Every year, Mysore in Karnataka transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights, art, and tradition during the grand Dasara festival. Popularly called Mysuru Dasara, this ten-day celebration marks the triumph of good over evil. Known for its royal heritage and majestic landmarks, the city becomes a vibrant hub of rituals, parades, and performances. Streets, palaces, and markets glow with energy, turning Mysore into a living heritage carnival. he highlight in 2025 will be the much-awaited Dussehra Celebration in Mysore 2025, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness this cultural extravaganza.

More than a religious festival, Mysore Dasara showcases the city’s history and cultural elegance. Highlights include the famous Jamboo Savari procession, palace illuminations, cultural programs, exhibitions, and wrestling competitions. In 2025, the festival promises an even richer experience, blending timeless customs with new attractions. Local communities, artisans, and performers bring every corner of the city to life, ensuring visitors from around the world witness the spirit and grandeur of Karnataka.

Jamboo Savari Mysore Dasara

Jamboo Savari is the centerpiece of Mysore Dasara, showcasing a magnificent procession where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on a decorated golden howdah atop a royal elephant. This grand event beautifully reflects the city’s regal traditions and draws thousands of visitors from around the world.

History

The Jamboo Savari is the crown jewel of Mysore Dasara, celebrated on Vijayadashami, the festival’s grand finale. With origins in the Vijayanagara Empire and later carried forward by the Wadiyars of Mysore, this royal procession has been cherished for over four centuries. It honors Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over the demon king Mahishasura, an event deeply tied to the city’s identity and cultural pride.

Highlights of Jamboo Savari

• Royal tradition: Legacy dating back to the Vijayanagara Empire, continued by the Wadiyars.
• Divine symbolism: Commemorates Goddess Chamundeshwari’s triumph over Mahishasura.
• Golden howdah: The goddess’s idol is carried on a decorated elephant in a 750 kg golden seat.
• Procession route: Begins at Mysore Palace and concludes at Bannimantap grounds.
• Cultural spectacle: Features decorated floats, folk dancers, bands, acrobats, and performers.
• Global recognition: A historic event that draws worldwide visitors while preserving its spiritual essence.

Also Read – Dussehra Special Food Items in Karnataka

Mysore Dasara Festival 2025 Dates and Duration

In 2025, Mysore Dasara will be celebrated from September 22 to October 2, marking ten days of rituals, performances, and cultural splendor. The festival begins with Navaratri and concludes on Vijayadashami, with Mysore Palace glowing each evening under nearly 100,000 bulbs. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, concerts, traditional games, sporting events, and folk performances, making the city a lively destination for families, history enthusiasts, and culture lovers.

Key Highlights of Mysore Dasara 2025

• Dates: September 22 – October 2, 2025.
• Mysore Palace Illumination: Palace lit with ~100,000 bulbs every evening.
• Cultural programs: Music, dance, theater, and youth concerts at palace grounds.
• Citywide festivities: Exhibitions, traditional games, sports, and folk arts.
• Grand finale (October 2)

• • Jamboo Savari procession with Goddess Chamundeshwari.

  • Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap, closing the celebrations in spectacular style.

Places to Visit in Mysore During Dussehra

During Dussehra, Mysore transforms into a vibrant cultural hub with must-visit spots like the beautifully illuminated Mysore Palace, the bustling Dasara Exhibition at Doddakere Maidana, and the scenic Chamundi Hills. Don’t miss the lively Jamboo Savari procession route and the grand Bannimantap grounds, where the final celebrations come alive with music, dance, and spectacular parades.

Mysore Palace

The Mysore Palace, also called Amba Vilas Palace, serves as the vibrant centerpiece of the Dasara festivities. Each evening during the festival, it sparkles with over 100,000 bulbs, creating an unforgettable spectacle of light and grandeur. The palace hosts a variety of cultural programs, including music concerts and dance performances, on its sprawling grounds. Visitors can explore the richly decorated interiors, stunning durbar halls, and priceless royal artifacts, all offering an immersive glimpse into Mysore’s historic royal legacy. The illumination alone draws thousands of visitors who come to marvel at the palace’s radiant glow.

Special Moments

• Standing before the palace at dusk as the lights flicker on, transforming the entire façade into a golden glow.
• Watching live dance or music performances against the illuminated backdrop.

Chamundi Hill Temple

Perched gracefully atop the serene Chamundi Hills, the temple is a revered shrine devoted to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity deeply tied to Mysore’s vibrant Dasara festivities. Visitors often climb the steps or drive up the winding roads to seek her blessings, especially during festival time when the temple comes alive with rituals and processions. The grand gopuram, adorned with detailed carvings, reflects centuries of artistic excellence and spiritual devotion. From the hilltop, the sweeping view of Mysore city stretches out beautifully, offering a perfect blend of divinity and scenic grandeur. Its sacred energy and cultural significance make it an unforgettable experience for pilgrims and travelers alike.

