Mysuru: The historic city of Mysuru is preparing to dazzle visitors with its world-famous Dasara festival, a ten-day cultural extravaganza steeped in royal tradition and spiritual significance. The celebrations will culminate in the Jumboo Savari, the royal Dasara procession, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, marking the finale of Karnataka’s most iconic festival.

Key highlights of Dasara 2025

The festival begins with traditional rituals at the Chamundeshwari Temple and continues with daily cultural performances at the Mysore Palace. Over one lakh bulbs will illuminate the palace every evening between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm, creating a spectacular setting for music, dance, and theatre programmes.

The grand finale, the Jumboo Savari, will start between 2:45 pm and 3:45 pm on Vijayadashami. The idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, adorned in splendour and seated in a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant, will be paraded from Mysore Palace to Bannimantap Grounds. The procession will include caparisoned elephants, horses, camels, cultural tableaux, folk troupes, and cannon salutes. The celebrations will conclude with the Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap Grounds, featuring military displays, cultural shows, fireworks, and a laser spectacle.

A legacy of history and mythology

The origins of Mysuru Dasara trace back to the 14th century Vijayanagar Empire, but the festival gained prominence under the Wodeyar dynasty, who ruled Mysuru for more than 600 years. It was Krishnaraja Wodeyar III who transformed Dasara into a grand public spectacle in the 19th century, adding processions and elaborate rituals that continue to this day.

The festival is rooted in mythology, celebrating the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The Goddess, revered as the city’s presiding deity, draws lakhs of devotees to her hilltop temple during the festival.

Ten days of festivities across Mysuru

Dasara is not limited to the palace and the procession. The city comes alive with fairs, exhibitions, craft workshops, and food stalls. The Dasara Exhibition Grounds remain a hub of activity with shopping, local cuisine, and traditional games. Karnataka’s rich cultural traditions are showcased through classical performances, folk dances, and theatre.

Food lovers can indulge in delicacies, with Mysore Pak taking centre stage. The buzzing markets offer textiles, souvenirs, and handicrafts unique to the state, ensuring a vibrant experience for both locals and tourists.

Planning your visit

  • Dates: The festival runs for ten days, culminating in the procession on October 2.

  • Travel: Mysuru is well connected by road and rail. The nearest major airport is in Bengaluru (145 km away), about a three-hour journey.

  • Accommodation: Hotels fill up months in advance, with prices soaring closer to the festival. Book early to secure a stay.

  • Viewing the procession: The route stretches several kilometres. For free viewing spots, arrive 3–4 hours in advance. For premium comfort, official “Gold Cards” will be available online closer to the festival.

    • Why Mysuru Dasara is unmissable

    Mysuru Dasara is more than a festival — it is a living heritage that combines history, spirituality, and cultural pride. The royal traditions of the Wodeyars, the divine aura of Goddess Chamundeshwari, and the artistic richness of Karnataka converge in one of India’s most celebrated public spectacles.

    For visitors, witnessing the golden howdah in the Jumboo Savari or watching the palace glow against the night sky offers an unforgettable glimpse into India’s royal past and vibrant cultural present.