Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is a breathtaking historical monument located in the heart of Mysore. This palace served as the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore for several centuries. The current structure was completed in 1912 after the original wooden palace was destroyed by fire in 1897. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India, second only to the Taj Mahal. The palace is a marvel of the Indo-Saracenic style, which blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic architectural elements. Visitors are often mesmerized by the sheer scale and opulence of the palace, which features massive courtyards, lush gardens, and intricate interiors. Inside, the palace houses several magnificent halls, including the Durbar Hall and the Amba Vilas Hall, where the kings held public and private audiences. The walls are adorned with beautiful paintings depicting royal life, and the ceilings are intricately carved and painted with vibrant colors. The palace also contains a vast collection of royal artifacts, including weapons, costumes, and jewelry. One of the highlights is the Golden Throne, which is displayed only during the Dasara festival. Every Sunday and on public holidays, the palace is illuminated with nearly 100,000 bulbs, creating a magical sight that attracts thousands of people. The palace complex also includes several ancient temples, making it a cultural and religious hub. The history of the palace is closely tied to the history of the Wadiyar family and their contributions to the development of Mysore. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city's rich heritage and regal past, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the kings. Exploring the palace is like stepping back in time, as every corner tells a story of bravery, culture, and artistic excellence. The palace is managed by the government of Karnataka, and efforts are constantly made to preserve its grandeur for future generations.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage / Historical PalaceEntry Fees:
Adult Indians: The entry fee is approximately Rs.100 for adults.
Foreign Tourists: International visitors are charged around Rs.1,000 (which usually includes an audio guide).
Children: Entry for children aged 1...Adult Indians: The entry fee is approximately Rs.100 for adults.
Foreign Tourists: International visitors are charged around Rs.1,000 (which usually includes an audio guide).
Children: Entry for children aged 10-18 is Rs.50, while children below 10 years enter for free.
Camera Charges: Photography inside the main palace halls is strictly prohibited, though allowed in the external grounds.Timing:
General Visiting Hours: The palace is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Illumination Timings: The palace is lit from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
Sound and Light Show: Usually held ...General Visiting Hours: The palace is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Illumination Timings: The palace is lit from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
Sound and Light Show: Usually held from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays (except Sundays and holidays).
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive around 3:30 PM to explore the interiors and then stay for the evening lights.Special Events:
Mysuru Dasara: This 10-day festival in September or October is the biggest event, featuring grand processions, music, and the display of the Golden Throne.
Flower Show: During Dasara, a massive flower show is held nearby, often featuring mo...Mysuru Dasara: This 10-day festival in September or October is the biggest event, featuring grand processions, music, and the display of the Golden Throne.
Flower Show: During Dasara, a massive flower show is held nearby, often featuring models made of thousands of roses.
Cultural Performances: Throughout the year, especially during festivals, the palace forecourt hosts classical music and dance programs.Best Photo Spots:
Front Gate Entrance: The main Jaya Maarthaanda gate provides a majestic frame for the palace in the background.
The Central Courtyard: Looking up at the domes from the courtyard offers a symmetrical and grand perspective.
Read MoreFront Gate Entrance: The main Jaya Maarthaanda gate provides a majestic frame for the palace in the background.
The Central Courtyard: Looking up at the domes from the courtyard offers a symmetrical and grand perspective.
The Illumination View: Capturing the palace at night from the main lawn when all bulbs are lit creates a golden glow.
Peacock Stained Glass: The vibrant colors of the Kalyana Mantapa ceiling make for stunning indoor photography where permitted.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Explore the Durbar Hall: Walk through the massive hall where the King met the public, marveling at the ornate pillars and the view of the Chamundi Hills.
Visit the Doll’s Pavilion: Also known as Gombe Thotti, this section displays a vast collection of traditional dolls and a wooden elephant howdah decorated with 84kg of gold.
Stroll the Royal Gardens: The vast landscaped lawns surrounding the palace offer a great place for a walk and provide excellent angles for photography.
Watch the Sound and Light Show: Held in the evenings, this show narrates the history of the palace and the Wadiyar family in a dramatic and engaging way.
Admire the Stained Glass: Head to the Kalyana Mantapa to see the intricate peacock motifs on the stain...Explore the Durbar Hall: Walk through the massive hall where the King met the public, marveling at the ornate pillars and the view of the Chamundi Hills.
Visit the Doll’s Pavilion: Also known as Gombe Thotti, this section displays a vast collection of traditional dolls and a wooden elephant howdah decorated with 84kg of gold.
Stroll the Royal Gardens: The vast landscaped lawns surrounding the palace offer a great place for a walk and provide excellent angles for photography.
