Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
A cultural hub in Bangalore, featuring diverse art exhibitions, a museum, and vibrant craft fairs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Buzzing with art lovers
Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
Best Time
Buzzing with art lovers

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cultural hub in Bangalore, featuring diverse art exhibitions, a museum, and vibrant craft fairs.
"A must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates visual art and storytelling through paintings."
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule
Always check the current exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip!
🛍️ Shop for Unique Crafts
Great place to buy Indian handicrafts and clothes at reasonable prices.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Gallery Exhibitions
Main Gallery
Discover diverse visual arts and crafts from various artists. A dynamic showcase of creativity.
Museum of Paintings & Crafts
Museum
Permanent displays featuring exquisite Indian handicrafts and traditional paintings. A treasure trove of art.
Chitra Santhe (Art Market)
Campus Grounds
Annual art market offering a wide array of affordable artworks and handicrafts directly from artists.
Handicraft Mela
Campus Grounds
A vibrant fair showcasing colorful textiles and unique handicrafts from across India.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Art & Deals
Exploring the Campus & Collections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bought this at Chitrakala Parishath 😊
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule
Always check the current exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip!
🛍️ Shop for Unique Crafts
Great place to buy Indian handicrafts and clothes at reasonable prices.
Is Bangalore an art-loving city? Considering a pricey exhibition at Jayamahal palace - need advice!
Had a lot of fun at the annual Chitra Santhe, which returned offiine after 3 years. 1000+ artists from the length and breadth of the state came in to show their breathtaking artworks.
📸 Capture the Art
Mobile captures can be beautiful, but check if photography is allowed in all areas.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the campus and galleries. :athletic_shoe:
Art galleries in Bangalore?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule
Always check the current exhibitions before visiting to make the most of your trip!
🛍️ Shop for Unique Crafts
Great place to buy Indian handicrafts and clothes at reasonable prices.
📸 Capture the Art
Mobile captures can be beautiful, but check if photography is allowed in all areas.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the campus and galleries. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath for its diverse art exhibitions, rich museum collections, and vibrant campus atmosphere. The annual Chitra Santhe and Handicraft Mela are highlighted as major attractions for unique crafts and affordable art. Some visitors suggest improvements in greenspace maintenance and more initiatives for art schools.
"Chitrakala Parishat is a renowned school of art in Bangalore, with an enviable alumni list. Located in a tree-lined campus, CKP — as it is popularly known — has a museum, a store and a gallery worth visiting. The gallery has rotating exhibits while the museum has permanent displays of paintings and crafts. CKP comes alive during its much-awaited fests: the annual Handicraft Mela and the Chitra Santhe (art market), both of which provide outlets for artists and craftsmen.
Visit this place when there is an art retrospective of KG Subramanian going on. There are so many options to shop and indulge in. You can easily spend a ton of time and money at this place. Definitely recommend it if you are interested in buying local Indian handicrafts or clothes at reasonable prices."
Indranil Dasgupta
""What a wonderful place to visit with your loved ones, especially for art and sketching enthusiasts! Weekends are the best time to explore this art museum, every painting tells a unique story, and there's so much to learn from each piece. It's truly mesmerizing; I was completely captivated by the beauty and emotion in every artwork. My heart was filled with joy and admiration, I simply couldn’t take my eyes off them. A must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates visual art and storytelling through paintings. Below are some of my favorite mobile captures from this magical experience!"🖌🌉🌆🌇♥✨"
meenakshi meena
"A must-visit place if you're keen on art and paintings. I visited this place back in February where there was a major arts exhibition during the month. Be it the main gallery or basement floor gallery, the craftsmanship is seen in all the paintings. They do have paintings for sale which might cost you a lot for the bigger canvas and vice versa. The other main attraction is the handicrafts and colorful textiles of various states of India sold in the exhibition stalls (flea market)."
