Search and book the top hotel in Mysore on Cleartrip and get up to 25% discount using coupon code CTHOTEL. This city offers varied attractive destinations to explore, starting from waterfalls, gardens, picturesque beauty of nature, etc. So, book your stay at Mysore’s best hotel and enjoy your trip fully.
About Mysore
Mysore, or Mysuru, is the second most important city in Karnataka state and is well-known as the cleanest city among 476 cities in India. It is renowned as the city of palaces and is a captivating destination for every traveler. Serving as the cultural capital of Karnataka, this city boasts a rich historical heritage. It seamlessly combines historical grandeur with the picturesque beauty of nature, featuring serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant gardens. Mysore offers many popular attractions, each ensuring visitors a distinctive and memorable experience.
City Attractions and Nearby Attractions of Mysore
- Chamundi Hills - It is located towards the east of Mysore; Chamundi Hills is a popular pilgrimage destination that delivers breathtaking views of the city. It is home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, which has a 40-foot tall statue of Mahishasura, the demon after whom Mysore gets its name.
- Mysore Palace - One of the most iconic landmarks in Mysore, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent structure built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It was once the residence of the Wodeyar dynasty and is now a famous tourist spot with its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and richly decorated interiors.
- Mysore Zoo - Also known as Shri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, this zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India and is home to numerous animals, including elephants, tigers, giraffes, and many more. It is a popular spot for families and children to learn about varied species of animals and their habitats.
- Somanathapura Temple: If you love stone carvings, then dont forget to visit Somnathpur temple, one of the classic examples built in Hoysala architecture.
- Jaganmohan Palace: It is one of the oldest buildings in the city that showcases various paintings of all the past kings of Mysore.
- Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens - Also known as Karanji Lake Nature Park, this zoo is spread across 90 acres and is home to various birds, butterflies, and other animals.
- Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum - Located at the foot of Chamundi Hills, this unique museum boasts lifelike sand sculptures created by renowned sand artist MN Gowri. It is a perfect blend of art and creativity that showcases various themes and stories through sand sculptures.
Places to Visit in Mysore
- Karangi Lake: For a tranquil retreat, move towards Karangi Lake. The calm atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and boating facilities make it ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature.
- Railway Museum: Perfect for history and train enthusiasts, the Railway Museum in Mysore showcases a captivating display of vintage locomotives, carriages, and memorabilia, offering a nostalgic journey.
- Brindavan Gardens: This Garden is adjacent to the Krishnarajasagara Dam; the Brindavan Gardens is a mesmerizing spectacle of illuminated fountains and well-manicured lawns. A perfect spot for a calm evening stroll.
- Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum: Indulge in the unique art form of sand sculpting at the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum. Marvel at the intricate creations that distinctively showcase talent and creativity.
- GRS Fantasy Park: It is a theme-based amusement park quite famous among Mysore locals as it offers many amusing rides and activities.
- Balmuri Waterfalls: This fall is located in the village of Balmuri, around 16 km from Mysore. It is a man-made stretch of cascading water built by a check dam on Cauvery.
Best Time to Visit Mysore
The best time to visit this city is from October to March. This period marks the post-monsoon and winter seasons when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the city's attractions.
Mysore experiences a post-monsoon bloom in October and November with lush greenery and rejuvenated landscapes, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts. The temperatures during these months range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable and enjoyable climate for outdoor activities.
As winter sets in from December to February, Mysore encounters cool and crisp weather, creating a cozy atmosphere for sightseeing and cultural explorations. Daytime temperatures rise 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, ensuring a pleasant and mild ambiance.
In addition, avoiding the summer months (April to June) is advisable as Mysore can get quite hot, with temperatures soaring beyond 35 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the city's famous Dasara festival in October attracts many visitors, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Things to Do in Mysore
- Explore the Mysore Palace and witness its grandeur and rich history.
- Take a hike to Chamundi Hills for stunning city views and visit the famous Chamundeshwari Temple.
- Spend an evening at Brindavan Gardens and witness the mesmerizing musical fountains.
- Visit Mysore Zoo to see various animals and learn about their habitats.
- Admire the impressive collection of paintings and artifacts at Jaganmohan Palace turned art gallery.
- Attend a mass at St. Philomena's Cathedral and appreciate its stunning architecture.
- Visit the Rail Museum to learn about the history of railways in India and see vintage locomotives.
- Spend a day at Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature with its diverse flora and fauna.
- Take a trip to Somanathapura and marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture of Chennakesava Temple.
- Appreciate the creativity and artistry at the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum.
Mysore has something for everyone, and these are just some of the many things you can do while visiting this beautiful city.