Mysore Palace History, Timings, Entry Fee & How to reach
The Mysore Palace, a majestic structure in the Karnataka state of Mysore, is an absolutely stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The former palace of the Mysore royal family, also referred to as the Amba Vilas Palace, remains their formal residence. One of the largest palaces in the nation, Mysore Palace was constructed in 1912 for the 24th ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty.
The Mysore Palace was built under the direction of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, who Mahatma Gandhi referred to as “Rajarishi” (saintly king). Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar, his son and the final Maharaja of Mysore, then added to it. The palace’s front has a regal appearance due to its harmonious fusion of Rajput, Hindu, Muslim, and Gothic architectural elements. A captivating sight to see, the Mysore Palace is situated on the eastern side of the Chamundi Hills. Without a doubt, behind the Taj Mahal, it is the second most visited historical landmark by both domestic and foreign visitors. Mysore Palace, which is currently housed inside the Old Fort, is well-known for its lively Dussehra celebrations and light and sound extravaganza.
History of Mysore Palace
A lengthy history attests to the Mysore Palace. The royal Wadiyar family of Mysore lived there for about 600 years, from 1350 until 1950. The palace had undergone numerous construction and reconstructions over its course. After a timber palace was destroyed by fire during a wedding ceremony in 1897, Krishna Rajendra Wadiyar IV, the monarch of Mysore at the time, ordered the palace to be restored and rebuilt. The British architect Lord Henry Irwin was hired to rebuild the older palace after it was destroyed in a fire in 1897. The construction of the palace, which at the time cost an outrageous INR 41,47,913, was finished in 1912.
The Public Darbar Hall was one of numerous royal building repairs completed in 1940.While the majority of the Mysore Palace is now state-owned and turned into a museum, a piece of the palace is still occupied by the royal family’s descendants. With over six million visitors a year, it is among India’s most well-known and well-known attractions.
Architecture of Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace was constructed using the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which is a beautiful fusion of Rajput, Hindu, Muslim, and Gothic design. By combining Gothic and Neoclassical architectural forms with features of Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture, British architects in the 19th century created a movement known as Indo-Saracenic architecture. This three-story stone palace features marble domes and a five-story tower that rises to a height of 145 feet. The palace is surrounded by a sizable garden. The castle is accessed by “Gombe Thotti,” or the Doll’s Pavilion, which features a gold-decorated wooden elephant and traditional dolls from various eras. “Never be terrified” is the kingdom’s slogan, and it is inscribed in Sanskrit on the arch and the entrance gate.
It features three gates facing east (only open to VVIPs during Dasara celebrations), west (only open during Dasar celebrations), and south (open to the general public). From the royal cellar, numerous underground tunnels go to Srirangapatna and other exclusive locations. Since the Mysore maharajas were reputed to be followers of Goddess Chamundi, the Mysore Palace faces the Chamundi highlands. Within the complex, there are twelve temples that were built between the 1950s and the fourteenth century.
The “Ambavilasa” or private hall is a sumptuous space with a rosewood-carved doorway. This was the location of the king’s private talks with ministers. The “Diwan-I-Am” or Darbar Hall is a 155-foot public space that was used for hearings and public announcements.The Diwan-I-Am’s royal throne, which is exclusively open to the public during Dasara festivities, is a work of art with captivating artwork on the gold-covered throne. Another enormous octagonal space south of the palace with glass ceilings and glazed tile floors is the wedding hall, also known as the Kalyan Mandapa. Intricate kaleidoscopic artwork adorns the ceiling.
Mysore Palace Dussehra Celebrations
The main celebration, Vijaya Dashami, is held annually in the autumn. The elephants’ parade march serves as the festival’s main feature, and it lasts for roughly 10 days. During Dussehra, the entire region is decked out like a bride, drawing travellers from all over the world. The event is attended by members of the royal family as well as honoured guests. On the ninth day of the celebration, the auspicious day of Mahanavami, the royal sword, also known as the “Pattada Katti,” is paraded across the city.
Best Time To Visit Mysore Palace
Around Dussehra, when the entire compound is exquisitely decked and illuminated in a golden tint, is the ideal time to visit the palace.
Every Sunday and every public holiday, the palace is illuminated.
How To Reach Mysore Palace
In the centre of Mysore city is where you’ll find Mysore Palace. Only a few kilometres separate the palace and the Mufesal Bus stop. At brief intervals, the KSRTC buses run from this bus terminus. After that, you can walk from the bus stop to either the palace’s east or north gate. An autorickshaw can be rented from the bus stop to the palace gate as an alternative. To get to the palace if you’re taking the train to Mysore, you can get an autorickshaw from outside the station.
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.
Thursday to Saturday (7:00 PM to 8:00 PM)
Adults: INR 90 | Children: INR 40
Timings : 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Time Required : 2-3 hours
Entry Fee : Adults: ( Indian & Foreigners)INR 70
Children (between 10 and 18 years): INR 30
Students (Study Tour): INR 10
Parking: INR 40 (Car) INR 20 (Two-wheeler)
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