Special Moments

• Climbing the 1,000 steps alongside pilgrims during Dasara for a spiritual experience.
• Watching the sunrise or sunset from the hilltop with Mysore city spread out below.

Brindavan Gardens

Approximately 21 kilometers from Mysore, Brindavan Gardens is famous for its beautifully symmetrical terraces and captivating musical fountain shows. During Dasara, the gardens become even more enchanting, illuminated with colorful lights that dance in perfect harmony with music. Evening visits are especially magical, as fountains burst into vibrant displays, creating a lively atmosphere that complements the festive spirit of the season. The well-maintained gardens offer a peaceful respite amidst the celebrations.

Special Moments

• Sitting by the fountains as music and colorful jets of water dance together in perfect rhythm.
• Strolling the lit-up pathways under the night sky during festival season.

St. Philomena’s Church

Known as one of Asia’s tallest churches, St. Philomena’s Church showcases stunning Neo-Gothic architecture modeled after Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. Its soaring spires and exquisite stained-glass windows make it an architectural marvel. Visiting this serene and majestic church provides a unique contrast to the otherwise royal and traditional sites of Mysore, offering a tranquil space for reflection during the busy festival period.

Special Moments

• Stepping inside when sunlight filters through the stained glass, filling the interiors with color.
• Gazing up at the illuminated spires at night for a moment of quiet awe.

Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery

Built in the 19th century, Jaganmohan Palace houses an impressive collection of art, including masterpieces by the renowned Raja Ravi Varma. During Dasara, the palace frequently hosts cultural exhibitions and events, enriching Mysore’s festival offerings with a deep dive into fine arts and heritage. Art lovers and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate the blend of tradition and creativity showcased within its walls.

Special Moments

• Pausing before an original Ravi Varma painting and seeing history through art.
• Attending an exhibition or performance that blends tradition with creativity.

Mysore Rail Museum

Perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and railway fans, the Mysore Rail Museum offers an intriguing look into the development of India’s railway network. It boasts a remarkable collection of vintage steam locomotives, exquisite royal carriages once used by the Maharajas, and numerous artifacts that showcase the rich legacy of rail travel in India. Visitors can explore expansive outdoor exhibits featuring life-sized engines and enjoy interactive models and educational displays designed to captivate both kids and adults. Besides its learning opportunities, the museum provides a charming and nostalgic escape, particularly delightful during Mysore’s festive season.

Special Moments

• Sitting inside a vintage royal carriage once used by the Maharajas.
• Watching kids marvel at life-size steam engines up close

Karanji Lake

A serene natural getaway within the city, Karanji Lake is perfect for those looking to escape the festival crowds. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching and boating, featuring a walk-through aviary and a butterfly park that delights nature lovers. Visiting Karanji Lake during Dasara offers a peaceful pause, allowing travelers to rejuvenate amidst lush greenery and calm waters.

Special Moments

• Spotting migratory birds in the aviary at dawn.
• Taking a serene boat ride as the sun sets over the lake.

Lalitha Mahal Palace

Originally built as a guest residence for the Viceroy of India, Lalitha Mahal Palace is now a stunning heritage hotel. Its striking white façade, Italian marble flooring, and lavish interiors speak of European architectural elegance. Even if not staying overnight, visitors can savor tea or lunch here, experiencing a glimpse of royal luxury in a regal setting.

Special Moments

• Sipping tea in its grand dining hall, surrounded by marble and chandeliers.
• Walking its vast lawns and imagining the royal guests it once hosted.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Situated approximately 19 kilometers from Mysore, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary transforms into a sanctuary for migratory birds during Dasara season. A boat ride through this peaceful sanctuary is a refreshing and scenic experience, especially appealing to birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a calm retreat from the festival’s hustle and bustle.

Special Moments

• Gliding quietly in a boat as flocks of birds take flight over the water.
• Spotting rare species while surrounded by tranquil greenery.

GRS Fantasy Park

For families with children, GRS Fantasy Park offers a joyful break from cultural festivities. This amusement and water park combines thrilling rides and water attractions, providing a fun, lively environment. It’s an ideal place to relax and unwind after experiencing Mysore’s rich tradition and vibrant celebrations.

Special Moments

• Cooling off in the wave pool after a hot day of sightseeing.
• Sharing laughter on thrilling rides with family and friends.

