5 things you need to know about Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace in Mysore

Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace is a heritage building in the state of Karnataka, India. Since the palace is quite popular among tourists visiting the cultural hub of Karnataka, i.e. Mysore, there are many hotels near Mysore palace. Here are few facts about the Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace:

1. History

The palace was formerly called as “First Rajkumari Mansion” since it was built by Maharaja Chamara Wodeyar for her eldest daughter Jayalakshammanni in 1905. The palace was specifically meant for her daughter and her son-in-law Sirdar M. KantharajUrs who became the Dewan of Mysore later. 

2. Architecture

The 125 rooms beautiful Jayalakshmi Palace was built with brick, timber, iron and mortar. The palace has three wings having Corinthian and Ionic columns. Statues of goddesses like Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Bhuvaneswari are placed inside the palace. The most exquisite part of the palace is its dancing room having wooden floors and 40 feet high roof with intricate decorating of glasses.

3. Things to see : Museums

The palace is home to three museums namely Archaeology Museum, Folklore Museum and General Museum. In Folklore Museum, huge collections of folk arts and paintings are there showcasing traditional culture of Karnataka. The Archaeology museum contains sculptures and paintings while the general museum showcases the belongings of the Mysore Royal family. 

4. How to reach

Located in Manasagangothri, the palace is just 3kms from the nearby railway station. It is also well connected by buses and taxis. 

5. Best time to visit

The palace remains open from Tuesday to Saturday for tourists. The best time to visit this place is in the months of September and October when you can stay in the affordable 3 star hotels in Mysore and enjoy the culturally rich city.

One of the 5 palaces built by Maharaja Chamara Wodeyar, it is surely the most beautiful one and a must visit for tourists.