Vidhana Soudha to Open for Public Tours from June 1
Karnataka’s seat of power to host weekend guided walks with heritage storytelling
Starting June 1, visitors will get a closer look at the iconic Vidhana Soudha, the seat of power in Karnataka, through guided walking tours offering insights into its historical significance, architectural grandeur, and key areas within the complex.
The tours, covering a designated route within the premises (not 90 km as previously stated), will provide curated narratives by heritage and tourism experts and will operate on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays and all Sundays between 8 am and 5 pm, as per time slots listed on the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) website.
However, tours will not be held on days when the Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council is in session, or when security advisories are in place.
Tickets must be booked in advance, although a limited number may be available at the KSTDC helpdesk on site. Entry is priced at Rs 50 for individuals aged 16 and above, while children aged 15 and below can enter free. Each slot accommodates up to 30 participants, with a daily cap of 300 visitors. Group bookings for corporates and educational institutions can be arranged outside fixed slots with prior approval.
Visitors must follow a fixed route; deviations will not be permitted. Photography will be allowed only at designated points.
Each group will be accompanied by a trained tour guide and a Tourist Mitra (tourist police). After security checks, the guided walk will cover highlights such as the foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the Banquet Hall, the sandalwood model of Vidhana Soudha, the Legislative Assembly and Council halls, and statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, and Kengal Hanumanthaiah, among others.
The storytelling component has been developed by heritage and tourism experts to highlight Vidhana Soudha’s distinctive neo-Dravidian architecture and its place in India’s democratic journey.
