Mysuru

The Chamundi Hills, rising 1,000 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking views of Mysuru. At its summit is the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple, with its intricate Dravidian architecture and 1,008-step climb, is a pilgrimage site for thousands.

• Key Attractions: The towering 5-meter Nandi statue carved from a single stone, located halfway up the hill.
• Timings: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
• Travel Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Located just 23 kilometers from Mysuru, the Brindavan Gardens is a landscaped paradise. Spread over 60 acres near the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, the gardens are famous for their musical fountain show and vibrant flowerbeds.

• Highlights: The illuminated evening fountain show and boat rides in the Cauvery River.
• Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
• Travel Tip: Arrive just before sunset to enjoy the gardens by day and the fountain show by night.

Established in 1892, the Mysuru Zoo is one of India’s oldest and most well-maintained zoological gardens. It spans 157 acres and is home to over 150 species, including tigers, giraffes, elephants, and exotic birds.

• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays).
• Travel Tip: Plan your visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

Built in 1936, the St. Philomena’s Church is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in India. Its Neo-Gothic style, inspired by Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, is a must-see.

• Highlights: Stunning stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible and soaring twin spires over 175 feet tall.
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful experience.

Once the royal guesthouse, the Lalitha Mahal Palace is now a luxury heritage hotel. The building’s grandeur, with its white marble domes and Venetian chandeliers, offers a glimpse into Mysuru’s opulent past.

• Travel Tip: Non-guests can visit the palace for a small fee or enjoy high tea at the hotel.

Nature lovers will enjoy Karanji Lake, a tranquil spot in the heart of Mysuru. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s perfect for boating and birdwatching. The lake is home to over 90 species of birds, including herons and egrets.

• Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Travel Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and enjoy a peaceful afternoon picnic.

For a taste of local life, visit Devaraja Market, Mysuru’s vibrant and colorful bazaar. From fragrant jasmine flowers to Mysore Pak (a famous sweet), this market is a sensory delight.

• Highlights: Handwoven silk sarees, spices, and sandalwood products.
• Travel Tip: Visit early morning to see the bustling flower market in full bloom.

The Rail Museum is a fascinating attraction for history and railway enthusiasts. It showcases vintage locomotives, royal coaches, and model trains.

• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
• Travel Tip: Don’t miss the toy train ride, which is especially popular with children.

Located just 18 kilometers from Mysuru, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. Spread over 40 acres, it attracts migratory birds from as far as Siberia.

• Highlights: Spot painted storks, herons, pelicans, and crocodiles during a boat ride.
• Travel Tip: Visit between December and February for the best birdwatching experience.

The Chennakesava Temple at Somanathapura, about 35 kilometers from Mysuru, is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. The intricate carvings on its stone walls are a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage.

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Travel Tip: Hire a guide to understand the detailed carvings and stories depicted.

Mysuru is renowned for its silk sarees, and a visit to the Mysore Silk Factory offers insights into how these luxurious sarees are made.

• Highlights: Watch skilled artisans weaving silk sarees and shop for authentic Mysore silk.
• Travel Tip: Purchase sarees directly from the factory for the best quality and price.

Located 50 kilometers from Mysuru, Melukote is a spiritual town known for its ancient temples and scenic views. The Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple and Yoga Narasimha Temple are the main attractions.

• Travel Tip: Try the famous Puliyogare (tamarind rice) served as prasadam at the temple.

The Jaganmohan Palace, an architectural gem, now houses an art gallery with a vast collection of paintings and artifacts, including works by Raja Ravi Varma.

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Travel Tip: Art enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed and historic paintings on display.

No visit to Mysuru is complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Mysuru Dussehra, a 10-day festival celebrated with royal processions, cultural events, and illuminated monuments.

• Travel Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, as the city attracts thousands of tourists during this time.

• Coorg: Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is just a 3-hour drive from Mysuru.
• Bandipur National Park: A popular destination for wildlife safaris, located about 80 kilometers away.
• Shravanabelagola: Famous for its 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Gommateshwara.