Welcome to Mysore – the city of palaces, sandalwood, and silk. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of South India as you explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple, and more. Book your trip now and experience the charm of Mysore firsthand!
About Mysore
Mysore, also known as Mysuru, is a city located in the southern state of Karnataka, India. It has a rich cultural and historical significance that dates back to the 14th century.
The city was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty, who were great patrons of art, culture, and architecture. During their reign, Mysore became known for its grand palaces, exquisite silk sarees, and sandalwood carvings.
One of the most famous landmarks in Mysore is the Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace. It was built in the early 20th century and is an exquisite example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace is now a museum and a popular tourist destination.
Mysore is also home to several other historical sites such as the Chamundeshwari Temple, Jaganmohan Palace, and St. Philomena’s Church.
Apart from its cultural heritage, Mysore is also known for its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by hills, forests, and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Today, Mysore is a vibrant city that blends its rich past with modern-day conveniences. It continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique charm and beauty.
Architecture of Mysore
Mysore is known for its rich architectural heritage, which is a blend of various styles including Dravidian, Islamic, and European. The city’s palaces, temples, and buildings are examples of the city’s diverse architectural influences.
One of the most iconic examples of Mysore’s architecture is the Mysore Palace. It was designed by British architect Henry Irwin and is a fusion of Hindu, Islamic, Rajput, and Gothic styles. The palace has intricately carved pillars, arches, and domes, and is adorned with beautiful murals and frescoes.
Another famous example of Mysore’s architecture is the Jaganmohan Palace. It was built in 1861 and is an excellent example of the traditional Hindu palace architecture of South India. The palace has a stunning Durbar Hall that features intricate carvings and a beautiful stained-glass ceiling.
The Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop Chamundi Hill, is another example of Mysore’s architectural heritage. It is a Dravidian-style temple with a towering gopuram (entrance tower) that is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
St. Philomena’s Church, located in the heart of the city, is a neo-Gothic-style church that is modeled after the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows, tall spires, and ornate decorations.
Overall, Mysore’s architecture reflects its rich cultural heritage and diverse influences. Its buildings and structures are a testament to the city’s unique charm and beauty.
50 Places to Visit in Mysore
- Mysore Palace
- Chamundi Hill
- Brindavan Gardens
- Karanji Lake
- Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Auditorium
- St. Philomena’s Cathedral
- KRS Dam
- Lalitha Mahal Palace
- Mysore Zoo
- GRS Fantasy Park
- Regional Museum of Natural History
- Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
- Melody World Wax Museum
- Rail Museum
- Folklore Museum
- Jaya Prakash Narayan Smriti Bhavan
- Nimishamba Temple
- Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum
- Planet X
- Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Ashrama
- Basanti Mata Temple
- Kukkarahalli Lake
- Sri Nandi Temple
- Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited
- GRS Fantasy Park
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Mysore Silk Factory
- Wax World Museum
- Melkote
- Krishna Raja Sagara Dam
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Nanjangud
- KRS Backwaters
- Mysore Amusement Park
- Avadhoota Datta Peetham
- Balmuri Falls
- Bhuvaneshwari Temple
- Jayalakshmivilas Mansion
- Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
- St. Bartholomew’s Church
- Venugopala Swamy Temple
- Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
- Dodda Gadiyara
- Gumbaz Mausoleum
- Somanathapura
- Ranganatha Swamy Temple
- Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple
- Sri Rama Mandira
- Srirangapatna
- Venkataramana Swamy Temple.
Brief about the List of 25 each Places to Visit in Mysore
- Mysore Palace – A grand palace, and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mysore, known for its exquisite architecture and stunning beauty.
- Brindavan Gardens – A beautiful garden, located near the Krishnarajasagara dam, featuring lush green lawns, fountains, and musical lights show.
- Chamundi Hills – A popular hilltop pilgrimage site, featuring a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari and a panoramic view of the city.
- St. Philomena’s Cathedral – A beautiful Gothic-style cathedral, known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture.
- Karanji Lake – A scenic lake, home to various species of birds, and ideal for boating, birdwatching, and nature walks.
