Things to Do at Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace

Complete Guide to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace in Bengaluru

About Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, known as the 'Darya Daulat Bagh' (Garden of the Sea of Wealth), is a magnificent example of 18th-century Indo-Islamic architecture located in the heart of Bengaluru. Built in 1791 by the legendary ruler Tipu Sultan, also known as the 'Tiger of Mysore,' this two-story wooden palace served as his summer retreat and stands as a testament to his refined taste and architectural vision. The palace showcases exquisite craftsmanship with its ornate pillars, intricate carvings, and beautiful frescoes that depict various aspects of Tipu's reign and military campaigns. The palace is constructed entirely of teakwood and features stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture with beautiful arches, decorated pillars, and ornamental motifs. The structure reflects a unique blend of Islamic and Indian architectural styles, with its elegant balconies, carved wooden pillars, and decorative elements that include floral patterns and tiger motifs - a signature of Tipu Sultan's reign. Today, the palace serves as a museum managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, housing artifacts, paintings, and historical items that provide visitors with insights into the life and times of one of South India's most celebrated rulers.

What to See & Do

Ornate Wooden Architecture

Marvel at the intricate teakwood construction featuring beautifully carved pillars, ornamental arches, and detailed wooden work that showcases 18th-century craftsmanship at its finest.

Historical Frescoes and Paintings

Admire the vibrant wall paintings and frescoes that depict Tipu Sultan's military victories, court scenes, and various aspects of his administration and personal life.

Museum Artifacts

Explore the collection of historical artifacts including Tipu's clothing, weapons, coins, and personal belongings that provide insight into the ruler's lifestyle and the Mysore Kingdom.

Tiger Motifs and Decorations

Discover the numerous tiger-themed decorative elements throughout the palace, reflecting Tipu Sultan's fascination with tigers and his title as the 'Tiger of Mysore.'

Beautiful Gardens

Stroll through the well-maintained gardens surrounding the palace, which recreate the ambiance of a royal summer retreat with lush greenery and peaceful walkways.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed on Fridays and national holidays.

Tickets & Pricing

Entry fee: ₹15 for Indian citizens, ₹200 for foreign nationals. Children under 15 years enter free. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

Best Time to Visit

October to March offers pleasant weather. Early morning (8:30-10:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:30-5:30 PM) are ideal to avoid crowds and heat.

Suggested Duration

Allow 1-2 hours to explore the palace thoroughly, including the museum exhibits and gardens.

Getting There

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace is conveniently located in the Fort area of Bengaluru, approximately 3 km from the city center. The nearest metro station is Krishnarajendra Market (Purple Line), about 1 km away. Local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available from all parts of the city. If driving, parking is available near the palace. The landmark is easily accessible from major areas like MG Road (4 km), Brigade Road (3 km), and Bangalore City Railway Station (2 km). Many visitors combine their trip with nearby attractions in the Fort area for a comprehensive historical tour.

Things to Do Nearby

Bangalore Fort
Historic 16th-century fort built by Kempe Gowda, located just 500 meters away, featuring ancient architecture and historical significance.
Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi)
Famous Hindu temple dedicated to Nandi Bull, located 2 km away in Basavanagudi, known for its massive monolithic bull statue.
KR Market (Krishnarajendra Market)
Vibrant wholesale market 1 km away, perfect for experiencing local culture, buying flowers, spices, and traditional items.
Venkatappa Art Gallery
Government-run art gallery located 2.5 km away, showcasing contemporary and traditional Indian art, including works by Karnataka artists.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Historic 240-acre botanical garden located 3 km away, featuring diverse flora, a glass house, and beautiful walking trails.

Tips & Advice

Visit early morning or late afternoon for better lighting for photography and to avoid peak tourist hours.
Hire a local guide or use audio guides to fully appreciate the historical significance and stories behind the artifacts.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring both indoor museum areas and outdoor gardens.
Carry water and sun protection, especially during warmer months, as parts of the visit involve outdoor walking.
Photography is allowed in most areas, but check for restrictions in certain sections of the museum.
Combine your visit with other nearby Fort area attractions to make the most of your historical tour of Bengaluru.

Tours & Activities at Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace