Mysore Dasara 2023: Dates, Events Program List, Tickets, Film Festival Schedule, and Tips for Your Visit
Mysore Dasara is a big and famous festival in Mysore, Karnataka. It’s about the time when Goddess Chamundeshwari defeated the demon Mahishasura. It’s a celebration of good winning over bad.
This festival lasts for 10 days. It starts on the first day of the Ashwina month and ends on the tenth day, called Dussehra. During this time, Mysore is filled with lights, music, dance, and lots of colors. Every evening, the Mysore Palace is lit up with many lights, and it looks amazing.
There are many events in the city that show Karnataka’s traditions. On the last day of Mysore Dasara, there’s a big parade with decorated elephants, horses, and camels. The parade starts at the Mysore Palace and ends at the Bannimantap grounds. In the evening, there are fireworks.
Many people, not just from Mysore but from everywhere, come to see this festival. If you’re thinking of coming to Mysore during Dasara, you should know how special it is!
In this article, I will give you an insight on Mysore Dasara 2023 dates, Film Festival schedule, Tickets and How to Plan your Visit.
Consider reading: Mysore Palace Timings, Entry Fee, History Details
Mysore Dasara 2023 Dates
The dates of Mysore Dasara vary every year according to the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2023, Mysore Dasara will start on Sunday, October 15th, and end on Tuesday, October 24th. Here is a table showing the dates and days of Mysore Dasara 2023:
| Date | Day | Event |
|---|---|---|
| October 15 | Sunday | First day of Dasara |
| October 16 | Monday | Second day of Dasara |
| October 17 | Tuesday | Third day of Dasara |
| October 18 | Wednesday | Fourth day of Dasara |
| October 19 | Thursday | Fifth day of Dasara |
| October 20 | Friday | Sixth day of Dasara |
| October 21 | Saturday | Seventh day of Dasara |
| October 22 | Sunday | Eighth day of Dasara |
| October 23 | Monday | Ninth day of Dasara |
| October 24 | Tuesday | Tenth day of Dasara (Vijayadashami) |
How to Plan for Attending Mysore Dasara from Bangalore
If you are traveling from Bangalore (also known as Bengaluru), the capital city of Karnataka, to Mysore for Dasara, you have several options to choose from. You can take a train, a bus, a taxi, or drive your own vehicle. Here are some tips on how to plan your travel:
- Train: Taking a train is one of the most convenient and economical ways to reach Mysore from Bangalore. There are several trains that run between the two cities every day, with different timings and fares. You can book your tickets online through IRCTC or other platforms, or buy them at the railway station. Some of the popular trains that you can take are Shatabdi Express, Chamundi Express, Tippu Express, Rajya Rani Express, etc. The journey time by train is around 2 to 3 hours.
- Bus: Taking a bus is another option that you can consider for traveling to Mysore from Bangalore. There are many buses that ply between the two cities regularly, operated by both government and private agencies. You can book your tickets online through KSRTC or other platforms, or buy them at the bus station. Some of the popular buses that you can take are Airavat Club Class, Airavat Superia, Flybus, etc. The journey time by bus is around 3 to 4 hours.
- Taxi: Taking a taxi is a more comfortable and flexible way to reach Mysore from Bangalore. You can hire a taxi from any reputed service provider or aggregator such as Ola, Uber, Meru Cabs, etc. You can choose the type of vehicle, the number of passengers, and the time of departure according to your convenience. The journey time by taxi is around 3 to 4 hours.
- Self-drive: Driving your own vehicle is another option that you can opt for if you want to have more control and freedom over your travel. You can rent a car or a bike from any reliable service provider such as Zoomcar, Drivezy, Bounce, etc. You can choose the type of vehicle, the duration of rental, and the pickup and drop locations according to your preference. The journey time by self-drive is around 3 to 4 hours.
Mysore Dasara 2023 Events
Mysore Dasara is not just a festival, but a series of events that showcase the culture and heritage of Mysore and Karnataka. There are many events that take place during the 10 days of Dasara, catering to different interests and tastes of the visitors. Some of the major events that you should not miss are:
- Gajapayana: Gajapayana is the ceremonial journey of the elephants from their camp in Nagarahole National Park to Mysore Palace, where they participate in the Dasara procession. The elephants are welcomed by the district administration and the public with great pomp and enthusiasm. The Gajapayana usually takes place a few weeks before the start of Dasara.