Shreerag G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is located on Kumara Krupa Road in Bangalore. You can easily reach it via auto-rickshaws, taxis, or ride-sharing services. Several BMTC buses also ply in the vicinity, making it accessible via public transport. :bus: :taxi:
The address is Kumara Krupa Road, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001. :round_pushpin:
Yes, there is usually parking available on-site, though it can get busy during major events or on weekends. :car:
From Majestic, you can take a direct bus or a taxi/auto-rickshaw. The journey is relatively short, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. :bus: :taxi:
Absolutely! Apps like Uber and Ola are readily available in Bangalore and can drop you directly at the Parishath. :iphone:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the campus and museum is generally free, but specific exhibitions might have an entry fee. It's best to check on arrival or their website. :ticket:
The galleries and museum are typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM daily, but it's advisable to confirm the timings, especially for special exhibitions. :clock1:
The museum usually has a nominal entry fee, while the galleries might be free or have separate charges for special shows. :moneybag:
Online ticketing is not always available for all exhibitions. It's often best to purchase tickets directly at the venue. :computer:
Information on discounts is not always widely advertised. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival. :bustsinsilhouette:
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide range of visual arts, including traditional Indian paintings, contemporary art, sculptures, and various handicrafts. The museum has permanent collections, and the galleries host rotating exhibitions. :art:
Yes, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath is also a renowned art school and often conducts educational programs and workshops. Inquire on-site for details. :mortar_board:
Yes, many of the artworks displayed in the galleries and especially during events like Chitra Santhe and the Handicraft Mela are available for purchase. :shopping_cart:
The campus offers many picturesque spots, and the artworks themselves are visually appealing. However, photography rules may vary for specific exhibitions. :camerawithflash:
Chitra Santhe is an annual art market where artists display and sell their creations directly to the public, offering a fantastic opportunity to buy affordable art. :art:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining options within the campus, there are often small stalls or a cafe serving snacks and beverages. You can also find numerous eateries nearby. :coffee:
The area around Kumara Krupa Road has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and local eateries offering diverse cuisines, from South Indian to international. :ramen:
Generally, it's best to consume outside food in designated areas or outside the exhibition spaces to maintain the cleanliness of the art premises. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While general campus photography is usually fine, specific exhibitions might restrict camera use or flash. Always check signage or ask staff. :camerawithflash:
The campus grounds with their greenery, the architecture of the buildings, and the vibrant artworks themselves offer great photo opportunities. :frame_photo:
For personal use, it's often permitted, but commercial use or reproduction of images without permission is usually prohibited. :copyright:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the campus is generally pleasant, keep an eye on younger children in busy exhibition halls. The open spaces on campus can be good for a brief respite. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Indian art and culture in an accessible and enjoyable way. :child:
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
The Chitra Santhe and Handicraft Mela are prime opportunities to acquire unique pieces directly from artists. These events are known for offering a wide range of artworks at accessible price points, making them ideal for both seasoned collectors and those looking to start their art collection. Engaging with the artists themselves can add significant value to your purchase. :moneywithwings:
🛍️ Budget Travelers & Shoppers
While some larger artworks in the galleries might be expensive, the fairs provide ample opportunities for affordable shopping. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts that are unique and locally made. Remember to bargain respectfully during the fairs to get the best deals. :moneybag:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Visual Arts in Bangalore
The campus itself is a serene environment, often described as a 'tree-lined campus,' offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent displays, which often feature intricate paintings and diverse crafts, providing a glimpse into India's rich artistic heritage. The rotating exhibitions in the galleries ensure that there's always something new to discover, catering to varied artistic tastes.
Beyond exhibitions, CKP is also known for its vibrant annual events like the Chitra Santhe and the Handicraft Mela. These events are crucial platforms for artists and artisans to connect with the public, sell their work, and gain recognition. The Chitra Santhe, in particular, is a much-anticipated art market where one can find a plethora of affordable artworks, from paintings to sculptures, directly from the creators.
Navigating the Campus and Collections
The galleries are where the dynamic, ever-changing art scene comes alive. These spaces host exhibitions by both established and emerging artists, covering various mediums and styles. It's advisable to check the exhibition schedule beforehand to know what's on display during your visit.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Handicraft Mela and the Chitra Santhe if your visit coincides with these events. These fairs are a fantastic way to interact with artists, learn about their craft, and perhaps even purchase a unique piece of art or handicraft at a reasonable price. The variety of stalls, from textiles to accessories, makes these events a shopper's delight.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit