Must Visting Places in Mysore
Mysore – The Cultural Capital of Karnataka
Mysore (now officially called Mysuru) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, known for its royal heritage, vibrant culture, and historical significance.
Mysore Tourism – Major Attractions
- Mysore Palace: The grand royal palace with Indo-Saracenic architecture, illuminated beautifully at night.
- Chamundi Hill & Chamundeshwari Temple: A scenic hill with a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari.
- Brindavan Gardens: Famous for its musical fountain and beautiful landscape.
- Mysore Zoo
- St. Philomena’s Church
Mysore Palace – The Crown Jewel of Mysuru
Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most famous and magnificent palaces in India. It is the official residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled Mysore for centuries. The palace is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles.
For resort bookings, you can contact Roaming Routes India, one of the best travel company in Kerala.
Key Facts About Mysore Palace
- Location: Mysuru, Karnataka, India
- Built-in: 1912 (after the original wooden palace was destroyed in a fire)
- Architect: Henry Irwin (British architect)
- Style: Indo-Saracenic, with influences of Hindu, Mughal, Gothic, and Rajput architecture
- Famous For: Grand architecture, royal artifacts, intricate carvings, and illumination
Main Attractions Inside the Palace
- Durbar Hall: A grand hall with a high ceiling, ornate pillars, and stunning chandeliers where the king held court.
- Ambavilasa: A lavishly decorated private hall used by the Maharajas.
- Gombe Thotti (Doll’s Pavilion): A display of traditional dolls and ceremonial artifacts.
- Kalyana Mantapa (Marriage Hall): A spectacular octagonal hall with stained glass ceilings and mosaic floors.
- Golden Throne (Simhasana): A magnificent gold-plated throne used during Dasara celebrations.
Illumination & Light Show
- The palace is illuminated with over 97,000 lights on Sundays, public holidays, and during the Mysore Dasara festival (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
- Sound & Light Show: A storytelling event about Mysore’s royal history (held on select days).
Entry Fee & Timings
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (open all days)
- Entry Fee:
- Indian Adults: ₹100
- Children (10-18 years): ₹50
- Foreigners: ₹200
- Free entry for children below 10 years
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (pleasant weather, and the palace looks stunning during the Mysore Dasara festival in October).
Chamundi Hill & Chamundeshwari Temple – The Sacred Landmark of Mysore
Chamundi Hill is one of the most famous landmarks in Mysore, known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. Atop the hill stands the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the deity of the Wodeyar rulers and a form of Goddess Durga.
Chamundi Hill – Key Facts
- Location: 13 km from Mysore city
- Height: 1,060 meters (3,480 feet) above sea level
- Famous For: Chamundeshwari Temple, panoramic views of Mysore, and the iconic Nandi statue
Chamundeshwari Temple – The Sacred Shrine
- Deity: Goddess Chamundeshwari (a form of Durga, also known as Mahishasura Mardini)
- Built-in: 12th century by the Hoysala rulers, later expanded by the Wodeyars
- Architecture: Dravidian style with a 7-tier gopuram (tower) and intricate carvings
- Temple Timings:
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Special Poojas: Fridays and during Navaratri (September-October)
Main Attractions on Chamundi Hill
- Chamundeshwari Temple: The main shrine with a majestic gold idol of the goddess.
- Nandi Statue: A giant monolithic statue of Nandi (sacred bull), 16 feet tall, carved from a single rock.
- Mahishasura Statue: A statue of the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari.
- Panoramic Viewpoint: Offers breathtaking views of Mysore Palace, Kukkarahalli Lake, and the entire city.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning or evening for pleasant weather and peaceful darshan.
- During Navaratri, when the temple and Mysore Palace are beautifully decorated.ar dapibus leo.
For Tour Packages bookings, you can contact Roaming Routes India, one of the best travel company in Kerala.
Brindavan Gardens – A Mesmerizing Garden in Mysore
The Brindavan Gardens, located near Mysore, is one of the most famous and beautifully designed terrace gardens in India. Built across the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam, the garden is famous for its musical fountain, lush green landscapes, and illuminated beauty at night.