- Jaganmohan Palace – A palace converted into an art gallery, showcasing a collection of paintings, artifacts, and sculptures from the Mysore royal family.
- Railway Museum – A museum dedicated to the history of the Indian Railways, featuring vintage locomotives, carriages, and other artifacts.
- Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion – A magnificent mansion, featuring stunning architecture and housing a museum showcasing artifacts related to the Wodeyar dynasty.
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – A popular bird sanctuary, located on the banks of the Kaveri river, home to various species of birds and ideal for birdwatching.
- Mysore Zoo – A large zoo, home to various species of animals, birds, and reptiles, and ideal for family outings.
- KRS Dam – A large dam, built on the Kaveri river, and known for its engineering marvel and scenic beauty.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace – A grand palace, converted into a heritage hotel, known for its stunning architecture and luxurious amenities.
- Regional Museum of Natural History – A museum dedicated to the natural history of South India, showcasing various specimens of flora, fauna, and geology.
- Melody World Wax Museum – A museum dedicated to Indian and international music, featuring wax statues of famous musicians, singers, and composers.
- Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum – A unique museum showcasing sand sculptures of various themes and designs.
- Folklore Museum – A museum dedicated to the folk art and culture of Karnataka, showcasing various artifacts, costumes, and musical instruments.
- Kukkarahalli Lake – A serene lake, located in the heart of the city, and ideal for nature walks, birdwatching, and boating.
- GRS Fantasy Park – A water park, featuring various water rides, slides, and activities, and ideal for family outings.
- Krishna Raja Sagara Dam – A large dam, built on the Kaveri river, and known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.
- Somanathapura Temple – A magnificent temple, built in Hoysala architecture, and known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Brindavanam Palace – A palace built in the style of a French chateau, featuring a beautiful garden and musical fountains.
- Kote Venkataramana Temple – A temple dedicated to Lord Venkataramana, featuring stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- Basappa Memorial Hospital – A hospital, featuring a unique blend of modern medical facilities and traditional Ayurvedic treatment.
- Nanjangud Temple – A temple dedicated to Lord Srikanteshwara, known for its exquisite architecture and religious significance.
- Balmuri Falls – A beautiful waterfall, located near the city, and ideal for picnics, swimming,
Weather and Best time to visit Mysore
Mysore has a tropical savanna climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences monsoon season from June to September, with moderate to heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Mysore is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The winter months of December and January are particularly pleasant with cool temperatures and clear skies. However, visitors should avoid traveling to Mysore during the monsoon season as heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and cause inconvenience.
How To Reach Mysore
Mysore is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. Here are the different ways to reach Mysore:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Mysore is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is located about 170 km away. From Bangalore, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Mysore.
- By Train: Mysore is well-connected to major cities in India by train, with regular trains from Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi. The Mysore railway station is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible.
- By Road: Mysore is well-connected by road to major cities in South India, with regular buses from Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. You can also hire a taxi or self-drive to reach Mysore. The city is well-connected to major highways, making it easily accessible by road.
- By Private Car: If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible mode of transportation, you can hire a private car from Bangalore or any other nearby city. This will give you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace and convenience.
Overall, reaching Mysore is quite easy, and you can choose the mode of transportation that suits your budget and preferences.
Accommodation Options in Mysore
Mysore has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the popular options:
- Luxury Hotels: Mysore has several luxury hotels, including the Taj West End, Grand Mercure Mysuru, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, and Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel. These hotels offer top-notch amenities such as swimming pools, spa facilities, and fine dining restaurants.
- Mid-range Hotels: If you are looking for more affordable options, Mysore has several mid-range hotels, such as Hotel Regaalis, Hotel Sandesh the Prince, and Fortune JP Palace. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities at reasonable rates.
- Budget Hotels: Mysore also has several budget hotels, such as Hotel Roopa, Palace Plaza Hotel, and Hotel Palace Inn. These hotels offer basic amenities such as clean rooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, making them ideal for budget travelers.
