Located in Mysore, the Mysore Palace is a stunning example of India’s royal history. It was first built in the 14th century and rebuilt several times, most notably in 1912 under Queen Regent Kempananjammanni.
It combines Hindu, Islamic, Gothic, and Rajput styles, reflecting India’s diverse culture. The palace features beautifully detailed rooms like the Ambavilasa and the Public Durbar Hall, each telling tales of its grand past. It wasn’t just a home for royalty; the palace was also a place for important ceremonies, making it a significant historical site.
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Mysore Palace Visiting Hours and Timings
Mysore Palace Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Mysore Palace is open to the public every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. On Sundays and public holidays, the palace is lit up from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM. This schedule gives you plenty of time to see everything inside the palace. You can fit the visit into different tour plans, making it easier to schedule your trip.
You’ll enter through the Varaha Gate, which helps keep the flow of visitors smooth and the palace secure. Getting there early is a good idea so you can take your time exploring the palace’s beautiful architecture and rich history without rushing.
Mysore Palace Illumination Timings
The Mysore Palace lights up every Sunday, on national holidays, and during state festivals from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM. During these times, the palace is covered in thousands of twinkling lights, which look fantastic and really show off the beautiful details of the architecture.
The best part? It’s free to watch, so anyone can enjoy it. Just remember to get there early because it gets pretty busy. This is definitely a must-see if you’re in Mysore; it makes for some great photos and gives you a taste of the city’s royal past.
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Mysore Palace Entry Fees and History
Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for Mysore Palace is 40 rupees for Indian adults and 200 rupees for foreign visitors. This cost helps maintain and preserve this important site. Kids and students get a discount, making it easier for school trips to visit.
You can see the palace’s amazing lights from outside for free, which is a real treat. There are audio kits for a deeper dive into the palace’s history. These kits explain the palace’s background in various languages. Foreign visitors get these audio kits with tickets, but Indian visitors pay extra for them.
| Category | Ticket Price (INR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Adults | 40 | Entry through Varaha gate |
| Indian Children (10-18) | 20 | Children below 10 years enter free |
| Students (with ID) | 10 | Requires a letter from the school |
| Foreign Tourists | 200 | Includes an audio kit |
| Sound & Light Show Adults | 40 | |
| Sound & Light Show Children | 25 | |
| Sound & Light Show Foreigners | 200 |
Brief History of Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace was first built in the 14th century but had to be rebuilt after lightning struck it in 1638. Later, it got a significant makeover during the Wadiyar dynasty’s rule. The palace as we see it today was finished in 1912, overseen by the Queen Regent after the previous wooden structure burnt down. The design combines Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles, showing the various cultural influences over time.
British architect Henry Irwin played a significant role in its design, which really highlights the grandeur and cultural legacy of the Wadiyar rulers. Mysore Palace is an important historical attraction, drawing millions with its beautiful art and rich history.
Conclusion
Mysore Palace is a gem for anyone interested in India’s royal history and architecture. It mixes several architectural styles — Indo-Saracenic, Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic. This palace, with roots stretching back to the 14th century, celebrates the magnificent eras of past dynasties. When you visit, you can wander through different rooms, like the lavish Public Durbar Hall and the beautifully detailed Kalyana Mantapa.
Also, don’t miss seeing the palace light up during special events. Whether you’re drawn by its design, history, or cultural impact, Mysore Palace is unforgettable. It’s a deep dive into the luxury of India’s royal past.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.