Mysore Dasara 2025, the iconic 11-day celebration of the victory of good over evil, will take place from 22 September to 2 October 2025. This year marks its 416th edition, beginning atop Chamundi Hill and concluding with the grand Jamboo Savari procession and torchlight parade.
The Wadiyar Legacy
The Dasara tradition was started by Raja Wadiyar I in the early 17th century. Over the centuries, rulers like Krishna Raja Wadiyar III enhanced the celebrations with the Raj Durbar, music, and cultural programs. Today, the Wadiyar family continues the legacy, with Yaduveer Wadiyar performing private durbar rituals at Mysore Palace during the festival.
2025 Inauguration & Major Attractions
- Inauguration: On 22 September, the festival will be inaugurated by noted literary figure Banu Mushtaq at Chamundi Hill.
- Key Highlights:
- Air show and drone light show on 1–2 October at Chamundi Vihar grounds.
- Yuva Dasara concerts, food and film festivals, folk dances, flower and doll shows near the illuminated Palace.
- Dasara Exhibition at Doddakere Maidan for two months, featuring stalls, handicrafts, and rides.
Palace Illumination & Parades
- Mysore Palace lighting: Daily from 7 pm to 9 pm between 22 September and 1 October. On Vijayadashami (2 October), lights will stay on until 10 pm.
- Jamboo Savari: On 2 October, Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol will be carried in a 750 kg golden howdah on elephant Abhimanyu, accompanied by tableaux, cultural troupes, and state contingents.
- Torchlight Parade: On 1 October at Bannimantap grounds, featuring fireworks, laser shows, and motorcycle stunts.
Tickets and Information
A special Mysore Dasara Gold Card allows visitors access to key events, including Jamboo Savari seating and entry to major attractions. Ticket details and prices will be published on the official portal.
- Official Website: mysoredasara.gov.in
- Tourism Info: Karnataka Tourism
- Festival Portal: Utsav Portal
Connectivity from Bangalore
- By KSRTC Bus: Frequent buses operate between Bengaluru and Mysuru, taking about 3 hours.
- By Train: Multiple daily trains connect Bengaluru to Mysuru.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (150 km). From there, taxis and buses are available.
Stay Options and Tourism Initiatives
The Karnataka Tourism Department, along with Jungle Lodges & Resorts, offers packages that include heritage stays, jungle safaris, and guided tours. Popular stays include Kabini River Lodge, Bandipur Safari Lodge, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Kings Sanctuary.
Nearby Attractions
Tourists can extend their visit to explore Brindavan Gardens, Chamundi Hills, Rangaswami Temple, Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur Tiger Reserve, and Nagarhole National Park.
Emergency Contacts
- All-in-one Emergency: 112
- Ambulance: 108
- Police: 100
- Fire: 101
- Karnataka Tourism Helpline: info@kstdc.co | 080-4334 4334/080-2235 2828
- Mysuru, Asst.Director, ddtourismmysore@gmail.com – 7353312808
Suggested 3-Night, 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1 (22 Sept): Travel from Bangalore, check-in, visit Chamundi Hill, attend inauguration and Palace lighting.
Day 2: Mysore Palace, Jaganmohan Art Gallery, Brindavan Gardens, evening cultural shows.
Day 3 (1 Oct): Morning excursion to temples and gardens, safari stay at Kabini or Bandipur, evening Torchlight Parade.
Day 4 (2 Oct): Witness Jamboo Savari, visit local markets or Zoo, return to Bangalore.
FAQs
Q1. When is Mysore Dasara 2025?
22 September to 2 October 2025.
Q2. Who will inaugurate the festival?
Author Banu Mushtaq at Chamundi Hill.
Q3. What are the Mysore Palace lighting timings?
7 pm to 9 pm daily and until 10 pm on Vijayadashami.
Q4. Which elephant carries the golden howdah?
Elephant Abhimanyu.
Q5. How can tickets be booked?
Through the official portal mysoredasara.gov.in once bookings open.
Q6. What are nearby attractions?
Brindavan Gardens, Chamundi Hills, Kabini, Bandipur, and Nagarhole.
Q7. How to reach Mysore from Bangalore?
By KSRTC bus, train, or taxi. The nearest airport is in Bengaluru.
Q8. What stay options are available?
Hotels in Mysuru and wildlife lodges by Jungle Lodges & Resorts.
Q9. What special events are planned this year?
Air show, drone show, cultural programs, Dasara Exhibition, Jamboo Savari, and Torchlight Parade.
Q10. Is there a helpline for tourists?
Yes, Karnataka Tourism Helpline: info@kstdc.co | 080-4334 4334/080-2235 2828
Mysuru, Asst.Director, ddtourismmysore@gmail.com – 7353312808
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