- Homestays: If you prefer a more authentic and local experience, you can opt for homestays in Mysore. There are several homestays that offer comfortable accommodation in traditional homes, along with home-cooked meals and personalized service.
Overall, Mysore has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences, making it a popular destination among travelers.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Mysore As per users Reviews and Ratings
Here is a brief overview of the top 10 hotels to stay in Mysore based on user reviews and ratings:
- Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore: This is one of the top-rated hotels in Mysore, offering luxurious rooms, excellent amenities, and exceptional service. The hotel has a rooftop pool, a spa, and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- Grand Mercure Mysuru: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers luxurious rooms, fine dining restaurants, and excellent amenities. The hotel has a rooftop swimming pool and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel: This heritage hotel is set amidst beautiful gardens and offers luxurious rooms with excellent amenities. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- Fortune JP Palace: This 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms, fine dining restaurants, and excellent amenities such as a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel is located close to several tourist attractions and is ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
- Hotel Regaalis: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at reasonable rates. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- Hotel Sandesh The Prince: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, basic amenities, and excellent service. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a rooftop restaurant with excellent views of the city.
- Royal Orchid Metropole Hotel: This heritage hotel offers luxurious rooms, excellent amenities, and exceptional service. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- The Quorum Hotel: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, basic amenities, and excellent service. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a rooftop restaurant with excellent views of the city.
- Hotel Pai Vista: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at reasonable rates. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a fitness center, and is located close to several tourist attractions.
- Hotel Roopa: This budget hotel offers basic amenities such as clean rooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, making it ideal for budget travelers. The hotel is located close to several tourist attractions and is a good option for those looking for affordable accommodation.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Mysore
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Mysore:
- Weather: Mysore can get quite hot during the summer months, so it’s important to carry light, comfortable clothing and drink plenty of water. During the monsoon season, the city can experience heavy rainfall, so it’s important to carry rain gear and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Mysore is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
- Getting around: Mysore has a well-connected network of buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It’s important to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid any confusion later.
- Sightseeing: Mysore has several popular tourist attractions, such as the Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple, and Brindavan Gardens. It’s important to plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Food: Mysore is known for its traditional South Indian cuisine, such as dosas, idlis, and vadas. It’s important to try out the local street food and dine at popular restaurants, such as Vinayaka Mylari, GTR, and Hotel RRR.
- Safety: Mysore is generally a safe city, but it’s important to be vigilant, especially while traveling alone or at night. It’s advisable to avoid deserted areas and take necessary precautions while traveling.
- Shopping: Mysore is known for its silk sarees, sandalwood products, and incense sticks. It’s important to shop at reputed stores and bargain while purchasing souvenirs and other items.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Mysore.
Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Mysore
Here are some common travel mistakes to avoid in Mysore:
- Underestimating the weather: Mysore can get quite hot during the summer months and heavy rainfall during monsoon season. It’s important to pack appropriate clothing and rain gear to ensure a comfortable trip.
- Not carrying cash: While there are ATMs and card payment options available, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for small purchases and emergencies.
- Not planning your itinerary: Mysore has several popular tourist attractions, and it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid missing out on any important sites.
- Not booking accommodation in advance: Mysore is a popular tourist destination, and it’s important to book accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Not researching transportation options: Mysore has a well-connected network of buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It’s important to research the best mode of transportation and negotiate fares in advance.
- Not being mindful of local customs: Mysore is a cultural city with several religious sites. It’s important to be mindful of local customs and dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
- Not trying local cuisine: Mysore is known for its traditional South Indian cuisine, and it’s important to try out the local street food and dine at popular restaurants to experience the city’s culture.
By avoiding these common travel mistakes, you can have a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Mysore.
Best Places for Shopping in Mysore
Mysore is known for its silk sarees, sandalwood products, and incense sticks. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Mysore:
- Devaraja Market: This is one of the oldest markets in Mysore and is known for its fresh produce, spices, flowers, and traditional Mysore silk sarees.
- Government Silk Weaving Factory: This is the best place to buy authentic Mysore silk sarees. The factory has a wide range of sarees with unique designs and patterns.
