Local Sightseeing in Mysore

Mysore or Mysuru is one of the most famous cities in the South of India. It reflects a rich history and culture which makes it a prominent tourist destination. The city is rich in Tradition and the famous Dashara festival is celebrated with pomp and show.

The city is famous for magnificent monuments and the famous palaces. It is also well known for Mysore silk sarees and Mysore pak (sweet). Mysore is located at a distance of 130 kms from Bangalore and is easy to reach. A few of the Mysore sightseeing options are listed below:

Mysore Palace: The Mysore Palace is a must visit in Mysore. Known across the World as one of the magnificent palaces in India, the Mysore Palace reflects rich culture and architecture. Mysore Palace is the Amba Vilas Palace, which was the home of the rulers of Mysore. It is now a museum which displays artifacts, jewellery, treasures and various items of the royalty. The three storied building has many temples, gardens, buildings and Durbar Hall. Add this to your Mysore sightseeing list if you are planning to visit this historic land.

Brindavan Gardens: The Brindavan Gardens is one of the most beautiful garden in the Country. Located beside the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, the garden has a magnificent view and has a beautiful symmetric design. The musical and dancing fountain is a main attraction for tourists. The music and the lights create a beautiful view inside the garden. This wonderful place is must-have in your Mysore sightseeing.

Chamundi Hills: Sightseeing Mysore? The Chamundi hills, one of the most holy hills of India, is a must-visit. Goddess Chamundeshwari is the main deity in the temple located at the top of the hills. One can get a breathtaking view of the city from the top of the hill. There are 1008 steps to reach the top of the hill.

Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery: The Jayachamarajendra art gallery is one of the best galleries in the Country. The art gallery has a collection of some of the finest paintings and artifacts that once belonged to the royal family of Mysore. The art gallery displays works of Indian artists as well as Foreign artists that include Nikolav Roerich and Sterling.

Mysore Zoo: Mysore zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the Country and is a prominent tourist destination. It is located near the Mysore Palace and houses white tigers, rhinos and gorillas.

Rail Museum: The rail museum located in Mysore is the second rail museum in the Country. The first one is in Delhi. This museum is the only place in India that displays vintage locomotive and royal carriages that were once used by the royal family of Mysore. It also has a battery operated toy train that takes children on a short ride.

Jaganmohan palace, Mysore. Mysore Sightseeing

Jaganmohan palace. Photographer Vedamurthy J

Jaganmohan Palace: The Jaganmohan Palace in Mysore is an art gallery and a function hall. The palace is one of the seven palaces in the city and has a traditional Hindu architecture. The art gallery has the largest collection of artifacts in the Country. Most of the paintings belong to Raja Ravi Verma, which reflects Mahabharata, Ramayana and the history of Mysore. Other exhibits also include war weapons, currencies, coins, Brassware and sculptures.

Nandi Temple: Nandi is the name of the bull that serves Lord Shiva. The Nandi sits at a height of 15 feet and is carved out of a single piece of rock.

Krishna Raja Sagara Dam: The Krishna Raja Sagara is a dam built over the River Kaveri and is the main source of water in the city. It is located adjacent to the Brindavan Gardens. Add this to your Mysore sightseeing.

Regional Museum of Natural History: The regional museum of Natural History has exhibit galleries that depict the flora and fauna of the Southern India.

Wax Museum: The Wax Museum in Mysore is also named Melody World. The museum has 19 galleries that exhibit the various musical instruments and has more than 110 wax statues as well as 300 musical instruments.