Mysore, located in Karnataka, India, is a city rich in history and cultural heritage. It’s renowned for its grand palaces, ancient temples, and beautiful gardens, making it a top destination for anyone interested in exploring India’s past and culture. The city has been a favorite spot for travelers for many centuries and continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
For those who appreciate art and architecture, Mysore offers a treasure trove of stunning temples and shrines. The Someshwara Temple, with its intricate carvings, and St. Philomena’s Cathedral, known for its impressive Gothic architecture, are prime examples of the city’s artistic and architectural excellence. These landmarks are not just religious sites but also showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Mysore.
Beyond historical and architectural attractions, Mysore is also known for its lush gardens, like the Brindavan Gardens, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll amidst nature. The city’s vibrant markets, bustling with local crafts and delicious street food, offer a taste of the local life and traditions.
In summary, Mysore is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring magnificent palaces, visiting ancient temples, or simply enjoying the serene gardens and vibrant markets, Mysore offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.
01. Mysore Palace 1.6 KM
Mysore Palace stands as the heart of tourism in Mysore. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a key attraction that has helped shape the city’s development and global reputation. It is undoubtedly the top place to visit in Mysore.
The current palace was constructed after the original one was damaged by a fire during the wedding of the then-royal family. The foundation for the new palace was laid in 1897, under the guidance of architect Sir Henry Irwin, and the construction was completed in 1912. The project was overseen by B.P. Raaghavulu Naidu, the chief engineer.
Architectural Marvel
The palace is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which blends Indian, Islamic, and Western styles. Originally named ‘Amba Vilasa,’ the palace showcases intricate designs and elaborate ornamentation. The main building spans 245 feet in length and 156 feet in width. At the time of construction, it cost approximately INR 41,47,913.
Tourist Attraction
Mysore Palace is among India’s top tourist attractions, attracting around 6 million visitors annually. This makes it one of the most visited sites in India, second only to the Taj Mahal. Its impressive architecture, historical significance, and the vibrant Dasara festival celebrations held here draw tourists from all over the world.
Current Management
Today, the Mysore Palace is managed by the Government of Karnataka. The palace remains a symbol of the city’s royal heritage and is maintained as a major cultural and historical site. The current head of the Wadiyar family is Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, who holds a titular position and represents the royal lineage.
02. Chamundi Hills 13 KM
Chamundi Hills is one of the top places to visit in Mysore, holding the second spot on the list of must-see attractions. Located 3,300 feet above the city, it offers stunning views and a rich cultural experience.
Visitors come to Chamundi Hills primarily to visit the Chamundi Temple, situated at the summit. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Chamundi, known for her divine power and grace. The temple is an architectural marvel with sculptural art that narrates the stories of Goddess Chamundi.
From the viewpoint at the top of the hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mysore city. If you have a digital camera, this spot provides a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the cityscape, including the world-famous Mysore Palace.
To reach Chamundi Hills, you can take an air-conditioned bus numbered 201. Buses run frequently, with around four departures per hour, making it easy to plan your visit.
At the base of Chamundi Hills, near the steps leading up to the temple, you’ll find the famous Nandi Statue. This impressive statue represents Lord Nandi, the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva. Standing 16 feet high and 24 feet long, it was built 350 years ago and is a significant landmark in the area.
Chamundi Hills is also known for its 1,008 steps leading from the city to the temple, offering a challenging yet rewarding climb for visitors. Near the temple, there is a large pond known as ‘Kalyani,’ adding to the serene atmosphere of the hill.
The name Mysore is believed to have been influenced by the legend of the demon king Mahisasura, who was defeated by Goddess Chamundi. The goddess is also known as ‘Mahisasura Mardini,’ which connects to the city’s name and its rich history.
03. Somanathapura temple 38 Km
The third must-visit place in Mysore is the Somanathapura Temple, a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. Built by Hoysala King Narasimha III in 1258 CE, this temple is an important site for Vaishnavism, a major tradition within Hinduism.
The construction of the temple was guided by a general named Dandanayaka, who played a key role in its design and execution during the 13th century.
