It always feels surreal going back to Mysuru (or Mysore) city. Something about the place keeps drawing me back - the rich heritage and culture, history, art forms, cleanliness, people, etc. For most tourists, Mysore is all about the Palace, but looking beyond it there are so many layers to the city. The city has so much to provide to tourists regardless of age. The children could anytime enjoy the Zoo, Parks, Dams, etc. and the elderly can indulge in the rich heritage and history of the place.
The origin of the name Mysore is still unclear. Mahisharashtra mentioned in Buddhist text Dipavamsha is identified with Mysore. Ashoka is stated to have sent Buddhist missionaries to this place. Some identify it with the Erumainad of the ancient Tamil texts. The earliest reference to Mysore is in a copper-plated inscription dated 862 A.D. from Kadalur, Mandya, where the place is mentioned as ‘Maysooru’. In the 11th and 12th century inscriptions, Maisunad or Maisurnad is mentioned. It is also further noted that Mysore is derived from Mahishasura who lived in this region, and who later came to be killed by Chamundi.
The Mysore kingdom has been ruled by various dynasties since the 4th century, from the Ganga dynasty to the Wodeyars. It was in 1831 that the British took over the administration of the Mysore territory and the Commissioner was appointed to govern the territory of the Raja. The Commissioner's rule continued till 1881, and in 1881 the Mysore territory was handed back to the Mysore Wodeyars. Upon India's independence from Britain in 1947, Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar signed the instrument of accession, integrating his realm into the Union of India.
Sunrise and Sunset by Lakeside
Kukkarahalli Lake
Karanji Lake
Lingabudi Lake
Devaraja Market
Govt Sandalwood Oil Factory
Govt Silk Factory
Balamuri Falls
Attractions
1. Mysuru Palace
The current palace, designed by Henry Irwin, was originally part of a wooden fortress established by the Wodeyars around the 14th century. The building was previously destroyed by fire in 1897. The palace building that stands today was completed in 1912.
The Mysuru Palace dominates the skyline of Mysuru. In Indo-Saracenic style, this three-story palace has beautifully designed square towers at cardinal points, covered with domes. Among the architectural highlights is the Durbar Hall with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars, and the Kalyanamantapa (Marriage Pavilion) with its glazed tiled flooring and stained glass. Intricately carved doors, the golden howdah (elephant seat), and paintings (especially the ones by Raja Ravi Varma) are the palace's other treasures. The Palace site also houses the Residential Museum, and Temples (including the Shwetha Varahaswamy temple).
The palace is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm. The tickets are issued at the entrance at Rs. 100 for adults and Rs. 50 for children aged between 10-18 yrs. There are sound and light shows at the palace in the evening to depict Mysore’s history.
2. Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace
Built-in 1905, the Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace is now converted into a museum. The Palace is said to be a gift made to Princess Jayalakshmi Ammani and Katharaj Urs when they got married. It now houses Folklore Museum, Archeology Museum and General Museum. The museum exhibits objects and artifacts related to folk performing arts, tools, and ancient objects from various artisans, as well as archaeological findings.
Although the Folklore Museum had my interest, I was quite disappointed looking at its current state, it can offer so much more.
The museums are open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm.
3. Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysore Zoo) was established in 1892 during the regime of Chamarajendra Wodeyar. The Zoo has to its credit for the breeding of rare animals and the largest mammals in captivity.
Apart from being 130 years old, the Zoo has displayed all Indian and Exotic species and bred most of them successfully. The Zoo is also known for its documentation and maintenance of Studbook, History, and Treatment records serving as an Education Institution and for conducting various activities like awareness camps, successful hand-rearing of exotic and endangered species, and rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned and abandoned animals, etc.
The Zoo is open throughout the week EXCEPT on Tuesday. There is an entrance fee of Rs. 100 for adults, Rs. 50 for children (5-12 yo) and free for children below 5 years of age.
4. Sri Chamundeshwari Temple
It is not surprising that Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the most visited temples in Mysuru. Chamundeswari is the tutelary deity of the Mysuru Maharajas and the presiding deity of Mysuru.