- Yuva Dasara: Yuva Dasara is a youth festival that features various cultural and entertainment programs by young artists from different fields such as music, dance, drama, comedy, etc. The Yuva Dasara is held at the Maharaja’s College Grounds every evening during Dasara.
- Dasara Exhibition: Dasara Exhibition is a fair that showcases various products and services from different sectors such as agriculture, industry, handicrafts, tourism, etc. The exhibition also has stalls selling food, clothes, accessories, games, etc. The exhibition is held at the Doddakere Maidan near the Mysore Palace.
- Dasara Sports: Dasara Sports is a sporting event that involves various competitions and tournaments in different disciplines such as athletics, cricket, football, volleyball, chess, etc. The sports event is held at various venues across the city such as Chamundi Vihar Stadium, University Grounds, etc.
- Dasara Cultural Programs: Dasara Cultural Programs are a series of performances by renowned artists from different genres such as classical music, folk music, dance, drama, etc. The cultural programs are held at various venues across the city such as Kalamandir Auditorium, Jaganmohan Palace Auditorium, Town Hall Auditorium, etc.
Mysore Dasara Special Highlights
Mysore Dasara also offers some special events and activities that are unique and exclusive to the festival. These shows are designed to entertain and amaze visitors with their spectacular display of art and technology. Some of the special shows that you should not miss are:
- Palace Illumination: The Palace Illumination is one of the most iconic and mesmerizing attractions of Mysore Dasara. The Mysore Palace is lit up with more than 1 lakh bulbs every evening from 7 pm to 10 pm during Dasara. The palace looks like a golden jewel in the night sky, creating a stunning contrast with the dark background. The palace illumination is a sight that you will never forget.
- Jamboo Savari: Jamboo Savari is the grand finale of Mysore Dasara. It is a majestic procession of elephants, horses, camels, and other animals, along with floats depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and history. The procession starts from the Mysore Palace and ends at the Bannimantap grounds on the last day of Dasara (Vijayadashami). The main attraction of the procession is the howdah (a seat mounted on an elephant’s back) carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, which the royal family and the public worship. The Jamboo Savari is a spectacle that you will never forget.
- Torchlight Parade: Torchlight Parade is a dazzling display of fireworks and pyrotechnics that takes place at the Bannimantap grounds after the Jamboo Savari on Vijayadashami. The parade involves various units of the police and armed forces marching with torches in their hands, creating a brilliant effect in the dark. The parade also features cultural performances by folk artists and bands. The torchlight parade is a sight that you will never forget.
Consider reading: Brindavan Gardens Mysore Timings, Entry Fees, Fountain, and Light Show
Mysore Dasara Special Events
| Day | Date | Event & Details | Thithi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Sunday, 15 Oct 2023 | Sharana Navaratri Begins – Shaila Vratha , From 10:15 AM to 10:36 AM – Sri Chamundeshwari Pooja at the Chamundi Hill ( Shubha Vrishchka Lagna – Jayalakshmi Vratha ) Thithi – Prathama Evening 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM Pooja at Palace (Shubha Mesha Lagna ) | Prathama |
| Day 2 | Monday, 16 Oct 2023 | Brahmacharini Thithi – Dwithiya | Dwithiya |
| Day 3 | Tuesday, 17 Oct 2023 | Chandraghanta Thithi – Trithiya | Trithiya |
| Day 4 | Wednesday, 18 Oct 2023 | Kooshmanda Thithi – Chathurthi | Chathurthi |
| Day 5 | Thursday, 19 Oct 2023 | Skanda Maatha Thithi – Panchami | Panchami |
| Day 6 | Friday, 20 Oct 2023 | Kathyayini – Saraswathi Pooja ( Saraswathi Pooja begins on Moola nakshatra and the visarjan will be conducted on Shravana Nakshatra i.e on 24-10-23 ) Thithi – Shashti | Shashti |
| Day 7 | Saturday, 21 Oct 2023 | Kaala Rathri – Mahishaasura Samhara Thithi – Sapthami | Sapthami |
| Day 8 | Sunday, 22 Oct 2023 | Durgaashtami – Siddhi Dhaatri Thithi – Ashtami | Ashtami |
| Day 9 | Monday, 23 Oct 2023 | Maha Navami – Aayudha Puje Gajashwadhi Puje Hayagreeva Puje Amalu Devata Puje Mahagowri Thithi – Navami | Navami |
| Day 10 | Tuesday, 24 Oct 2023 | From 1:46 PM to 2:08 PM Vijaya Dashami ( Makara Lagna) Nandi Dhwaja Pooja by Hon’ble Chief Minister Thithi – Dashami From 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM in the Shubha Meena Lagna , Pushpaarchane by Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Distinguished Dignitaries Followed by Jamboo Savari | Dashami |
| Thursday, 26 Oct 2023 | Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Rathothsava |
Source: Mysore Dasara Website
What to Expect at Mysore Dasara 2023
Mysore Dasara is a festival that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in culture, history, religion, art, or entertainment, you will find something that suits your taste and mood at Mysore Dasara. Here are some things that you can expect at Mysore Dasara:
- A festive atmosphere: Mysore Dasara is a time when the city is filled with joy and excitement. The streets are decorated with colorful flags, banners, and flowers. The shops and markets are bustling with activity and offer a variety of products and services. The people are dressed in their best attire and greet each other with warmth and respect. You will feel the festive spirit everywhere you go.
