Mysore or Mysuru, is the third largest city in Karnataka. The city was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty and it is well known for the rich architectural history, palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is located at the bottom of the Chamundi Hills and is about 150 kms from Bangalore.
The city has a large tourism industry, which attracts tourists from all across the World. The city is famous for the palaces, Mysore Pak and the Dashara celebration in the city. It is one of the most visited destinations in Karnataka.
Mysore Palace during Dasara. Image courtesy Arul Prasad
History of Mysore
The name Mysore finds its roots from Mahishasura, who was a demon who had the ability to take the form of buffalo and human. It is believed that this area was ruled by the demon Mahishasura who was killed by the Goddess Chamundeshwari, whose temple is over the hills. This is how the city was named Mysore.
Sightseeing in and around Mysore
Mysore Palace: The Palace is famous for the rich culture and architectural history. The Mysore palace is a highlight of the architecture and reflects Hindu, Rajput, Islamic and Gothic style of architecture. Located in the heart of the city, it has two Darbar halls, garden, and buildings. It is the official residence of the rulers of Mysore.
Brindavan Gardens: Another prominent tourist attraction, Brindavan Gardens is a famous garden in India. Situated next to the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, the gardens house a dancing fountain which is a major tourist attraction. A light and sound show is conducted every evening, which adds colour to the beautiful gardens.
Chamundi Hills: Located in the outskirts of Mysuru, the Chamundi Hills is one of the most sacred hills in India. The Chamundeshwari Temple is situated at the top of the hill. Goddess Chamundeshwari is the main deity of the temple and one can get a breathtaking view of the city from the top of the hills.
Photographer Ranjithsiji
Rail Museum: The rail museum located in the city of Mysuru is only the second museum in India after Delhi. It has a huge display of vintage locomotives and royal carriages that were once used by the royal family of Mysore. In addition, there are paintings, photographs and various items that give an insight into the history of the city
Is the Zebra confused with a mirror image? Photographer Sumit Dhar
Mysore Zoo: One of the oldest zoo in India is the Mysore Zoo. It has a huge plantation and houses white tigers, rhinos and gorillas. It is one of the popular tourist attractions in the city.
Wax Museum: The wax museum in Mysuru is one of a kind. It exhibits various musical instruments and has more than 300 musical instruments which represent different states in the Country.
Specialty of Mysore
Mysore Silk Saree: Mysore and silk both share the same history. The Mysore royalty is taking serious measure to cultivate the craft. The silk saree is a light, smooth and soft variety that is inlaid with beautiful and intricate golden zari thread in different patterns. There are various saree shops in Mysore for you to choose from.
Sandalwood oil and soap: Sandalwood has become a thriving industry in Mysuru. You can buy the famous Mysore Sandalwood soap and oils from here. There are shops located near the Devaraja Market, which specialize in the same.
Coffee Powder: The city produces one of the best coffee in the country. You can easily buy coffee powder or buy roasted beans and have them fresh ground. Various stores are located near the Devaraja Market.
How to Reach Mysuru
By Air
The nearest airport is at Bangalore which is at a distance of 150 kms.
By Rail
The city h has a railway station which connects it to various cities.
By Road
One can easily drive on the Bangalore-Mysore highway to reach the city. Regular buses also ply to different cities from Mysuru.
Also See
Education in Mysuru
- Engineering colleges in Mysore
- Pre Schools in Mysore
- Schools in Mysore
- Universities in Mysore
- Oriental Research Institute, Mysore
Local Sightseeing Options Mysuru
- Cycle Tour
- Mysore Palace
- Jaganmohan Palace
- Brindavan Gardens
- Chamundi Hills
- St. Philomena’s Church
- Mysore Zoo
- The Art Gallery
- Rail Museum
- Kokrebellur Bird Sanctuary
- Karanji Lake Nature Park
- Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden
- Local sightseeing
- Vineyards
Nearby Mysuru
- Bandipur National Park
- B R Hills
- Bylakuppe
- Channapatna
- Dams: Kabini Dam, KRS Dam, Nugu Dam
- Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta
- Kabini
- Kokarebellur
- Melkote
- Nagarhole National Park
- Nanjangud
- Nimishambha
- Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary
- Shivasamudram
- Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Ashrama
- Somnathpur
- Srirangapatna
- Talakad
- River Suvarnavathi or River Honnuhole
A Few Facts about Mysuru and Dasara
- Mysore is now Mysuru
- Silk Tour: Watch the Creation of Wonders with Threads
- King Couture
- Dasara Gold Card
- Dasara
- Elephant March
- Shopping
- Resorts
- Biligirirangana Hills
- Hotels
- Clubs
