Karnataka assembly speaker opposes high entry fee for Vidhana Soudha guided tours

The Karnataka government has proposed a ₹150 entry fee for guided tours of the Vidhana Soudha, sparking objections from Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader, who termed the amount excessive and burdensome for the public.

The Vidhana Soudha, a grand administrative building and a key tourist attraction in Bengaluru, draws thousands of visitors daily. To enhance the tourism experience, the state’s tourism department proposed a structured “guided tour” model, similar to those at Delhi’s Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House.

The proposal, submitted to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, includes a ₹150 fee per person for the guided experience, covering tour guides and logistical arrangements. Speaker Khader strongly opposed the fee, stating it would deter ordinary tourists.

He suggested a more affordable entry fee of ₹20 and wrote to the Chief Secretary requesting revisions to the proposed rates. Officials are also considering free entry for tourists not opting for guided tours, or a minimal entry fee. A final decision is expected after a meeting led by the Chief Secretary.

The guided tours would operate on public holidays between 8 AM and 6 PM, with tourists grouped in batches of 30, accompanied by officials.

Strict rules will be enforced, including ID verification, drone bans, food restrictions, and no parking within the premises. A software system for online bookings is also being developed. The decision aims to balance tourism promotion with accessibility and security.