Karnataka’s grand ten-day Dasara celebration showcases royal legacy, culture, and traditions through the Jamboo Savari, palace illuminations, cultural shows, and bustling exhibitions. Among these attractions, the Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 stands out, offering authentic Karnataka flavors alongside dishes from across India and beyond — from traditional recipes to modern twists and global cuisines — all in a lively community atmosphere.

This year brings even more stalls, live cooking shows, themed dining, and cultural tie-ins. For locals and tourists, it’s an immersive journey of flavors that complements the spirit of Dasara. This guide covers dates, venue, timings, must-try dishes, highlights, cultural events, and travel tips.

Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 Date

The Mysore Dasara Food Festival is an integral part of the ten-day Dasara celebrations, held from September 26 to October 4, 2025. Running throughout the festival, it fills each day with flavor and festivity.

More than a food fair, it has become a gastronomic showcase where Karnataka’s culinary richness meets the diverse tastes of India. Visitors can enjoy coastal delicacies, South Indian staples, North Indian curries, and experimental street foods.

Over the years, it has grown into a signature attraction, drawing food lovers, chefs, and tourists alike. Closely tied to the grandeur of Dasara, it offers a vibrant cultural celebration not to be missed.

Mysore Dussehra Special Food Items Menu

The Mysore Dasara Food Festival showcases a delightful array of special food items that highlight Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage. Visitors can indulge in iconic dishes like Mysore masala dosa, bisi bele bath, ragi mudde, and the sweet delicacy Mysore pak, each prepared with traditional recipes and authentic flavors.

Traditional Karnataka Dishes You Must Try

The heart of the Mysore Dasara Food Festival lies in its rich and diverse traditional Karnataka cuisine, offering flavors that carry the essence of the region. Some must-try dishes include:

• Bisi Bele Bath – A fragrant and spicy combination of lentils and rice simmered with tamarind and a unique blend of spices that create a soulful taste.
• Ragi Mudde – Nutritious finger millet formed into soft balls, typically enjoyed with spicy mutton curry or tangy sambar for a wholesome meal.
• Mysore Masala Dosa – A golden, crispy dosa filled with spicy mashed potatoes, served with tangy chutney and flavorsome sambar, making it a breakfast favorite.
• Puliyogare – Tamarind-flavored rice enhanced with peanuts, curry leaves, and a speciality puliyogare paste that adds a delightful tanginess.
• Akki Rotti – Soft flatbreads made with rice flour and seasoned with onions, green chillies, and fresh herbs for a simple yet satisfying dish.
• Mysore Rasam – A tangy, peppery broth-like dish known for its digestive properties, traditionally paired with plain steamed rice.
• Kosambari – A refreshing salad made with soaked lentils, grated coconut, cucumber, and a squeeze of lime, perfect for cleansing the palate.
• Chitranna – Bright yellow lemon rice, flavoured with mustard seeds, green chillies, and turmeric, offering a zesty and vibrant flavor.
• Obbattu (Holige) – Sweet flatbread generously stuffed with a mixture of jaggery and lentils and served warm with ghee, a festive treat loved by many.

Together, these dishes highlight Karnataka’s culinary variety, ranging from mild and aromatic to bold and spicy, making them essential choices for anyone exploring the festival’s food stalls.

History and Cultural Significance of Mysore Dussehra

Origins of Mysore Dasara

• Rooted in the Vijayanagara Empire and later continued by the Wadiyar dynasty.
• Began as a royal celebration honoring Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over Mahishasura.
• Symbolized the triumph of good over evil.
• Marked by rituals, royal gatherings, and sacred ceremonies performed with devotion.
• Evolved from an exclusive royal event into a grand public celebration with cultural shows, artistic displays, and community gatherings.

Mysore Dasara Food Festival

• A recent addition that quickly became a crowd favorite.
• Introduced to promote Karnataka’s traditional flavors and India’s diverse cuisines.
• Started on a modest scale, but expanded significantly over the past decade.
• Now, one of the most anticipated highlights of the Dasara season.
• Serves as both a cultural and gastronomic experience, offering food, stories, and community bonding beyond rituals and processions.

What Makes the Food Festival a Must-Visit in 2025

Highlights of Mysore Dasara Food Festival 2025

• Expected to be the biggest edition yet, with more food stalls and a wider representation of Karnataka’s districts.
• Expanded selection of regional cuisines from across India.
• Live cooking demonstrations by seasoned chefs featuring both traditional and modern dishes.
• Celebrity chef appearances bring star power and culinary expertise.
• Food court enhanced with cultural performances, blending food and art for an immersive experience.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

• Chance to savor authentic Karnataka delicacies like Mysore masala dosa, ragi mudde, bisi bele bath, and Mysore pak.
• Dishes prepared by traditional chefs preserving age-old recipes.
• Offers insights into culinary heritage, food stories, agricultural practices, and local artistry.
• Improved infrastructure and accessibility in 2025 for a smoother visitor experience.
• Welcomes families, solo travelers, and foodies, making it a key highlight of the Dasara season.

Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 Venue and Timings

The Mysore Dasara Food Festival 2025 will be held at the vibrant grounds near the Mysore Palace, providing a picturesque backdrop to the gastronomic celebrations. The festival runs daily from 10 AM to 10 PM throughout the ten-day duration, ensuring ample time for visitors to explore the diverse food stalls and cultural events at their own pace.

Main Festival Grounds and Food Court Locations

The Mysore Dasara Food Festival is mainly hosted at the expansive Dasara Exhibition Grounds, situated close to the iconic Mysore Palace. This spacious outdoor area is transformed into a lively and vibrant food court during the entire ten-day festival, featuring hundreds of stalls that serve both regional and national cuisines. Visitors can enjoy comfortable seating arrangements and catch various cultural performances held on multiple stages scattered throughout the venue.

Apart from the primary exhibition grounds, several smaller food courts are strategically set up at popular spots around the city, including the Mysore Palace campus, Jaganmohan Palace grounds, and other key cultural centers. This decentralized arrangement allows both locals and tourists to conveniently sample an array of flavorful dishes while enjoying different Dasara festivities in various parts of Mysore.

Daily Opening and Closing Timings for Visitors

The food festival closely follows the operating hours of the main exhibition. For 2025, the festival is expected to open around 11:00 AM each day and close by 10:00 PM. Peak visitor activity usually occurs in the evenings, coinciding with the mesmerizing palace illuminations and scheduled cultural programs, creating a magical ambiance.

Early mornings tend to be quieter, providing an ideal time for those who prefer strolling through food stalls without the hustle and bustle of crowds. Lunchtime features special thali meals and menus suited for families, while the evenings highlight an enticing range of snacks, sweets, and captivating live performances that add to the festive spirit.

How to Plan Your Visit Around Peak Hours

To fully enjoy the Mysore Dasara Food Festival without the hassle of long lines and crowded spaces, it’s best to schedule your visit during the late morning or early afternoon hours, ideally before 2:00 PM. This quieter window allows for a relaxed dining experience where you can take your time sampling various dishes without feeling rushed. Evenings, particularly between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, tend to be the busiest as both locals and tourists flock to the festival grounds to witness the stunning palace illuminations and attend vibrant cultural performances.

If possible, plan your visit on weekdays since these days typically see lighter crowds compared to the bustling weekends, making them perfect for food lovers eager to explore a wider variety of offerings. Another great strategy is to divide your experience across two separate days: dedicate one day to savoring authentic Karnataka specialties and use the other to discover flavors from other Indian regions, including delectable desserts. This approach ensures a richer, more comprehensive taste journey through the festival’s diverse culinary landscape.

Famous Sweets and Desserts at the Festival

You can’t come to Mysore Dasara and skip the sweets. The festival has a whole section just for these treats, and here are some you really have to try:

• Mysore Pak – This one’s famous around here, made with ghee and gram flour. It’s super rich and just melts in your mouth.
• Kesari Bath – Think soft, sweet semolina with flavors of saffron and cardamom, very comforting and tasty.
• Rava Ladoo – Little sweet balls made with semolina, with nuts and a bit of cardamom that make them extra good.
• Holige – Sweet flatbread stuffed with coconut or lentils mixed with jaggery, a festival favorite.
• Karjikai – Fried pockets filled with coconut, jaggery, and some dry fruits. Crunchy outside, sweet inside.
• Dharwad Peda – A milk sweet from the north of Karnataka, soft and has a caramel-like flavor.
• Chiroti – Flaky, layered pastry dusted with sugar, usually eaten warm with milk.
• Payasa – A creamy sweet made from vermicelli, jaggery, and cardamom, perfect to end a meal.

These sweets really complete the whole food experience at the festival and show just how much Karnataka loves its desserts.

Street Food and Regional Snacks to Explore

The food festival also celebrates India’s lively street food scene, bringing together delicious snacks from various regions. Some popular favorites you should try include:

• Pani Puri and Masala Puri – Crisp puris filled with spicy, tangy water or topped with flavorsome chaat masala, perfect for those who enjoy a burst of flavors.
• Mirchi Bajji – Large green chilies dipped in chickpea batter and deep-fried until crispy, offering a spicy and crunchy snack.
• Vada Pav – Mumbai’s famous potato fritter burger, a spicy and fulfilling street food treat.
• Mangalore Buns – Soft, sweet banana-flavored fried bread from the coastal region of Karnataka, slightly different and delightfully light.
• Kodu Bale and Chakli – Crunchy snacks made from rice flour, popular in Karnataka for their unique textures and flavors.
• Dabeli and Sev Puri – Savory chaat dishes from Gujarat and Maharashtra, bursting with tangy chutneys and crunchy toppings.
• Idli, Vada, and Pongal – Classic South Indian breakfast dishes served fresh and often enjoyed with chutney and sambar.
• Pav Bhaji – A rich vegetable mash cooked with spices, served hot with buttered buns, a favorite from Mumbai’s street stalls.

