Mysore Dasara lights up the city of Mysuru every October, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. This 10-day Hindu festival showcases vibrant traditions, royal processions, and cultural performances. Plan your visit to witness the grand spectacle, explore the illuminated Mysore Palace, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage.
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Expected Mysore Dasara Deals
Mysore Dasara, a festival steeped in tradition, focuses more on cultural immersion and spiritual devotion than commercial deals. However, the 10-day celebration significantly stimulates the local economy, particularly for small businesses and artisans. Visitors can expect to find vibrant markets offering exquisite traditional handicrafts, intricately woven Mysore silk sarees, and a variety of devotional items and souvenirs. Many local hotels, including prominent ones like Radisson Blu Plaza Mysore and Grand Mercure Mysore, typically offer special Dasara packages. These often include luxurious accommodations, guided tours of the illuminated Mysore Palace, and privileged access to exclusive cultural performances and events. Additionally, restaurants and eateries across Mysuru will feature unique, festive menus showcasing authentic regional delicacies and sweets, providing a culinary journey alongside the cultural one. We will update this page with confirmed live cultural events and specific tourism information as October approaches, ensuring you have the latest details to plan your visit.
Platform Guide for Mysore Dasara
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #MysoreDasara. Share stunning photos and reels of the illuminated Mysore Palace, vibrant processions, and traditional attire.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #MysoreDasara. Share community events, historical insights, and live updates from the festival.
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Subscribe to @NationalToday for holiday video content. Watch documentaries on the festival’s history or highlights of the grand Vijayadashami procession.
Mysore Dasara Hero
Goddess Chamundeshwari
Mysore Dasara timeline
The records of the Persian ambassador Abdur Razzaq contain descriptions of Dasara celebrations in Mysore during this period.
Raja Wadiyar inaugurated the Dasara Festivities. The royal family has celebrated the festival ever since.
King Krishnaraja Wodeyar III began holding a special Durbar (court) as part of the festival celebrations and the tradition exists to this day.
Lots of tourists came to the palace to see the Mysore Dasara.
Around 100,000 bulbs illuminated the royal Mysore Palace alone — and many more were used to light up the rest of the city during Dasara.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Mysore Dasara
Local businesses in Mysuru can embrace Mysore Dasara by decorating their premises with traditional motifs and lights, reflecting the city’s festive spirit. Restaurants and cafes can offer special Dasara-themed menus featuring regional delicacies and sweets. Retailers can curate collections of traditional attire, handicrafts, and souvenirs, catering to both locals and tourists. Collaborating with local artisans or sponsoring cultural events can also enhance community engagement and brand visibility during this significant festival.
Mysore Dasara FAQs
When is Mysore Dasara?
Mysore Dasara 2026 begins on Tuesday, October 20, and concludes on Saturday, October 31. This 10-day festival is a spectacle of royal tradition and cultural celebration.
How old is the Mysore Dasara tradition?
The Mysore Dasara celebration dates back to the 15th century, with significant patronage from the Wadiyar dynasty since 1610. The festival has evolved into a grand cultural and religious event over centuries.
How many people visit Mysuru for Dasara?
Mysore Dasara attracts millions of visitors annually, including both domestic and international tourists. The grand procession on Vijayadashami alone draws hundreds of thousands to the city streets.
What is the significance of Vijayadashami during Dasara?
Vijayadashami, the tenth and final day of Dasara, marks the triumphant victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura. It is celebrated with a spectacular Jumboo Savari (elephant procession) and a torchlight parade.
How to Observe Mysore Dasara
Watch the royal Dasara Procession
The main attraction is the idol of the goddess Chamunda — placed on a gold mantapa that weighs 750 kg. She moves in a grand procession with dancers, musicians, floats, and elephants.
Visit the Mysore Palace
The spectacular Mysore Palace becomes even more beautiful as it is lit up during Dasara.
Enjoy the fairs and cultural events
Musical performances, dances, handicrafts, jewelry, and more! There is a lot to discover (and places to shop) in Mysore during this 10 day festival.
5 Reasons You Need To Attend Mysore Dasara
The whole city shines
Not just the royal Mysore Palace, but the entire city is lit up for a dazzling display during the festival.
The royal procession is breathtaking
A riot of colors, sounds and displays treat the senses. The procession includes musicians, dancers, and an elephant carrying the idol of the goddess.
It's a stage to showcase talents
This is a great time to discover the rich cultural heritage of India as performers and artists flock to Mysore to take part in the cultural festival and fairs.
The Golden Throne is displayed for the public
Once a year, the Golden Throne is taken out of storage and put in the royal Durbar Hall for public viewing.
The festival also offers modern attractions
Helicopter rides, a 3D projection of the royal palace, and hot air balloons — you can enjoy all that during Dasara too!
Why Mysore Dasara is Important
It celebrates a royal tradition that's over 400 years old
For the past 400 years the royal Wadiyar family has been celebrating this festival and organizing events for the public and tourists.
It showcases India's amazing cultural heritage
The city comes alive with events like cultural programs at the palace, food festivals, fairs, flower shows, and events for children.
Dasara is an important Hindu festival
All over India — Dasara is celebrated with great religious fervor and people of all religions enjoy the cultural festivities.
Mysore Dasara dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 22 | Monday |
| 2026 | October 20 | Tuesday |
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