**Karnataka Government Launches Guided Tours at Vidhana Soudha**
The Karnataka government has approved a new initiative to introduce a “Guided Tour” system at the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, a prominent landmark in the city. This initiative aims to enhance the experience for both domestic and international tourists by providing curated insights into the building’s rich history, heritage, and architectural significance. Currently, visitors can only admire the Vidhana Soudha from the outside and take photographs, but the new scheme is set to offer a more immersive experience, similar to guided tours at Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Parliament building in Delhi.
According to a government order issued on April 4, 2025, the Department of Tourism has been tasked with implementing this tour program under specific guidelines. The tours will be available on public holidays from 8 am to 6 pm, with groups of up to 30 tourists led by designated Tourist Officers. The Assistant Director of the Tourism Department will oversee the tours. To facilitate visitor management, an online ticket booking application will be developed.
The government has emphasized that entry fees should remain affordable, with a portion of the revenue allocated to the state’s designated account. Strict adherence to security protocols established by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Vidhana Soudha Security) is mandatory, and visitors will be required to present valid official identification for entry.
To ensure the protection of the premises, the Public Works Department will install appropriate signage, and a tour route map will be created in collaboration with the Public Works Department and the Vidhana Soudha Security Division. This route must receive approval from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms. Additionally, the Health Department will provide a well-equipped medical team and ambulance service, while the Fire Department will be on standby for emergencies.
Tourists will be expected to maintain cleanliness during their visit, and certain restrictions will be enforced. The use of drone cameras is prohibited, and only drinking water will be allowed; food and snacks are not permitted. Plastic items are banned, and visitors will not be allowed to park vehicles within the Vidhana Soudha premises.
In response to this initiative, BJP MLA Sunil Kumar Karkala expressed his concerns on social media, criticizing the introduction of a fee system for entry, which he referred to as an additional “Khadar Tax” alongside existing taxes.
As the Karnataka government moves forward with this initiative, it is anticipated that the guided tours will not only enhance the appeal of Vidhana Soudha but also attract a greater number of tourists to this iconic site.
**FAQ**
**What are the new guided tours at Vidhana Soudha?**
The Karnataka government has approved guided tours at Vidhana Soudha to provide tourists with insights into its history and architecture, enhancing their overall experience.
