Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
Art Complex, 1 Kumarakrupa Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560001
With over a dozen galleries and a fine arts college on one campus, the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath visual arts complex is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in Bangalore's art scene. Highlights include 13 galleries with permanent exhibits, a handful of special event spaces, and regular events ranging from art lessons to handicraft markets.
The basics
The complex is large and can easily require a full day to explore—leave yourself at least 2-3 hours. The permanent collections cover a range of styles and media, from leather puppets to Mysore paintings. The Kejriwal Folk Art Museum is full of traditional artworks from across the country, and a gallery dedicated to Russian painter Nicholas Roerich—celebrated for his depictions of the Indian Himalayas—and another to his son and student, Svetoslav Roerich.
Things to know before you go
Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is a must-visit for art fans and those looking for a relaxing and aesthetically pleasing spot for a stroll.
The on-site Art Mart sells prints, calendars, journals, and other souvenirs.
The campus sometimes hosts handicraft festivals great for picking up unusual art pieces.
How to get there
Located in the heart of Bangalore, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is easy to reach from most central hotels and attractions. The art complex is about a 10-minute drive from Bengaluru Palace and a 15-minute drive from Cubbon Park. The closest metro stop is at Mantri Square, a 10-minute walk away; the Shivananda bus stop is 2-minutes away on-foot.
When to get there
The best time to visit Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is during a special event—the annual Chitra Santhe art market is a popular option held on the last Sunday of January. Most special programs are listed well in advance on the institution's website. Otherwise, the complex is open Monday through Saturday during the day and on Sundays when there are special events. Doors open 30-60 minutes before events.
The National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore
A short walk from Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath sits one of India's most important collections of modern art, housed in the Bangalore branch of the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA). The gallery hosts works by Rabindranath Tagore, Amrita Sher-Gil, and M.F. Hussain, plus gorgeous gardens and a cafe with plenty of outdoor seating.
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