- Sandalwood Oil Factory: This is the best place to buy pure sandalwood oil and other sandalwood products like incense sticks, soaps, and perfumes.
- Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium: This is a government-run emporium that sells traditional handicrafts like wood carvings, stone sculptures, and silk sarees.
- Mall of Mysore: This is a modern shopping mall with several national and international brands. It’s the perfect place to buy clothes, accessories, and electronics.
- Ashoka Road: This is a popular shopping area in Mysore and is known for its shops selling traditional Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood products.
- Sayyaji Rao Road: This is another popular shopping area in Mysore and is known for its shops selling jewellery, clothes, and souvenirs.
By visiting these popular shopping areas, you can get a glimpse of the local culture and buy authentic souvenirs and handicrafts.
Food To Eat in Mysore
Mysore is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, and here are some must-try dishes when visiting the city:
- Masala Dosa: A crispy and thin crepe made with rice and lentil batter, filled with a spicy potato masala.
- Idli: Soft and fluffy steamed rice cakes served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Vada: A deep-fried lentil doughnut served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Mysore Pak: A famous sweet made with ghee, sugar, and gram flour.
- Bisi Bele Bath: A spicy rice dish cooked with vegetables, lentils, and tamarind pulp.
- Mysore Masala: A spicy and aromatic blend of roasted spices, used in many dishes to enhance the flavor.
- Filter Coffee: A strong and aromatic coffee brewed with fresh roasted beans, served with frothy milk and sugar.
- Kesari Bath: A sweet and aromatic semolina pudding made with ghee, sugar, and saffron.
- Chiroti: A flaky and crispy sweet pastry made with flour, sugar, and ghee.
- Rava Idli: A steamed semolina cake served with coconut chutney and sambar.
These are just some of the many delicious dishes to try when visiting Mysore. Don’t forget to also try the street food, which includes popular snacks like Pani Puri, Masala Puri, and Churmuri.
Things you Can buy as a Tourist From Mysore
Mysore is famous for its handicrafts, silk sarees, sandalwood products, and incense sticks. Here are some things you should buy as a tourist in Mysore:
- Mysore Silk Sarees: Known for their soft texture and unique designs, Mysore silk sarees are a must-buy when visiting the city.
- Sandalwood Products: Mysore is known for its high-quality sandalwood, and you can find a wide range of sandalwood products like incense sticks, soaps, perfumes, and sculptures.
- Wooden Handicrafts: Mysore is famous for its wood carvings and sculptures. You can find a wide range of wooden handicrafts like figurines, jewelry boxes, and wall hangings.
- Stone Sculptures: Mysore is also known for its stone sculptures, and you can find a wide range of sculptures made from soapstone, granite, and other natural stones.
- Mysore Paintings: Mysore paintings are a traditional art form that originated in the city. These paintings are made on wood or silk and depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Coorg Honey: Coorg, a nearby district of Mysore, is famous for its high-quality honey. You can find a wide range of honey products like honeycomb, raw honey, and flavored honey in Mysore.
- Spices: Mysore is famous for its spices, and you can find a wide range of fresh spices like cardamom, cloves, pepper, and cinnamon in the city’s markets.
By buying these authentic souvenirs, you can take a piece of Mysore’s culture and heritage back home with you.
Nightlife in Mysore
Mysore is a cultural and historical city that is known for its traditional attractions and heritage sites. However, the city also has a few options for nightlife entertainment. Here are some of the best places for nightlife in Mysore:
- The Road: This is a popular pub located on the outskirts of Mysore city. The Road offers a variety of drinks, music, and food options.
- Opium Bar: Located inside the Fortune JP Palace Hotel, Opium Bar is a trendy lounge that offers a variety of drinks and snacks. The bar also has live music performances on certain days.
- Pelican Pub: Pelican Pub is a casual pub that offers a range of beers, cocktails, and food options. The pub has a relaxed atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Inferno: Inferno is a popular discotheque located inside the Pai Vista hotel. The club has a dance floor, a bar, and a lounge area.