Things to Do in Mysore During Dasara

Mysore Dasara offers a vibrant mix of activities for visitors, including witnessing the stunning Mysore Palace illumination, enjoying cultural performances like classical music and folk dances, and exploring the bustling Dasara Exhibition with its variety of stalls and entertainment. Don’t miss the grand Jamboo Savari procession and the thrilling Torchlight Parade, which bring the city alive with color and excitement. For a blend of tradition and festivity, Mysore during Dasara provides unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Experience	Special Moment
Mysore Palace Illumination	Standing in the crowd as 100,000 lights flicker on, glowing like a jewel.
Palace Cultural Shows	Watching classical dance and music against the illuminated palace backdrop.
Chamundi Hill Sunrise	Climbing 1,000 steps at dawn for sweeping golden views of Mysore.
Brindavan Gardens Fountain	Sitting by fountains as colorful jets dance in sync with music.
St. Philomena’s Church	Seeing sunlight stream through stained glass, filling the interiors with color.
Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery	Pausing before a Raja Ravi Varma masterpiece.
Mysore Rail Museum	Stepping inside a vintage royal carriage once used by Maharajas.
Karanji Lake	Spotting migratory birds or boating peacefully at sunset.
Lalitha Mahal Palace	Sipping tea in marble-lined halls of this regal heritage hotel.
Ranganathittu Sanctuary	Boating quietly as flocks of birds soar overhead.
GRS Fantasy Park	Cooling off in the wave pool after sightseeing.
Yuva Dasara Concerts	Singing along with thousands at lively night concerts.
Dasara Exhibition	Shopping for handicrafts and tasting festive foods in bustling stalls.
Traditional Kusti Wrestling	Cheering wrestlers grappling in red soil at Doddakere Maidan.
Torchlight Parade Finale	Watching stunts, acrobatics, and fireworks light up Vijayadashami night.

 

Watch the Mysore Palace Illumination

No trip to Mysore during Dasara is complete without seeing the stunning illumination of the Mysore Palace. Each evening, the palace is decorated with more than 100,000 sparkling lights that brighten the entire building, creating a breathtaking and enchanting scene. Walking around the lit-up palace and taking in its majestic beauty offers an unforgettable experience.

Attend Yuva Dasara Concerts

Yuva Dasara adds a fresh and contemporary flavor to the traditional festival with lively music concerts and cultural shows. Featuring popular singers, bands, and youth icons, these events draw thousands of young attendees and bring a vibrant energy and modern entertainment to the festivities.

Explore the Dasara Exhibition

Located near the palace grounds, the expansive Dasara Exhibition provides an exciting market with stalls offering handicrafts, textiles, tasty food, electronics, and more. Running for over two months, it serves as a shopper’s paradise that highlights top local and national products, alongside enjoyable entertainment options.

Witness Traditional Wrestling Matches

Known locally as “Kusti,” traditional wrestling matches form a unique part of the festival’s cultural heritage. Held at the Doddakere Maidan, these bouts highlight ancient wrestling techniques and draw enthusiastic spectators from across Karnataka who appreciate the sport’s blend of skill, strength, and tradition.

Relish Mysore’s Street Food

Dasara is the perfect time to savor Mysore’s famous street food. From the sweet Mysore Pak to savory masala dosa, vada, idli, and bonda, food stalls spring up all over the city offering mouth-watering treats. Don’t forget to try Mysore’s signature filter coffee, which perfectly complements the festive atmosphere.

Shop for Mysore Silk Sarees

Mysore silk sarees are famous for their exquisite quality and intricate zari designs, making shopping for them during Dasara a highly cherished activity. Visitors can explore government-run silk factories and showrooms to witness the craftsmanship behind these elegant sarees and even purchase authentic pieces as memorable souvenirs.

Enjoy Cultural Programs at Palace Grounds

The Mysore Palace grounds come alive with a variety of cultural events during Dasara. Classical music concerts, traditional Bharatanatyam and Kathak dance performances, as well as vibrant folk dances representing different regions of Karnataka, showcase the state’s rich artistic heritage in a captivating setting.

Visit Doll Displays (Bombe Habba)

A beloved local tradition, Bombe Habba involves the creation of elaborate themed doll displays set up in homes across Mysore. Walking around these beautifully arranged exhibits offers a charming glimpse into Karnataka’s folk art, storytelling, and cultural values during the festive season.

Experience the Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap

The Torchlight Parade, held on Vijayadashami evening at Bannimantap, is one of Dasara’s most thrilling events. Featuring daring acrobatics on horseback, impressive motorcycle stunts, dazzling fireworks, and synchronized marching bands, this grand spectacle electrifies the city and concludes the festival with high energy and drama.

Go on a Heritage Walk

For history enthusiasts, heritage walks through Mysore’s colonial-era architecture, bustling markets, and historic neighborhoods reveal the city’s layered past and vibrant present. These guided tours provide a fascinating way to connect with Mysore’s history, culture, and everyday life beyond the festival events.