- A cultural extravaganza: Mysore Dasara is a showcase of the rich and diverse culture of Mysore and Karnataka. You will get to witness and enjoy various forms of art and expression, such as classical music, folk music, dance, drama, comedy, etc. You will also get to learn about the history and legends of Mysore and its rulers, such as Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali, Krishnaraja Wodeyar, etc. You will also get to see the splendid architecture and craftsmanship of the Mysore Palace and other monuments.
- A spiritual experience: Mysore Dasara is a celebration of the victory of good over evil and the worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari. You will get to visit various temples and shrines dedicated to the goddess and other deities, such as Chamundi Hill Temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Prasanna Krishnaswamy Temple, etc. You will also get to participate in various rituals and ceremonies, such as poojas, aartis, homas, etc. You will also get to witness the grand procession of the goddess on the last day of Dasara.
- A fun-filled adventure: Mysore Dasara is not only about culture and religion but also about fun and entertainment. You will get to enjoy various activities and attractions, such as exhibitions, food stalls, games, rides, etc. You will also get to watch some special shows, such as palace illumination, Jamboo Savari, torchlight parade, etc. You will also get to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Mysore and its surroundings, such as Brindavan Gardens, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Bandipur National Park, etc.
Mysore Dasara 2023 Film Festival Event Schedule
| Day | Date | 10:00 am | Director/Artist | 1:00 pm | Director/Artist | 4:00 pm | Director/Artist | 7:00 pm | Director/Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 16-10-23 | Bangarada Manushya | S.Siddalingaiah | Gandhadagudi | Amogh Varsha | Banaaras | Kannadi | Shran Gadawal | |
| Tuesday | 17-10-23 | Naagarahaavu | Puttana Kangal | Kranti | Harikrishna | Kousalya Supraja Rama | Shashank | Krantiveera | Aadatt M.P. |
| Wednesday | 18-10-23 | Antha | Rajendra Singh Babu | Padaavi Poorva | Hari prasad jayanna | Hennu Bruna | Dr. M.S. Muthuraj | Mata | Ravindra Venshi |
| Thursday | 19-10-23 | Sahyadri Shubha | Hunasuru Krishnamurthy | Dear | Musthafa | Raghavendra Stores | Santhosh Ananddram | Guru Shishyaru | Jadesh Kumar Hampi |
| Friday | 20-10-23 | S P Sangliana 2 | P Nanjuddappa | Achar & Co | Sindu Sreenivasa | Saptha Sagaradache Ello | Hemanth Rao | Nata Bhayankara | Pratham |
| Saturday | 21-10-23 | Tobi | Raj B Shetty | Orchestra | Sunil Mysuru | Hostel Hudugaru | Bekkidaarre | Siri Lombard Viavaha | Sourabh kulkarni |
| Sunday | 22-10-23 | Gandhi Mattu Nela | Yogi Devagange | Vedha | Harsha | Kantara | Rishab Shetty | Dharani Mandala Madhyadolage | Sridhar Shanmukha |
| Day | Date | 10:15 am | Director/Artist | 1:15 pm | Director/Artist | 4:15 pm | Director/Artist | 7:15 pm | Director/Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 16-10-23 | Antarmuka | Gharge Karehaklu | Bramha Kamala | K.S. Ramesh | Kidigalu | K.S. Ramesh | In | Badigar Devanna |
| Tuesday | 17-10-23 | Kamadhenu | Harish Kunduru | Sifung | Arup Manna | Yadhbhaavam Thadbhavathi | Ammith Rao | Kanaka Marga | Sai Vishal Ra |
| Wednesday | 18-10-23 | Manusyaru Saar | S.K.Srinivash | Ruthumathi | Siddegowda | Koramma | Shivadhwaj Shetty | Hakkigala Kanasu | Vijayalaksmi |
| Thursday | 19-10-23 | Barathiyu Prajegalada Navu | Dr.Krishnamurthy Chamaram | Rangapravesha | Yashodha Praksh | Poomale Kodag | Prakash karyappa | Kubusa | Raghu Ramcharan |
| Friday | 20-10-23 | Samskara Bharatha | Nagesh.S | Maavu Bevu | Suchindra Prasad | Koli Paryaya | Champa Shetty | Ondanadi | Venkatesh |
