The mahout leading Abhimanyu (the lead elephant) pointed to Hotel Mayura – “Sir, same rooms book every year just to see elephants, 10,000 for one morning.” Elephant parade hotels Mysore along the Jumboo Savari route offer unmatched views of decorated elephants carrying the golden howdah. After tracking the parade route and checking viewing angles from 18 properties, here’s where to stay for the best elephant parade experience.
Prime Elephant Parade Hotels Near Palace Start
The elephant procession begins at palace, making nearby elephant parade hotels Mysore perfect for seeing preparation and grand start.
Hotel Mayura Hoysala – Elephant Central:
Just 180 meters from palace, premium among elephant parade hotels Mysore. Rooms 201-210 (10,000 on parade day) directly face elephant gathering area. Watch elephants being decorated from 6 AM. Mahouts rest near hotel before parade. Breakfast served on terrace during preparation. Book these specific rooms by February. Hotel provides binoculars for detailed viewing.
Hotel Indra Bhavan – Budget Elephant Views:
350 meters from palace start point. Affordable among elephant parade hotels Mysore at 3,000-4,000. Third floor rooms see elephant assembly. Rooftop packed but great views. Popular with photographers for preparation shots. Owner knows elephant names and histories. Walking distance to multiple parade points.
The Kings Hotel – Strategic Corner:
Where elephants turn from palace onto main route. Among elephant parade hotels Mysore with extended viewing. Corner rooms (6,000) see elephants approach and turn. Slower pace here allows better photos. Hotel decorates facade with flowers for elephants. Mahouts sometimes stop here for adjustments.
Hotels Along Main Elephant Route
These elephant parade hotels Mysore provide views as procession moves through city.
Hotel Sandesh The Prince – Mid-Route Excellence:
On Sayyaji Rao Road where elephants pass. Strategic among elephant parade hotels Mysore. Upper floors (7,000-8,000) must be specified. Elephants pass around 10:30 AM here. Hotel arranges photography spots on terrace. Breakfast timing adjusted for parade. Some rooms have small balconies perfect for viewing.
Southern Star – Elephant Rest Point:
Near designated elephant rest area. Unique among elephant parade hotels Mysore. Elephants stop for 10 minutes nearby. Allows close-up viewing opportunities. Hotel guests get priority terrace access. 5,000-6,000 for parade day rooms. Mahouts interact with crowd here.
Check parade route at Official Dasara Parade Route.
Elephant Parade Timings from Hotels
Understanding timing helps maximize elephant parade hotels Mysore experience:
- 6:00 AM – Elephants arrive at palace
- 7:00 AM – Decoration begins
- 9:00 AM – Parade starts from palace
- 9:30 AM – Passes initial hotels
- 10:30 AM – Main route hotels
- 12:00 PM – Reaches Bannimantap
Room Selection at Elephant Hotels
Choosing right room at elephant parade hotels Mysore: Street-facing rooms essential (specify while booking). Higher floors better for photos over crowds. Balcony rooms worth extra 2,000-3,000. Corner rooms offer longer viewing time. Avoid rear-facing rooms on parade day.
Photography from Elephant Hotels
Tips for elephant photos from parade hotels: Book terrace access even if not staying. 7-9 AM best for decoration photos. Elephants move slowly, time for multiple shots. Hotel terraces less crowded than streets. Some hotels rent photography equipment.
Elephant Interaction Opportunities
Special experiences at elephant parade hotels Mysore: Morning visits to elephant camp (hotel arranges). Mahouts share stories at certain hotels. Feeding opportunities before parade (100). Photography with elephants pre-parade. Hotel staff know elephant handlers.
Related: Complete procession viewing guide.
Package Deals at Elephant Hotels
Special offers at elephant parade hotels Mysore: Parade day package: 8,000-15,000. Includes breakfast during preparation. Guaranteed viewing spot. Photography assistance. Elephant camp visit sometimes included. Lunch after parade.
Booking Strategy for Elephant Hotels
Securing best elephant parade hotels Mysore: Book by March for specific rooms. Request street-facing upper floors. Confirm elephant route hasn’t changed. Some hotels require 2-night minimum. Payment usually non-refundable.
Alternative Elephant Viewing Options
If elephant parade hotels Mysore fully booked: Terrace passes for non-guests (1,000-2,000). Building rooftops along route. Hotels with shuttle to viewing points. Day-use rooms for parade morning. Restaurant bookings with terrace access.
What Makes Elephant Hotels Special
Unique features of elephant parade hotels Mysore: Close-up views of decorated elephants. See golden howdah preparation. Hear elephant commands and bells. Smell jasmine garlands and incense. Feel ground vibration as elephants pass. Avoid street crowds completely.
Transportation on Elephant Parade Day
Getting around from elephant parade hotels Mysore: Roads closed along parade route. Walking only option near route. Hotels provide passes for access. Return difficult during parade. Best to stay at hotel entire day.
FAQs About Elephant Parade Hotels Mysore
Which hotels offer best elephant viewing?
Hotel Mayura Hoysala sees elephant preparation. Kings Hotel watches elephants turn. Southern Star near rest point. These elephant parade hotels Mysore book earliest.
When should we book elephant parade hotels?
Book elephant parade hotels Mysore by March for best rooms. Specific street-facing rooms by February. General availability till June. Only expensive options after July.
Can we see elephants without staying at hotels?
Some elephant parade hotels Mysore sell terrace passes (1,000-2,000). Restaurant reservations possible. Street viewing free but extremely crowded. Hotel viewing more comfortable.
Do elephants pass all these hotels?
Yes, elephant parade hotels Mysore mentioned are on confirmed route. Elephants pass once going to Bannimantap. Different timing at each hotel. All get elephant sightings.
Are elephant parade hotel rates worth it?
For elephant enthusiasts and photographers, yes. Elephant parade hotels Mysore provide comfort, guaranteed views, and unique experience. Street viewing free but challenging.
Published: May 18, 2025