Dussehra Festival in Mysore – Major Attractions

Mysore Dasara is a multi-faceted celebration that offers a wide range of attractions:

• Mysore Palace Illumination: Every evening throughout the festival, Mysore Palace is transformed into a dazzling spectacle covered with nearly 100,000 glittering bulbs. The palace lights create a breathtaking, magical ambiance that captivates visitors from near and far.
• Jamboo Savari Procession: On Vijayadashami, the grand royal procession unfolds with the revered idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari elegantly placed atop a decorated elephant. This majestic parade, starting at the Mysore Palace and moving through the city, features vibrant tableaux, folk dancers, and musical bands, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
• Torchlight Parade: The festival’s spectacular conclusion is the Torchlight Parade held at Bannimantap Grounds. It includes dazzling fireworks, thrilling acrobatics on horseback and motorcycles, synchronized military drills, and richly decorated ceremonial displays that light up the night sky with grandeur and excitement.
• Dasara Exhibition: Spanning over two months, the massive Dasara Exhibition near the palace grounds is a vibrant fair filled with shopping stalls, food vendors, entertainment zones, and amusement rides. It showcases local handicrafts, textiles, electronics, and a variety of traditional and modern products, providing visitors with plenty of opportunities for family fun and cultural exploration.
• Yuva Dasara and Cultural Programs: Alongside traditional festivities, Yuva Dasara adds a contemporary flavor by hosting concerts featuring popular youth icons, contemporary music bands, and dance groups. At the same time, classical dance performances, folk music shows, and dramatic enactments offer a rich presentation of Karnataka’s cultural heritage.
• Sports Events: Throughout the festival, traditional sports like wrestling bouts (Kusti), cycling races, marathons, and other competitions are organized. These events attract athletes and spectators alike, highlighting the spirit of sportsmanship and cultural pride integral to the celebrations.

Each of these attractions reflects a different aspect of Mysore’s heritage and ensures that there is something for everyone—whether history buffs, culture lovers, families, or adventure seekers—making the Mysore Dasara festival an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Conclusion

Dussehra Celebration in Mysore 2025 is set to be an extraordinary celebration that combines royal splendor, rich culture, and lively festivity, enchanting everyone who takes part. This festival uniquely merges spiritual reverence with artistic creativity and communal joy, offering an immersive cultural experience unlike any other. Mysore transforms into a vibrant spectacle of colors, music, fragrant foods, and dazzling lights, surrounding both residents and visitors with a spirit of happiness, togetherness, and deep-rooted tradition.

For those aiming to truly immerse themselves in Karnataka’s cultural heritage at its most majestic and genuine, visiting Mysore during Dasara is unparalleled. Planning ahead is essential—booking accommodations early and preparing to fully engage with the festival’s offerings will ensure a rewarding experience. From grand processions and breathtaking palace illuminations to mesmerizing performances and lively street celebrations, Mysore Dasara creates unforgettable memories that reflect the perfect blend of tradition and contemporary vibrancy.

FAQs for Dussehra Celebration in Mysore 2025

Q1. When is Mysore Dasara 2025 celebrated?

Ans: Mysore Dasara 2025 is set to take place from September 22 to October 2, 2025, featuring eleven days packed with grand cultural, religious, and social festivities.

Q2. What is the highlight of Mysore Dasara?

Ans: The key highlight is the magnificent Jamboo Savari procession on Vijayadashami, where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on a richly adorned golden howdah atop an elephant, symbolizing divine grace and royal tradition.

Q3. Where does the Jamboo Savari procession start?

Ans: The impressive procession begins at Mysore Palace early in the afternoon and travels through city streets, ending at the Bannimantap Grounds.

Q4. Is the Mysore Palace open during Dasara?

Ans: Yes, the palace welcomes visitors throughout the festival, enhanced by evening illuminations of over 97,000 bulbs. The grounds also host various cultural programs blending tradition with art.

Q5. How long does the Dasara festival last?

Ans: The festival lasts around ten to eleven days, commencing with Navaratri rituals and ending with Vijayadashami’s grand celebrations and processions.

Q6. What are some special events during Dasara?

Ans: Noteworthy events include the Torchlight Parade with fireworks and military displays, Yuva Dasara concerts featuring youth icons, cultural performances, traditional wrestling bouts (Kusti), and the expansive Dasara Exhibition offering shopping, food, and entertainment.

Q7. Is it necessary to book hotels in advance?

Ans: Absolutely, given the large number of visitors during Dasara, booking accommodations early is highly recommended to ensure comfortable lodging and a hassle-free festival experience.