Mysuru Palace Karnataka

Mysuru Palace-The Pride of Mysuru

Mysuru, the capital of Karnataka is a well known destination for its elegant palaces. The Amba Vilas or most commonly named Mysuru Palace comes first in the list. Mysuru Palace Karnataka is one of the finest examples of classic architectural style. The interiors one the other hand follows the pattern of Hoysala period architecture. However, the exterior view projects Indo-Saracenic architectural style and design, which makes it class apart from the other palaces of the city. The maintenance of the palace is undertaken by the government of Karnataka. In one portion of it, the descendants of the royal family still resides.

Rested amidst lush green gardens, Heritage Places in Mysuru are idyllic creations in the city of Mysuru, that are worth visiting.

History of Mysuru Palace

Amba Vilas Palace, as it is locally known, Mysuru Palace is one of the most luxurious and lavish palaces in Mysuru and India. It used to be the home of Wodeyar Dynasty, as well as the seat of Mysuru Kingdom from 1399 till independence. The palace has seen succession of 25 rulers till 1947.

Construction of Mysuru Palace began in the 14th century; designed by the British architect Henry Irwin. This exotic palace got destroyed by fire in 1897, though it was abandoned by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan who shifted their capital to Srirangapatna. Post Tipu Sultan?s defeat from British, Wodeyar?s name got changed to Wadiyar. With a passage of time Mysuru Palace lost its charm. Though years have passed; this Gothic building stands as a perfect piece of Indo-Saracenic architecture. In its walls, one will find Hindu, Rajput, Muslim and Gothic styles in the most elegant form.

What to See inside the Palace

The Durbal Hall

The grand reception of this palace is where the maharajas used to meet the public and address them. It has a balcony from where the main gate was visible. From here, the king would talk to his people and also witness the events and festivals. The entire hall is full of intricate columns in pink, yellow and turquoise spread all over symmetrically. Walls are full of paintings that belong to the bygone era.

Amba Vilasa

Quite similar to the design of Durbar Hall, Amba Vilasa is a room with gilded columns and stained glass ceiling. Each and every feature in the room is a masterpiece in itself. While taking a walk, don?t miss the steel grills and gigantic chandeliers on the ceiling. Flooring of pietra dura presents a royal look that would leave one awe-struck. Just like flooring, the staircase too impresses with its ivory inlays.

Kalyana Mantapa

Octagonal shaped Kalyana Mantapa, is where the royal marriages are conducted. As one enters the hall, the detail design and vaulted dome ceiling will stupefy with its unparalleled beauty. Gilded columns and peacock motifs remind one of the haunted Bhangarh; as these designs can be found in the ruins. In all the interiors, peacock, the national bird of India has found a special place. Paintings here depict the famous Dussehra festival of Mysuru.

The palatial complex has 12 Hindu temples that belong to the 14th to the 20th centuries. Prominent among them are:

• Kodi Bharravasvami Temple (Lord Shiva)
• Sri Shweta Varahaswamy Temple
• Sri Trinayaneshvara Swami Temple
• Sri Prasanna Krishanswami temple
• Kille Venkatramana Swamy Temple
• Sri Bhuvaneshwari Temple
• Sri Gayatri Temple

Sound and Light Show at Mysuru Palace

• A 45-minute sound and light show, depicting the 400 year history of Mysuru.
• Timings: 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm - All days expect Sundays & Govt. Holidays.
• 15 Minutes Palace Illumination can be seen at the end of the Sound and Light Program Show.
• Ticket will be issued only at Varaha Gate Counter (South Side) from 6.30pm onwards
• Palace entrance timings: everyday from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm.
• Illumination Timings - Sundays & Public Holidays: 7.00 pm - 8.00 pm
• The Palace has four entrance, Main entrance is called “Jaya Maarthaanda” to east, “Jayarama” to North,” Balarama” to South, “Varaha” to west. Public Entry is from Varaha Gate.

Best Time to Visit Mysuru

Monsoon till winter months from July - February are the best time to visit Mysuru.

How to Reach

By Air: Bangalore International Airport is nearest to Mysuru at 170 kms. From here, travelers can board a KSRTC bus, train or a taxi to reach Mysuru.

By Rail: Mysuru Junction is connected to New Delhi, Howrah, Patna and many other prominent cities of India.

By Road: Board a bus from City Bus Stand and Interstate Bus Stand in Mysuru and choose from a range of local and luxury buses as per convenience and budget.