Mysore Fort- History, Architecture, Popular Attractions, Visiting Times and Entry Fees!
Welcome to the majestic world of Mysore Fort! This historic fort, located in the heart of the city of Mysore, Karnataka, has a rich history that dates back centuries.
The fort’s behemoth architecture, with its towering walls and fine carvings, shows the skill and craftsmanship of its builders. And within its walls, there are a plethora of popular attractions that draw visitors from all over the world.
In this blog, we will delve into the history of Mysore Fort, explore its breath-taking architecture, and discover the many popular attractions that it has to offer. So, join us as we embark on a journey through the rich and fascinating history of Mysore Fort!
Mysore Fort- History
Mysore Fort, also known as the Mysore Palace, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Mysore, Karnataka, India. With its towering walls, grand entrance gates, and beautiful gardens, the fort has long been a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage and royal history. The fort’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, when it was first built as a simple mud fort by the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Over the centuries, the fort has undergone several renovations and expansions, and today, it stands as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the region’s artisans and builders. One of the most impressive features of the fort is its grand entrance gate, known as the Gombe Thotti, or “Dolls’ Pavilion.” This gate is adorned with intricate carvings and adorned with colourful frescoes, and serves as a fitting introduction to the beauty and grandeur that awaits inside the fort.
Inside the fort, visitors can explore a number of impressive halls and chambers, including the Durbar Hall, the Diwan-i-Am, and the Private Audience Hall. Each of these rooms is adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate carvings, and sparkling chandeliers, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the fort’s former residents. But the Mysore Fort is not just a place of historical importance.
It is also home to a number of cultural and religious events, including the annual Dussehra festival, which sees the fort’s walls illuminated with thousands of candles and colourful decorations. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a stunning place to visit, the Mysore Fort is a must-see destination!
Mysore Fort- Architecture
Mysore Fort is a stunning piece of architecture that is rich in history and cultural significance. Located in the city of Mysore in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, the fort is a three-storey stone structure with a 145 ft tower that showcases a blend of Indo-Saracenic, Indian, Indo-Islamic, Neo-Classical, and Gothic revival styles.
One of the most striking features of the fort is the deep pink marble stones that adorn the top of the structure, giving it a regal and majestic appearance. The design of the domes also illustrates the Indo-Saracenic style, which was popular during the late 19th century in British India and incorporates elements from various architectural styles.
The fort has three gates that lead into the compound – the East Gate, which is reserved for VIPs and is open during the Dasara festival; the South Gate, which is designated for the general public; and the West Gate, which is normally open during Dasara. In addition to these gates, the cellar of the fort contains secret tunnels that lead to several confidential areas and even to the town of Srirangapatna.
The façade of the fort is adorned with several fancy arches, with two smaller arches on either side of the central arch. This central arch is supported by long pillars and features a sculpture of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of good luck, prosperity, and wealth, with her elephants seated atop it. The fort faces the Chamundi Hills and is a testament to the devotion of the Maharajas of Mysore towards the goddess Chamundi.
In conclusion, the Mysore Fort is a stunning architectural masterpiece that combines various styles to create a unique and breath-taking structure. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian architecture and history.
Popular Attractions in the Mysore Fort
The Mysore Fort is a must-see destination for any traveller visiting the city of Mysore. Located in the heart of the city, the fort is home to a number of popular attractions that are sure to captivate the attention of visitors of all ages.
1. Mysore Palace
One of the most popular attractions within the Mysore Fort is the Mysore Palace. This stunning architectural masterpiece is a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled over Mysore for many centuries.
The palace is adorned with intricate carvings, sparkling jewels, and colourful frescoes, making it a truly breath-taking sight to behold. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, learning about its history and marvelling at its ornate decorations.
2. Jaganmohan Palace
Another popular attraction within the Mysore Fort is the Jaganmohan Palace, which now serves as an art gallery.
This beautiful palace is home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Mysore. Visitors can spend hours exploring the galleries and admiring the various works on display.
3. Chamundeshwari Temple
The Mysore Fort is also home to a number of temples and shrines, including the famous Chamundeshwari Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari, who is believed to be the patron deity of the Wodeyar dynasty.
Visitors can climb the steep steps to the top of the hill where the temple is located, enjoying panoramic views of the city as they go.
4. Serene garden and parks
In addition to these popular attractions, the Mysore Fort also features beautiful gardens and parks, as well as a number of small shops and stalls where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or just want to spend a relaxing day in the great outdoors, the Mysore Fort has something for everyone.
Sound & Light Show at the Mysore Fort
The Sound & Light Show at the Mysore Fort is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. This unique and immersive experience combines the beauty of the Mysore Palace with the power of music and lighting to create a truly memorable experience.
The show takes place every day except for Sundays and public holidays, starting at 7:00 p.m. and lasting for 40 minutes. Visitors can purchase tickets at the entrance, with prices ranging from Rs. 40 for adults to Rs. 25 for children between the ages of 7 and 12. Foreign nationals can also enjoy the show for a slightly higher price of Rs. 200.
During the show, the Mysore Palace is illuminated in a spectacular display of lights and colours, creating a breath-taking visual spectacle. At the same time, a narrated audio tour tells the story of the Wodeyar dynasty and the history of the Mysore Fort, adding an educational element to the experience. The show is conducted in both English and Kannada, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
If you’re visiting Mysore, be sure to catch the Sound & Light Show at the Mysore Fort. It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Mysore Fort- Visiting Times and Entry Fees
The Mysore Fort is open for visitors every day from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to marvel at its intricate details and rich history.
And don’t worry about breaking the bank – admission to the fort is just Rs. 40 for adults, Rs. 20 for students between the ages of 10 and 18, and Rs. 200 for foreign nationals.
Plus, to make your visit even more convenient, the fort now offers battery-operated vehicles for tourists to take a tour of the grounds. With so much to see and do, the Mysore Fort is a must-see destination for any traveller to India!
