Mysore Palace Timings, Entry Fee & Light Show – Complete Guide 2025

Mysore Palace Timings: Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most iconic landmarks of India and a major attraction in Karnataka tourism. Located in the heart of Mysuru city, the palace is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles. With its grand arches, domes, turrets, and intricately carved interiors, Mysore Palace reflects the royal legacy of the Wadiyar dynasty, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore for centuries.

The palace is surrounded by sprawling gardens and is a cultural treasure trove, displaying ornate halls, rare paintings, royal jewelry, and historical artifacts. During the annual Dasara Festival, Mysore Palace comes alive with dazzling lights, processions, and cultural events, attracting visitors from across the world

One of the palace’s highlights is the evening illumination, where nearly 97,000 bulbs light up the entire structure, creating a magical sight that leaves every visitor spellbound.

Table of Contents

Mysore Palace Timings

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (All days of the week)
Illumination (Lighting): Every Sunday, public holidays, and during Dasara festival – from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM
Sound & Light Show:
- Monday to Saturday (except Sundays & public holidays)
- Timings: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Kannada) & 8:15 PM to 9:15 PM (English)
Best Time to Visit: Evening hours during illumination or during September–October Dasara Festival.

Entry Fee

Indian Adults: ₹100
Children (10–18 years): ₹50
Children below 10 years: Free
Foreign Tourists: ₹200
Illumination Entry: ₹40 per person

(Note: Prices may change during festivals or special events.)

Mysore Palace – Complete Travel FAQ Guide

The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is one of India’s most magnificent royal residences and the crown jewel of Karnataka tourism. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip from Bangalore or exploring the cultural heritage of South India, this guide answers all your most searched questions about Mysore Palace.

1. What is Mysore Palace famous for?

Mysore Palace is famous for its royal architecture, grand Durbar Hall, vibrant illumination, and Dussehra celebrations. It served as the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore for over 500 years. The palace beautifully blends Hindu, Islamic, Rajput, and Gothic styles, making it a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic design.

🕰️ 2. What are the Mysore Palace timings?

Mysore Palace is open to visitors every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
However, the palace illumination (lighting) happens every Sunday and public holiday from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM, when the entire structure glows with over 97,000 lights – a breathtaking sight you shouldn’t miss!

💸 3. What is the Mysore Palace entry fee?

Here are the current entry charges for Mysore Palace (as per latest updates):

Visitor Type	Entry Fee
Adults (Indian)	₹100
Children (7–12 years)	₹50
Foreign Nationals	₹200
Camera/Video	₹70 (extra)
Palace Illumination (Sunday)	Free to view from outside

Tip: Entry tickets can be purchased both at the counter or online via the Karnataka Tourism portal.

📜 4. What is the history of Mysore Palace?

The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilasa Palace, is one of India’s grandest royal residences and the pride of Karnataka.
When you ask “What is the history of Mysore Palace?”, you’re really exploring more than six centuries of regal art, politics, and culture that shaped southern India.

🌿 Origins of the Mysore Palace

The roots of the Mysore Palace trace back to the 14th century, when the Wadiyar dynasty (also spelled Wodeyar) established its rule over the Kingdom of Mysore.
The first royal fort was built in wood by Yaduraya Wadiyar around 1399 CE inside what is now the Old Fort Area of Mysuru.

Unfortunately, that early structure was destroyed multiple times by fire and battles. Yet each time it rose again—stronger and grander—symbolizing the resilience of the Wadiyars and the people of Mysore.

🔥 Rebuilding After the Great Fire

In 1897, during a royal wedding, the wooden palace caught fire and was completely reduced to ashes.
Determined to rebuild their legacy, Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV and his mother, Maharani Kempananjammanni Devi, commissioned a magnificent new palace.

The reconstruction began the same year under British architect Henry Irwin, who combined Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles—creating the iconic Indo-Saracenic masterpiece that stands today.

The new palace was completed in 1912 at a cost of about ₹41 lakhs, an enormous sum for its time.

🌟 Architectural Highlights of Mysore Palace

The history of Mysore Palace is deeply tied to its architecture.
Built with fine granite, marble domes, and stained-glass windows imported from Belgium, every corridor reflects artistic brilliance.

