Mysore Palace is one of the truly magnificent attractions to cover in this city. This historical place attracts tourists annually and is famous for its architecture, cultural experiences, and gardens. Being one of India’s largest and most ancient palaces, it reflects the true grandeur of the ruling Maharajas.Moreover, its interior, and incredible architecture give you a better outlook on the ancient era. On special occasions, Mysore Palace is illuminated with bulbs in the evenings, especially on special days, including the Dasara Festival. You can check out the complete Mysore Palace information to learn more about its past, architecture, timing, fees, etc.
Useful Information About Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace Opening Time
Timings- 10.00 AM – 05.30 PM
Mysore Palace Entry Fees
Adults- INR 40
Children between 10 – 18 Years- INR 20
Below 10 years- Free
Foreign Tourist- INR 200 (including Audio Kit Facility)
Mysore Palace Lighting Show Timings
07.40 PM – 07.45 PM (Monday to Saturday)
07.00 PM – 07.45 PM (Sundays, National Holidays and State Festivals)
Mysore Palace Light Show Fee
Sound and Light Show Entry Fee- Adults INR 40
Children between 7 – 12 years- INR 25
Foreign Tourist INR 200
Mysore Palace History
The original Palace was made of wood that was burnt in 1897 at the time of the wedding of one of Chamaraja Wodeyar’s daughters, Jayalakshammanni. The Palace was later rebuilt in 1912. Additions to the structure of the Palace were made from time to time.
It is also known as Amba Vilas Palace and the official residence of the Wodeyar Dynasty- the erstwhile ruler of Mysore. Queen Regent Kempananjammanni Vanivilasa Sanndihana commissioned famous British Architect Henry Irwin to construct a palace, which would be a tribute to Mysore and its rulers.
The erstwhile royal family of Mysore still lives in a portion of the Palace.
Mysore Palace Architecture
Today, we see an Indo-Saracenic architecture style blended with Rajput, Hindu, Muslim, and Gothic architectural styles. The three-storied Palace in gray granite is a stone building with a 145-foot tower (5 stories) and marble domes. Standing amidst a well-maintained garden, the Palace is known as a work of art with its beautiful carvings.
Right on the top of the central arch stands a stunning figurine of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, good luck, and prosperity. Beautiful paintings and huge halls make the interiors equally magnificent. The open balcony of the Palace with massive circular columns has a historically significant Royal portrait gallery.
The square-shaped towers of the building are covered with domes on chief points. Artisans from Agra and Jaipur made exquisite carvings. Placed in the southern part of the main building, the Kalyan Mantapa, or the marriage pavilion, is octagonal, has a gabled roof, and is covered with stained glass.
Imported glazed tiles from England form beautiful geometrical patterns on the floor, and the Czechoslovakian chandeliers add a different character.
Attractions of Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace, Bangalore, will take you through fascinating history and give insight into India’s cultural and architectural richness. From its architecture to its rare collections, each element combines to give you an unforgettable experience.
On top of that, light shows, museums, and festival celebrations are some of its attractions that make it a must-visit tourist place in Mysore. Below is the list of famous attractions that make this Palace more appealing.
Mysore Palace Museum
Mysore palace has now been turned into a museum, which is a repository of paintings, souvenirs, royal costumes, jewelry, a royal armory (over 725 weapons), a selection of dolls belonging to the 19th century, and other artifacts that belonged to the Wodeyars.
A mix of mirrors and stained glass, the museum boasts an elegant décor and delicate carvings on doors. While on the museum’s ground museum, musical instruments, several portraits, costumes, and children’s toys are displayed, the upper floor showcases a collection of royal weapons.
Doors made in silver, white-marbled floors and carved mahogany ceilings are the highlights of the Durbar Hall.
Mysore Dasara Festival
One of the most popular events at the Mysore Palace is the Mysore Dasara Festival, organized during the Navratri festival and held from September to October. This 10-day festival bustles with excellent activity, with Vijaya Dashami day being the high point.
At the time of the festival, leading artists from all over perform on the stage, set up on the grounds of the Palace. On the 10th day, Jumbo Safari, or the traditional Dasara procession, is carried out on the city streets.
A beautifully decorated idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the reigning deity of Mysore, musical bands, colorful dance groups, decorated elephants, camels, and horses are a part of this procession.
This festival, one of the major attractions of Mysore, dates back to 1610. An exhibition is also organized during this time on the palace grounds.
How to Reach Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is on Sayyaji Rao Road of Agrahara in Chamrajpura, Mysuru. Being one of the city’s significant historical places, it can be reached from any point of the city easily.
From Mysore Airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or auto-rickshaw to get there as it is around 10 km away from it.
On top of that, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and local buses are easily available in the city to get around the city.
