Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel is one of the most atmospheric places to stay in Mysore. Built in the 1930s by the Maharaja of Mysore to host the Viceroy and other distinguished guests, it is a large white palace with a central dome that is often compared to the dome of a European cathedral, set on a rise below Chamundi Hill. Inside, the palace retains grand staircases, high ceilings, long corridors and a sense of scale from another era. It has operated as a hotel for decades, and staying here means sleeping in a building that was designed to impress. Rooms vary, with suites in the palace itself and standard rooms in the extension, so check what you are booking. Dining is in vast halls and gardens, and the setting is perfect for a slow evening after a day at Mysore Palace. The experience is more about atmosphere than modern luxury, so expect heritage charm and be flexible about small imperfections.
The palace was built for the visits of the Viceroy of India and other high dignitaries, and its architecture reflects European taste of the early twentieth century, with classical columns, a prominent dome and sweeping staircases. It sits on a hillside plot, so views over the city and toward Chamundi Hill are among its pleasures. Mysore, a compact and gentle city, is known for its palaces, and this one is among the largest after the royal palace itself.
The stay revolves around the building. Palace suites are spacious, with period furniture and big windows, and public areas include grand halls, a famous staircase and gardens suited to a morning walk. Some guests prefer the extension rooms for modern comfort, but the palace rooms are the reason to come.
Dining in the palace's main rooms feels theatrical, and the ambience at breakfast or an evening drink is hard to match in the city. Because it is a heritage property, facilities can be more traditional than at a new hotel, so manage expectations on things like soundproofing and fittings.
Planning tips
Mysore is a good overnight stop, since the palace is illuminated on Sunday evenings and during the Dasara festival, which is difficult to see on a day trip. From the hotel, Chamundi Hill, Mysore Palace, Devaraja Market and the zoo are close, and Srirangapatna and Somnathpur are within easy day trips. Dasara in September or October is the busiest time, and rooms should be reserved far ahead. For anyone who wants royal Mysore to be more than a tick on a list, a night here is a memorable investment.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic palace building
- ✓Palace suites and extension rooms
- ✓Grand staircase and halls
- ✓Gardens
- ✓On-site dining
- ✓Views toward Chamundi Hill
- ✓Close to Mysore Palace and Devaraja Market
- ✓Heritage atmosphere
Good questions
Is it a real palace?+
Yes. It was built in the 1930s to host the Viceroy and other guests of the Maharaja of Mysore and is now a hotel.
Should I book a palace suite or an extension room?+
Palace suites have the atmosphere; extension rooms offer more modern comfort. Choose based on priorities.
When is it busiest?+
During the Dasara festival in September or October, when booking early is essential.