Key Facts About Brindavan Gardens
- Location: 21 km from Mysore, near KRS Dam
- Built-in: 1932 by Sir Mirza Ismail, the then Diwan of Mysore
- Area: Spreads across 60 acres
- Famous For: Symmetrically designed gardens, fountains, boating, and the musical fountain show
Major Attractions in Brindavan Gardens
- Musical Fountain Show: The highlight of the garden, featuring dancing water synchronized with music and colorful lights.
- Terrace Garden Design: Inspired by Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir, with floral beds, water channels, and decorative structures.
- Boating in the Lake: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride in the lake between the gardens.
- Illumination Show: The garden is beautifully lit in the evening, creating a magical atmosphere.
Timings & Entry Fee
- Garden Timings:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Musical Fountain Show Timings:
- Weekdays: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Weekdays: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹50
- Children (5-10 years): ₹10
- Camera Fee: ₹50
- Adults: ₹50
Mysore Zoo – A Wildlife Paradise in Mysuru
Mysore Zoo, officially called the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India. It is famous for its wide variety of exotic animals, lush greenery, and conservation efforts. A perfect destination for wildlife lovers and families!
Key Facts About Mysore Zoo
- Location: Near Mysore Palace, Mysore, Karnataka
- Established: 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar
- Area: 157 acres (one of the largest zoos in India)
- Managed by: Karnataka Forest Department
- Famous For: Exotic wildlife, eco-friendly environment, and conservation programs
Major Attractions in Mysore Zoo
- Big Cats: Lions, tigers (including white tigers), leopards, and jaguars.
- Elephants & Giraffes: Home to African elephants and Indian elephants, along with giraffes from Africa.
- Primates Section: Various monkeys, chimpanzees, and baboons from different continents.
- Reptile House: Includes crocodiles, snakes, and tortoises.
- Bird Aviary: Houses exotic birds like macaws, pelicans, flamingos, and ostriches.
- Conservation Programs: Animal adoption program allows people to sponsor animal care.
Zoo Timings & Entry Fee
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹100 (weekdays), ₹120 (weekends)
- Children (5-12 years): ₹50 (weekdays), ₹60 (weekends)
- Free for children below 5 years
- Battery-operated vehicle tour: ₹150 per person
For resort bookings, you can contact Roaming Routes India, one of the best travel company in Kerala.
St. Philomena’s Church – A Gothic Marvel in Mysore
St. Philomena’s Church in Mysore is one of the tallest and most beautiful churches in India, known for its Neo-Gothic architecture inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. This historic church is a major landmark and a place of worship that attracts visitors for its stunning design and serene ambiance.
Key Facts About St. Philomena’s Church
- Location: Lashkar Mohalla, Mysore, Karnataka
- Built-in: 1936 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV
- Architectural Style: Neo-Gothic, designed by French architect Daly
- Famous For: Twin spires, stained glass windows, and historical significance
- Height: 175 feet (53 meters) (one of the tallest churches in India)
Major Attractions of St. Philomena’s Church
- Twin Spires: The church has two towering spires (similar to European cathedrals), visible from a long distance.
- Stained Glass Windows: Beautiful windows depicting biblical scenes such as the birth, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Crypt of St. Philomena: A chamber beneath the altar housing a relic of St. Philomena, a 3rd-century saint.
- Gothic Architecture: High vaulted ceilings, intricate carvings, and a grand altar create a mesmerizing interior.
Timings & Entry Fee
- Church Timings: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM (open every day)
- Mass Timings:
- Weekdays: 6:30 AM (Kannada), 5:00 PM (English)
- Sundays: 8:00 AM (Kannada), 9:30 AM (English), 6:00 PM (Tamil)
- Weekdays: 6:30 AM (Kannada), 5:00 PM (English)
- Entry Fee: Free
Special Experiences in Mysore
- Mysore Dasara: A grand 10-day festival with royal processions, cultural performances, and a decorated Mysore Palace.
- Shopping: Famous for Mysore silk sarees, sandalwood products, and traditional handicrafts.
- Food: Try Mysore Pak (a delicious sweet) and authentic South Indian cuisine.
Connectivity & Transport
- By Air: Mysore Airport (limited flights); Bengaluru International Airport (170 km away) is the nearest major airport.
- By Train: Mysore Railway Station connects well to major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai.
- By Road: Well-connected by highways, frequent bus services available from Bengaluru and other cities