Mysore Dasara Tickets: A Complete Guide to Booking, Events, and Prices

Mysore Dasara, one of India’s most iconic festivals, is celebrated with grandeur and zeal in the royal city of Mysore, Karnataka. Drawing thousands of visitors every year, it is a time when the city adorns itself in a spectacle of cultural programs, royal processions, and religious ceremonies. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, understanding how to book Mysore Dasara tickets is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Mysore Dasara tickets, including where to buy them, the types of events, prices, and other key details to help you plan your visit.

What is Mysore Dasara?

Mysore Dasara is a 10-day festival, culminating on Vijayadashami (the 10th day), which celebrates the victory of good over evil. The festival is marked by cultural programs, music concerts, traditional dances, and the grand procession known as Jumbo Savari, where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant.

The Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 100,000 bulbs each evening, offering a stunning visual experience that attracts tourists from all over the world. With such a diverse array of activities and spectacles, planning your visit well in advance is crucial.

Types of Mysore Dasara Tickets

The Mysore Dasara festival offers a variety of tickets depending on the events you wish to attend. Let’s break them down into categories to help you understand what’s available:

1. Jumbo Savari Procession Tickets

The Jumbo Savari is the highlight of the Dasara festival, where a procession with the royal elephant, horse, and camel contingents, along with folk performers and musicians, takes place. There are separate tickets available for viewing the procession from designated areas.

Ticket TypePrice Range (INR)Seating AreaAvailability
General Admission500 – 1000Open seatingLimited
Reserved Seating2000 – 3000Near the palace or on designated stagesLimited
VIP Seating5000 and abovePalace area with front-row viewsExclusive

2. Mysore Palace Illumination Tickets

Each evening during Dasara, the Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of bulbs, creating a magical atmosphere. You can enjoy this illumination without a ticket, but specific events inside the palace compound, such as classical music performances, require entry tickets.

Ticket TypePrice Range (INR)VenueAvailability
Palace Entry Pass100 – 200Mysore PalaceOn-site
Cultural Event Pass500 – 1000Mysore Palace grounds or Durbar HallLimited

3. Torchlight Parade Tickets (Panju)

On the final day of Dasara, a grand Torchlight Parade is held at Bannimantap grounds. The parade features a variety of military displays, cultural performances, and of course, the torch-bearing horsemen.

Ticket TypePrice Range (INR)Seating AreaAvailability
General Admission200 – 500Open seatingAvailable
Reserved Seating1000 – 2000Closer to the stageLimited
VIP Tickets3000 and aboveExclusive seatingHighly Limited
Mysore Palace

Where to Buy Mysore Dasara Tickets?

Buying tickets for Mysore Dasara can be done through various official platforms. However, because of high demand, especially for events like the Jumbo Savari and Torchlight Parade, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance.

1. Online Ticket Booking

The Mysore Dasara official website provides an online ticket booking system for most major events. Here’s a step-by-step guide for online booking:

Steps to Book Tickets Online:

  1. Visit the official website for Mysore Dasara mysoredasara.gov.in.
  2. Navigate to the ‘Tickets’ section.
  3. Select the event you wish to attend (e.g., Jumbo Savari, Torchlight Parade).
  4. Choose the type of ticket (General, Reserved, VIP).
  5. Complete the payment process through debit/credit card or UPI.
  6. Once payment is completed, a confirmation ticket will be sent to your registered email.

Make sure to carry both a physical copy and an electronic version of your ticket to avoid any last-minute issues at the venue.

2. On-site Ticket Counters

Tickets are also available at designated on-site counters across Mysore during the festival. These counters are usually set up at major tourist spots, including:

  • Mysore Palace
  • Bannimantap Grounds
  • Chamundi Hill
  • Various cultural venues hosting events

Note: On-site tickets are limited and can get sold out quickly, especially for the Jumbo Savari and other popular events. It’s recommended to buy early in the day to secure your spot.

3. Tour Operators

Many licensed tour operators in Mysore and Bangalore offer Mysore Dasara packages that include event tickets, transportation, and guided tours. This is a good option for those who want a hassle-free experience.

Prices of Mysore Dasara Tickets (2024)

To give you a clearer idea of the costs involved, here’s a breakdown of ticket prices for the most popular Mysore Dasara events. These prices may fluctuate slightly, but they offer a general sense of what you can expect:

EventGeneral Ticket Price (INR)VIP Ticket Price (INR)
Jumbo Savari Procession500 – 10005000 and above
Torchlight Parade200 – 5003000 and above
Cultural Performances100 – 500N/A
Palace Entry & Illumination100 – 200N/A

Pro Tips for Attending Mysore Dasara

  1. Book Early: Tickets for key events like the Jumbo Savari and Torchlight Parade sell out fast, especially VIP seats.
  2. Arrive Early: Even with tickets, it’s a good idea to arrive at the venue well in advance to secure a good spot, as crowds can be overwhelming.
  3. Choose Accommodation Wisely: Mysore Dasara draws thousands of tourists, so book your accommodation at least a month in advance.
  4. Check Local Transport: During Dasara, local traffic diversions and road closures are common. Use public transport or hire taxis for a smoother experience.
  5. Carry Essentials: Mysore’s weather during Dasara is pleasant, but it’s advisable to carry water, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear for long hours of walking and standing.

FAQs on Mysore Dasara Tickets

1. When do Mysore Dasara tickets go on sale?

Tickets usually go on sale around mid-September, a few weeks before the festival begins. Keep an eye on the official website for announcements.

2. Can I buy tickets at the venue on the day of the event?

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the venue, but it’s highly recommended to buy in advance due to limited availability.

3. Are there any free events during Mysore Dasara?

Yes, while some major events require tickets, many cultural programs and the Mysore Palace illumination can be enjoyed for free.

4. Is there any discount for children or senior citizens?

Discounts are typically not offered, but children under a certain age may enter free for certain events. Check the specific terms for each event while purchasing tickets.

Conclusion

Mysore Dasara is a festival that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and tradition. From the spectacular Jumbo Savari procession to the mesmerizing palace illumination, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. By securing your Mysore Dasara tickets in advance and planning your visit carefully, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable time during this grand celebration.

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