Standing inside Mysore Palace’s Durbar Hall, you can photograph the golden throne without flash during Dasara, but step outside during Jamboo Savari and different rules apply. Understanding Mysore Dasara photography rules prevents confiscation of equipment and ensures you capture memories legally while respecting cultural traditions and security protocols.
Palace Photography Rules 2025
Inside Mysore Palace – ALLOWED:
? Photography without flash (confirmed by Law Minister J.C. Madhuswamy)
? Mobile phone photography
? Video recording without flash
? Selfies in designated areas
? Photography of golden throne during Dasara display
Inside Mysore Palace – PROHIBITED:
? Flash photography (strictly enforced)
? Professional camera equipment without permission
? Tripods or stabilizing equipment
? Commercial photography without Palace Board approval
? Live streaming without authorization
Procession Photography Guidelines
Jamboo Savari Procession – October 2, 2025:
? Photography allowed from designated public areas
? Video recording from spectator zones
? Professional equipment permitted with press credentials
? Drone photography with prior police permission only
Restricted Zones During Procession:
? Direct procession route (safety barriers enforced)
? Palace security perimeter
? VIP viewing areas
? Elephant proximity zones (minimum 20 meters distance)
? Emergency vehicle access roads
Cultural Events Photography Etiquette
Evening Cultural Programs:
– Photography allowed during performances
– Flash discouraged to avoid disturbing artists
– Respectful distance from stage area
– Silent mode required on devices
– Commercial use requires artist consent
Religious Ceremonies:
– Photography permitted during public portions
– Restricted access during private royal rituals
– Respectful behavior mandatory
– Traditional dress preferred
– Remove shoes where required
Equipment and Technical Guidelines
Allowed Camera Equipment:
– DSLR cameras (without flash)
– Mirrorless cameras
– Mobile phones and tablets
– GoPro and action cameras
– Compact point-and-shoot cameras
Equipment Requiring Permission:
Professional lighting equipment
Tripods over 5 feet height
Drone cameras (contact: Mysuru City Police 0821-2418339)
Live streaming equipment
Commercial video production gear
Security Screening and Bag Checks
Entry Point Procedures:
All camera equipment subject to security screening
Battery checks for electronic devices
Bag inspection at palace gates
Metal detector screening mandatory
Security personnel may test camera functionality
Prohibited Items with Cameras:
– External flash units
– Large camera bags (use small carrying cases)
– Selfie sticks over 3 feet
– External battery packs over 10,000 mAh
– Professional camera cleaning kits with chemicals
Social Media and Sharing Guidelines
Posting Photos Online:
? Personal social media sharing encouraged
? Tag @mysoreofficial for official recognition
? Use hashtags: #MysoreDasara #MysorePalace #IncredibleIndia
? Respectful captions about cultural significance
Commercial Use Restrictions:
? Selling photos without proper licensing
? Using images for commercial promotion without permission
? Stock photography sales require Palace Board consent
? Print publications need official attribution
Specific Photography Timings
Palace Illumination (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily):
Prime photography hours for illuminated palace
Crowd management may restrict movement
Tripods allowed in designated areas only
Best shots from Chamundi Hills viewpoint
Torchlight Parade (October 2, 8:00 PM):
Photography permitted from seating areas
No flash during military demonstrations
Laser show photos allowed
Exit restrictions during fireworks for safety
Photography Fees and Permits
Regular Palace Entry:
Mobile photography: No additional fee
Personal camera: No additional fee
Video recording: No additional fee
**All included in palace entry ticket (100 Indians, 1000 foreigners)**
Professional Photography Permits:
Commercial photography: 5,000-25,000
Wedding photography: 10,000-50,000
Film production: Contact Palace Board directly
Press credentials: Free with valid media ID
Restricted Photography Areas
High Security Zones:
– Royal family private quarters
– Security control rooms
– Armed police positions
– Emergency medical stations
– Administrative offices
Cultural Sensitivity Areas:
– Active prayer areas
– Priest-only sections of temples
– Changing areas for performers
– VIP reception areas
– Kitchen and food preparation zones
Photography During Crowd Control
Enhanced Safety Measures 2025:
Following Bengaluru stadium incident, additional restrictions apply:
– No climbing on structures for photos
– Banned access to old buildings along procession route
– Police monitoring of tall installation access
– Restricted movement during peak crowd times
Emergency Situations:
Photography may be restricted during crowd control operations
Follow security personnel instructions immediately
Evacuate with equipment if directed
Emergency contact: 100 (Police), 108 (Medical)
International Visitor Guidelines
Foreign Tourist Photography:
Valid passport required for palace entry
Cultural dress codes appreciated
Respect local customs and traditions
English-speaking guides available for cultural context
Drone Photography (Foreign Nationals):
Requires special permission from District Collector
Contact: DC Office Mysuru 0821-2424079
Advanced application (minimum 15 days)
Valid visa and passport verification required
Photography Tips for Best Results
Palace Interior Shots:
– Use available light settings on camera
– Higher ISO settings compensate for no flash
– Stabilize camera against walls if needed
– Golden throne best photographed from designated viewing area
Procession Photography:
– Arrive early for prime roadside positions
– Use zoom lenses for close-up shots
– Continuous shooting mode for action
– Backup battery essential for long event
Common Photography Violations and Penalties
Minor Violations (Warnings):
– Using flash inside palace (warning first time)
– Standing in restricted zones
– Blocking other visitors while photographing
– Taking photos during security checks
Serious Violations (Equipment Confiscation):
– Drone flying without permission: 10,000 fine
– Commercial photography without permit: 25,000 fine
– Ignoring security personnel instructions
– Photography in high-security zones
What to Do If Equipment is Confiscated
Confiscation Process:
1. Remain calm and cooperative
2. Request receipt for confiscated items
3. Note security officer’s badge number
4. Contact: Palace Security Office 0821-2421096
5. Retrieval usually possible after event ends
Appeal Process:
Submit written appeal to Palace Board
Provide details of incident and equipment
Usually resolved within 24-48 hours
No charges for unintentional violations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flash photography inside Mysore Palace?
No, flash photography is strictly prohibited inside Mysore Palace. You can take photos and videos without flash using available light or higher ISO settings on your camera.
Are professional cameras allowed during Dasara procession?
Yes, professional cameras are allowed for personal use during the procession from public viewing areas. Commercial use requires press credentials or special permits.
Do I need permission for drone photography during Dasara?
Yes, drone photography requires advance permission from Mysuru City Police (0821-2418339) and District Collector’s office. Apply at least 15 days before the event.
Can I livestream the Dasara events on social media?
Personal livestreaming for social media is generally allowed from public areas. Commercial broadcasting requires official media credentials and permissions.
What happens if security confiscates my camera equipment?
Request a receipt for confiscated items and contact Palace Security Office (0821-2421096). Equipment is usually returned after the event if confiscated for minor violations.
Last Updated: July 2025
Next Update: Post-Dasara 2025 review and 2026 guidelines