Mysore Dasara 2026 is one of the biggest cultural celebrations in Karnataka and a major reason to visit Mysuru during October. The festival combines royal traditions, religious ceremonies, cultural programmes, illuminated landmarks, exhibitions and the famous Jamboo Savari elephant procession.
For 2026, Mysuru Dasara is scheduled from October 11 to October 21, 2026, with the grand Vijayadashami celebrations, Jamboo Savari and Torchlight Parade taking place on Wednesday, October 21.
If you are planning a trip to Mysore during Dasara, this guide covers the important dates, Jamboo Savari, Mysore Palace illumination, events, tickets, places to visit, travel tips, accommodation and frequently asked questions.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Dates
Mysore Dasara 2026 will be celebrated from Sunday, October 11 to Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Dasara inauguration | October 11, 2026 |
| Dasara celebrations | October 11–21, 2026 |
| Maha Navami / Ayudha Puja | October 20, 2026 |
| Vijayadashami | October 21, 2026 |
| Jamboo Savari | October 21, 2026 |
| Torchlight Parade | October 21, 2026 |
The main festival period is listed by the Government of India’s tourism portal as October 11–21, 2026.
When is Mysore Dasara 2026?
Mysore Dasara 2026 begins on October 11 and ends on October 21, 2026.
The most important day for visitors is October 21 because it is Vijayadashami and includes the famous Jamboo Savari procession.
What Is Mysore Dasara?
Mysore Dasara, also written as Mysuru Dasara, is Karnataka’s famous state festival, known locally as Nadahabba.
The festival is associated with the worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari and the traditional celebration of the victory of good over evil. Mysuru’s royal history is an important part of the celebration, which is why the festival has a distinctly royal atmosphere.
During Dasara, the city comes alive with cultural programmes, music, dance, exhibitions, sporting events, religious ceremonies and beautifully illuminated buildings. The grand finale is the Jamboo Savari procession through the streets of Mysuru.
Why Is Mysore Dasara Famous?
Mysore Dasara is famous for several things:
- The spectacular Jamboo Savari elephant procession
- Mysore Palace illuminated with thousands of lights
- Traditional royal ceremonies
- Goddess Chamundeshwari in the golden howdah
- Cultural and musical performances
- Dasara Exhibition
- Food and shopping events
- Yuva Dasara programmes
- Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap
- The festive atmosphere throughout Mysuru
The Mysuru Palace becomes one of the main visual attractions during the festival. The district administration notes that the palace is illuminated with around 97,000 electric bulbs during Dasara celebrations.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Jamboo Savari
The Jamboo Savari is the biggest and most famous event of Mysore Dasara.
In 2026, Jamboo Savari will take place on Wednesday, October 21, on Vijayadashami. The procession traditionally begins at Mysore Palace and moves towards Bannimantap.
The highlight is the decorated lead elephant carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in the famous golden howdah. The procession is accompanied by decorated elephants, horses, musicians, cultural groups, tableaux and other traditional performances.
The 2026 ceremonial schedule has also included specific muhurta timings for the procession-related rituals. According to reporting from July 2026, the Nandi Dhwaja Puja is scheduled between 1:36 PM and 1:56 PM, followed later by the floral tribute to Goddess Chamundeshwari between 4:10 PM and 4:35 PM.
Because crowd-control arrangements, viewing areas and public-entry instructions can change, visitors should check the final government programme before travelling.
Jamboo Savari Route
The Jamboo Savari traditionally follows the route from Mysore Palace towards Bannimantap.
The procession includes:
- Goddess Chamundeshwari
- Decorated elephants
- Traditional music bands
- Folk artists
- Cultural tableaux
- Horses
- Other ceremonial groups
The procession is one of the best opportunities to experience Mysuru’s royal Dasara tradition in person.
Where Can You Watch Jamboo Savari?
The best viewing location depends on whether you have an official reserved seat or are watching from a public area.
For a first-time visitor, it is important to reach the viewing area well before the procession begins. Roads around the palace and procession route can become extremely crowded, and traffic restrictions are normally introduced.
Do not plan to arrive at the last minute.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Torchlight Parade
The Torchlight Parade, known locally as Panjina Kavayatthu, is another major attraction of Dasara.
It will be held at Bannimantap Parade Grounds on October 21, 2026, following the Vijayadashami celebrations.
The event traditionally features ceremonial formations, equestrian displays, music, coordinated lighting and other performances.
If you want to experience both Jamboo Savari and the Torchlight Parade, October 21 is the most important day to be in Mysuru.
Mysore Palace Illumination During Dasara
One of the simplest ways to experience Dasara is to see Mysore Palace illuminated at night.
