Every year, the cultural capital of Karnataka transforms into a glowing realm of heritage and devotion. Known officially as Nada Habba (the state festival), Mysuru Dasara is a grand 10-day celebration. It blends sacred rituals, royal grandeur, and vibrant public festivities.
If you are planning your trip to Karnataka, here is your complete guide. Discover the dates, history, major highlights, accommodation options, KSTDC packages, and key travel details for Mysore Dasara 2026.
When is Dasara in 2026? Key Dates and Schedule
Mark your calendars early for this grand spectacle. Mysuru Dasara 2026 will begin on Sunday, October 11, 2026, and conclude on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
| Key Event | Scheduled Date | Venue |
| Festival Inauguration & Dasara Puja | October 11, 2026 | Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, Chamundi Hill |
| Yuva Dasara & Cultural Shows | October 12 – October 20, 2026 | Maharaja’s College Grounds & Palace Precincts |
| Mahanavami & Ayudha Puja | October 20, 2026 | Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas) |
| Vijayadashami & Mysuru Dasara Procession | October 21, 2026 | Mysore Palace to Bannimantap Grounds |
| Torchlight Parade | October 21, 2026 (Evening) | Bannimantap Parade Grounds |
Who Started the Dasara Festival in Mysore? History and Fascinating Facts
The historical roots of the Dasara festival run deep into South Indian royalty. The celebration honors Goddess Chamundeshwari defeating the demon Mahishasura. The city name Mysuru itself draws origin from this ancient victory.
Vijayanagara Origins and the Wadiyar Legacy
So, who started Dasara festival in Mysore? Rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire originally began this celebration in the 14th century.
Following Vijayanagara’s fall, Raja Wadiyar I revived the grand tradition in 1610 at Srirangapatna. The Wadiyar dynasty later relocated the festival headquarters to Mysuru Palace.
Interesting Facts About Mysuru Dasara
- Centuries of Legacy: The festival boasts over 400 years of documented royal lineage.
- The 750-kg Golden Ambari: A trained lead elephant carries the golden idol in a 750-kilogram golden howdah.
- A Lakh Bulbs: Over 100,000 light bulbs illuminate the Mysore Palace facade during festival evenings.
- Royal Durbar: The titular Maharaja holds a private court (Khasgi Durbar) wearing ancestral royal robes.
The Mysore Dasara history showcases a seamless transition from royal court traditions to a public cultural fiesta.
Major Highlights: Deep Dive into the Grand Jamboo Savari
During Dasara Mysore, the city buzzes with vibrant energy day and night. However, no event matches the grand scale of the Vijayadashami procession.
The Majestic Jamboo Savari & The Golden Howdah
The highlight of Mysore Dasara 2026 is the Vijayadashami parade on October 21. Known locally as Jamboo Savari, this multi-kilometer royal march starts from the Mysore Palace courtyard.
The focal point is the Ambari Mysore Dasara. A decorated lead elephant carries Goddess Chamundeshwari in a solid golden howdah weighing 750 kilograms. Before the procession begins, state dignitaries and royal descendants pay floral tributes to the deity inside the palace.
Dozens of beautifully decorated elephants march through the streets alongside folk troupes, royal guards, and vibrant tableaux representing Karnataka’s cultural districts.
Mysore Palace ──> Sayyaji Rao Road ──> Highway Circle ──> Bannimantap Grounds
1. Sacred Dasara Puja Ceremonies
Priests offer traditional Dasara puja prayers to Goddess Chamundeshwari atop Chamundi Hill. Inside the palace, royal family members conduct private Ayudha Puja for weapons and royal vehicles.
2. Mysuru Dasara Exhibition
Located at Doddakere Maidan, the Dasara exhibition Mysore is a massive local hit. It runs for over two months beyond the 10-day Mysore Dasara festival. Visitors explore handicraft stalls, carnival rides, and delicious regional food courts.
