Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a magnificent palace located in the heart of Mysore City, Karnataka. This palace is a superb example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and one of Karnataka's most famous tourist attractions. The court was the residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, which ruled the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1950.
The palace was first built in the 14th century by the Yaduraya Wodeyar, but it was rebuilt in the 19th century by the British architect Henry Irwin. The court is spread over about 245,000 square feet and is a three-storied structure with a height of 145 feet. The palace has several beautiful courtyards, gardens, and fountains and is a fine example of the fusion of Hindu, Muslim, and European architectural styles.
The palace has four entrances, with the main entrance, the Elephant Gate, located on the southern side. The gate is a beautiful example of the palace's architecture, with intricately carved arches, pillars, and panels. As you enter the court, you are greeted by the stunning Durbar Hall, which is the main attraction of the court. The hall is adorned with beautiful paintings, chandeliers, and mirrors and is used for ceremonial functions.
The palace has several other beautiful rooms, including the Kalyana Mantapa, a stunning hall for royal weddings and ceremonies. The gallery has gorgeous stained glass windows, chandeliers, and murals, a great example of the palace's rich history and heritage.
Another major attraction of the palace is the Royal Armoury, a museum that houses a large collection of weapons, armour, and other artefacts used by the royal family. The museum has a stunning collection of swords, shields, guns, and other weapons used by the Wadiyar dynasty.
The palace is also home to a beautiful garden spread over an area of about 3 acres. The park has several beautiful fountains, statues, and flower beds and is a great place to relax and unwind.
The palace is a beautiful example of Karnataka's rich history and culture and is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the region. The court is open to the public all year round, and visitors can explore the palace's stunning architecture and rich history by taking a guided tour.
Mysore Palace is a beautiful destination that should be noticed by everyone travelling to Karnataka. The palace is a stunning example of the fusion of Indian and European architectural styles and is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you are interested in architecture and history or want to enjoy the beautiful gardens, Mysore Palace is a must-visit destination.
Places To Visit In Karnataka Near Mysore Palace:
Chamundi Hill:
Chamundi Hill is located about 13 kilometres from Mysore Palace and is a popular pilgrimage spot. The hill is home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Visitors can climb the 1,000 steps to the top of the mountain or take a bus or car to the temple.
Brindavan Gardens:
Brindavan Gardens is a beautiful garden about 19 kilometres from Mysore Palace. The park is spread over 60 acres and is famous for its musical fountains that come to life after sunset. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the garden's lake or stroll through the beautiful gardens.
St. Philomena's Church:
St. Philomena's Church is a stunning Gothic-style church about 2 kilometres from Mysore Palace. The church was built in 1956 and is one of the largest churches in India. Visitors can admire the church's beautiful stained-glass windows and the majestic spires that soar into the sky.
Jaganmohan Palace:
Jaganmohan Palace is located next to Mysore Palace, a popular art gallery and museum. The palace was built in 1861 and served as the royal palace before the construction of Mysore Palace. The castle now houses a collection of paintings, artefacts, and sculptures from the Wadiyar dynasty.
Mysore Zoo:
Mysore Zoo is located about 3 kilometres from Mysore Palace and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds. The zoo is spread over 157 acres and is one of the oldest zoos in India. Visitors can see animals such as tigers, lions, elephants, zebras, and several species of birds.
Karanji Lake:
Karanji Lake is a peaceful and serene spot about 3 kilometres from Mysore Palace. The lake is spread over an area of about 90 acres and is home to several species of birds, including pelicans, storks, and egrets. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake or stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the lake.
Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum:
The Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum is located about 3 kilometres from Mysore Palace and is home to several stunning sand sculptures created by artist M.N. Gowri. The sculptures depict themes such as Indian mythology, wildlife, and culture and are a great example of the region's rich art and craft traditions.
These are just a few places to visit near and in Mysore Palace. Visitors can also explore other attractions, such as the Regional Museum of Natural History, Kukkarahalli Lake, and the Railway Museum. Whether you are interested in history, art, or nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy near Mysore Palace.
Things To Do Near In Mysore Palace:
Trekking in the Chamundi Hills:
The Chamundi Hills are popular spots for walking and hiking just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace. The hills offer several trails of varying difficulty levels, making it a great place for beginners and experienced trekkers. The trek to the top of the mountain is rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Rock climbing at Savandurga:
Savandurga is a popular rock climbing spot located about 50 kilometres from Mysore Palace. The hill is considered one of the largest monoliths in Asia and offers several routes for climbers of different skill levels. The climb to the top is challenging, but the stunning views from the summit make it worth the effort.