The palace is decorated with thousands of lights during the festival, creating one of the most recognizable views of Mysuru during Dasara. The palace is also an important part of the city’s royal history and Dasara celebrations.
The exact 2026 illumination timings and public-entry arrangements should be checked closer to the festival because schedules can change.
If you are visiting mainly for the palace lights, check the day’s official programme before making your plans.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Events
Dasara is much more than the Jamboo Savari. Events are spread across Mysuru during the festival period.
Depending on the final programme, visitors can expect activities such as:
1. Dasara Inauguration
The festival begins with the official inauguration and traditional ceremonies.
2. Cultural Programmes
Music, classical dance, folk performances and other cultural programmes are organised at different venues around Mysuru.
3. Yuva Dasara
Yuva Dasara is aimed particularly at younger audiences and is known for live music and entertainment programmes.
The exact artists, venues and timings for 2026 should be confirmed through the final official programme.
4. Dasara Exhibition
The Dasara Exhibition is one of the popular attractions during the festival.
Visitors can find shopping stalls, handicrafts, food, entertainment and displays connected with Karnataka’s culture and tourism.
5. Sports Events
Sports competitions and other public activities are also part of the wider Dasara celebrations.
6. Food Festival
Food-related events and stalls give visitors an opportunity to try local Karnataka dishes as well as popular Indian foods.
7. Flower Shows and Cultural Activities
Flower displays, art events, heritage activities and other programmes may also be included in the festival calendar. The final schedule is generally released in stages.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Schedule
A detailed day-by-day programme can change as the organisers announce individual events. The major confirmed dates currently include:
October 11: Dasara begins and inauguration takes place.
October 11–20: Cultural programmes, exhibitions, religious activities and other Dasara events take place across Mysuru.
October 20: Maha Navami and Ayudha Puja-related ceremonies.
October 21: Vijayadashami, Nandi Dhwaja Puja, Jamboo Savari and Torchlight Parade.
Visitors should not rely on unofficial social media schedules for exact event timings. The detailed programme, artist list, ticket rules and entry arrangements may be updated closer to the festival.
What Is Ayudha Puja During Mysore Dasara?
Ayudha Puja is traditionally observed on the ninth day of Navaratri.
On this day, people worship tools, vehicles, machines, books, musical instruments and other items connected with their work and daily life.
In Karnataka, Ayudha Puja is an important part of the Dasara celebrations and can be especially interesting for visitors who want to understand the cultural side of the festival.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Tickets
One of the most common questions visitors have is whether they need tickets for Mysore Dasara.
The answer depends on the event.
Some parts of Dasara are public celebrations, while certain programmes or reserved viewing areas may require tickets, passes or designated entry arrangements.
This is particularly important for visitors interested in reserved seating for major events.
For 2026, exact ticket prices, availability, seating categories and booking instructions should be confirmed from official sources when the organisers release them.
Do not buy Dasara tickets or passes from random social media accounts or unverified websites.
Is Jamboo Savari Free to Watch?
You may be able to watch parts of the Jamboo Savari procession from public areas, but access to specific reserved seating or designated viewing enclosures can require an official ticket or pass.
Because crowd-control and security arrangements can change each year, check the official instructions before travelling.
How to Reach Mysore for Dasara 2026
Mysuru is well connected with Bengaluru and other major cities in Karnataka.
By Road
Mysuru can be reached easily by road from Bengaluru. Buses, taxis and private vehicles are available.
However, traffic around central Mysuru can become very heavy on Vijayadashami.
By Train
Mysuru has a railway station with train connections to Bengaluru and other cities.
If you are travelling around October 20–21, booking your train well in advance is a good idea.
By Air
Mysuru Airport has limited connectivity compared with Bengaluru Airport.
For travellers coming from outside Karnataka, flying to Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and continuing to Mysuru by road or train can be a practical option.
Where to Stay During Mysore Dasara 2026
If you are planning to visit Mysuru for Dasara, book accommodation early.
Hotels in and around central Mysuru can become expensive and crowded during the festival, particularly around Vijayadashami.
For easy sightseeing, areas around:
- Mysore Palace
- City centre
- Devaraja Market
- Nazarbad
- Kuvempunagar
- Bannimantap
can be considered depending on your budget and transport plans.
If your main purpose is Jamboo Savari, staying closer to central Mysuru can save travel time on October 21.
How Many Days Are Enough for Mysore Dasara?
For a quick Dasara trip, 2–3 days can be enough.
A practical plan could be:
Day 1: Arrive in Mysuru, visit Mysore Palace and explore the city.
Day 2: Visit Chamundi Hill and other attractions, then enjoy evening Dasara activities and palace illumination.
Day 3: Experience Vijayadashami and Jamboo Savari, followed by the Torchlight Parade if access and timing allow.
