Mysore Palace Entry Fee: A Complete Guide for Visitors

Mysore Palace, one of India’s most famous and historic landmarks, attracts millions of tourists from around the world each year. Known for its stunning architecture, rich royal heritage, and grandeur, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal life of the Wodeyar dynasty. Whether you’re exploring the majestic halls, the exquisite gardens, or the impressive Durbar Hall, a visit to the palace is a must for anyone visiting the city of Mysore. To make your visit more enjoyable, it’s essential to understand the Mysore Palace entry fee, ticket prices, and the process for purchasing Mysore Palace tickets both offline and online.

Mysore Palace Ticket Price: A Breakdown

The Mysore Palace ticket price is fairly reasonable, making it accessible to both domestic and international tourists. The entry fee is divided into different categories depending on the visitor's nationality and the areas of the palace they wish to explore.

1. Indian Nationals:

   • General Entry: The basic entry fee for Indian visitors is around INR50. This allows access to the main palace and its general areas.
   • Entry with Audio Guide: For an enriched experience, visitors can avail themselves of an audio guide for an additional INR50, which provides detailed information about the palace’s history, architecture, and royal heritage.

2. Foreign Nationals:

   • General Entry: Foreign tourists are charged a higher fee of around INR200 for general entry.
   • Entry with Audio Guide: Foreign visitors who wish to use the audio guide will need to pay an additional INR200 for the guide, making the total fee for the palace tour approximately INR400.

These prices cover the cost of entry to the palace and its primary attractions, including the Durbar Hall, the Kalyana Mantapa (wedding hall), and the royal apartments. The ticket also includes access to the palace museum, where tourists can learn more about the history of the Wodeyar dynasty through royal portraits, artifacts, and exhibits.

Mysore Palace Online Ticket Booking: Convenience at Your Fingertips

In the digital age, booking Mysore Palace tickets online has become a convenient option for visitors. Mysore Palace online ticket booking allows tourists to secure their tickets in advance, saving time and avoiding long queues at the ticket counter.

You can easily access the Mysore Palace online ticket system through the official website or through other authorized travel websites. The online booking process is simple:

1. Visit the official website or trusted third-party travel portals.
2. Select the date and time of your visit.
3. Choose the type of ticket (general entry or entry with an audio guide).
4. Make the payment using secure online payment options.
5. Receive an electronic ticket or QR code via email or SMS, which you can show at the entrance.

Booking Mysore Palace tickets online also allows visitors to skip the hassle of waiting in long lines at the ticket counters, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals like Dasara.

Mysore Palace Entry Ticket: What’s Included?

When you purchase a Mysore Palace entry ticket, it grants you access to several sections of the palace, including:

• The Durbar Hall: This grand hall, used for royal ceremonies and gatherings, is an architectural marvel that reflects the palace's grandeur. The hall is adorned with magnificent chandeliers, paintings, and intricate carvings.

• The Royal Apartments: These are the personal living quarters of the Wodeyar kings, showcasing opulent furniture, beautiful textiles, and rare artifacts.

• The Kalyana Mantapa (Wedding Hall): A beautifully decorated hall where royal weddings were held. It features stunning stained-glass windows and intricate floral carvings.

• The Palace Museum: The museum exhibits a range of historical artifacts, including royal dresses, paintings, musical instruments, and other items used by the royal family.

• The Maharaja’s Gallery: This gallery showcases the portraits of various Maharajas of Mysore, providing insight into the family’s rich history.

In addition to the above, your Mysore Palace entry ticket may also include access to the palace gardens, which are beautifully landscaped and offer a peaceful retreat within the palace complex.

Mysore Palace Tickets at the Counter

While Mysore Palace online ticket booking is convenient, some visitors may prefer to buy their tickets at the palace itself. Mysore Palace tickets at the counter are available throughout the day, and the ticket booths open along with the palace gates at 10:00 AM. The counters remain open until 5:00 PM, about half an hour before the palace officially closes at 5:30 PM.

Visitors who choose to buy tickets at the counter can pay using cash or digital payment methods, such as debit/credit cards or mobile wallets. However, during peak seasons and special events like Dasara or national holidays, the queues at the ticket counter can be long, making it advisable to buy tickets in advance, especially if you are on a tight schedule.

Mysore Palace Ticket Price for Special Events

During special events such as the Dasara festival, the Mysore Palace ticket price may change to accommodate the high demand and special attractions. During Dasara, the palace is at its most vibrant, with the palace lighting and cultural performances taking place. Tickets for the Mysore Palace Dasara visit may be slightly higher than usual, and there may be separate entry fees for special events, performances, and exhibitions that are organized as part of the festival.

Additionally, during Dasara, there are often extended timings for the palace's light show, and some tours may even offer a combination of palace visits and cultural experiences. It’s essential to check the Mysore Palace ticket prices and any special fees for the festival season before planning your visit.

Discounted and Concessional Tickets

Mysore Palace also offers discounted entry tickets for children, students, and senior citizens. Typically:

• Children below 10 years can enter for free.
• Students and senior citizens may receive a discounted rate on their tickets, typically ranging from INR25 to INR50 for Indian nationals.

It’s worth checking for any special promotions or discounted ticket days, which might occasionally be available for local residents or during off-peak seasons.

Mysore Palace Group Tickets

For groups of tourists, Mysore Palace offers special group rates. These discounts are often available for organized tours, educational institutions, or large families. Group bookings can either be made in advance through the online portal or directly at the ticket counter. It's advisable to contact the palace administration for details about group tickets and any available discounts.

Tips for Purchasing Mysore Palace Tickets

To ensure a smooth visit to Mysore Palace, consider these useful tips:

1. Buy Tickets in Advance: If possible, book Mysore Palace tickets online to avoid long lines, especially during weekends, holidays, or festivals.
2. Check for Special Days: Be aware of any special days with discounted rates or free entry. Some festivals might also offer free or discounted access.
3. Plan for Peak Hours: The palace tends to get crowded during late mornings and afternoons, so try to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon.
4. Carry Identification: Carry a valid ID card if you’re a student or senior citizen, as this will be required to avail of any discounts.

Conclusion

A visit to Mysore Palace is a step into the grandeur of India’s royal history, and the Mysore Palace entry fee is a small price to pay for experiencing this magnificent monument. Whether you choose to purchase your Mysore Palace tickets online or at the counter, the fee provides access to one of the most culturally significant and beautifully preserved landmarks in India. With various ticket options, discounts for students and senior citizens, and the convenience of online booking, Mysore Palace ensures that every visitor can enjoy the experience in a way that suits their needs.