Information About Vidhana Soudha
- Location: Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bangalore (Map)
- Entry Fee & Timings: Free entry. Open Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Place Type: Palace & Landmarks, Sightseeing
- Ideal for: Families, Kids, Friends, Couples, Parents, Siblings, Youngsters
- Best Time to Visit: May to August
About Vidhana Soudha
Vidhana Soudha stands as a testament to a harmonious blend of British, Dravidian, and Indo-Islamic architectural styles. Commissioned by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in collaboration with then Chief Minister KC Reddy in 1951, its construction was completed in 1956.
Serving as a symbol of governance for the Government of Karnataka, this historic edifice reaches a height of 46 meters and spans across 60 acres of land. One of its standout features is the impressive main entrance that leads into the foyer on the first floor, adorned with 45 grand staircases offering access to the assembly hall.
Architecture of Vidhana Soudha
Constructed with granite, Vidhana Soudha is an expansive legislative building standing tall with four floors above ground and an additional floor below. Spanning an impressive area of 2,300 by 1500 feet, it holds the distinction of being the largest of its kind in India.
Vidhana Soudha Nearby Places
- Cubbon Park – 1 km
- Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum – 1.5 km
- Bangalore Palace – 3 km
- UB City Mall – 1.2 km
- St. Mark’s Cathedral – 1.5 km
- M Chinnaswamy Stadium – 1.3 km
- Government Museum – 1.4 km
- Karnataka High Court – 1 km
- Mahatma Gandhi Park – 0.5 km
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden – 4 km
Interesting facts about Vidhana Soudha
Vidhana Soudha, the iconic seat of the Karnataka legislature in Bangalore, is a marvel of modern architecture with a rich history. Interesting facts about this grand edifice:
- Entrances & Structure: Vidhana Soudha features four entrances and is composed of four floors above ground and a basement. This design facilitates multiple access points and a spacious interior.
- Architectural Height: Standing at 150 feet tall, the building’s height is a testament to its grandeur and the ambitious vision behind its construction.
- Neo-Dravidian Architecture: Building showcases a splendid Neo-Dravidian architectural style, blending traditional Dravidian motifs with modern design principles to create a unique and impressive aesthetic.
- Construction Timeline: Construction of Vidhana Soudha was an immense undertaking, completed in just four years—a remarkable feat considering the scale of the project.
- Labor Force: An estimated 5000 laborers, along with approximately 1500 chisels, woodworkers, and masons, worked diligently to bring this architectural vision to life.
- Central Dome: Central dome is an impressive sixty feet in diameter and is supported by eight pillars. Additionally, there are six smaller domes, adding to the building’s majestic profile.
- Labor Background: In an interesting twist, many of the unskilled laborers involved in the construction were reportedly criminals who earned their freedom upon the project’s completion.
- Local Materials: Use of “Bangalore granite” sourced from nearby Mallasandra and Hesaraghatta gives the building a distinct local character and robustness.
How to Reach Vidhana Soudha?
- By Bus: Closest bus stop is the Corporation Bus Stop, located just 2.4 km away. From there, you can take a short walk or hop on a local auto-rickshaw to reach Vidhana Soudha.
- By Rail: Bangalore Cantt Junction is approximately 2.5 km from Vidhana Soudha. Exiting the station, you’ll find rickshaws readily available to take you directly to the destination.
- By Air: If you’re arriving by plane, the HAL airport is about 12.4 km away. The most convenient option from the airport is to book a cab, which will take you to Vidhana Soudha comfortably and efficiently.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Vidhana Soudha?
Vidhana Soudha is a monumental building located in Bengaluru, which houses the state legislative assembly and other government offices.
When was Vidhana Soudha built?
Construction of Vidhana Soudha began in 1952 and was completed in 1956.
Can I visit Vidhana Soudha?
Yes, Vidhana Soudha is open to visitors during specific hours. However, certain areas may be restricted during legislative sessions.
Is photography allowed inside Vidhana Soudha?
Photography is not permitted inside the building, but visitors can take pictures of the exterior. For more information, please visit the official website of Vidhana Soudha or contact the authorities directly.
Vidhana Soudha, you’ll be delighted to know that Bengaluru has much more to offer. Explore the entire list of places to visit in Bengaluru before you plan your trip to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the city’s treasures. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, Bengaluru is a city that promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler. Start planning your adventure today!
