Lalitha Mahal Palace. Photographer Ezhuttukari, Wiki
The Lalitha Mahal Palace is located at the foot of the Chamundi Hill, Mysore, Karnataka. Though built as a palace, it was taken over by the Ashok Group of the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) and is now an opulent heritage hotel.
History of Lalitha Mahal Palace
The palace was commissioned by the Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, and completed in 1931. It was built to house the Viceroy of India, and later, was used as a guest house for special visitors. It cost around rupees thirteen lakhs, with its majestic Renaissance architectural style – and copious use of stained glass ceilings, windows and doors.
Special Features of Lalitha Mahal Palace
The two-storied structure mirrors the styles of English manor houses and Italian Palazzos with a projecting porch. It is, specifically, an adaptation of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London. Ionic double columns support the structure of the palace. There are spherical domes with a dominating central dome above the entrance hall.
The palace was built with an ornate entry called the guard house. In addition, the palace has a banquet hall, a dancing floor, a curving and imposing Italian marble staircase and an elegantly fashioned viceroy room. The palace also boasts of Italian marble floors, Belgian crystal chandeliers, beautiful cut glass lamps, opulent furniture, and elegant Persian carpets.
Lalitha Mahal Palace Mysore Today
With its conversion to a heritage hotel in 1974, many modern amenities have been added to the traditional ones. There is a swimming pool; and the dancing and banquet rooms have been converted to conference rooms and dining rooms preserving the old-world grandeur. The white colour of the exterior of the palace has been maintained, while the sprawling terrace and ornamental gardens have been retained.
How to Reach the Palace
The palace is located 5 kms away from the Mysore city centre. It is well connected by air, rail and road. On reaching the city, guests can reach the palace by hiring a taxi, auto rickshaw, or even the horse cart – the jataka gaadi.
Contact Information
Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel
Mysore – 570011
Karnataka, India
Phone: +91 821 2526 100
Fax: +91 821 2470 555
For Reservation & Sales
Mr. Piyush Thapliyal
Manager Front Office
Mob: +91 88842 38460
For Banquets, Events & Restaurant
Mr. N. Bharathan,
Manager Food & Beverages
Mob: +91 98862 28381
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