Also known as Channakeshava Temple, Chennakesava Temple, or Kesava Temple, the Somanathapura Temple is situated on the banks of the River Kaveri, about 38 kilometers from Mysore city. Originally intended solely for worship, its intricate architecture and stunning sculptures have made it a significant tourist attraction in Mysore today.
The temple is renowned for its elaborate sculptural work. The exterior walls of the temple feature detailed carvings that vary by height, catering to different age groups. For instance, younger visitors might appreciate the depictions of animals and forest scenes at the lower levels, while the more elaborate divine figures and deities are found higher up, offering a spiritual experience for adults.
When planning your visit to Somanathapura Temple, consider also exploring the nearby Talakadu deserts, located about 24 kilometers away along the River Kaveri. This area is another beautiful destination that adds to the rich experience of your trip to Mysore.
04. Mysore Zoo 2.8 KM
Mysore Zoo, ranked fourth on the list of places to visit in Mysore, is a major attraction, drawing around 4 million visitors each year and generating an impressive revenue of ₹16.21 crore annually. According to Wikipedia, it is the top zoo in Mysore, following Nandankanan Zoological Park.
Established in 1892 by Sri Chamaraja Wadiyar, the zoo originally covered 10 acres. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, now occupying 157 acres, making it one of the largest zoos in India.
Located just 2.8 kilometers from the city center, Mysore Zoo is home to 1,320 animals, including 10 elephants and 5 green anacondas donated by Colombo Zoo. The zoo has housed over 34 elephants throughout its history and features a diverse range of animals such as Indian elephants, leopards, giraffes, tigers, zebras, swans, American pelicans, rhinoceroses, white tigers, and lions.
The zoo is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained environment. Visitors are encouraged to help keep the zoo clean and support its efforts in maintaining a healthy atmosphere. A popular attraction within the zoo is the mini safari, where you can enjoy a bus ride around the zoo, taking in the beautiful park and observing various animals.
Entrance Fees:
- Adults: ₹100
- Children (5-12 years): ₹50
This makes it an accessible and enjoyable experience for families and animal lovers alike.
05. KRS 23 KM
Krishna Raja Sagara, commonly known as KRS, is a significant dam built across the River Kaveri in the Mandya district of Karnataka. It is renowned not only for its crucial role in water management but also for the beautiful Brindavan Gardens located nearby.
During the severe droughts of 1875-76, both Mandya and Mysore districts faced severe water shortages, prompting widespread migration. To address this crisis, King Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV of the Kingdom of Mysore initiated plans to build a dam across the Kaveri River.
The mastermind behind the construction was Sir M. Visvesvaraya, who received approval to build the dam at a site near Kannambadi. Construction began in 1911, and with the efforts of 10,000 workers and a budget of ₹81 lakhs, the dam was completed in 1931.
The KRS dam stands 194 feet high and has the capacity to store 41.5 billion cubic feet of water. Stretching approximately 1 kilometer in length, it features not only the essential structure but also beautiful gardens and waterfalls. One of the major attractions is the famous musical fountain, which operates daily after 7:00 pm, drawing many tourists to the site.
The combination of its historical significance and picturesque surroundings makes KRS Dam a popular destination for visitors seeking both cultural and natural beauty.
Suggested Read: KRS Dam Water Level Today
06. St. Philomena’s Church 2 KM
The sixth place to visit in Mysore is St. Philomena’s Church, a historic church established by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar in 1843, located in the heart of the city. Renowned for its striking architecture and design, the church is a significant landmark in Mysore.
St. Philomena’s Church is built in a Neo-Gothic style, inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The church features twin spires that rise to a height of 173 feet, making it a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Inside, the church boasts a large main hall with a seating capacity of 800 people, surrounded by beautiful stained glass windows that add to its grandeur.
The church also includes a crypt that houses a statue of St. Philomena. The church’s towering structure is visible from the Central Police Station circle on Ashoka Road, making it an unmissable sight for visitors to Mysore.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply looking to explore notable landmarks in Mysore, St. Philomena’s Church is a must-visit destination.
