If there is another word for grandeur then that is gotta be Mysore Palace. Also known as Amba Vilas Palace it is one of the biggest palaces in the whole of India. This royal residence in Mysore stands tall facing the Chamundi Hills in the east. Literally speaking, there are no words in a dictionary that can describe the beauty of Mysore Palace.
The 24th ruler of Wodeyar dynasty “ Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar 4” built this palace in the year 1912, Later the palace was expanded by his son Jayachamaraja Wodeyar. The palace is designed by British Architect Henry Irwin in Indo-Saracenic style, which is a blend of Hindu, Mughals, Rajputs, and Gothic style. Some of the finest craftsmen across the country have joined hands to create this architectural marvel. The major portion of the Mysore palace remains with the government. However, a small portion is still being used as the official residence of the royal family.
Structure Of Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is a 3 storeyed stone palace with marble domes and 145 ft tall 5 storeyed watchtowers. There are 2 colourful darbar halls with ornate ceilings, sculpted pillars, and beautiful paintings that tell stories about the culture and traditions of the royal family.
Near the entrance of the palace, there is a “Gombe Totti”. Where the traditional dolls of different times have been displayed. Most of the dolls in here are a personal collection of rulers of the Wodeyar dynasty. A major highlight is a wooden elephant decorated with 84 kg worth of gold on it.
You can witness a peacock themed Kalyanamantapa with stained glass windows of different shades and floral mandalas. Moreover.this is the place where the royal family celebrate their birthdays, marriage ceremonies, baby showers, etc.
There are large lush green gardens surrounding the palace, where you can click a pic, having the palace in the backdrop. Besides this, there are 12 Hindu temples in the complex that dates back from the 14th century till 1950.
Usually, on Sundays and other public holidays, you can witness the whole palace being lit with 97,000 golden hues of light.
Mysore Palace is the 2nd most visited site in India by locals as well as foreigners after “Taj Mahal”.As per the stats, nearly 6 million travellers visit this place every year.
There is a light and music show that happens every evening for tourists, except on Sundays and public holidays.
Usually, on Sundays and other public holidays, you can witness the whole palace being lit with 97,000 golden hues of light.
Dasara Celebrations In Mysore
Mysore palace is the epicentre of Dasara festival and is celebrated in a grandeur way for 10 days. The whole town comes alive with colourful lights, fireworks, small eateries, small stones that sell handicrafts, and people flooding the streets. The main attraction of the festival is the parade march of elephants that are decorated with paint and jewels. In fact, an elephant will carry the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari on the fabled Golden Howdah that weighs 750 kgs. Interestingly, you can see lakhs of travellers and tourists from India and all around the world hoping to witness the Dasara celebrations. Apart from this, there are a lot of sports and games organized
Mysore Palace Information
Entry Fee for Adults: Rs 70/ person
Entry Fee for Children: Rs 30
Timings: 10 Am to 5:30 Pm
Location: Close To Mysore Main Bus stand.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Also, read: Sringeri Sharada Temple
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