The Ultimate Dussehra Travel Experience: 2024 Edition

Dussehra, also known as Navratri or Dasara, is one of the most significant and grand festivals celebrated in Karnataka, India. Dussehra in Mysore is celebrated grandly for several historical, cultural, and religious reasons. The city of Mysore has a rich tradition of celebrating Dussehra with great pomp and splendour. This city has a historical connection to the Wadiyar dynasty, which ruled the region for centuries. It is believed that the tradition of celebrating this festival with elaborate ceremonies and processions was started by Raja Wadiyar I in the 17th century. 

The main deity of Mysore, Goddess Chamundeshwari, is highly revered, and the Chamundi Hills is dedicated to her. Dussehra is seen as an occasion to pay homage to the goddess, and the grand celebrations are a way of seeking her blessings. The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is lavishly decorated during Mysore Dussehra, making it a stunning and iconic sight. The highlight of the palace's decoration is the extensive use of lights. Thousands of light bulbs, including energy-efficient LED lights, are used to illuminate the entire palace. The palace is bathed in a dazzling array of colours, creating a magical and fairy-tale-like atmosphere. 

In 2024, Dussehra starts on the 3rd of October and concludes on the 12th of October. The festival concludes on Vijayadashmi, which is the tenth and final day of the celebration.

The festival kicks off with a grand inauguration ceremony at the Mysore Palace. The Mysore Palace is beautifully illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a mesmerising sight. A royal procession, known as the "Jamboo Savari", starts from the palace, featuring a decorated idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed on an elephant. During the ten days of Dussehra, various cultural events take place, including classical music and dance performances. Renowned artists from across the country perform at various venues in Mysore. The grandeur of Dussehra celebrations in Mysore can be traced back to the time of the Wadiyars.

Travelling with your family during Dussehra can be a fantastic idea. Going on a trip to Mysore during this time, you can witness different regional variations of the festival, each with its unique customs and rituals. It's an excellent opportunity for quality family time. You can bond over new experiences, explore new places together, and create lasting memories. 

Through this blog, you can discover some fantastic stay options when visiting Mysore for Dussehra 2024. Join us on a journey filled with festivity and celebration!