Mysore Palace lighting is one of the most recognisable sights of Dasara, turning the historic Amba Vilas Palace into a glowing outline of domes, arches and towers. During Mysuru Dasara 2026, the palace is scheduled to be illuminated every evening from October 11 to 21. The display is a major attraction for families, photographers and visitors arriving in the city for the festival.
Mysore Palace lighting timings
According to the official Dasara programme, the palace lighting is scheduled from 7 PM to 10 PM on festival evenings. On Vijayadashami, October 21, the illumination is listed to continue until midnight. The opening illumination ceremony took place on October 11, while the city’s decorative lighting can also be seen along selected roads and festival areas.
The palace forecourt and surrounding public viewing areas are popular places to admire the lights. The illumination is generally free to view from public areas, although access to specific enclosures or event seating can be subject to separate arrangements. Do not assume a ticket for one event provides access to another.
Best places to view the illumination
The open areas facing the palace offer the classic wide-angle view, especially when the entire façade is lit. Streets around the palace perimeter can also provide attractive perspectives, but crowd-control barriers may restrict movement. Follow police directions and use only authorised pedestrian routes.
For a wider city atmosphere, visitors can explore the decorated roads near the palace before settling into a viewing position. If you want clear photographs, arrive before the scheduled switch-on and avoid standing in the middle of moving crowds. Keep your phone or camera secure and be considerate of people behind you.
When should you arrive?
Try to reach the area by 6:30 PM, particularly on weekends and the final days of Dasara. Roads close to the palace can become busy well before 7 PM. If you are travelling with older adults or children, plan a meeting point in case your group becomes separated. Wear comfortable footwear and allow extra time for walking from parking areas.
Can you take photographs?
Visitors commonly photograph the exterior illumination from public areas. Rules may differ inside the palace and in controlled enclosures, so follow signs and staff instructions. A phone camera is often enough to capture the lit façade; a stable position and a few seconds of patience can help reduce blur in low light.
Check the latest updates
The programme and crowd-control arrangements may change. Check the official Mysuru Dasara website before travelling and use public transport where possible. The festival helpline is 1077. For the best experience, combine the palace illumination with an early dinner and leave enough time to exit the area safely after the display.
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