Mysore Palace Guide: History, Timings, Tickets and the Sunday Illumination
The Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is the grandest royal residence in Karnataka and among the most visited monuments in India. This guide explains what to see inside, how to plan your visit and when the palace looks its best.
Mysore Palace at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Amba Vilas Palace |
| Style | Indo-Saracenic |
| Built | Completed in 1912 after an earlier palace burnt down in 1897 |
| Architect | Henry Irwin, working for the Wodeyar family |
| Time needed | About 2 hours inside, more with the grounds |
| Best times | Weekday mornings, and evenings on Sundays for the lights |
The history of Mysore Palace
Mysuru was the capital of the Wodeyar (Wadiyar) dynasty, which ruled the region for centuries. The earlier wooden palace was destroyed in a fire in 1897 during a wedding ceremony. The royal family then commissioned a new palace on the same site, designed by the British architect Henry Irwin. It was completed in 1912 and combines Hindu, Islamic, Rajput and Gothic elements. Today the palace is partly a museum and partly the residence of the royal family, which keeps its role during ceremonies such as Dasara.
What to see inside the palace
- Gombe Thotti (doll pavilion): A hall of traditional dolls and royal artefacts, usually the first stop.
- Kalyana Mantapa: The octagonal wedding hall, covered with stained glass in the roof and decorated with floral patterns.
- Durbar Hall: A long, ornate hall with carved pillars and painted ceilings, used for public audiences.
- Ambavilas Hall (private durbar hall): Richly decorated with silver doors and carved ceilings.
- Paintings and murals: Large paintings show scenes of royal life and the Dasara processions.
- Golden throne: The ceremonial throne is displayed during Dasara, and is a major attraction during that time.
Also in the complex are around a dozen temples and a collection of weapons and royal items. Photography is generally prohibited inside the palace, so use the cloakroom for your camera and phone where required, and concentrate on the details.
The Sunday and festival illumination
Mysore Palace is lit with nearly a hundred thousand bulbs on Sundays, state holidays and throughout the Dasara festival, usually in the evening. The effect is spectacular, and the crowd that gathers on the grounds and the nearby roads gives the evening a festive mood. A short light and sound programme is also held on some evenings. Because timings change, check the latest schedule with the palace board before planning around it. See our Mysore Dasara 2026 guide for the festival period.
Tickets, timings and entry tips
- Timings: The palace is generally open during daytime hours on all days, but check the official site for the current schedule.
- Tickets: Rates differ for Indian and foreign visitors and children, and can be booked at the counter or online. Check the latest prices before you go.
- Audio guides: Often available at the entrance, and worth taking for a better understanding of the rooms.
- Dress code: Dress modestly. You will remove your footwear before entering.
- Security: Expect bag checks, and avoid carrying large bags.
- Queues: Weekends and holidays are crowded. Weekday mornings are best.
How to reach Mysore Palace
The palace is in the heart of Mysuru, close to the main bus stand and a short ride from the railway station. Autos and taxis are plentiful, and walking around the old city is easy. From Bengaluru, the drive via the expressway takes roughly two to three hours, and trains run frequently. See the Mysuru guide and scenic train journeys in Karnataka.
Places to visit near Mysore Palace
- Jaganmohan Palace: A smaller royal building that houses an art gallery.
- Chamundi Hills: The hilltop temple and the Nandi statue, 3 to 4 km away.
- Devaraja Market: A century-old market with spices, flowers and incense.
- St Philomena’s Church: A neo-Gothic church with tall spires.
- Mysore Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in India.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace: A grand hotel palace in white, perched on a hill.
- Brindavan Gardens and Srirangapatna: About 20 km outside the city.
A half-day plan around the palace
Arrive at opening time, spend two hours inside the palace, walk to Jaganmohan Palace, have a south Indian lunch and shop at Devaraja Market. Climb Chamundi Hills before sunset and return to the palace grounds for the evening lights if it is a Sunday or festival night. For a longer trip, use the 5-day itinerary.
Best time to visit Mysore Palace
October to March is the most comfortable period. Dasara in September or October is spectacular but very crowded. Sunday evenings are best for the illumination. In the monsoon, the palace is quieter and you can enjoy the grounds, though rain can interrupt outdoor viewing. See best time to visit Karnataka.
Tips to make the most of your visit
- Go early. Crowds build by late morning.
- Take an audio guide or hire a guide. The stories behind the rooms add to the experience.
- Keep your phone in the locker if required. Rules are enforced.
- Dress comfortably. You will walk and stand for a while.
- Plan food stops. Try Mysore pak and a local dosa. See food to try in Karnataka.
- Combine with Somanathapura or Srirangapatna for a full-day heritage tour. See the Hoysala temples guide.
Frequently asked questions
Who built Mysore Palace?
The Wodeyar family commissioned it, with the British architect Henry Irwin designing the building that was completed in 1912.
When is Mysore Palace lit up?
On Sundays, public holidays and during the Dasara festival, typically in the evening.
How much time do I need for Mysore Palace?
About two hours inside, and an additional hour for the grounds and nearby sights.
Can I take photos inside Mysore Palace?
Photography is generally prohibited inside the palace. Check at the entrance.
Is Mysore Palace worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the finest palaces in India, and the evening lights make it unforgettable.