| Saturday | 21-10-23 | Tanuja | Harish Kumar | Signal Man 1971 | K Shivarudraiah | Umesh Badigere | Nanu Kariyona | Krhinengowda | |
| Sunday | 22-10-23 | Vishesh | Akshaya | Photo | Utsav Gonwar | Koneya Nildana | Nanjunde Gowda | M.D Kosik |
| Day | Date | 10:30 am | Director/Artist | 1:30 pm | Director/Artist | 4:30 pm | Director/Artist | 7:30 pm | Director/Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 16-10-23 | Seven Samurai | Akira Kurosawa | At War | Stéphane Brizé | The Truth | Hirokazu Koreeda | The Circus | Charlie Chaplin |
| Tuesday | 17-10-23 | Red Beard | Akira Kurosawa | Love Life | Koji Fukada | Les Misérables | Ladj Ly | Children of Heaven | Majid Majidi |
| Wednesday | 18-10-23 | Wild Strawberries | Béla Tarr, Ágnes Hranitzky | The Whale | Darren Aronofsky | The Whistlers | Corneliu Porumboiu | Triangle of Sadness | Ruben Östlund |
| Thursday | 19-10-23 | Leila’s Brothers | Saeed Roustae | Yojimbo | Akira Kurosawa | Breathless | Jean Luc Godard | Young Ahmed | Jean-Pierre Dardenne |
| Friday | 20-10-23 | Le Redoutable | Michel Hazanavicius | No Bear’s | Jafar Panahi | Award Ceremony Short Film Competition | – | Battleship Potemkin | Sergei Eisenstein |
| Saturday | 21-10-23 | Ikiru | Akira Kurosawa | Pather Panchali | Satyajit Ray | – | – | – | Akira Kurosawa |
| Sunday | 22-10-23 | High and Low | Akira Kurosawa | All India Radio | Rangaswamay S | It Must Be Heaven | Elia Suleiman | The Orphanage | Shahrbanoo Sadat |
| Day | Date | 10:00 am | Director/Artist | 1:00 pm | Director/Artist | 4:00 pm | Director/Artist | 7:00 pm | Director/Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 16-10-23 | Lucky Man | Nagendra Prasad | Thothapuri | Vijaya Prasad | Veeram | Khadarkumar S | Tatshama Tadbhava | Vishal Ameya |
| Tuesday | 17-10-23 | Baang | Shree Ganesha P R | Dooradarshana | Sukesh Shetty | Tripal Raiding | Mahesh Gowda | Rashomon | Akira Kurosawa |
| Wednesday | 18-10-23 | Love 360 | Shashank | Aadhivasi | Vijeesh Mani | Tales of Mahanagara | Rajeev Kiran Veneil | Ikiru | Akira Kurosawa |
| Thursday | 19-10-23 | Kaudikali Sinchana | – | 19.20.21 | Mansore | Raana | Nanda kisore | Wild Strawberries | Ingmar Bergman |
| Friday | 20-10-23 | Seven Samurai | Akira Kurosawa | Sathyaharish Chandra | Hunsur Krishnamurthy B. R. Panthulu | Shrikrishnadevaraya | – | Pather Panchali | Satyajit Ray |
| Saturday | 21-10-23 | Tumbura | Dayakar Rao V | Bangarada Maanushya | S. Siddalingaiah | Monsoon Raaga | Nagendra Prasad | The Guilty | Gustav Möller |
| Sunday | 22-10-23 | Shivaji Surathkal 2 | Akshay Raj | Naagarahaavu | Puttana Kanagal | Kantara | Rishab Shetty | Broker | Hirokazu Koreeda |
| Day | Date | 04:15 pm | Director/Artist | 07:15 pm | Director/Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 16-10-23 | Daarideepa | Ratnathanya Patil | Uyilu | Rupesh C H C |
| Ghama Ghama | Malathesh HV | Parivarthane | Vijay Kumar K | ||
| Tuesday | 17-10-23 | Cash Khachita | Poonachandra A C | Echarike | Kerthiknish |
| The Last Kannadiga | Madan Ramvenktesh | Perspective | Arjun Lewis | ||
| Jalaja | Harish Kumar S | Unknown | Nikhil T | ||
| Wednesday | 18-10-23 | Trishanku | – | Ooo…! | Naveen U Shettar |
| Asali | Gautham Viraj | Muthayya | Manoj Chanakya | ||
| Nee Yaru? | Murregesh | – | – | ||
| Thursday | 19-10-23 | Iwatte Lasy Naley | – | Arunodaya | Ravi Chari |
| Inda enne Hodeyalla | Uday Shankar | Today | Durgesh Gowda | ||
| Rakshaki | Gangadhar Jadhaw | – | – | ||
| Friday | 20-10-23 | 10 Nimisha | H M Shivumana | – | – |
| Amma | Kruthika Gowda | – | – | ||
| Lock | Prashanth S P | – | – |
Check the Mysore Dasara 2023 Film Festival Event Schedule:
Mysore Dasara 2023 Film Festival Tickets and Price
To book the Mysore Dasara 2023 Film Festival Tickets, please visit the Mysore Dasara website and login with your Gmail. You can book your tickets and download from the website.