Key features include:

The three-storeyed central structure crowned by five domes.
The 12-square-mile palace complex with expansive courtyards and gardens.
The ambavilasa hall, an ornate durbar used for royal meetings.
The golden throne, used only during the famous Dasara festival.
The illuminated façade, glowing with nearly 100,000 bulbs each evening.

🎇 Mysore Palace Through the Ages

1399 CE – Wooden fort built by Yaduraya Wadiyar.
1638 CE – Reconstructed by Kantirava Narasaraja Wadiyar.
1897 CE – Destroyed by fire during the royal wedding.
1897–1912 – Present palace constructed by Henry Irwin.
1912 CE onwards – Became the official residence of the Wadiyars.
Post-1947 – After India’s independence, ownership transferred to the Mysore Royal Family under government supervision.

Today, the Mysore Palace remains a living heritage monument attracting over 6 million visitors annually, second only to the Taj Mahal.

🪔 The Famous Dasara Festival

No account of the history of Mysore Palace is complete without the Mysore Dasara, celebrated for over four centuries.
During this ten-day festival, the palace is decked with lights, cultural performances, and a royal procession featuring the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed on a golden howdah atop an elephant.
This grand spectacle represents the victory of good over evil and continues to be the spiritual heartbeat of Mysore.

🖼️ Inside the Palace – A Walk Through History

When you step into the Mysore Palace, you’ll see:

Durbar Hall with Belgian chandeliers and mosaic floors.
Kalyana Mantapa, a wedding pavilion with stained-glass ceilings.
Public Durbar, where the king once addressed citizens.
Royal Treasury and private chambers decorated with murals from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Each room reflects the grandeur of an empire that valued art, music, and culture as much as power.

🕰️ Present-Day Significance

Even today, the Mysore Royal Family conducts private ceremonies inside the palace.
The rest of the complex is managed by the Government of Karnataka as a museum and heritage site open to the public.

Visiting the palace isn’t just sightseeing—it’s walking through living history, where every pillar and painting tells stories of valor, devotion, and tradition.

🏗️ 5. What is special about Mysore Palace architecture?

Mysore Palace is an example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a style that blends Hindu, Mughal, Rajput, and Gothic influences. The palace features:

Massive domes and arches
Ornate ceilings with floral motifs
A grand Kalyana Mantapa (marriage hall) with stained-glass windows
Intricate wooden carvings and silver doors
Beautifully maintained gardens and courtyards

The palace’s interiors are richly decorated with Belgian glass, mirrors, mosaic tiles, and paintings that depict royal life and festivities.

🌙 6. What is the Mysore Palace Light & Sound Show?

The Light and Sound Show at Mysore Palace narrates the history of the Wadiyar dynasty through dramatic lighting and music.

Timings: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Closed on: Sundays and government holidays
Entry Fee: Around ₹100 for adults

The show ends with the palace illumination, when thousands of bulbs light up the palace – an unforgettable sight for visitors.

📍 7. How to reach Mysore Palace from Bangalore?

Mysore Palace is located at the heart of Mysore city, about 145 km from Bangalore.

By Road:

Around 3 to 3.5 hours via NH 275 (Mysore Road).
Regular KSRTC buses, private cabs, and self-drives are available.

By Train:

Daily trains run from Bangalore to Mysore Junction (2.5–3 hours).
The palace is just 2 km from the railway station.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Mysore Airport (MYQ), 12 km away.
Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore) is the nearest major airport (180 km).

📸 8. Can we take photos inside Mysore Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed in the outer premises of Mysore Palace.
However, inside photography and videography are restricted unless you have special permission. The camera fee applies only for certain areas. It’s always best to check the current rules at the ticket counter before entering.

🕉️ 9. What are the best times to visit Mysore Palace?

The best time to visit Mysore Palace is October to February, when the weather is pleasant.
If you’re visiting during Dussehra (September–October), you’ll witness the palace in its full grandeur with royal processions, cultural programs, and special illuminations.

🧭 10. What are nearby attractions around Mysore Palace?

