The summer residence of one of the most valiant rulers in ancient India, the Tipu Sultan Summer Palace is a gem in the landscape of Bangalore. Dating back to the 18th Century, it was commissioned by the father of Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali. A stunning Indo-Islamic architecture adorns the structure of this elegant palace. Captured by the British Army after the fourth Anglo-Indian War, it is believed to be home to a splendid throne of Tipu Sultan which made of pure gold and gems. Housing the museum at an end, it depicts the life of the brave ruler who achieved martyrdom. Standing amid serene gardens, the palace boasts intricately designed motifs, carved pillars, and magnificent balconies. Clothes, pedestals, vessels, and crown which belonged to Tipu Sultan are still well preserved. The inner sanctum of the palace provides an aesthetic and regal ambiance that lifts the spirits of the visitors.
Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, in Bangalore, India, is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture and was the summer residence of the Mysorean ruler Tipu Sultan. Hyder Ali commenced its construction within the walls of the Bangalore Fort, and it was completed during the reign of Tipu Sultan in 1791. After Tipu Sultan's death in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the British Administration used the palace for its secretariat before moving to Attara Kacheri in 1868. Today the Archaeological Survey of India maintains the palace, which is located at the center of Old Bangalore near the Kalasipalyam bus stand, as a tourist spot.
The structure was built entirely teak and stands adorned with pillars, arches and balconies. It is believed that Tipu Sultan used to conduct his durbar (court) from the eastern and western balconies of the upper floor. There are four smaller rooms in the corners of first floor which were Zenana Quarters. There are beautiful floral motifs embellishing the walls of the palace. The site also holds a painting of grand throne visualized by Tipu Sultan himself. Coated with gold sheets and stuck with precious emerald stones, Tipu had vowed never to use it until he completely defeated the British Army. After Tipu Sultan's death, the British dismantled the throne and auctioned its parts as it was too expensive for a single person to buy whole.The rooms in the ground floor have been converted into a small museum showcasing various achievements of Tipu Sultan and his administration. There are newly done portraits of the people and places of that time. There is a replica of Tipu's Tiger, which is in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Tipu Sultan's clothes and his crown are present in silver and gold pedestals. The silver vessels given by a general to Hyder Ali is also displayed.
The Horticulture Department, Government of Karnataka, maintains the area in front of the palace as a garden and lawn.
