Mysore Palace

Photo provided by India Tourism, New York Office
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace


A sound-and-light show tells the 400-year-old history of Mysore at this magnificent palace, which is decorated with art collections and opulent Hindu temples. 

Mysore Palace (aka Mysuru Palace) is among the most resplendent of the seven palaces that give Mysore the nickname of City of Palaces. Once home to the rulers of the Wadiyar dynasty, today it dazzles with its flamboyant architecture, vast courtyards, richly adorned temples and orderly gardens. Discover centuries of regional history while visiting Mysore Palace and attending light displays.

The present Indo Saracenic-style palace dates back to 1897 and replaced a wooden structure that burned to rubble during a festival. Designed by British architect Henry Irwin, the palace combines elements of Byzantine, Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles. Bay windows, huge arches, marble domes and a five-tiered tower dominate the façade. Above the central arch is a statue of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, alongside elephant sculptures.

Inside, carved wooden doors, chandeliers, frescoes, mosaicked floors and stained-glass ornamentations complement the palatial exterior. Brightly colored pillars, Egyptian figurines and a stucco ceiling in the Durbar Hall present an idea of the exultant lifestyle enjoyed by Wadiyar rulers. Admire the Golden Throne and paintings that portray religious festivals, royal parades and scenes from the lives of maharajas. Look inside temples dedicated to Hindu deities such as Krishna and Shiva.

Nightly multimedia displays light up the palace, accompanied by a soundtrack that recounts historical events from Mysore’s past. Shows in English take place from Thursday to Saturday. Stay after the show, when thousands of lights illuminate the palace. During the Dasara Festival, in late September, the palace is the starting point for a flamboyant procession of song and dance.

Find the palace in the area called Old Fort, in the heart of Mysore’s city center. It’s about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) southeast of Mysuru Junction train station. Travel here by taxi and rickshaw or walk for 20 minutes from the station through the lively city streets. Nearby attractions include Crawford Hall, Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Mysore Zoo.

Mysore Palace is open daily. Buy admission tickets online or at the palace entrance. Fees are also applicable for the sound-and-light show. Find more information on open hours and show schedules on the palace’s official website.

Reviews of Mysore Palace

4.4
Top destination
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Palace is lit up with 90000 light bulbs at 7 pm on a Sunday until 7.30. Worth the 2nd visit for that display.

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Things to do near Mysore Palace

A trip to Mysore Palace is enriched by various activities nearby, such as birdwatching amidst the lush gardens and engaging in yoga sessions that promote relaxation and mindfulness. These experiences complement the grandeur of the palace, allowing visitors to appreciate both nature and wellness during their stay in this historic city.

Shopping

Within the vicinity of Mysore Palace, the bustling Devaraja Market offers a vibrant array of local handicrafts and spices. If you're up for a drive, visit the Mysore Mall, about 16.1km away, where you can explore a range of shops for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

At Mysore Palace, indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments at nearby wellness retreats, where skilled therapists use traditional techniques to enhance your well-being. Experience yoga sessions in serene surroundings, promoting relaxation and mindfulness, while exploring the palace's stunning architecture and rich history.

Adventure

GRS Fantasy Park is a thrilling waterpark located 6.4km from Mysore Palace, perfect for families seeking adventure. With exhilarating rides, wave pools, and water slides, it promises a fun-filled day of excitement and entertainment amidst a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting Mysore Palace illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy cultural performances at the nearby Rani Bahadur Theatre and relish traditional cuisine at the rooftop restaurant, with stunning views of the palace. Don't miss the vibrant local markets for a lively evening stroll.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace offers an array of attractions, including the magnificent palace itself, ancient temples, and serene lakes, making it a hub for culture enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and beautiful scenery, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy the tranquil surroundings. This destination caters to diverse interests, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers exploring the area.

  • Jaganmohan Palace: This historic palace, located 483m from Mysore Palace, showcases exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture and houses an impressive collection of traditional art. The cultural vibes resonate through its grand halls and vibrant paintings, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • KariGhatta Temple: Situated 644m away, this revered temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. The intricate carvings and spiritual ambience provide visitors with a unique cultural insight into local traditions and beliefs.
  • Rail Museum: Also located 644m from Mysore Palace, this railway museum features an extensive collection of vintage locomotives and carriages. The exhibits highlight the rich history of Indian railways, offering an engaging experience for both railway enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Best time to go to Mysore Palace

The best time to visit Mysore Palace is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January73.0°F (22.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
February76.8°F (24.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
March81.3°F (27.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April83.1°F (28.4°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
May80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
October73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December71.4°F (21.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mysore Palace

For a budget-friendly visit to Mysore Palace, consider travelling during the off-peak months of March, September, and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Staying on a Thursday can also yield savings, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels and consider eco-certified options for sustainability. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can further reduce costs. Additionally, explore free local attractions and utilise public transport for economical travel around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mysore Palace are March, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mysore Palace is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Mysore Palace is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking for Mysore Palace with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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