Mysuru, 25 Oct

The Mysore Palace Board's decision to increase entry ticket prices, particularly for foreign tourists, sparked backlash from the local tourism and hospitality sectors.

Beginning this Friday, the entry fee for foreign visitors soared from Rs 100 to Rs 1,000—a tenfold increase that has alarmed stakeholders in Mysuru's tourism industry. The Mysuru District Hotel Owners Association has voiced its concerns, arguing that such a steep price hike will deter foreign visitors, a demographic that has already been declining in recent years.

M Narayangowda, President of the association, stated that they have formally appealed to the district administration and the Mysore Palace Board to reconsider the new pricing structure, especially for foreign tourists and students visiting the iconic Amba Vilas Palace.

Under the new pricing scheme, adult tickets have increased from Rs 100 to Rs 120, while tickets for children aged 10 to 18 have risen from Rs 50 to Rs 70. Children under 10 continue to enter for free, and educational tours for students now cost Rs 50, up from Rs 30.

While the Palace Board has introduced complimentary amenities, including luggage counters, slipper stands, and toilet facilities, industry leaders argue that the increased ticket prices are unjustified. The association is advocating for a revised entry fee of Rs 250 for foreign tourists and Rs 30 for students.

Narayangowda highlighted the troubling trend of dwindling foreign visitors, noting that large numbers had frequented Mysore Palace in previous years. He plans to bring the issue to the Chief Minister's attention if the Palace Board does not reconsider its decision.

Visitors to the palace on Friday also expressed their discontent. Foreign tourists such as Catherine from Germany and Louis from France described the tenfold increase as unfair and excessive. -Salar News