If you want to attend cultural programmes and explore the Dasara Exhibition, staying 3–4 days gives you more flexibility.
Best Time to Visit Mysore During Dasara
The best date depends on what you want to see.
For Jamboo Savari: October 21, 2026.
For the complete festival experience: Stay for at least two or three days around October 20–21.
For fewer crowds: Visit earlier in the festival instead of waiting until Vijayadashami.
For the palace illumination: Visit during the evening on a scheduled illumination day and confirm the timing beforehand.
Places to Visit in Mysore During Dasara
While you are in Mysuru, you can combine Dasara with several popular attractions.
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is the heart of the city’s royal heritage and one of the most important places to visit during Dasara.
Chamundi Hill
Chamundi Hill is closely connected with Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysore Dasara.
Brindavan Gardens
Located outside the main city, Brindavan Gardens is another popular attraction for visitors spending several days in Mysuru.
St. Philomena’s Cathedral
This historic church is one of Mysuru’s well-known landmarks and can be included in a city sightseeing itinerary.
Mysore Zoo
The zoo is another popular family attraction if you have extra time.
Mysore Dasara 2026 Travel Tips
If this is your first Dasara visit, keep these points in mind:
- Book your hotel and transport early.
- Keep October 21 relatively free if you want to see Jamboo Savari.
- Reach the procession area early.
- Expect heavy crowds and traffic restrictions.
- Follow police and district administration instructions.
- Use public transport where possible on major event days.
- Carry water and basic essentials.
- Avoid carrying unnecessary bags into crowded areas.
- Keep children and elderly family members close.
- Check official event timings before leaving your hotel.
- Buy tickets and passes only through authorised channels.
- Do not assume an online schedule is final unless it comes from an official source.
Is Mysore Dasara Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy Indian culture, history, festivals and traditional celebrations.
The combination of the illuminated Mysore Palace, royal traditions, cultural performances and the Jamboo Savari makes Dasara very different from a normal Mysuru sightseeing trip.
However, it is also one of the busiest times to visit the city. If you prefer a quiet holiday, the festival period may feel crowded.
Mysore Dasara 2026 FAQs
When is Mysore Dasara 2026?
Mysore Dasara 2026 will be celebrated from October 11 to October 21, 2026.
When is Jamboo Savari in Mysore in 2026?
The Jamboo Savari will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, on Vijayadashami.
What is the main attraction of Mysore Dasara?
The Jamboo Savari, in which Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried in the golden howdah on a decorated elephant, is the main attraction.
Where does Jamboo Savari start?
The procession starts from the Mysore Palace area and proceeds towards Bannimantap.
Where does Jamboo Savari end?
The procession traditionally concludes at Bannimantap.
When is the Mysore Dasara Torchlight Parade?
The Torchlight Parade is scheduled for October 21, 2026, at Bannimantap Parade Grounds.
Is Mysore Palace illuminated during Dasara?
Yes. Mysore Palace is illuminated during the Dasara celebrations and is one of the festival’s most popular sights.
How long does Mysore Dasara last in 2026?
The announced 2026 festival period is October 11 to October 21, covering 11 calendar days.
What is Mysore Dasara also called?
Mysore Dasara is also commonly called Mysuru Dasara and is known as Nadahabba, the state festival of Karnataka.
What is Jamboo Savari?
Jamboo Savari is the grand Vijayadashami procession featuring Goddess Chamundeshwari, decorated elephants, cultural performers, music bands and ceremonial tableaux.
Is Mysore Dasara good for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy the palace illumination, cultural programmes, exhibitions, food events and other attractions. However, large crowds are expected on Vijayadashami.
Should I book a hotel early for Mysore Dasara?
Yes. October is a busy period in Mysuru, and accommodation can become harder to find and more expensive around Vijayadashami.
Final Word
Mysore Dasara 2026 will bring Mysuru’s royal heritage and cultural traditions to life from October 11 to October 21, 2026. The biggest day is October 21, when Vijayadashami celebrations include the famous Jamboo Savari and the Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap.
If you are visiting mainly for the elephant procession, plan around October 21 and arrive in Mysuru at least a day earlier. For a broader experience, spend two or three days exploring the palace, Chamundi Hill, cultural programmes and other Dasara attractions.
Since detailed programmes, ticket arrangements and public-entry rules can be updated closer to the festival, always check the latest information from the official tourism and Dasara authorities before travelling.
Chavi Devi is the founder and author of Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Based in Bengaluru, she has been documenting Lalbagh for the last 2 years – from ticket prices and timings to hidden rules and photography permissions. She visits the garden regularly to verify information and creates simple, practical guides for first-time visitors.
Read More About Chavi→ About Us