Kempegowda Museum

The Kempegowda Museum occupies the first floor of Mayo Hall, a red and white colonial building presenting historical displays about Bangalore's development and origins. The space showcases objects and documents that illustrate the city's role in India's past.

This museum opened in 2011 to honor Yelahanka chieftain Kempegowda, who founded Bangalore in 1537 and built four watchtowers marking the city's boundaries. These towers established the foundation for the city's later expansion and structure.

The museum displays photographs and artifacts showing how Kempegowda shaped the city through water systems, markets, and religious structures. Visitors see how these elements influenced daily life across generations.

The museum is located near MG Road metro station and is open Monday through Saturday with no admission fees. Plan a morning visit when it is less crowded, allowing you to explore the displays at a comfortable pace.

A distinctive feature is the glass-protected floor displaying an enlarged map of 19th-century Bangalore underneath. Beneath the glass, you can see historical street names and important buildings that no longer exist today.