Watch the Sound and Light Show: Held in the evenings, this show narrates the history of the palace and the Wadiyar family in a dramatic and engaging way.
Admire the Stained Glass: Head to the Kalyana Mantapa to see the intricate peacock motifs on the stained-glass ceiling, imported from Scotland.
Visit the Portrait Gallery: See the collection of life-size portraits of the Mysore Kings and historical photographs that document the city's evolution.
Photography: Capture the exterior of the palace from different angles, especially during the blue hour when the lights are first turned on.
Shop for Souvenirs: There are many small shops near the exits selling Mysore Silk sarees, sandalwood carvings, and local handicrafts.
Witness the Illumination: Plan your visit on a Sunday or public holiday evening to see the palace fully lit up, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Visit the Temples: Take time to visit the Shweta Varahaswamy and Trinesvaraswamy temples located within the fort walls.
Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Significance: It was the seat of the Wadiyar dynasty for over 600 years, representing the pinnacle of the Kingdom of Mysore's power and cultural influence.
Grand Illumination: The palace is world-famous for its evening lighting, ...Historical Significance: It was the seat of the Wadiyar dynasty for over 600 years, representing the pinnacle of the Kingdom of Mysore's power and cultural influence.
Grand Illumination: The palace is world-famous for its evening lighting, where 96,000 to 100,000 bulbs turn the structure into a golden fairy-tale castle.
Dasara Festival: It is the center of the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, hosting the famous "Jumboo Savari" and royal traditions. -
Architecture:
Indo-Saracenic Masterpiece: The palace is a classic example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring a mix of Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic styles. The building has a length of 245 feet and a width of 156 feet, standing three stories tall with a five-story central tower.Indo-Saracenic Masterpiece: The palace is a classic example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring a mix of Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic styles. The building has a length of 245 feet and a width of 156 feet, standing three stories tall with a five-story central tower.
Royal Dimensions: The central tower is topped by a gold-plated dome and rises to a height of 145 feet. The palace is built with fine gray granite, while the domes are made of deep pink marble.
Ornate Interiors: The Durbar Hall features massive columns and a stunningly painted ceiling. The Kalyana Mantapa (marriage hall) is an octagonal-shaped pavilion with a magnificent stained-glass ceiling and glazed tile flooring. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Bangalore (BLR), about 170 KM away, though Mysore Airport (MYQ) has limited flights.
By Train: Mysore Junction is just 2 KM away, with frequent trains from Bangalore, Chennai, and other major cities.By Air: The nearest major airport is Bangalore (BLR), about 170 KM away, though Mysore Airport (MYQ) has limited flights.
By Train: Mysore Junction is just 2 KM away, with frequent trains from Bangalore, Chennai, and other major cities.
By Road: Excellent highway connectivity from Bangalore (150 KM) via the Mysuru-Bangalore Expressway.
By Local Transport: The palace is centrally located and easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, city buses, or taxis from anywhere in Mysore. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter Season: October to February is the best time as the weather is cool and pleasant for walking around the complex.
Summer Season: March to May can be hot during the day, so early morning visits are recommended.
Read MoreWinter Season: October to February is the best time as the weather is cool and pleasant for walking around the complex.
Summer Season: March to May can be hot during the day, so early morning visits are recommended.
Monsoon Season: June to September brings lush greenery to the gardens, but rain might hinder outdoor exploration.
Time of Day: Late afternoon is best to avoid the midday sun and enjoy the transition to evening lighting.Near Tourist Places:
1. Jaganmohan Palace (2 KM), 2. Chamundi Hills (12 KM), 3. Mysore Zoo (2 KM), 4. St. Philomena's Church (3 KM), 5. Karanji Lake (4 KM), 6. Brindavan Gardens (20 KM), 7. Srirangapatna (15 KM), 8. Railway Museum (3 KM), 9. Sand Sculpture Museum (5 KM), 10. GRS Fantasy Park (8 KM).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the complex is vast. Carry water but note that food is not allowed inside the main building.
Packing: Light cotton clothes are ideal. Don't forget a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor segm...Health & Safety: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the complex is vast. Carry water but note that food is not allowed inside the main building.
Packing: Light cotton clothes are ideal. Don't forget a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor segments.
Accommodation: There are numerous hotels ranging from budget to luxury (like Lalit Mahal) within 3-5 KM of the palace.
Cash & Connectivity: ATMs are available just outside the palace gates. Mobile network is excellent, but Wi-Fi is limited inside.
Shoes: You must remove your shoes before entering the main palace building; there is a designated stand for this.
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