Best Photo Spots in Mysuru
Mysuru gives you royal architecture on a grand scale. The palace, the twin spires of St. Philomena's Church and the old buildings around the city centre make big, symmetrical backdrops, while Chamundi Hill gives you a view over the whole city.
The most famous photo in Mysuru is the palace lit up with thousands of bulbs on a Sunday evening. Around it, these are the spots that work best for architecture, night shots, gardens and city views.
High crowdEntry ₹15–50
Brindavan Gardens
- Best timeLate afternoon for soft light on the terraces; after dark for the coloured musical fountain.
- ColorsBright floralsWhiteTeal
High crowdEntry Free (the temple publishes its own faster-darshan arrangements)
Chamundi Hill
- Best timeEarly morning, when the air is clear and the city view below is sharp; late afternoon for warm light on the gopuram.
- ColorsSaffronYellowRed
High crowdEntry ₹70 (Indian) / ₹200 (foreign)
Mysore Palace
- Best timeSunday or public holiday evening, when the palace is lit with thousands of bulbs; morning for softer light and fewer people in the grounds.
- ColorsRoyal blueGoldIvory
Medium crowdEntry ₹100 (adult)
Mysore Zoo
- Best timeEarly morning, when the animals are more active and the shade on the paths gives soft, even light.
- ColorsCasual brightsGreenWhite
Medium crowdEntry Free
St. Philomena's Church
- Best timeMorning, when soft light falls on the front of the church and there is less traffic outside.
- ColorsWhitePastelNavy
Why Mysuru Is Great for Photography
Mysuru was planned as a royal capital, so its landmarks are large, open and easy to frame. The palace sits in wide grounds, St. Philomena's Church stands clear of the buildings around it, and Brindavan Gardens is laid out in long, even terraces.
The city is also flat and green, with Chamundi Hill as the one high point. From the hill you can see the palace, the lakes and the city spread out below, which is the best way to show Mysuru in a single frame.
Photography Tips for Mysuru
- Plan around Sunday: The palace illumination usually happens on Sunday and public holiday evenings, so build your trip around one if you can.
- Arrive before the lights: Find your spot in the palace grounds before 7 pm and film the moment the bulbs switch on.
- Keep the camera outside: Photography is not allowed inside the palace, so take your photos in the grounds and of the outside.
- Shoot the church early: Morning light falls on the front of St. Philomena's and the road outside is quieter.
- Go up Chamundi Hill in the morning: The air is clearer and the city view is sharper before the haze builds.
- Carry a small bag: Several sights ask you to leave shoes and large bags outside, so travel light.
Best Time for Photography in Mysuru
October to February gives clear skies, green gardens and pleasant light for most of the day. During Dasara, the palace is lit every evening, which is the best chance for night photos, though the crowds are very large. April and May are hot and hazy, so shoot early and late.
Photography rules, fees for cameras and palace timings can change, so check them at the gate before you start shooting.
Questions
Mysuru — FAQ
What are the best photo spots in Mysuru?
The best photo spots in Mysuru are Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, St. Philomena's Church and Brindavan Gardens. Together they cover palace architecture, a Gothic church, a city view and terraced gardens with fountains.
Can I take photos inside Mysore Palace?
No. Photography is not allowed inside the palace building. You can take photos of the outside, the grounds and the illumination from the courtyard.
When is the best time to photograph Mysore Palace lit up?
Go on a Sunday or public holiday evening, when the lights usually come on at 7 pm for about 45 minutes. During Dasara, the palace is lit every evening.
Where can I get a view over Mysuru?
Chamundi Hill has the best view of the city. Stop at the viewpoints on the road up, where you can see the palace and the lakes below on a clear morning.
Is Mysuru good for Instagram reels?
Yes. The palace switching on its lights, the musical fountain at Brindavan Gardens and the walk up Chamundi Hill's steps all make good short videos.