White-water rafting in the Kaveri River:
The Kaveri River, located about 120 kilometres from Mysore Palace, is popular for white-water rafting. The river offers several rapids of varying intensity, making it a great spot for beginners and experienced rafters. The rafting season typically runs from June to September, with high water levels.
Zip-lining at Jungle Lodges & Resorts:
Jungle Lodges & Resorts, located about 25 kilometres from Mysore Palace, offers a thrilling zip-lining experience through the lush forests of Kabini. The zip-line covers a distance of about 300 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park:
Nagarhole National Park, located about 80 kilometres from Mysore Palace, is home to several wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. The park offers several safari options, including jeep and boat safaris, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the park's diverse wildlife.
Bungee jumping at Ozone Adventures:
Ozone Adventures, located about 10 kilometres from Mysore Palace, offers a thrilling bungee jumping experience from 130 feet. The jump will surely get your heart racing and is a great way to add adventure to your trip to Mysore.
Paragliding at Nandi Hills:
Nandi Hills, located about 200 kilometres from Mysore Palace, is a popular spot for paragliding. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the paragliding experience will be unforgettable.
These are just a few adventurous things to do near and in Mysore Palace. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or simply looking to add excitement to your trip, there is something for everyone to enjoy in and around Mysore Palace.
Things To Do Near And In Mysore Palace In Karnataka:
Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka. The palace, the residence of the Wodeyar dynasty rulers of Mysore, is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. In addition to visiting the court, there are several things to do near and in Mysore Palace that will make your city trip memorable. Here are some of the top things to do near and in Mysore Palace:
Visit the Mysore Zoo:
The Mysore Zoo, located just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace, is popular with animal lovers. The zoo, which is one of the oldest in India, is home to several species of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and bears. The zoo also offers a unique opportunity to see several endangered species up close.
Explore the Brindavan Gardens:
The Brindavan Gardens, located about 20 kilometres from Mysore Palace, is a stunning garden complex known for its beautiful fountains and light show. The gardens are spread over 60 acres and offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Experience the Devaraja Market:
The Devaraja Market, located just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace, is popular for shopping and exploring. The market offers a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts, and is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Visit the Jaganmohan Palace:
The Jaganmohan Palace is a popular art gallery and museum just a few hundred meters from Mysore Palace. The palace, once a residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, is known for its stunning architecture and impressive collection of art and artefacts.
Take a stroll in the Karanji Lake Nature Park:
The Karanji Lake Nature Park, located just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace, is popular with nature lovers. The park offers several walking trails, a butterfly park, and a bird sanctuary, making it a great spot for a peaceful stroll and bird-watching.
Visit the St. Philomena's Church:
The St. Philomena's Church, located just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace, is a popular spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The church, which was built in the neo-Gothic style, is known for its stunning architecture and impressive stained glass windows.
Explore the Chamundi Hill:
The Chamundi Hill, located just a few kilometres from Mysore Palace, is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. The hill is home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
These are just a few of the many things to do near and in Mysore Palace. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there is something for everyone to enjoy in and around this beautiful city.
The Best Time To Visit Mysore Palace:
The best time to visit Mysore Palace in Karnataka is between October and February, during the winter when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During this time, the average temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time to explore the palace and its surroundings.
October and November are particularly pleasant as the monsoon season ends, and the weather is still cool and pleasant. The lush greenery and blooming flowers add to the palace's beauty, making it a perfect time for photography enthusiasts.
December to February is the winter season in Karnataka, and the temperature drops to around ten °C, especially at night. The weather is dry, and the sky is clear, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its attractions. The palace is decorated with lights during Christmas and New Year, making it a beautiful sight.
On the other hand, summers in Karnataka, from March to May, are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 38°C. This weather can be uncomfortable for exploring the city, and the palace can be crowded during this time. However, if you don't mind the heat, you can still visit the castle and its surroundings during these months.
June to September is the monsoon season in Karnataka, and the weather is pleasant, but heavy rainfall can disrupt your plans. The palace may also be closed for maintenance during this period.
It's also important to remember that the palace is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Therefore, planning your visit accordingly and checking the schedule beforehand is recommended.
The best time to visit Mysore Palace in Karnataka is between October and February when the weather is pleasant and the palace is decorated beautifully. However, if you don't mind the heat, you can also visit during the summer months. Regardless of the season, Mysore Palace is a must-visit destination in Karnataka, and you're sure to be captivated by its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance.
Nearby Places
