An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo - Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka.
Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence.
The construction of the Mysore Palace was orchestrated by the Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV referred as "Rajarishi" (saintly king) by Mahatma Gandhi.
It was then further expanded by his son and the last Maharaja of Mysore, Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.
History of Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace has a rich history attested to it. It used to be the residence of the royal Wadiyar family of Mysore from 1350 to 1950, for almost 600 years. During its lifetime, the palace had been built and rebuilt many times.
In 1897, the then ruler of Mysore, Krishna Rajendra Wadiyar IV, ordered the restoration and reconstruction of the palace after a wooden palace was destroyed by fire at a wedding ceremony.
In 1940, several renovations were made in the palace structure, which included the Public Darbar Hall.The descendants of the royal family continue to reside in one portion of the Mysore Palace, while most of the palace is now state-owned and converted into a museum.
Architecture of Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace is built in the Indo-Saracenic form of architecture which is an exquisite blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture.
The Indo-Saracenic architecture was an architectural revival movement by British architects in the 19th century, drawing elements from Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture mixed with Gothic and Neoclassical styles.
There are twelve temples inside the complex with construction time ranging from the 1950s to as back as the fourteenth century.The private hall or the "Ambavilasa" is a luxurious hall with doorway carved out of rosewood.
The royal throne inside the Diwan-I-Am; displayed to the public only during the Dasara celebrations is an artistic masterpiece with mesmerising artwork on the gold covered throne
Mysore Palace Light and Sound Show
An impressive light and sound show takes place at the Mysore Palace every day in the evening except for Sundays and public holiday. The show is inclusive in the ticket prices and is held every day from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM.
Mysore Palace Dussehra Celebrations
Vijaya Dashami is the major festival that is celebrated every year in autumn. The festival is celebrated for about ten days, and the main attraction of the festival is a parade march by the elephants.
The entire area is decked up like a bride during Dussehra, and it attracts tourists all across the world. Members of the royal family, as well as special guests of honour, attend the ceremony.
The royal sword or the "Pattada Katti" is taken on a procession around the city on the auspicious day of Mahanavami, the ninth day of the festival.
Best time to visit Mysore Palace
The best time to visit the palace is around the time of Dussehra when the entire compound is beautifully decorated and lit, illuminated in a golden hue.
The palace is lit every Sunday and on all public holidays.
How to Reach Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is located right in the heart of Mysore city. The Mufesal Bus stand is located just a couple of kilometres away from the palace. The KSRTC buses operate from this bus stand at short intervals.
You can then walk from the bus stand to the north gate or the east gate of the palace. Alternatively, you can hire an auto rickshaw from the bus stand to the palace gate. If you are travelling by train to Mysore, you can hire an auto rickshaw from outside the station to reach the palace.
Tips
1. No photography allowed inside the palace.
2. Audio information kits are available in 7-8 languages for interested people.
Entry Fee:
Adults: INR 40
Children (below 10 years): Free,
Children (between 10 and 18 years): INR 20,
Foreigners:
INR 200,
Students: INR 10
Open Time:
10:00 AM -5:30 PM
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