Mysore Dasara is one of Karnataka's most celebrated festivals, transforming Mysuru into a vibrant destination filled with royal traditions, cultural performances, illuminated landmarks, and festive food. Also known as Mysuru Dasara, this 10-day Navaratri celebration attracts visitors from across India and abroad.

Mysore Dasara 2026 takes place from October 11 to October 21, with the grand Jamboo Savari procession scheduled for Wednesday, October 21. Visitors can enjoy the illuminated Mysore Palace, cultural programmes, the flower show, food festivals, and the traditional Torchlight Parade.

If you're planning a trip to Mysuru, this TripLoko guide covers the important Dasara dates, event schedule, ticket information, places to visit, and practical travel tips for 2026.

Mysore Dasara 2026: Important Dates at a Glance

Event	Date in 2026
Mysuru Dasara festival	October 11–21
Palace illumination begins	October 11
Aahara Mela (food festival)	October 11–25
Flower Show	October 11–21
Kambala	October 18–19
Torchlight Parade	October 20–21
Jamboo Savari procession	October 21
Chamundeshwari Rathotsava	October 24

Event timings and venues may change, so check the official Mysuru Dasara programme before travelling.

What Is Mysore Dasara?

Mysore Dasara is an annual festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. It is closely associated with the worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal heritage of Mysuru, and the traditions of the former Mysore kingdom.

The festival is particularly famous for its royal procession, known as Jamboo Savari, in which a decorated elephant carries the golden howdah containing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The celebrations also include music, dance, traditional rituals, exhibitions, sporting events, and public festivities.

For travellers, Dasara is an opportunity to experience Karnataka's cultural heritage while exploring Mysuru's palaces, temples, gardens, and historic streets.

Mysore Dasara 2026 Full Schedule: Events You Should Not Miss

1. Mysore Palace Illumination

The illumination of Mysore Palace is one of the festival's most popular attractions. The palace glows with thousands of lights, creating a spectacular evening view for visitors and photographers.

Dates: October 11–21, 2026
Scheduled illumination: 7 PM–10 PM
Location: Mysore Palace, Mysuru

The palace illumination is a major highlight throughout the festival. Arrive early to find a suitable viewing spot, particularly on weekends and the final day.

2. Jamboo Savari - October 21, 2026

Jamboo Savari is the grand finale of Mysore Dasara and the event many visitors plan their trip around. The procession features decorated elephants, traditional music, folk performers, cultural tableaux, and the golden howdah carrying Goddess Chamundeshwari.

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Golden howdah ceremony: Scheduled for 4:10 PM
Procession: Scheduled to begin after the ceremony
Route: Mysore Palace to Bannimantap

Large crowds are expected along the procession route. If you want to watch from a designated seating area, check official ticket availability and entry instructions before arriving.

3. Torchlight Parade - October 20 and 21

The Panjina Kavayathu, or Torchlight Parade, is another major attraction. Held at Bannimantap Ground, the event features ceremonial displays, bands, and a spectacular night-time atmosphere.

Dates: October 20–21, 2026
Scheduled start: 7 PM
Venue: Bannimantap Ground

A drone show is also listed in the festival programme for selected evenings. Check the official schedule for event-specific timings, venue access, and ticket requirements.

4. Dasara Flower Show - October 11–21

The Dasara Flower Show is a colourful attraction for families, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts. It features floral displays and horticultural arrangements as part of the festival celebrations.

Dates: October 11–21, 2026
Venue: Kuppanna Park, also known as Nishad Bagh
Scheduled hours: 9 AM–9 PM

Consider visiting during the daytime to explore the displays before heading to the palace illumination in the evening.

5. Aahara Mela - October 11–25

Food is an important part of the Dasara experience. Aahara Mela brings together food stalls serving a variety of regional and other Indian cuisines.

Dates: October 11–25, 2026
Venue: Maharaja's College Ground
Scheduled hours: 11 AM–10 PM

Visitors can explore regional dishes, local specialities, snacks, and other festival favourites. Check the latest venue arrangements before visiting, especially during peak evening hours.

6. Kambala - October 18–19

Kambala, the traditional buffalo race associated with coastal Karnataka, is also listed among the Mysuru Dasara 2026 events.

Dates: October 18–19, 2026
Venue: Near VTU College, Mysuru

If you plan to attend, check local access arrangements, parking information, and the official programme for the latest details.

