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Nestled in the foothills of Chamundi Hill, Mysore officially known as Mysuru is one most populous cities of Karnataka. Often reckoned as the “City of Palaces”, Mysore with its rich cultural heritage and grandiose monuments has become one of the most visited destinations of South India. This historic city of Mysore is also dubbed as the “Cleanest City of India” and the cultural hub of Karnataka. Mysore thrives with stunning garden, finely crafted structures and serene lake. Showcasing a fine blend of urban world with the ancient era Mysore has attracted travelers and vacationers from far and wide.
Mysore Palace, also known as Mysore Maharaja Palace or Amba Vilas Palace is one the prime attraction of Mysore. Originally founded in 14th century Mysore Palace is one of the largest palaces in India. This grandiose palace is situated in the heart of Mysore. The current structure of Mysore Palace was built in 19th century after the palace was destroyed by fire. The indo-saracenic architecturing style of Mysore Palace has captivated the minds of many traveler making it a must visit destination of Mysore. Enclosed by emerald green lawn the interior of Mysore Palace is as astounding as its exterior structure. Adorned with intricate design the inner walls of Mysore Palace showcase one of finest craftsmanship. During the night time the entire palace is lit up by using more than 90,000 light bulbs. Under the starry night and soft hue of moonlight, Mysore Palace gleams like a precious jewel.
Mysore Palace Timings: 10:00am to 5:30pm
Entry fee of Mysore Palace for: Indians- Rs 40| Foreign Nationals- Rs 200
Situated in the core of Mysore city is Karanji Lake a nature bound tourist destination. Sprawled on the foothills of Chamundi Hill, Karanji Lake is one of the biggest lakes in Karnataka. The marshy land around Karanji Lake creates an ideal surrounding for hosting a vast collection of avifauna. In 1972 a bird enclosure was built in the periphery of Karanji Lake to attract migratory birds in Mysore. The bird enclosure or aviary of Karanji Lake is considered to be the biggest “walk-through aviary” in India. With more than 20species of migratory birds Karanji Lake has emerged as a birding paradise of Mysore. In the nature park enclosing Karanji Lake visitors can also find a Butterflying area and a museum.
Karanji Lake Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30pm
Entry fee of Karanji Lake for: Adults- Rs 10 | Children- Rs 5 (5-15yrs)
Perched at an altitude of 1000mt Chamundi Hill is located at a distance of 13km from Mysore. Chamundi Hill is famous for the 7th century old Chamundeshwari temple. Sited atop the Chamundi Hill, Chamundeshwari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga who is also known by the name Chamundi. The original foundation of Chamundeshwari Temple was laid on 12th century and the current structure was later built in 17th century by the ruler of Vijyanagar. The prime attraction of this ancient temple is the 5 mt tall idol of Goddess Durga which is carved out of a single rock. To reach Chamundeshwari Temple visitors first need to climb the 1000 steps. On auspicious day this serene hilltop temple is crowded with devotees.
Mysore Zoo also known as Shri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, located close to Mysore Palace is another favored tourist attractions of Mysore. Established in 1892, Mysore Zoo in one the oldest zoological parks in India. Mysore Zoo is known for housing the most exotic wildlife from around the world. Here in Mysore Zoo, visitors can observe animals and reptiles like pythons, elephant, giraffe, white tiger, and white rhinoceros in their semi natural habitat. While visiting Mysore Zoo visitor can also take a tour around the Karanji Lake.
Mysore Zoo Timings: 8:30am to 5:30pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry fee of Mysore Zoo for: Adults- Rs 40 | Children & Senior Citizen- Rs 25
Brindavan Gardens situated below the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam is a famous tourist destination of Mysore. Sprawled with lush green meadow and dotted with exotic flowers, Brindavan Garden is known for its pristine beauty. The construction of this serene garden was started in the year 1927 and completed in 1932. Here visitors can find a botanical park with vast collection of vibrant flowers and numerous fountains. The prime attraction of Brindavan Gardens is the musical water fountain. Offering the vista of vibrant flowers in the midst of well manicured lawn, it has been a favored nature lover destination in Mysore. Evening time is the considered the most time to visit Brindavan Gardens to witness the colorful lights show of water fountains.
Brindavan Gardens Timings: 6:00am to 8:00pm
Entry fee of Brindavan Gardens for: Adults- Rs 15 | Children- Rs 5 (5-10yrs)
How to reach Mysore: To explore the ancient city of Mysore, visitors need to reach Bangalore first. The distance between Bangalore to Mysore is 120km. From Bangalore there are many traveling options to reach Mysore. Visitors can either hire a cab, or board on a train or take a bus to reach Mysore from Bangalore. Bangalore can be easily reached from any major cities like Mumbai and Chennai.
Best time to visit Mysore: Being blessed with temperate weather Mysore can be visited throughout the year. The summer of Mysore are warm and winter cool. And the best time to visit Mysore is said during winter season from October to February.