07. Lalitha Mahal Palace 5 KM
The seventh must-visit place in Mysore is Lalitha Mahal, the second largest palace in the city. Built in 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, this grand palace was initially intended to serve as a residence for the Viceroy of India. In 1974, it was transformed into a heritage hotel for the public.
The design of Lalitha Mahal is inspired by St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, particularly its main dome. Located near Chamundi Hills and close to the Mysore Helipad, the palace is just 5.4 kilometers from the center of Mysore City.
Construction of Lalitha Mahal began in 1921 at a cost of ₹1.3 million, with Sir E.W. Fritchley as the chief architect. The palace features stunning Renaissance architecture, characterized by its grand scale and intricate design.
Lalitha Mahal is painted in a pristine snow-white color with dark gold accents on the borders, giving it a rich and elegant appearance. The palace’s designer textures and architectural details create a truly immersive and visually striking experience for visitors.
08. Jaganmohan Palace 0.1 KM
Jaganmohan Palace is one of the notable landmarks in Mysore, originally built in 1861 as a secondary residence for the Royal Wadiyar family. The palace was constructed after the original Mysore Palace was destroyed by a fire. During the reconstruction of the Mysore Palace, which was completed in 1912, the Royal family resided in Jaganmohan Palace.
King Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar used Jaganmohan Palace as the venue for daily darbars and ceremonies, including the grand Dasara Darbar. Over time, the palace was repurposed and is now known as the Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery.
The Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of over 2,000 paintings from across South India. Notable pieces include works by the celebrated artist Raja Ravi Varma, as well as paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Rabindranath Tagore also contributed to the gallery’s collection.
In addition to its art gallery, Jaganmohan Palace features a large auditorium that was once used for royal functions. Today, it serves as a venue for public events, including educational programs, school functions, and cultural activities.
09. Srirangapatna 18 KM
A visit to Srirangapatna typically requires a full day to fully appreciate its attractions. The town is well-connected, with the Mysore-Bangalore railway line crossing through it, supported by two railway bridges over the Kaveri River. Additionally, the Bangalore-Mangalore Highway (NH-275) provides convenient road access.
Key attractions in Srirangapatna include:
Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple: Also known as Sri Ranga, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Inside, you will find a depiction of Vishnu in his reclining posture, facing east.
Daria Daulat Palace: Constructed by Tippu Sultan in 1784, this palace is renowned for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and square structure. The palace is surrounded by a beautifully maintained garden.
Tippu Sultan’s Gumbaz: This is the mausoleum of Tippu Sultan and a major tourist attraction. The Gumbaz is surrounded by a garden with smaller tombs nearby.
Other notable places to visit in Srirangapatna include:
- Karigatta Viewpoint: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Nimishamba Temple: A popular temple dedicated to the goddess Nimishamba.
- Wellesley Bridge: An historical bridge with architectural significance.
- Garrison Cemetery: A historical cemetery that reflects the colonial era.
- Srirangapatna Fort: The fort offers insights into the historical fortifications of the town.
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: A nearby sanctuary known for its diverse bird species and scenic beauty.
- Srirangapatna’s blend of historical monuments and religious sites makes it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
10. Railway Museum 3 KM
The Railway Museum in Mysore is the second railway museum in India, following the National Railway Museum in Delhi. It showcases a diverse collection of railway memorabilia, including various locomotives, railway cars, and old steam engines.
Located on KRS Road, directly opposite CFTRI, the museum is conveniently situated just 2 kilometers from the Suburban Bus Stand and 500 meters from Mysuru Junction Railway Station, making it easily accessible.
Established in 1979 by Indian Railways, the museum offers a glimpse into the evolution of rail transport. Visitors can explore exhibits such as:
- Locomotives and Railway Cars: A range of historic locomotives and railway cars that illustrate the development of rail technology over the years.
- Old Steam Engines: Historical steam engines that once powered India’s railways.
- Boilers and Train Wheels: Components and mechanical parts of trains that highlight the engineering advancements in rail transport.
- Model Locomotives: Detailed models that represent different types of locomotives.
The Railway Museum in Mysore is an engaging destination for those interested in the history and development of Indian railways, offering educational insights and a nostalgic look at the country’s railway heritage.
I like this palace i was go there with my friend