Officially known as the Amba Vilas, the Mysore Palace that stands today was built between 1897 and 1912. Of all the palaces I’ve visited across India, this is possibly the most ornate and exuberant of those built by the Indian maharajas during the period of British rule.
On Sundays it becomes even more dazzling as the entire exterior is lit with thousands of lightbulbs – sadly my visit was during a weekday 😦
The original 19th century palace here was destroyed by a great fire in 1897, the architect of the new palace was Henry Irwin, who was also responsible for building the Vice-regal lodge in Shimla.
The facade of Mysore Palace is a riot of red and gold domes and pinnacles, with scalloped arches and pavilions. At the centre is a five storey tower with a golden dome. The area in front of the palace is like an open stage, with statues of snarling panthers.
Unfortunately photography is not allowed in the interior of the palace. Compared to the exterior, I have to confess I found it a little disappointing, but there are a couple of highlights.
The Kalyana Madtapa (or Marriage Pavilion) is an interesting space, covered by an octagonal stained-glass roof resting on eight sets of triple iron pillars. All of this was imported from Scotland, and reminded me of the Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Baroda (Gujarat) which claims to have more stained-glass than any other building in the world.
The other highlight must be the Durbar Hall, an enormous and ornately decorated public hall with rich stucco decoration and painting on the walls and ceiling.
Mysore Palace is open everyday 10am – 5:30pm.
The Sunday and public holiday illuminations start around 7pm
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Categories: India, Karnataka, Mysore, Mysore Palace
Kevin Standage 
Nice post, yes I do agree that this is one of the best looking palaces existing in India now. BTW when did you visit? I was told that photography is allowed inside by one of my friend and she did click lot of pictures inside. This is above a month back.
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I was there in Feb 2016, so yes, perhaps the situation has changed as I think this is the only palace I’ve been to in India where photography was forbidden. Thanks for stopping by Raj !
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That’s great to hear, because I am planning for a next visit the only to photograph the insides.. not allowing photography is kind a lame. I think it was followed from time of the kings here. Thank you.
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Could be Raj – hope you enjoy your trip !
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Very nice place to visit.I have been there.
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Iam from mysore. Its beautiful place to visit. Please do follow my blog too. Like and comment on my posts. Thank you
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