The ticket price for Mysore Dasara 2023 Film Festival is as below:
| Ticket Type | Price in Rs |
|---|---|
| Mysore Dasara Film Festival – Student Weekly Pass | 300 |
| Mysore Dasara Film Festival – Below 18 Years Student | 300 |
| Mysore Dasara Film Festival – Weekly Pass General | 500 |
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Where to Stay During Mysore Dasara
Mysore is a popular tourist destination and has a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. However, during Dasara season, the demand for hotels and lodges is very high and the prices are also inflated. Therefore, it is advisable to book your stay well in advance to avoid any inconvenience or disappointment. Here are some tips on where to stay during Mysore Dasara:
- If you want to stay close to the main attractions of Dasara, such as the Mysore Palace, the exhibition grounds, the procession route, etc., you can opt for hotels or lodges near Sayyaji Rao Road or Ashoka Road. These areas are centrally located and have easy access to public transport and other facilities. However, these areas are also very crowded and noisy during Dasara season.
- If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city center and enjoy some peace and tranquility during your stay in Mysore, you can opt for hotels or resorts near Chamundi Hill or Hunsur Road. These areas are located on the outskirts of the city and offer a serene and scenic environment. However, these areas are also far from the main attractions of Dasara and you may need to spend more time and money on commuting.
- If you want to experience the royal hospitality and luxury of Mysore during your stay in Mysore Dasara 2023 , you can opt for heritage hotels or palaces that were once owned by the royal family or their relatives. These hotels or palaces offer a glimpse into the history and culture of Mysore and provide world-class amenities and services. However, these hotels or palaces are also very expensive and may not suit everyone’s budget.
Tips to Visit Mysore Dasara 2023
Mysore Dasara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss if you are in India during October 2023 . However, visiting Mysore during Dasara season also requires some planning and preparation to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are some tips to visit Mysore Dasara:
- Plan your itinerary: Before you visit Mysore for Dasara 2023, you should have a clear idea of what you want to see and do during your stay in Mysore. You should research the various events and attractions of Dasara and decide which ones you want to attend or visit. You should also check the timings and locations of the events and attractions and plan your travel accordingly. You should also book your tickets for the events and attractions in advance, if possible, to avoid long queues and sold-out situations.
- Pack your essentials: When you visit Mysore for Dasara 2023 , you should pack your essentials according to the weather and the activities that you plan to do. You should carry comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses, hats, etc. for the warm and sunny days. You should also carry some warm clothes, jackets, shawls, etc. for the cool and breezy nights. You should also carry some rain gear, such as umbrellas, raincoats, etc. for the occasional showers. You should also carry some snacks, water bottles, medicines, etc. for your convenience.
Final Thoughts on Mysore Dasara
Mysore Dasara 2023 is a festival that you should not miss if you are in India during October 2023. It is a festival that celebrates the culture, history, religion, art, and entertainment of Mysore and Karnataka.
It is a festival that offers something for everyone, from children to adults, from locals to tourists, from culture lovers to adventure seekers. It is a festival that will leave you with unforgettable memories and impressions.
I hope this blog post has given you some useful information and tips on how to visit Mysore Dasara 2023. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading and happy Dasara!
