- Location
- Manikyavelu Mansion, 49 Palace Road, Bangalore
- Grounds
- About 3.5 acres
- Exhibition space
- About 1,551 sq m
- Ideal time needed
- About 2 hours
The building and grounds
The mansion, with its verandas and old-style rooms, is part of the appeal, and many visitors spend a while in the gardens before going in. A newer gallery block was added alongside the original house to allow larger exhibitions, and together they offer roughly 1,551 square metres of display space for the permanent collection and changing shows.
What to see
The collection follows how Indian art changed over two centuries, from academic portraiture to the Bengal School and modernism. International artists also appear, giving a wider context. Temporary exhibitions rotate through the newer block, so there is often something different to see even on a repeat visit. Names to look out for include:
- Raja Ravi Varma
- Jamini Roy
- Amrita Sher-Gil
- Rabindranath Tagore
- Nandalal Bose
Facilities
Beyond the galleries, there is an auditorium that hosts talks and workshops, and a reference library on Indian art history. A cafeteria is good for a coffee between rooms, and the museum shop sells prints, books and souvenirs. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest time to visit.
Tips for your visit
Allow around two hours if you want to see both the old mansion and the new block without rushing. Photography rules differ between galleries, so ask at the entrance. Opening days, hours and ticket prices can change, and the gallery is usually closed on one weekday, so confirm before you go.
Palace Road is central, so the gallery pairs well with Bangalore Palace, Cubbon Park or Vidhana Soudha on the same day. We can put together a Bangalore heritage and culture day with a car and driver.
Also nearby
Plan it with us
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. We will build the route, book the car, driver and hotels, and send you a clear quote.
