Mysuru lives up to its title of the cultural capital of Karnataka with its grand Dasara festival. Mysuru Dasara is the state festival of Karnataka, commonly called ‘Nadahabba’ and attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. The event lasts for 10 days and is celebrated with royal elephant processions, cultural events, fairs and other pompous celebrations. Attractions During Dasara: Jambu Savari: During Jambu Savari or the Elephant Procession, 12 elephants who are specially trained for the occasion, carries the idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari from the Mysore Palace to Bannimantap. The procession is worth it as it includes other performances like dances, musicals, torchlight parade and foot soldiers accompany the procession. Exhibitions: The Dasara festival brings in the cultural blend of various art forms. Numerous exhibitions are held that showcases poetry, handlooms, businesses, crafts, food and more. It takes place in the Doddakere Maidana. Mysuru Palace Lighting: During Dasara, the Mysuru Palace and other important buildings get renovated and illuminated with thousands of bulbs. Approximately one crore rupees is spent every year to renovate the Mysore Palace and it takes 97, 000 bulbs to light it up. The palace gets dressed up and laden with lights which is a treat for the visitors. Other Events: Other than these, there are events like Kite Festival, Poetry Meet, Sand Sculpture shows, various sports events like wrestling also occur during Dasara.

Region : Mysore