The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most iconic landmarks in India. Located in the heart of Mysore, Karnataka, this grand palace is a magnificent blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture and holds a significant place in India’s royal history. Every year, thousands of visitors from across the globe come to witness its splendor, especially during the famous Dasara festival. If you are planning a visit to Mysore, it is important to know the Mysore Palace timings and other related information to ensure you make the most of your trip.
Mysore Palace Opening Time: When to Visit
The Mysore Palace is open to visitors every day of the week except on Tuesdays, when it remains closed for maintenance. The palace is typically open to the public from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, giving tourists plenty of time to explore the vast architecture, artwork, and royal history that the palace holds.
- Opening Time: 10:00 AM
- Closing Time: 5:30 PM
During the daytime, visitors can explore the Durbar Hall, Private Quarters, and Mysore Palace Museum, all while marveling at the stunning interiors that feature intricate carvings, murals, and antique furniture. It is advisable to arrive early to fully appreciate the grandeur of the palace and avoid crowds.
Mysore Palace Lighting Timings: The Nighttime Magic
One of the most enchanting aspects of the Mysore Palace is the night lighting when the entire structure is illuminated with over 97,000 light bulbs. The sight of the palace lit up at night is nothing short of magical, creating an atmosphere of grandeur that is truly unforgettable. The palace lighting is a popular attraction, especially during festive seasons and weekends.
- Mysore Palace Lighting Time: The lighting typically starts at 7:00 PM and lasts until 7:45 PM.
- Mysore Palace Lighting Timings Today: The lighting is a daily affair, so you can visit the palace any day to witness this spectacular event, provided it is not a Tuesday.
The lighting is especially grand during the Dasara festival, where the entire palace comes alive with thousands of lights, adding to the cultural fervor of the celebrations. The Mysore Palace light show is a popular event for both locals and tourists alike.
Mysore Palace Light Show Timings: A Spectacular Evening Event
The Mysore Palace Light Show is another must-see spectacle that adds a touch of royalty to the night experience. The light show, which is accompanied by music and narrated in English, takes visitors on a journey through the history of the Wodeyar dynasty and the palace itself. It is a 20-30 minute visual delight that is held in the evenings.
- Mysore Palace Light Show Time: The light show is usually held every evening after the lighting ceremony. The show generally starts around 7:15 PM and goes on until 7:45 PM.
- Frequency: The light and sound show is held every evening, except for Tuesdays when the palace remains closed for maintenance.
The combination of lights, music, and historical narration creates a captivating atmosphere that enchants everyone who witnesses it. It’s best to check the timings ahead of your visit, as they may vary depending on special events, festivals, or local regulations.
Mysore Palace Entry Timings: How to Plan Your Visit
The Mysore Palace is an absolute must-see when visiting the city, and knowing the correct entry timings can help you plan your visit effectively. As mentioned earlier, the palace opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM. However, visitors are advised to reach at least an hour before closing time to have a complete tour of the premises.
- Mysore Palace Entry Timings: The entry is allowed from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on all days except Tuesdays.
The entry tickets for the palace vary depending on whether you are a domestic or foreign tourist. For Indian citizens, the entry fee is typically lower, while foreign nationals need to pay a slightly higher fee. There are also separate tickets for the light and sound show in the evening.
Mysore Palace Timings on Special Occasions
While the general timings for Mysore Palace remain consistent throughout the year, there are some exceptions for special events like the Dasara festival, public holidays, or government declarations.
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Dasara Festival: Mysore Palace is the center of the celebrations during the Dasara festival (usually held in September or October). During this time, the palace is decorated with thousands of lights, and special events are organized, including the famous Mysore Dasara procession. The lighting timings are extended, and the palace remains open for longer hours.
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Public Holidays: On special public holidays like Independence Day, Republic Day, and Mysore Maharaja’s Birthday, the palace might remain open for longer hours to accommodate more tourists.
It is always a good idea to check the official Mysore Palace website or local sources for any changes in timings, particularly if you plan to visit during a peak season or a holiday.
Mysore Palace Visit Timings for Tourists
If you are planning a Mysore Palace visit, there are several important points to keep in mind about timings:
- Best Time to Visit: To avoid the heavy rush, it’s best to visit the palace during weekdays, particularly in the morning. Avoid weekends if possible, as the palace tends to get crowded with both tourists and locals.
- Duration of Visit: The typical visit to the palace lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the museum, the art galleries, and the surroundings.
- Photography Timings: Photography is allowed in most parts of the palace, except in the private areas and specific zones. It’s advisable to check the rules regarding photography when you purchase your entry ticket.
Mysore Palace Timings for the Museum
The Mysore Palace Museum is a key feature of the palace, housing several historical artifacts, paintings, and relics of the royal family. The museum is open to the public throughout the week, with the same timings as the palace.
- Mysore Palace Museum Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last entry allowed at 5:00 PM.
The museum displays objects from the royal collection, including weapons, armor, royal attire, paintings, and furniture that showcase the opulence and grandeur of the Wodeyar dynasty.
Conclusion: Plan Your Visit to Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace is a historical gem and an architectural marvel that attracts tourists from around the world. To fully enjoy your visit, it is essential to know the Mysore Palace timings, including the lighting timings, light show timings, and entry timings. Whether you are visiting during the day to explore the palace’s exquisite rooms or at night to witness the dazzling lighting show, the experience will leave you in awe of this majestic royal residence.
For those planning to experience the evening light show, make sure to arrive by 7:00 PM for the lighting ceremony, and enjoy the Mysore Palace Light Show at 7:15 PM. By planning ahead and following these timings, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to one of India’s most magnificent palaces.
