Palace of Mysore: Travel Guide

Palace of Mysore is one of the most renowned and famous palace in the state of Karnataka. It is situated in Mysore district and was built in the year 1912. It is the official residence of the Royal Family of Mysore "The Wodeyars" who ruled Mysore for 500 years.

Distance From Bengaluru: Approximately 150 kms.
What's Special: It is the venue for the famous Mysore Dussehra festival which is celebrated every year during the autumn season. Some of the well known spots in the palace are as follows: The Old Palace, the Dolls Pavillion (Gombe Thotti), Elephant Gate, Chamunda, Golden Howdah, Marriage Pavillion, Portrait Gallery, Casket Room, Wrestling Courtyard, Royal Furniture, Public Durbar Hall, etc...
Mode of Transport: Buses, Trains and any private mode of transport by road.
Near By Places: Brindavan Gardens, Krishna Raja Sagara Dam (KRS), Srirangapatna, Mysore Zoo, Chamundi Hills, Cauvery River, Mandya, Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary, Mysore Exhibition etc...

    Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is a stunning palace located in the heart of Mysore city in the southern state of Karnataka, India. The palace is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in India and attracts a large number of tourists every year. It is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate craftsmanship, and rich history that dates back to the 14th century. In this blog, we will explore the fascinating history and features of Mysore Palace.

History of Mysore Palace:

    Mysore Palace has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The original palace was built of wood and was destroyed by fire in 1897. The present palace, which is made of stone, was built between 1897 and 1912 by the British architect Lord Henry Irwin. The palace was used as the residence of the royal family of Mysore, which ruled over the region for centuries.

    The palace has witnessed many significant events in Indian history, including the coronation of the last king of Mysore, Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, in 1940. After India gained independence in 1947, the palace was converted into a museum and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in India.

Architecture and Design of Mysore Palace:

    The architecture of Mysore Palace is a blend of various styles, including Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic. The palace has three main entrances, each of which is adorned with elaborate arches and towers. The interior of the palace is equally stunning, with intricate carvings and sculptures, colorful murals, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

    The palace is built in the Indo-Saracenic style, which is a fusion of Indian and European architectural styles. The palace features a beautiful mix of domes, arches, towers, and pillars, which give it a grand and majestic appearance. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and a large moat, which add to its beauty and charm.

Features of Mysore Palace:

    The palace is spread over an area of 245,000 square feet and has four floors. It has a total of 97 rooms, including a grand Durbar Hall, which is the most impressive room in the palace. The Durbar Hall is adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and is decorated with gold leaf. The hall also features a magnificent throne, which was used by the kings of Mysore during important ceremonies.

    Other notable features of the palace include the Kalyana Mantapa, which is a grand wedding hall, and the Ambavilasa, which is a hall used for private audiences. The palace also houses a large collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, weapons, and musical instruments.

Visiting Mysore Palace:

Mysore Palace is open to visitors every day, except on public holidays. The palace is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, and visitors are required to pay an entry fee. Visitors can explore the various halls and rooms of the palace and take a guided tour to learn more about the history and features of the palace.

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    In conclusion, Mysore Palace is a beautiful and iconic landmark in India that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of India and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, history, and culture.