- Silent Shores Resort and Spa: This is a luxury resort that has a bar and a lounge area. The resort also hosts live music performances and events on certain days.
It is important to note that the nightlife scene in Mysore is not as vibrant as in some other Indian cities, and the options are limited. Additionally, alcohol consumption is not a part of the traditional culture in Mysore, so it is important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions while enjoying the nightlife options.
Activities and Things to do in Mysore
Mysore is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to do and see in and around the city. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Mysore:
- Visit Mysore Palace: The Mysore Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It is a beautiful palace with a rich history and stunning architecture.
- Explore the Brindavan Gardens: The Brindavan Gardens is a beautiful garden that is known for its fountains, musical fountain show, and beautiful scenery.
- Take a tour of the Chamundeshwari Temple: The Chamundeshwari Temple is a popular temple located on top of Chamundi Hill. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Chamundeshwari and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Visit the St. Philomena’s Church: St. Philomena’s Church is a beautiful Gothic-style church located in the heart of Mysore city. It is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to take pictures.
- Take a stroll through the Devaraja Market: Devaraja Market is a popular market in Mysore that sells a wide range of items like spices, flowers, handicrafts, and clothing.
- Explore the Mysore Zoo: The Mysore Zoo is a popular tourist attraction that is home to a variety of animals like tigers, lions, elephants, and bears.
- Take a tour of the Jaganmohan Palace: The Jaganmohan Palace is a beautiful palace that was once the royal residence. It now houses a museum that displays a collection of art and artifacts.
- Enjoy a Mysore Dasara Festival: Mysore Dasara is a 10-day festival that takes place in September or October every year. It is a grand celebration that includes processions, cultural events, and fireworks.
These are just a few of the many activities and things to do in Mysore. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or entertainment, there is something for everyone in Mysore.
Lesser Known facts about Mysore
Mysore, located in the southern part of India, is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some lesser-known facts about Mysore:
- Mysore Palace is the second most visited tourist attraction in India after the Taj Mahal.
- Mysore is also known as the “City of Palaces” as it has several other palaces besides the Mysore Palace. These include the Jaganmohan Palace and the Lalitha Mahal Palace.
- The city was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty for over six centuries from 1399 to 1947, making it one of the longest-running dynasties in Indian history.
- Mysore was the first city in India to have electric streetlights, way back in 1905.
- The famous Mysore silk sarees are made from pure silk and real gold zari, and are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Mysore is home to the Chamundi Hills, which has a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari. The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old.
- Mysore was one of the first cities in India to have a planned urban development scheme. The Mysore City Improvement Trust Board (MCITB) was set up in 1906 to oversee the city’s development.
- Mysore is also known for its sandalwood carvings and handicrafts, which are famous all over the world.
- The city is a hub for yoga and wellness, with several ashrams and yoga centers offering courses and programs.
- Mysore is home to the Mysore Zoo, which is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, with a wide range of exotic animals and birds.
FAQ About Mysore
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Mysore:
- What is Mysore famous for?
Mysore is famous for its rich cultural heritage, palaces, silk sarees, sandalwood handicrafts, and the Chamundi Hills.
- How can I reach Mysore?
Mysore is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Bangalore International Airport, which is about 170 km away. The city has a railway station that connects it to major cities in India. There are also several bus services that operate to and from Mysore.
- What is the best time to visit Mysore?
The best time to visit Mysore is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant during this time.
- What are the popular tourist attractions in Mysore?
The popular tourist attractions in Mysore are the Mysore Palace, the Chamundi Hills, the Brindavan Gardens, the Jaganmohan Palace, and the Mysore Zoo.
- What is the local language spoken in Mysore?
Kannada is the local language spoken in Mysore. However, English and Hindi are also widely spoken and understood.
- Is Mysore safe for tourists?
Mysore is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take normal precautions like avoiding dark and isolated places at night, keeping valuables safe, and being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- What are the popular dishes to try in Mysore?
Some of the popular dishes to try in Mysore are the Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, Chitranna, Bisi Bele Bath, and Mysore Rasam.
- What are the shopping options in Mysore?