National Gallery of Modern Art - Bangalore's Premier Art Hub

Bangalore, KarnatakaMUSEUM

Explore a vast collection of modern and contemporary Indian art housed in the historic Manikyavelu Mansion and its modern extension.

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Info

MUSEUM

Info

2-3 hours

Accessibility

Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bangalore is a prominent institution dedicated to modern and contemporary Indian art. The gallery is housed in the Manikyavelu Mansion, a beautifully restored heritage building, which is complemented by a modern, purpose-built gallery block. The collection spans from the 18th century to the present day, showcasing the evolution of artistic styles and movements in India. Visitors can walk through spacious, well-lit halls displaying paintings, sculptures, graphic prints, and photographs by celebrated artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Jamini Roy, and Rabindranath Tagore. The experience flows from the colonial-era charm of the old mansion to the clean, contemporary design of the new wing. Outside, a serene garden dotted with large-scale sculptures provides a quiet space for reflection. The gallery offers a comprehensive look at the journey of Indian art over the last two centuries.

Contact Information

Phone: -22342327

Email: ngma.bengaluru@gmail.com

Why This Place is Special

• Extensive collection of paintings from the Bengal School
• Works by eminent artists like Raja Ravi Varma and Amrita Sher-Gil
• The combination of the historic Manikyavelu Mansion and a modern gallery wing
• A beautiful sculpture garden featuring large installations
• Hosting prestigious national and international art exhibitions
• An art reference library with a vast collection of books
• Regularly scheduled film screenings and cultural events

Ideal For

Art loversHistory enthusiastsSolo travelersCouplesGroupsPhotographersStudents

Facilities & Amenities

• Cloakroom
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Cafeteria
• Souvenir shops
• Seating areas
• Wheelchair access
• Elevators
• Information center
• Parking

Visitor Tips

• Visit on a weekday morning between 11 AM and 1 PM for the quietest experience.
• Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the collections in both the heritage and modern wings.
• Start your tour from the old mansion to follow the chronological display of art.
• Photography is permitted without flash, but check for restrictions in temporary exhibition areas.
• Don't miss the sculpture garden outside
• it's a peaceful spot with impressive artworks.
• Carry a valid student ID card for free entry.
• Check the official NGMA website beforehand for information on current special exhibitions or events.
• Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside
• use the free cloakroom facility near the entrance.

Rules & Restrictions

• No food or drinks allowed inside the gallery halls.
• Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be deposited at the cloakroom.
• Touching the artworks is strictly prohibited.
• Flash photography and use of tripods are not permitted.
• Maintain silence and switch mobile phones to silent mode inside the galleries.

Safety Information

• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Do not touch any of the artworks or display cases.
• Use the designated cloakroom to store large bags and valuables for safety.
• Follow the directions of the gallery staff and security personnel.
• The floors can be slick, so wear shoes with good grip.
• In case of an emergency, contact the information desk or the nearest security guard.

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Location & Address

#49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar, Vasanth Nagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

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Best Time to Visit

September to February is the best time to visit Bangalore, with pleasant and cool weather perfect for exploring the gallery and its gardens. The city's climate is generally moderate year-round, so a visit is possible anytime. The monsoon season, from June to August, can also be a good time for this indoor activity. Avoid the hotter summer months of March to May if you are sensitive to heat, although the gallery itself is climate-controlled.
Peak Crowd: Weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), public holidays, and during school vacation periods (April-May).
Moderate Crowd: Weekday afternoons (2 PM to 5 PM).
Low Crowd: Weekday mornings, especially from Tuesday to Friday (11 AM to 1 PM).

How to Reach

Air

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) is the nearest airport, located approximately 33 km away. It takes about 60-90 minutes to reach the gallery by taxi or airport bus.

Train

The nearest major railway stations are Bengaluru Cantonment (2 km) and KSR Bengaluru City Junction (4 km). Both are well-connected to major cities across India. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or a cab from the stations.

Road

The gallery is located on Palace Road, a major thoroughfare in central Bangalore, and is easily accessible by car or bus. It is well-connected to MG Road, Cubbon Park, and other key areas of the city.

Local Transport

BMTC buses are a convenient and economical option. Auto-rickshaws and cabs (Ola/Uber) are widely available. The Namma Metro's Purple Line (Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Station, Vidhana Soudha) is also a good option.