3. Special Experiences Around Mysuru
- Ambaari Open-Top Bus Tour: Ride the double-decker open-top bus at night to view illuminated streets.
- Flower Show at Nishad Bagh: Walk through stunning floral installations inside Kuppanna Park.
- Heritage Walks & Food Tours: Explore local markets, sample authentic Mysore Pak, and buy GI-tagged Mysuru Silk sarees.
Other Unique Dasara Celebrations Across Karnataka
While Mysuru holds state prominence, other regions in Karnataka celebrate Navarathri with distinct local flavors:
- Madikeri Dasara (Coorg): Famous for its overnight Dasha Mantapa parade. Ten beautifully lit mechanical floats roam the streets amidst heavy drum beats.
- Mangaluru Dasara: Centered at Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple. It features stunning idol installations of Navadurga and the vibrant Pili Vesha (Tiger Dance) performers.
- Shimoga & Dharwad Dasara: Rich in classical cultural music, local wrestling competitions (Kusti), and historic temple rituals.
Where to Stay in and Around Mysuru
Finding the right accommodation early is crucial for Dasara 2026. From state-run heritage hotels inside the city to luxury wilderness lodges nearby, here are the top recommended stays:
Official KSTDC Hotels (In the Heart of Mysuru)
- KSTDC Hotel Mayura Hoysala, Mysuru: Located close to Mysuru Junction railway station, offering comfortable family stays.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel: Experience royal luxury at India’s second-largest palace, now managed under Jungle Lodges & Resorts.
- Explore All KSTDC Hotels: Browse state-run heritage and budget hotels across Karnataka.
Jungle Lodges & Resorts (Nature & Wildlife Stays Near Mysuru)
If you prefer peaceful nature retreats just a short drive from the city, book these iconic government-backed wilderness lodges:
- Kabini River Lodge: Rated among the world’s top wildlife resorts, located along the Kabini backwaters.
- Bandipur Safari Lodge: Nestled right at the edge of Bandipur National Park for safari enthusiasts.
- JLR Kings Sanctuary, Nagarhole: An eco-friendly resort located on the northern fringe of Rajiv Gandhi National Park.
- Book Stays at Jungle Lodges & Resorts: Reserve official wildlife and eco-resort accommodations near Mysuru.
How to Reach Mysuru
Mysuru enjoys excellent transport connectivity across southern India:
- By Air: Mysuru Airport (MYQ) connects to major regional cities. Alternatively, fly into Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), located 170 km away.
- By Train: Mysuru Junction (MYS) connects directly to Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. High-speed Vande Bharat Express trains connect Bengaluru to Mysuru in under two hours.
- By Road: Drive down the 10-lane Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway. Frequent KSRTC buses run every few minutes from Bengaluru.
Official KSTDC Mysuru Dasara Tour Packages
The Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) offers curated bus tours and sightseeing packages for smooth travel:
- KSTDC Mysuru City Tour: A two-day guided package from Bengaluru covering Chamundi Hill, Mysore Palace, St. Philomena’s Church, and illuminated KRS Brindavan Gardens.
- KSTDC 1-Day Mysuru Sightseeing: A comprehensive local itinerary covering Srirangapatna, Mysore Zoo, Jaganmohan Art Gallery, and Mysore Palace.
- Ambaari Open-Top Illumination Tour: Night tour aboard an open-top double-decker bus to experience illuminated heritage buildings.
- Explore All KSTDC Bus Packages: View the complete list of regional and city tour packages offered across Karnataka.
Plan Your Royal Journey Today
The Dasara festival in Mysore is a soulful celebration of Karnataka’s living heritage. From heritage parades to glowing street lights, Mysore Dasara offers memories for a lifetime.
To book official gold passes, check event schedules, or secure tour tickets, visit the official government portal at mysoredasara.gov.in. Reserve your stays early and experience royal hospitality in Mysuru this October!