‘Skanda Purana’ and other ancient texts mention a sacred place called ‘Trimuta Kshetra’ surrounded by eight hills. Sri Chamundeshwari Temples is located on one of the eight hills, on the western side. Earlier, the Hill was identified as ‘Mahabaladri’ in honor of God Shiva who resides in the ‘Mahabaleswara Temple’. This is the oldest temple on the hills. Later it came to be known as ‘Sri Chamundeshwari Temples’ in honor of the Goddess Chamundi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva.
The temple is built in Dravidian style. A quadrangular structure consisting of the Main Doorway, Entrance, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa, Sanctum Sanctorum, and Prakara. It has a beautiful seven-tiered Gopura and a Vimana (small tower) atop the sanctum sanctorum. On top of the 'Shikara', the tower at the entrance, there are seven golden 'Kalashas'. The existing Gopura was built during the reign of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III (in 1827 A.D.). He was an ardent devotee of Goddess Chamundi. He also presented to the temple a ‘Simha-vahana’ (a lion-shaped vehicle) and other animal cars and jewels of value (which are used to date during celebrations).
P.S.: You can always cycle or trek to the hilltop if you enjoy cycling or trekking.
5. Krishna Raja Sagara Dam
The KRS Dam is the creation of Sir M. Visveshwaraiah (one of the greatest engineers in India). He is often referred to as the ‘Architect of Modern Mysore’ or ‘Father of planning in India’.
This dam was named after Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, who funded and supported the project at that time. It is built over the River Cauvery; near the conjunction of three rivers (Cauvery, Hemavathi, and Lakshmana Tirtha). The dam was built in a way that is still seen as being ahead of its time with such precision and excellence.
It was quite fascinating to learn that Sir MV used a mixture of limestone and brick powder, called ‘surkhi’, instead of cement (which is usually used) to construct the dam. The Dam presents enchanting beauty throughout the year, but it has its own charm when you visit it during monsoons, or right after.
The Dam is open throughout the week from 6.30 am to 9 pm. There is an entrance fee of Rs. 15 for adults and Rs. 5 for children (5-10yo).
6. Brindavan Garden
The Brindavan Garden, in the complex of KRS Dam, is spread over an area of more than 60 acres and is today known for its illuminated terrace gardens and symmetric design. It was conceptualized and built by the then Diwan, Sir Mirza Ismail (work began in 1927 and was completed in 1932). Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir inspired the design of the Garden.
As the seasons change, the timing of illumination changes as well, but it is usually between 6.30 pm to 9 pm. The Gardens are open from 6 am to 8 pm on weekdays, and from 6 am to 9 pm on weekends. There is a charge of Rs. 15 for adults and Rs. 5 for children.
7. St. Philomena’s Cathedral
The Cathedral was built in 1843 during the reign of Maharaja Mummudi Krishnaraja Wodeyar in memory of the 4th-century saint and martyr St. Philomena.
Later in the 19th century, many Europeans began to reside in Mysuru. Due to this, there was a need for a larger church to accommodate the growing population of Europeans in Mysuru. Around 1926, TRV Thamboo Chetty (the then Diwan and Chief Justice of Mysore) attained St. Philomena relic from Peter Pisani, Apostolic Delegate of the East Indies, which was duly transferred to Father Cochet who then requested the Mysuru Maharaja to build a church in the honor of the Saint.
In October 1933, Krishnarajendra Wodeyar laid the foundation of the new church (which we see today). It was designed by Daly, a French architect, to resemble Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The structure has twin spires 175 ft. (52.50 m) in height, stained-glass windows, Corinthian columns, and plastered niches, which are highly ornamental.
The Cathedral is open throughout the week from 8 am to 8 pm.
8. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
A paradise for nature and bird lovers, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 0.67 sq. km on the banks of River Cauvery. It was declared a sanctuary in the year 1940 at the behest of Dr. Salim Ali, a renowned ornithologist.
Approximately 170 species of birds have been recorded here, and it is the birds' most preferred nesting place. Most commonly seen birds include Painted Stork, Kingfisher, Indian Roller, Great Stone Plover, Herons, etc.
The Sanctuary also offers guided boat rides during which the guide will help the visitors spot different kinds of birds and educate them about them. I’d highly suggest you go boating on the river, get a fascinating view of birds (you wouldn’t have even heard of), and maybe catch a glimpse of crocodiles in the water.
