Step into history at Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, historically known as Jaganmohan Palace. Located just 200 meters west of Mysore Palace, this three-storey mansion built between 1856 and 1861 stands as one of the city's oldest modern structures. Originally commissioned by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, it served as an alternative residence for the royal family, hosting grand events like coronation ceremonies and early university convocations before being converted into a public art gallery.
Inside, you will encounter one of South India's largest artifact collections. Explore over 2,000 paintings spanning Mysore, Mughal, and Shantiniketan styles, including famous works by Raja Ravi Varma depicting epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharatha. Marvel at Sawlaram Haldenkar's famous 'Lady with the lamp' showcased alone in a dark room to accentuate its glowing effect, alongside rice-grain paintings viewable through a magnifier.
The gallery also displays weapons, musical instruments, brassware, historic coins, and the earliest known vegetable-dye mural of Mysore Dasara. Combined with an auditorium added in 1900 that still hosts cultural programs, this traditional Hindu-style palace offers an enriching cultural journey.
What to see at Jaganmohan Palace
- Over 2,000 paintings, including works by Raja Ravi Varma and Rabindranath Tagore
- Sawlaram Haldenkar's 'Lady with the lamp' displayed in a dark room
- Earliest known Mysore Dasara mural painted with vegetable dyes
- Unique French clock featuring an hourly miniature soldier parade
- Traditional Hindu-style architecture with intricate entablature religious motifs
Visiting tips
Be sure to look for the single-exhibit dark room to experience the striking lighting illusion of Sawlaram Haldenkar's 'Lady with the lamp'.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Jaganmohan Palace is easy to reach on Mysore’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Mysore Palace and St. Philomena's Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Mysore travel guide.
See the full Mysore travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.