Driving by Mysore Palace

How can you pass this landmark that is Mysore city’s pride and not take pictures of it?

I have lost count of the number of times I’ve driven past this magnificent construction. Yet every time I see the Mysore Palace, I’m filled with awe.

This sprawling royal abode is just unmissable. It has several gates around it, approachable from different parts of the city.

Today, Mysore is known as the Cultural Capital of Karnataka but it once was the capital of a kingdom itself. This city was the seat of the Wodeyar Dynasty that ruled the area from the 14th century right up to mid 20th century when India got its Independence from the British.

To this day, the biggest attraction in this city is the official address of the Wodeyars. Called the Mysore Palace, this colossal home is built in a style that is the coming together of the Mughal, Rajput and Gothic architectures.

Visit this palace over the weekend or during the Dasara festival and you will be in for a visual treat of countless little lights outlining this massive and magnificent building. Unfortunately I don’t have pictures of the palace at night, but I do have a link that will give you an idea of how it looks with all of those lights. Check out this beautiful sight here – Mysore palace at night.

I also do not not have pictures of the inside of this elegant structure as photography is prohibited indoors. Believe me when I say there is so much to see. You will need at least half a day to see the inside of this royal residence for within its walls are ornate walls and pillars, specially crafted doors and artistic ceilings apart from the furniture that belongs to the royal family.

There are paintings and a miniature version of the old palace that burnt down in a fire accident. There are artifacts from the royal collections and there is the golden Howdah (the elephant-top carriage that the ruling king traversed the city at Dasara.) There is so much more in there.

If you absolutely cannot see this palace in person, and might want to do a virtual tour of the Mysore Palace, try this http://www.mysorepalace.tv/Mysore_Palace_Virtual_Tour.htm