The Sanctuary is open throughout the week from 9 am to 6 pm.
Experience
Ngl, the Mysore Dasara Festival celebration has to be on your list to experience at least once in your lifetime. The city is illuminated, and the roads and city attractions are vibrantly decorated with colorful themes. Various folk and cultural performances take place, etc. You will witness the whole city prepping together to celebrate the festival.
The Dasara celebrations commence with a puja performed at Chamundeshwari Temple by the Wodeyars, and for the next 10 days, various events take place around the city - mela, processions, parade, competitions, etc.
More places to visit:
1. Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery
The 161 years old Jaganmohan Palace was turned into an Art Gallery in the year 1915. It displays a rich collection of paintings by various unknown artists. The Palace has witnessed various historical events.
When the Mysore Palace caught fire, the royal family moved to this alternative residence from 1897 to 1912. Daily durbar and the special Dasara durbar used to take place here during their stay. Even the coronation of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV occurred here in 1902. The first session of the Legislative Council of Mysore was held here in 1907. After 1923, various representative assemblies used to be conducted here.
The Palace has been built in the traditional Hindu architectural style. It is a three-storied building. The entire structure is adorned with intricate carvings of Dashavatara (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu), and various other carvings on the wall display royal history, the lineage of the Mysore royal family, etc.
The Art gallery has a rare collection of Rembrandt Paintings as well as works of the world’s greatest artists such as Aless Caddy, P.P. Ruben, JIladin Ville, Raja Ravi Varma, M. Veerappa, etc. More than 2000 valuable paintings of various styles are displayed here offering a glimpse into the history of Mysore and India of that period. Various antique pieces and artifacts are also displayed here. The most interesting painting in the gallery is the centerpiece. The painting is of Krishna Raja with his close friends Sir Mark Cubbon and other British Officers and Officials. The artist was aware of the importance of this painting as a valuable historical record, so he painted himself in it. Marvelous!
The Gallery is open to visitors from 10 am to 5.30 pm throughout the week. The entry fee is priced at Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children.
2. Railway Museum
The Second Museum of its kind in India, the Railway Museum in Mysore was established in the year 1979 by the Indian Railways. The Museum houses a rich collection of photographs and various items depicting various stages in the development of Indian railways along with a captivating exhibit of locomotives.
The Chamundi Gallery and Sri Ranga Pavilion are major attractions of the museum. The former displays an extensive range of pictures and paintings of the Indian railways and their growth while the latter displays two royal coaches that belonged to the Maharaja of Mysore. The very first steam engine and signals to be built in India, a hand-operated steam water pump dating back to 1934, a wooden pillar, and doors belonging to the Old Srirangapatna Railway Station are displayed here.
The Museum is open to visitors from 10 am to 5.30 pm throughout the week. The entry fee is charged at Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 20 for children.
3. R.K. Narayan’s House
R.K. Narayan is one of the leading authors of early Indian literature in English. He is mostly known for his work set in the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi. He has been awarded Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for his contribution to Indian Literature, and also with Sahitya Academy Award.
R.K. Narayan House, situated in Yadavgiri, was opened to the public as a museum in 2016. The museum houses the personal memorabilia of the writer who lived and wrote here from the 1950s to the 1990s. The museum offers the viewer a glimpse into the writer's life - the books he wrote, the desk and chair he used, his clothes, his awards, etc. The white walls are adorned with writings from his friends like N. Ram and Githa Hariharan, his biography, and the inspiration for his works. In another section, there are stills from the TV series Malgudi Days, directed by the late Shankar Nag.
The Museum is open to the public every day except Wednesdays and public holidays from 10 am to 5 pm for free.
4. Sea Shell Art Museum
This museum houses a Guinness World Record seashell sculpture of Lord Ganesha as well as a number of other seashell artifacts crafted by Mysorean Smt. Radha Mallappa.
Radha Mallappa has dedicated herself to art for the past 40 years and has been recognised with various National and International awards and many Karnataka State awards. Her 22 ft. sculpture of Lord Ganesha made from seashells is the world's largest seashell sculpture, and she plans to do sculptures of the seven wonders of the world.
