Mysore Palace, one of India’s most visited tourist attractions, stands as a symbol of royal grandeur and historical significance. Located in the city of Mysore, Karnataka, the palace draws millions of visitors every year, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Wodeyar kings. For anyone planning a visit to this majestic landmark, understanding the Mysore Palace entry fee, ticket prices, and how to buy tickets (both online and offline) is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this article, we will provide comprehensive information on Mysore Palace entry tickets, ticket prices, and the online booking process.
Mysore Palace Entry Fee
The entry fee for Mysore Palace is structured based on the visitor’s nationality and the kind of experience they wish to have. As with most popular tourist destinations in India, ticket prices vary for Indian citizens and foreign nationals, with the latter paying a slightly higher fee. The palace has specific pricing for adults and children, and there are also charges for various activities such as the light and sound show.
Ticket Prices for Indian Visitors
As of now, the standard entry fee for Indian citizens is:
- Adults: INR 70
- Children: INR 30 (For children aged between 10-18 years)
Ticket Prices for Foreign Nationals
Foreign tourists are required to pay a higher entry fee to experience the grandeur of the Mysore Palace:
- Adults: INR 200
- Children: INR 100 (For children aged between 10-18 years)
Special Activities and Additional Charges
While the entry fee covers a tour of the palace’s main sections, there are additional charges for specific experiences within the palace complex:
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Light and Sound Show: The Mysore Palace offers a light and sound show in the evening, which is a mesmerizing experience where the history of the Wodeyar dynasty is narrated while the palace is illuminated with thousands of lights. The ticket price for the Light and Sound Show is generally around INR 50-100 for Indian visitors, and INR 200 for foreign nationals.
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Photography Charges: Visitors are allowed to take photographs of the palace, but there is a nominal charge for carrying a camera inside. The camera charges are around INR 50 for still cameras and INR 100 for professional cameras.
Free Entry for Children Below 10 Years
As is common at most tourist destinations, children below 10 years of age can enter the palace free of charge, making it an affordable outing for families.
Mysore Palace Ticket Price for Various Experiences
The palace not only offers a general entry ticket but also features other experiences that require separate tickets. These experiences allow visitors to explore different aspects of the palace’s grandeur:
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Main Palace Tour: The general entry ticket provides access to the main Mysore Palace, including its courtyards, halls, and museums. This ticket is essential for those who want to explore the royal chambers and witness the intricate carvings, murals, and the magnificent Durbar Hall.
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Light and Sound Show: The light and sound show is one of the most popular experiences in the evening, especially when the entire palace is bathed in dazzling lights. This show narrates the story of the Wodeyar dynasty, the palace’s history, and the importance of the royal family in the cultural life of Mysore. The ticket prices for this show are generally separate from the regular entry fee.
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Mysore Palace Museum: Within the palace complex is a museum that houses royal artifacts, including royal portraits, costumes, jewelry, and weapons. While the entry to the museum is usually covered under the general entry fee, there may be additional charges for special exhibits or galleries.
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Photography Fees: As mentioned earlier, photography inside the palace is subject to an extra fee. If you wish to capture the beautiful architecture and intricate designs, you will need to purchase a photography ticket.
Mysore Palace Online Ticket Booking
With the advent of technology, Mysore Palace now offers the convenience of booking tickets online. This makes it easier for visitors to plan their trip in advance and avoid long queues at the ticket counters, especially during peak tourist seasons. Here’s how you can book your tickets online:
Steps to Book Mysore Palace Tickets Online
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Visit the Official Website: The official website for Mysore Palace provides a portal for online ticket booking. You can access the website from your computer or mobile device.
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Select the Type of Ticket: On the website, select the ticket type you wish to purchase. You can choose from tickets for general entry, light and sound shows, or any special experiences offered at the palace.
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Choose Date and Time: After selecting your tickets, you will need to choose the date and time for your visit. Be mindful of the Mysore Palace lighting timings and the schedule for the light and sound show if you want to book tickets for it.
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Payment: Payment for the tickets can be made using various online payment methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, or digital wallets. After completing the payment, you will receive an e-ticket that can be shown at the entrance.
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E-Ticket Confirmation: Once your online booking is confirmed, you will receive an e-ticket via email or SMS. You can either print the ticket or show the e-ticket on your mobile phone at the palace entrance.
Benefits of Booking Tickets Online
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Avoid Long Queues: One of the biggest advantages of booking your tickets online is the ability to skip the long queues at the ticket counter, especially during peak seasons such as Dasara.
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Easy Payment Options: Online ticketing provides easy and secure payment options, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
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Advanced Planning: Online booking allows you to plan your visit well in advance, ensuring that you have a confirmed entry at your preferred time.
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Special Offers: Sometimes, online booking platforms offer discounts or special promotions for booking tickets in advance, making it more cost-effective.
Mysore Palace Ticket Booking Offline
For those who prefer the traditional method or do not have access to online facilities, tickets can also be purchased directly at the Mysore Palace ticket counter. The ticket counter is located at the main entrance to the palace, and visitors can buy tickets for general entry, photography, or the light and sound show. It is advisable to reach early to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Mysore Palace Timings and Closing Time
Mysore Palace is open to the public every day, with the following timings:
- Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Afternoon Session: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
The palace is closed on public holidays and during some special events like Dasara, when the palace is illuminated for the festival. The light and sound show typically takes place in the evening, with timings around 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM (timing may vary).
Conclusion
The Mysore Palace is not just a popular tourist attraction but also a living testament to the royal heritage of the Wodeyar dynasty. The entry fee for the palace is very reasonable, with separate ticket prices for Indian citizens and foreign nationals. Whether you are visiting the palace to explore its rich history, marvel at its stunning architecture, or enjoy the light and sound show, Mysore Palace offers an unforgettable experience.
For added convenience, you can now book Mysore Palace tickets online, allowing you to skip the long queues and plan your visit with ease. With its reasonable ticket prices, online booking system, and rich historical significance, Mysore Palace remains one of India’s most cherished cultural landmarks.