Mysuru was the political capital of the Wodeyar dynasty which ruled the state of Karnataka for about 150 years till the independence of the country . It is also known as the city of palaces. Located 770m above sea level this picturesque city has pleasant weather for much of the year. Mysore,the capital city of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm,rich heritage, magnificent palaces,beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings,broad shady avenues and sacred temples. Besides its numerous palaces and royal buildings, Mysore city is also known for proximity to several other places of interest such as Srirangapatna, Krishna Raj Sagra dam and Sivasamudram falls.
The city has a mythical history which explains the origin of the name - apparently, this was the place where the demon Mahishasura was slain by the Goddess Chamundi. You will find a statue of the demon on Chamundi hill which commemorates this event. Mysore Dasara is the celebration of this victory of good over evil.
Mysuru is famous for silk sarees (Mysore Silk), sandalwood carvings and the many varities of perfumed incense sticks. Mysore's market places can be a good place to start.
Places of Interest
- Mysore Palace
- Brindavan Gardens
- Chamundi Hills: This hill named after Devi Chamunda is situated on a hill top and Chamunda Devi killed the demon called Mahishasur (city named after this demon) and devotees come in great number to offer their services.
- Lalit Mahal Palace
- Jagmohan Palace [Art Gallery]: This palace is now a beautiful are gallery and showcases weapons, drapery, work on wood, marble and paintings by great artists like Raja Ravi Varma.
- Datta Peetham
- Bonsai Garden
- St. Philomenas Church
- Mysore Zoo: This zoo is 4th largest zoo in asia.
- Karanji Kere
- Rail Museum
- Oriental Research Institute
- Folk Art Museum
- National Museum on Natural History
Around Mysore
- Shrawanbelgol
- Nagarhole National Park
- Shivsamudra
- Talakad
- Melkote
- Himvad Gopalaswamy Hills
- Fort
- Daria Daulat Bagh
How to reach
Mysore is well-connected by road to Bangalore, Chennai, Mangalore, Coimbatore, Ooty, Cannanore, Calicut and Panaji(Goa).Mysore is located 139 Kms. to the south west of Bangalore.
By Rail
Mysore is again connected with many trains to Bangalore. Also the prestigious luxury train, Shatabdi Express connects it to Chennai.
By Air
The nearest Airport is Bangalore.