Mysore Palace Entry Fee and Ticket Information: A Complete Guide for Visitors

Mysore Palace, one of India’s most famous and majestic landmarks, draws millions of visitors each year. The palace, with its grand architecture, rich history, and cultural significance, is an essential stop for anyone exploring Mysore and the state of Karnataka. For those planning a visit, understanding the  Mysore Palace entry fee and ticket information is crucial for a seamless experience. This article will provide detailed insights into the ticket prices, ticket types, and the process of purchasing tickets, both online and at the palace.

Mysore Palace Entry Fee

The Mysore Palace entry fee is affordable, making it accessible to people from all walks of life. The palace is open to the public every day of the week, except on public holidays when the palace may have special events or restricted access.

As of 2024, the general entry fee for Mysore Palace is structured as follows:

• Indian Nationals: INR50
• Foreign Nationals: INR200
• Children under 10 years: Free entry
• Entry to the Palace Museum: Included in the general entry ticket

The entry fee provides access to the main palace, its museum, and the art gallery, which houses various royal artifacts, portraits, and paintings. These artifacts reflect the legacy of the Wodeyar dynasty, the royal family that once ruled the Kingdom of Mysore. Visitors can also explore the royal chambers, Durbar Hall, Ambavilasa Hall, and Kalyana Mantapa (the wedding hall), which are some of the key attractions within the palace.

Mysore Palace Ticket Types

In addition to the general entry ticket, there are several other types of tickets available for visitors who want to explore specific sections of the palace or attend special events.

1. General Entry Ticket: This is the most commonly purchased ticket, which grants visitors access to the palace, its museums, and art galleries. The general ticket is the most affordable and gives tourists the opportunity to explore the palace and learn about the royal family’s history.

2. Photography Ticket: If you wish to capture the beauty of the palace with your camera or phone, you’ll need to purchase a photography ticket. The photography ticket is usually priced at INR50 for Indian nationals and INR200 for foreign nationals. This ticket allows visitors to take photographs inside the palace, which is otherwise prohibited without this pass.

3. Palace and Light Show Ticket: One of the major attractions at Mysore Palace is the light and sound show, which takes place every evening. If you wish to experience this show, you can buy a separate ticket. The light show ticket typically costs INR70 for Indian visitors and INR200 for foreign nationals.

4. Special Event Ticket: During major festivals such as Dussehra, when the palace is illuminated in grand style and special events are held, special event tickets are available. These tickets may cost more than regular entry tickets, depending on the event or the time of the year.

Mysore Palace Ticket Price Breakdown

To summarize, the ticket prices for visiting Mysore Palace are as follows:

• General Entry Ticket:
  • Indian nationals: INR50
  • Foreign nationals: INR200
• Photography Ticket:
  • Indian nationals: INR50
  • Foreign nationals: INR200
• Light and Sound Show Ticket:
  • Indian nationals: INR70
  • Foreign nationals: INR200
• Children under 10 years: Free entry
• Entry during special events (e.g., Dussehra): Varies

The photography ticket is mandatory if you plan to take photos within the palace, especially in the interior rooms and galleries. The light and sound show ticket gives you access to the evening show, where the palace is beautifully illuminated and a narrative about the history of Mysore is shared through lights and sounds.

Mysore Palace Online Tickets

For the convenience of visitors, Mysore Palace now offers the option to buy tickets online. This can save time and ensure you get access to the palace without waiting in long queues at the ticket counter. Here’s how you can purchase tickets online:

1. Official Website:
   The official Mysore Palace website offers an online booking facility for tickets. Visitors can visit the official portal to check the availability of tickets and book their slots. This option is especially helpful during peak tourist seasons or festivals like Dussehra, when the palace sees a higher footfall.

2. Online Ticket Price: The online ticket prices are typically the same as those at the ticket counter. However, purchasing tickets online might come with a small service fee. The website offers different ticket categories, including regular entry tickets, photography tickets, and light show tickets. You can easily select your desired ticket and pay securely online.

3. Booking Process:

   • Visit the official website of Mysore Palace or a trusted third-party website for bookings.
   • Choose the ticket type (general entry, photography, or light show ticket).
   • Fill in the required details such as the number of tickets and the date of visit.
   • Complete the payment process using a debit/credit card or other payment methods.
   • Once the payment is successful, you will receive an email confirmation with the booking details and a QR code for entry. You can either show this confirmation at the palace gate or get a printed version.

4. Advantages of Booking Online:

   • Skip the Line: By booking online, you can skip the long queues at the ticket counter, saving valuable time.
   • Convenience: Online booking is easy, and you can choose the date and time of your visit as per your convenience.
   • Guaranteed Entry: Especially during peak seasons, booking online ensures that you get tickets in advance and don’t face any disappointment due to sold-out slots.

Mysore Palace Tickets Offline

While online booking is a convenient option, many visitors still prefer purchasing Mysore Palace tickets at the counter. The ticket counters are located near the main entrance of the palace, where you can buy tickets for general entry, photography, and the light and sound show. These counters are open daily, and the staff assists visitors in purchasing the appropriate tickets.

Ticket Counter Timings:
The counters usually open when the palace gates open at 10:00 AM and remain open until 5:30 PM. For the light and sound show, the counter opens around 6:00 PM in the evening for ticket sales.

Mysore Palace Entry Ticket Rules and Guidelines

To ensure that visitors have a pleasant experience, Mysore Palace has a few guidelines regarding the use of entry tickets:

• Ticket Validity: The entry ticket is valid only for the day of purchase and cannot be reused on a different day.
• Photography Restrictions: While photography is allowed in the palace with a photography ticket, certain areas may have restrictions, such as the royal chambers and the Durbar Hall.
• Dress Code: There is no strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, as it is a cultural and historical site.
• Timings for Photography: Photography is allowed throughout the day, but it’s best to avoid using flash in certain areas to preserve the delicate interiors.
• Light Show: Tickets for the light show must be purchased separately and are valid only for the scheduled show on that day.

Conclusion

Mysore Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the royal heritage and cultural grandeur of Karnataka. The entry fees are quite affordable, and the palace offers different ticket types to suit various visitor preferences. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich history and architecture, capturing beautiful moments through photography, or experiencing the magnificent light and sound show in the evening, there’s something for everyone at Mysore Palace. With the option to book tickets both online and offline, planning your visit has never been easier.

By purchasing your Mysore Palace tickets in advance and knowing the entry fee and other details, you can ensure a hassle-free visit and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of one of India’s most famous landmarks.