The Museum houses various other seashell sculptures like the 9.5 ft Taj Mahal, 14 ft, high Shiva Mandir, idols of Saraswathi, Hanuman, etc. Art forms made out of recycled waste, old handicrafts, broomstick ships, etc. are also displayed.
The museum is open throughout the week from 8 am to 5 pm. Children are charged Rs. 25 and adults are charged Rs. 50.
5. Melody World Wax Museum
A 90 yo Heritage building in Mysore houses the largest collection of musical instruments in Karnataka. Varied kinds of musical instruments belonging to different parts of the country and ages have been displayed here. Life-size wax statutes in native attires are a few of the major attractions at this museum.
The museum is the brainchild of Shreeji Bhaskaran, an IT professional based in Bangalore. This incredible work of wax was created in honour of musicians across the globe.
This museum consists of 19 galleries with each gallery presenting a unique experience of the world of Music and Arts. Approximately 300 musical instruments belonging to different eras have been displayed here. It also has about 220 life-size wax statues placed in different settings of bands and stages. In the end section, there are also wax statues to address social issues.
The Museum is open daily from 9.30 am to 7 pm for a fee of Rs. 30.
6. Sand Sculpture Museum
The Museum displays many intricate carvings on the sand illustrating a variety of unique themes. A total of 150 sand sculptures are displayed in 16 different themes such as culture, wildlife, episodes from Mahabharata, etc.
The museum is the brainchild of MN Gowri, one of the leading sand sculptors in India. It took her over 4 months to create the museum with solely sand and water and a small amount of glue. These sculptures are very well protected from sun and rain and can be preserved for 1 year of time.
At the entrance of the museum, the tourists will see a 15-ft. tall statue of Lord Ganesha. Further inside, there are sculptures of Goddess Chamundeshwari, Lord Krishna, and Arjuna on a horse-drawn chariot, Laughing Buddha, Disneyland, etc.
The museum is open all day of the week from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm. The entry fee is Rs. 40 for adults and Rs. 20 for children.
7. Regional Museum of Natural History
The Museum inaugurated in 1995 exhibits plants, animals, and geology of the southern region of India. The galleries emphasize the conservation of nature and natural resources while depicting ecological interrelationships among plants and animals.
The Galleries include the Biological Diversity section which has multiple subsections - emphasising the western ghats, tropical rain forests, the significance of wetlands, etc. Second is the Life through the Ages tunnel depicting the evolution of life. The third is the Discovery Center which consists of a discovery room, a computer room, a vivarium, etc.
P.S.: It is admirable that the museum's exhibits of animals can be felt by those who are visually challenged.
The Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm throughout the week EXCEPT on Mondays and public holidays. The entry is free of cost.
8. Shuka Vana
Another place to visit if you are a bird and nature lover is Shuka Vana. It is home to over 2000 birds with over 450 varied species. The place also holds the record for most bird species in an aviary in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Shuka Vana is part of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashram, and also serves as a rehabilitation centre for birds. The revered seer of the ashram, Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Swamiji believes that birds are vital to the existence of other species, and their diminishing numbers in recent years have been a cause for alarm and a call to action. It is his hope that this initiative will inform, sensitize, and grow a sense of respect and friendliness towards avian species among the public. This place is popularly known as a parrot park due to the variety of parrot species found here.
The Shuka Vana is open from Thursday to Tuesday from 9.30 am - 12.30 pm, and 3.30 pm - 5.30 pm. There is no entry fee.
9. Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden
On the same property of Avadhoota Datta Peetham, you’ll also find a garden with a large collection of miniaturised Bonsai trees, Palm trees, and rare medicinal herbs.
The Bonsai Garden was established in 1986. Swamiji saw bonsai as a mystic enterprise – “a rare human endeavor that has held me in awe and introspecting over years. In the miniature plant lives a grand life. It reflects the cosmic creation, the play of celestial paradoxes near, yet far, more, yet less, known, yet unknown, Small yet Big”.
