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Karnataka tourism offers a diverse experience from metropolitan cities to heritage sites and natural beauties. One of the most charming places to visit in Karnataka is Mysore. Often called the “City of Palaces,” Mysore is known for its grand architecture, royal heritage, and cultural richness. With its architectural wonders, it attracts travelers from all over India and beyond. The highlight of any Mysore tour is the stunning Mysore Palace, lit up beautifully in the evenings, leaving visitors spellbound. But the city is not just about palaces; it is also famous for yoga, sandalwood, silk sarees, and delicious Mysore Pak. Walking through Mysore feels like stepping into a mix of the old and the new. On one side, you have bustling markets full of flowers, spices, and handicrafts. On the other side, you find calm temples, gardens, and art galleries that reflect the city’s history.
Whether you’re exploring the palace, climbing Chamundi Hills, or strolling around Brindavan Gardens, the city has something to offer everyone. To plan your tour itinerary and have an unforgettable experience, here is our comprehensive Mysore Travel Guide. It includes the best time to visit and the best places to explore, along with other essential information to make your journey smoother.
Best Places to Visit in Mysore
To experience the magic of the historical city of Mysore, you should explore the top attractions of the city. It has a rich mix of palaces, temples, gardens, and markets. Here are some of the best places to visit in Mysore that make it a must-see destination for travelers.
Mysore Palace
The city is world-famous for its brilliant architecture of the Mysore Palace. It is the crown jewel of the city that people from all around visit to witness. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, it is full of colorful glass windows, grand halls, and royal artifacts. In the evenings, the palace glows with thousands of lights, creating a magical view. It is one of the most visited monuments in India and a highlight of any Mysore travel experience.
Chamundi Hills
Another top attraction of Mysore is the Chamundi Hills, a spiritual and scenic spot just outside Mysore. On top, there is a Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Chamundi. The hill also has a massive Nandi statue carved from granite. From here, you get a wide view of the entire city. Many visitors include Chamundi Hills in their Mysore tour itinerary for both faith and nature.
Brindavan Gardens
Brindavan Gardens, located near the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam, is one of the most popular places to visit in Mysore. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with fountains, flowerbeds, and pathways. In the evening, the musical fountain show attracts large crowds. It’s a great place for families, couples, and photographers. For travelers, it adds a refreshing touch to a Mysore trip.
St. Philomena’s Church
St. Philomena’s Church is one of the tallest churches in Asia and a striking landmark of Mysore. Built in neo-Gothic style, it has beautiful stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ. The peaceful atmosphere inside contrasts with the busy streets outside. It’s a must-see attraction for those exploring the cultural and spiritual side of Mysore.
Mysore Zoo
Mysore Zoo is one of the oldest and best-maintained zoos in India. Spread across a large area, it is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, giraffes, and elephants. The zoo focuses on conservation and education, making it popular with families. It’s a fun and educational stop to include in your Mysore travel guide.
Hidden Gems of Mysore
- Rail Museum: A quiet spot that shows the history of Indian Railways. Old engines, carriages, and vintage photographs are displayed. It is less crowded than other attractions and perfect for those interested in trains and history.
- Karanji Lake: A peaceful lake surrounded by greenery. It has a butterfly park and a large aviary where birds fly freely. Visitors can enjoy boating or just walk around the calm pathways away from the city’s buzz.
- Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery: Once home to the royal family, this palace now holds a fine art gallery. It displays rare paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. It’s a hidden treasure for art lovers who want to see something beyond the Mysore Palace.
- Lingabudi Lake: It is a large freshwater lake on the outskirts of Mysore. Since the place attracts many migratory birds, it is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Even the peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot for nature walks and quiet relaxation.
How to Reach Mysore
Mysore is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is well-connected to major cities by roads, railways, and air. Here are the different travel options you can choose to reach Mysore from your city:
By Train: Mysore Junction is well-connected to Bengaluru, Chennai, and other major cities. Trains from Bangalore run frequently and take about 3–4 hours.
By Flight: Mysore has its own airport, but there are only limited domestic flights. So, tourists mostly travel to the second nearest airport to Mysore, which is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, which is only 170 km away. Outside the airport, you can get cabs, taxis, and buses to travel to Mysore from Bengaluru.
By Road: Mysore is well connected by highways. Regular buses and taxis run from Bengaluru and nearby towns. The drive from Bengaluru via the Mysore Road is smooth and scenic.
Best Time to Visit Mysore
The best time to visit Mysore is the winter season from October to February. The pleasant weather makes sightseeing and outdoor activities comfortable. However, the summer season from March to June is still manageable. You will see the good climate during the early mornings and evenings, which makes sightseeing easier. If you are a nature lover, you can plan your Mysore tour during the monsoon season from July to September, which transforms the city into lush greenery and makes it look fresh. However, rainfall may disrupt your travel plans. So, plan accordingly.