🪔 1. Chamundi Hill & Chamundeshwari Temple (12 km)

Perched atop the eastern hills of Mysore, the Chamundeshwari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal family’s patron deity.
The temple is around 12 km from Mysore Palace and can be reached by road or by climbing 1,008 steps for a spiritual experience.

Don’t miss:

The Nandi statue, carved from a single granite block, halfway up the hill.
The panoramic view of Mysore city and the palace from the top, especially stunning at sunset.

📍 Ideal visit time: Morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM) or evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

🌸 2. St. Philomena’s Cathedral (2 km)

One of the tallest churches in Asia, St. Philomena’s Cathedral is just 2 km away from Mysore Palace.
Built in 1936, it showcases Neo-Gothic architecture inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany.

Inside, you’ll find:

Beautiful stained-glass windows depicting Christ’s life.
An underground crypt housing relics of Saint Philomena.

🕰️ Timing: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
📷 Pro tip: Visit during early morning mass hours for a serene experience.

🌿 3. Mysore Zoo (Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens) – (3 km)

Established in 1892, the Mysore Zoo is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, located just 3 km from Mysore Palace.
Home to more than 1,500 animals, it features wide enclosures, shaded walkways, and species from Africa, Asia, and South America.

Highlights:

Giraffes, rhinos, and tigers
Rare birds and reptiles
A separate children’s park

⏰ Timing: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

🕍 4. Jaganmohan Palace & Art Gallery (1 km)

Located just a short walk from Mysore Palace, the Jaganmohan Palace once served as the royal residence before the current palace was built.
Today, it’s a museum and art gallery, housing one of the most extensive collections of South Indian art.

Must-see exhibits:

Paintings by Raja Ravi Varma
Mysore-style art and sculptures
Antique musical instruments

🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹50 (foreigners)
🕰️ Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

🏞️ 5. Karanji Lake & Nature Park (4 km)

If you’re looking for peace after exploring the bustling palace area, Karanji Lake is the perfect escape.
Spread over 90 acres, it’s one of the largest lakes in Karnataka and features:

A butterfly park
A walk-through aviary (India’s largest)
Boating facilities

🌿 Timing: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
💡 Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for birdwatching

🌇 6. Brindavan Gardens & Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam (22 km)

A visit to Mysore is incomplete without the Brindavan Gardens, located about 22 km from Mysore Palace.
Built across the KRS Dam, the garden is famous for its symmetrical design, lush lawns, and musical fountain show held every evening.

🕰️ Timing: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
🎇 Fountain Show: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Pro tip: Visit at sunset for the best photos and to enjoy the illuminated gardens at night.

🪶 7. Rail Museum (3 km)

Train lovers will enjoy a stop at the Mysore Rail Museum, located about 3 km from the palace.
It showcases vintage locomotives, royal carriages used by the Wadiyars, and old signaling systems.

Children love the toy train ride here, which takes you around the museum’s landscaped gardens.

🕰️ Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

🛍️ 8. Devaraja Market (1 km)

Located near Sayyaji Rao Road, Devaraja Market is Mysore’s bustling traditional bazaar — just a kilometer from Mysore Palace.
Here you can shop for:

Sandalwood products
Mysore silk sarees
Jasmine flowers and local spices

The market dates back over 130 years and still retains its old-world charm.

🕒 Timing: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
🛍️ Tip: Visit early morning for fresh flowers and vibrant photos.

🍲 9. Lalitha Mahal Palace (5 km)

The Lalitha Mahal Palace, located about 5 km from the city center, was built in 1921 for the Viceroy of India.
Today, it’s a luxury heritage hotel that offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle.
You can enjoy high tea in its ballroom or simply admire its pure white domes and Italian marble interiors.

☕ Ideal for: Lunch, evening tea, and photography

🧭 10. KRS Backwaters and Balmuri Falls (15–18 km)

For those seeking a short drive from the city, Balmuri and Edmuri Falls, near the KRS backwaters, are local favorites.
The gentle cascade and lush surroundings make it a perfect picnic spot.

