Mysore Palace is located in the heart of Mysore city, Karnataka. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in South India, known for its grand architecture and rich history. Many travelers visit Mysore Palace to experience its royal charm and cultural significance.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Mysore Palace using different transport modes. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and local travel options to plan your visit confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Major Cities to Mysore Palace – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for visitors coming from Bangalore, Chennai, or other nearby cities. Mysore Railway Station is well connected and close to the palace.

• Mysore Railway Station is about 2 km from Mysore Palace, easily accessible by auto-rickshaws or taxis within 10 minutes.

• From Bangalore City Railway Station, trains to Mysore take around 2.5 to 3 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on class.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended during weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute rush.

• During the monsoon season, occasional delays can occur due to heavy rains, so plan extra time if traveling in June to September.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical, with options like Shatabdi Express offering faster service and better amenities.

Bus

Buses are a common choice for budget travelers and those coming from nearby towns. Mysore has a well-connected bus network with frequent services.

• The Mysore KSRTC Bus Stand is about 3 km from the palace, with regular city buses and auto-rickshaws available for the last mile.

• Buses from Bangalore to Mysore take about 3 to 4 hours, covering roughly 150 km on NH275, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on bus type.

• Volvo and deluxe buses provide comfortable travel with air conditioning, while ordinary buses are cheaper but crowded during peak hours.

• During festival seasons like Dasara, buses get crowded and tickets sell out quickly, so booking in advance is advisable.

• Rest stops with food options are available on the highway, but it is good to carry water and snacks for long journeys.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Mysore Palace offers flexibility and comfort, especially for families or groups wanting to explore nearby attractions.

• The main route from Bangalore is via NH275, covering about 150 km in 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Expect toll plazas on the highway; toll charges usually range between ₹100 to ₹200 one way.

• Parking near Mysore Palace is available but limited; arriving early in the day helps secure a spot and avoid crowds.

• Driving during early morning or late evening avoids city traffic in Bangalore and Mysore, making the journey smoother.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are well spaced along the highway, with options for meals and refreshments.

Local Transport

Once in Mysore city, local transport options make it easy to reach Mysore Palace from railway or bus stations.

• Auto-rickshaws are widely available and affordable, with fares around ₹50 to ₹100 for short trips to the palace.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Mysore, offering convenient and cashless rides with fare estimates before booking.

• City buses run frequently on routes passing near the palace; inquire locally for the best bus number and stops.

• Walking is possible if you stay in the city center, as Mysore Palace is centrally located near many hotels and markets.

• During peak tourist times, traffic near the palace can be heavy, so plan extra travel time for local transport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time visitors to Mysore Palace to help them reach smoothly and enjoy their visit without hassle.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or KSRTC websites to secure seats, especially during weekends and festivals.

• Arrive at Mysore Railway Station or Bus Stand early to avoid last-minute rush and find reliable local transport to the palace.

• Choose an auto-rickshaw or app-based cab from the station; confirm the fare beforehand or use the app fare estimate to avoid overcharging.

• Reach Mysore Palace preferably in the morning to enjoy cooler weather and avoid heavy crowds that gather later in the day.

• Carry a small bottle of water and wear comfortable shoes, as you may spend a few hours exploring the palace grounds and nearby attractions.

• After your visit, plan your return transport in advance, especially if you have a train or bus to catch, to avoid last-minute delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large bags inside Mysore Palace, as security checks are strict and crowded areas increase risk of pickpocketing.

• Drink only bottled water available at shops near the palace to avoid stomach issues common with tap water in Indian cities.

• Book tickets for trains and buses online well in advance during festival seasons like Dasara to avoid sold-out situations and inflated prices.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for local travel to ensure fair pricing and avoid bargaining hassles common with auto-rickshaws.

• Pack light luggage if you plan to use public transport, as crowded buses and trains can make handling heavy bags difficult.

• During the monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat, and check weather updates as heavy rains can cause delays on highways and local roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mysore Palace is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing is comfortable. Avoid the hot summer months when temperatures can soar above 35°C.

Festival periods like Dasara attract large crowds, which can affect travel and accommodation availability. Plan accordingly if you want to experience the festivities or prefer quieter visits.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival days unless you have pre-booked tickets and accommodation, as traffic and crowding increase significantly.

• Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains that may cause delays on highways and slippery roads around Mysore.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Bangalore and Mysore, making your journey faster and more comfortable.

• Late evening visits to Mysore Palace are possible but check closing times and local transport availability to avoid being stranded.

Arrival at Mysore Palace & What to Expect

When you arrive near Mysore Palace, you will find several options for local transport and amenities. The palace is located in a busy area with many hotels, restaurants, and shops nearby.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are available near the palace entrance, making it easy to plan your onward journey. Auto-rickshaws are also plentiful but agree on fares before starting your trip. Popular areas to stay include the city center near the palace and around the railway station for easy access.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Mysore Palace depends on your starting point and travel preferences. Train travel from Bangalore is fast and comfortable, while buses offer budget options. Driving gives flexibility but requires planning for parking and tolls.

Advance booking, early departures, and using reliable local transport will make your visit smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Mysore Palace and experience its royal grandeur without stress.