Mysore Dasara 2026 Tickets: Prices and Booking Information

Not every Dasara event requires a ticket. Many public celebrations, including the main procession route and palace illumination viewing from public areas, are free. Certain designated seating areas and special events require tickets.

The official Dasara ticketing website identifies TicketGenie as the authorised ticketing partner for ticketed events.

Experience	Ticket information
Jamboo Savari	Tickets may be available for designated seating areas
Torchlight Parade	Tickets may be required for designated enclosures
Drone Show	Check event-specific entry requirements
Mysuru Dasara Gold Card	Check the official inclusions and booking conditions
Public procession route	Free public viewing
Palace illumination from public areas	Free viewing

Where to book: Visit the official Mysuru Dasara website at https://mysoredasara.gov.in/tickets to check availability, prices, included attractions, and booking conditions.

Ticket availability and prices can change. Avoid unofficial agents and read the entry and redemption instructions carefully before purchasing.

Best Places to Visit in Mysuru During Dasara

Make the most of your Dasara trip by exploring Mysuru's heritage attractions alongside the festival events.

1. Mysore Palace

Explore the royal architecture, palace interiors, and historic surroundings. Check visiting hours and entry rules separately from the free public illumination.

2. Chamundeshwari Temple

Visit the famous hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, who is central to Mysuru's Dasara celebrations.

3. Brindavan Gardens

Enjoy landscaped gardens and scenic views near the Krishnarajasagara Dam. Check current opening hours before planning your visit.

4. St. Philomena's Church

See the impressive Neo-Gothic architecture of one of Mysuru's well-known landmarks.

How to Reach Mysuru for Dasara 2026

By Train

Mysuru Junction connects the city with Bengaluru and other destinations. Book your tickets in advance because demand can increase during Dasara.

By Road

Mysuru is accessible from Bengaluru via the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway. Travel time depends on traffic, your starting point, and festival congestion.

By Air

The nearest major airport with a wider selection of flights is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. From there, continue to Mysuru by road or train.

During the festival, allow extra time for parking, road diversions, and travel to crowded venues.

Travel Tips for Mysore Dasara 2026

Book accommodation early because hotels and homestays may fill up quickly, particularly around October 20–21.
Arrive early for Jamboo Savari, as popular viewing spots can become crowded well before the procession.
Check official schedules and confirm event timings and ticket requirements before leaving your hotel.
Wear comfortable clothing because you may spend several hours walking or standing outdoors.
Plan local transport and check parking arrangements and traffic restrictions around the palace and Bannimantap.
Carry drinking water, a charged phone, identification, and any required tickets.
Plan beyond the main event by visiting the Flower Show, Aahara Mela, palace illumination, and nearby heritage attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mysore Dasara 2026

1. What Are the Dates of Mysore Dasara 2026?

Mysore Dasara takes place from October 11 to October 21, 2026. The grand Jamboo Savari procession is scheduled for October 21.

2. When Is Jamboo Savari in 2026?

Jamboo Savari takes place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The golden howdah ceremony is scheduled for 4:10 PM, followed by the procession from the palace towards Bannimantap. Confirm timings with the official programme before attending.

3. Is Mysore Dasara Free to Attend?

Many public celebrations, including the procession route and palace illumination viewing from public areas, are free. Designated seating, Torchlight Parade enclosures, and selected special experiences may require tickets.

4. Where Can I Book Mysore Dasara Tickets?

Visit https://mysoredasara.gov.in/tickets to check current availability, prices, and booking instructions for ticketed events.

5. What Is the Best Time to Visit Mysuru During Dasara?

October 11–21 is the main festival period. Visit earlier in the festival for cultural programmes and the Flower Show, or plan around October 20–21 if you want to experience the Torchlight Parade and Jamboo Savari.

6. How Many Days Are Enough for Mysore Dasara?

A two- or three-day trip can cover the palace illumination, major festival events, and several local attractions. Add more time if you want to explore nearby destinations.

Conclusion

Mysore Dasara 2026 offers a memorable mix of royal heritage, traditional rituals, cultural performances, local food, and spectacular evening celebrations. From the illuminated Mysore Palace to the grand Jamboo Savari, the festival provides plenty of reasons to visit Mysuru in October.

Plan your transport and accommodation in advance, verify ticket requirements, and check the official programme before setting out.

For more festival travel guides, destination ideas, and practical travel tips, explore TripLoko and start planning your next Karnataka getaway.

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Mysore Dasara 2026 Dates & Schedule: Jamboo Savari, Events and Tickets