Sampling these snacks while wandering the busy food courts gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to enjoy India’s rich and varied street food traditions all in one lively spot.

Food Stalls, Cultural Events, and Live Cooking Shows

The Mysore Dasara Food Festival is more than a food market — it’s a vibrant celebration of Karnataka’s culture. Hundreds of themed stalls, often run by traditional chefs in ethnic attire, showcase regional cuisines from Kodagu, Udupi, North Karnataka, and Old Mysore, offering authentic local flavors. Beyond food stalls, the festival hosts live cooking shows where chefs demonstrate classic recipes and creative fusions. These interactive sessions let visitors learn tips, ask questions, and taste dishes freshly prepared.

Adding to the festive atmosphere are cultural performances — folk dances, classical music, and storytelling that highlight Karnataka’s food heritage. Together, the food, music, and stories make the festival a full cultural experience, celebrating the spirit and traditions of Karnataka.

Travel Tips for Visiting the Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025

Planning ahead can make your experience at the Mysore Dasara Food Festival much more enjoyable. From booking accommodations early to arriving during off-peak hours and staying hydrated, these simple tips will help you navigate the festival smoothly and savor its rich culinary delights without any hassle.

• Book Accommodation Early: Mysore gets very busy during Dasara, so it’s best to book your hotel several months ahead to secure a good spot.
• Arrive Early at the Venue: Try visiting in the late morning or early afternoon. The festival tends to get crowded later in the day, so arriving early helps you avoid long lines and enjoy everything at your own pace.
• Carry Cash: While many stalls accept digital payments, smaller vendors often prefer cash. Keeping some cash handy makes transactions smoother.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: You’ll be on your feet a lot exploring the food stalls, so wear breathable clothing and comfortable shoes to stay relaxed throughout the day.
• Stay Hydrated: Especially if you visit during daytime, carry a water bottle to keep yourself refreshed amid the festivities.
• Plan Multiple Visits: The festival offers a wide variety of dishes. If possible, visit on different days—one for Karnataka’s traditional foods and another to explore dishes from across India.
• Check Event Schedules: Look out for special cooking demos, cultural shows, or workshops happening during your visit to make the most of the experience.
• Use Public Transport: Parking near the festival can be tough. Taking an auto, bus, or cab is often easier and saves you from parking headaches.
• Be Mindful of Allergies: Many dishes include ingredients like nuts, ghee, or gluten. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, ask vendors about the ingredients before you eat.

Following these tips will make your visit stress-free and enjoyable, allowing you to fully savor the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of the Mysore Dasara Food Festival.

Conclusion

The Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 is set to be a magnificent celebration of Karnataka’s culinary heritage, presenting visitors with a rich and vibrant mix of traditional flavors, aromas, and cultural experiences that truly capture the spirit of the region. From savoring time-honored local dishes prepared with age-old recipes to exploring inventive street foods bursting with new tastes, the festival offers something for every kind of food lover. Adding to the charm are the lively folk performances and engaging live cooking demonstrations, which highlight the deep-rooted food culture of Karnataka and make the entire event much more than just a food fair.

As Mysore lights up with royal grandeur during the Dasara festivities, the food festival injects an exciting and delicious energy to the celebrations, making it a perfect complement to the city’s regal traditions. Whether you are a serious foodie eager to try every dish, a casual traveler looking for a memorable outing, or a family wanting to share joyful moments, the Mysore Dasara Food Festival is an unmissable part of the Dasara experience. Planning your visit well in advance will ensure you can soak in the festival’s lively atmosphere without hassle. Come hungry, come curious, and prepare to be delighted by the diverse and rich flavors of Karnataka and beyond, making memories that will linger long after the festival ends.

FAQs

Q1. When is the Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 held?

Ans:- It will be held from September 26 to October 4, 2025, during the main Dasara celebrations.

Q2. Where is the Mysore Dussehra Food Festival 2025 held?

Ans:- The main venue is the Dasara Exhibition Grounds near the Mysore Palace. There are also food courts at other cultural locations in the city.

Q3. What are the timings for the food festival?

Ans:- The festival runs every day from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the ten days of Dasara.

Q4. What types of food can I find at the festival?

Ans:- You will find traditional Karnataka dishes, different regional Indian cuisines, sweets and desserts, and popular street foods.

Q5. Are there cultural programs at the food festival?

Ans:- Yes, the festival includes folk dances, classical music, and live cooking demos by chefs.

Q6. How crowded does it get?

Ans:- Evenings and weekends are very busy. It is less crowded in the mornings and on weekdays.

Q7. Do I need to buy tickets to enter?

Ans:- Entry is usually covered by the Dasara Exhibition ticket. Food stalls charge separately for their items.