🕰️ Best time: Monsoon or post-monsoon (July – October)
📍 Distance: 18 km from Mysore Palace

📜 Summary – Top Attractions Near Mysore Palace

Place	Distance	Highlight
Chamundi Hills	12 km	Temple & hill view
St. Philomena’s Cathedral	2 km	Neo-Gothic architecture
Mysore Zoo	3 km	Wildlife & family spot
Jaganmohan Palace	1 km	Art gallery
Karanji Lake	4 km	Nature & boating
Brindavan Gardens	22 km	Musical fountain
Rail Museum	3 km	Vintage trains
Devaraja Market	1 km	Shopping
Lalitha Mahal	5 km	Heritage hotel
Balmuri Falls	18 km	Picnic spot

💡 Travel Tips

Start your day early from Mysore Palace and plan a circular route covering Chamundi Hills → Zoo → Jaganmohan Palace → Karanji Lake.
Keep Brindavan Gardens for the evening to enjoy the light show.
Don’t miss local delicacies like Mysore Pak, Ragi Mudde, and filter coffee near Devaraja Market.

🕰️ Detailed FAQ on Mysore Palace Timings

1. What are the Mysore Palace visiting timings?

The Mysore Palace is open to visitors every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The palace remains open on weekends, public holidays, and during the famous Dasara festival. However, certain sections may close earlier during special ceremonies.

2. What are the Mysore Palace illumination timings?

The palace is illuminated with nearly 100,000 lights on Sundays, national holidays, and during the Dasara Festival.
Lighting Time: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (subject to weather conditions).
This 45-minute illumination is one of the most spectacular sights in Karnataka.

3. What time does the Mysore Palace Light and Sound Show start?

The Sound & Light Show is held every day (except Sundays and public holidays) at the following timings:

Monday to Saturday: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (English narration).
The show narrates the 400-year history of the Wadiyar dynasty with lights, music, and storytelling.

4. Is Mysore Palace open on Sundays?

Yes, Mysore Palace is open on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
However, during evenings (7:00 PM – 7:45 PM), the palace remains closed to visitors but is fully illuminated for public viewing from the outside.

5. What are the Mysore Palace ticket counter timings?

Tickets can be purchased from 9:45 AM to 5:15 PM at the main gate counter.
You can also book tickets online through the official Mysore Palace website to skip queues, especially during weekends and Dasara season.

6. Is Mysore Palace open at night?

The palace interiors close by 5:30 PM, but the exterior grounds are open for viewing during the light show or Sunday illumination. Entry inside the palace at night is not permitted, except for special events or guided night tours.

7. What is the best time to visit Mysore Palace?

The best time to visit is between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to avoid crowds, or around 7:00 PM on Sundays to enjoy the dazzling lights.
The palace looks especially majestic during the Dasara Festival (September–October).

8. How long does it take to explore Mysore Palace?

A complete visit takes around 1.5 to 2 hours if you explore the interiors, museum, and grounds.
Add an extra 45 minutes if you stay for the light and sound show in the evening.

9. Are there separate timings for the Mysore Palace Museum?

Yes. The Mysore Palace Museum follows the same schedule — 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM — but the last entry is allowed until 5:00 PM.
The museum houses royal costumes, jewelry, and paintings from the Wadiyar era.

10. What is the Mysore Palace illumination timing during Dasara?

During the Dasara festival, the entire palace and city are illuminated daily from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
This period sees massive crowds, cultural performances, and royal processions, making it the most popular time to witness Mysore Palace.

11. Is Mysore Palace open on national holidays?

Yes, the palace remains open on most national holidays, including Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti.
However, timings can slightly vary during ceremonial events, so checking the official Mysore Palace website before visiting is advisable.

12. Are photography timings restricted inside the palace?

Photography is allowed only in the palace exterior and courtyard during visiting hours.
Inside the palace halls and museum, photography is strictly prohibited, regardless of timing or device.

✅ Pro Tip:

For the best experience, visit Mysore Palace between 10 AM and 12 Noon for interiors and return at 7 PM on Sunday to watch the full illumination.

🏁 Summary of Mysore Palace Timings

Experience	Days	Timings
Palace Visit	All Days	10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Ticket Counter	All Days	9:45 AM – 5:15 PM
Light & Sound Show	Mon–Sat	7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Illumination (Exterior)	Sundays & Holidays	7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Dasara Festival Illumination	10 Days	7:00 PM – 9:00 PM