I visited Aloka Palace near Yelwal, Mysore as part of my son’s summer camp outing few decades back. I visited again to take pictures and to know more about the place. A bit disappointing as there is no information board on the history of the palace. Extremely neglected place with all doors and windows locked up. This place has great potential to be developed as a tourist spot to showcase the bygone era.
Aloka palace was built by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar in 1806. 500 acres of open land surround the palace. This was built as a hunting lodge of the Maharajas (Kings). The area is now under the forest department. More than 50 movies have been shot at this place.
It is a majestic palace built in Mysore style. Steps lead to the main door of the palace. The pillars add to the beauty of the palace.
The Forest department has developed a tree park here with many trees. There is a locked up Bamboo park here. The forest department has to create awareness about the existence of this place, which could benefit visitors to learn more about the flora and spend some quality time out with nature and history.
The most interesting part of driving around the vast lands is the presence of different species of birds. We enjoyed spotting and taking pictures of birds. We spotted Jungle Babblers, Bee Eaters, Bulbuls, Quails, Silver Bills, Indian Roller, and Spotted Munia.
Indian Roller
Jungle Babbler
Silver Bill
Green Bee Eater
Jungle Bush Quail
Spotted Munia
Place statistics:
Type of place: Palace
Situated: Yelwal, Mysore
Distance: Mysore is 140 Km from Bangalore
Transport: Well connected by road
Facilities: Nil
