
• You can hire a local guide to gain more insightful knowledge about each section.