The Bonsai trees are arranged in groups reflecting various Indian traditions - The Rashi Vana Group (which consists of plants that have a connection with the Indian zodiac system), The Raga Vana (comprised of plants associated with the Indian classical music), The Nakshatra Vana (representation of the 27 stars of traditional Indian astrology), The Panchayatana Vana (displays five plant gardens closely linked with the concept of the Mother Goddess), The Saptarishi Vana (shows seven plants which are linked to the seven Indian sages). In addition to the garden, there is also a deer park on the property.
Things to do:
1. A day out at GRS Fantasy Park
If you are looking for a fun day out with thrilling activities, GRS Fantasy Park is the place to go. The Park offers numerous thrilling fun rides for both adults and children. Various rides include Aqua Tornado, Amazonia, Columbia, etc.
The Park is open on all days of the week from 10.30 am to 6 pm. You can check for the tickets and book at https://www.grsfantasypark.com/index.php.
2. Sunrise and Sunset by Lakeside
a. Kukkarahalli Lake
The lake was the brainchild of Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. With its breathtaking natural beauty, this lake is a perfect place for nature lovers. There is no better place to spend a few moments amidst the lush greenery of nature than here.
The beauty of the lake has inspired various artists (from R.K. Narayan, who has mentioned it in his autobiography ‘My days’ to writers A.N. Murthy Rao, etc.). Aside from being a place of inspiration and relaxation, it is also home to a variety of bird species. Some of the birds that can be seen here are Spot-billed Pelicans, Black-crowned Night Herons, Little Cormorant, Eurasian Spoonbills, Painted Storks, Oriental Darters, and Open-bill Storks.
You can visit the lake from 6 am to 6 pm. There are no entry charges to visit Kukkarahalli Lake.
b. Karanji Lake
Karanji Lake, also known as Fountain Lake, has rich flora and fauna. Apart from offering breathtaking scenic beauty, this lake does have a wide range of facilities to keep visitors entertained. For kids, there is a special children's corner. The boating at the lake is quite enjoyable, letting you experience the refreshing serenity of the lake.
The Lake is home to around 147 species of birds, which include Sandpipers, Asian open bill storks, brown shrike, red-whiskered bulbul, etc. The Lake also has the largest walk-through aviary in India. The aviary has an artificial waterfall along with two other water bodies. Among all the attractions is Butterfly Park. It is built over a small island within the Lake. It boasts more than 45 captivating species of butterflies.
P.S.: The Regional Museum of Natural History is located on the banks of this Lake.
You can visit the Lake from 08.30 am to 05.30 pm on all days throughout the week, EXCEPT on Tuesdays. The entry fee is Rs. 10.
c. Lingabudi Lake
Looking for a place to take a break from the city's crowds, this might be the place for you. The lake is quite popular for its rich 250 kinds of avian fauna. Various rare species of birds can be spotted during the migratory season; birds from all over the world fly to this place during the said season.
The garden, beside the lake, is a major attraction. It is a perfect place if you want to sit and admire the exquisite beauty of the place. Various flowering plants such as roses, hibiscus, marigold, and more add to their overall beauty. The area is adorned with trees such as gulmohar, silver oaks, climbers, and creepers.
The lake is open to visitors from 6 am to 6 pm throughout the week free of cost.
3. Visit an Inlay artist's workshop
Rosewood Inlay is one of the art forms that was patronized by the Mysore Wodeyars, and Mysore also holds the GI tag for Mysore Rosewood Inlay.
Inlay Art is a decorative technique used to create an ornamental design, pattern, or scene by inserting or setting into a shallow or depressed ground or surface material of a different colour or texture, or type.
Mysore is filled with shops that sell these inlay crafts. If you show interest in learning about the art form, you can walk into any shop with a workshop attached to it, and they'll show you around and share their experiences. Mysore's rosewood inlay has been passed from generation to generation within families. Creating a single piece requires hours of work, patience, and perseverance.
I’d personally suggest you experience the making of Inlay Art, you learn so much while talking to these craftsmen.
Shopping:
1. Devaraja Market
Devaraja Market is a MUST visit since it offers a glimpse into the daily life of Mysore and has historical significance. The market dates back to the reign of Tipu Sultan in the 18th century. At the time it took the form of a small weekly market where fresh vegetables and fruits were probably the most traded items. Today, the market has over 800 shops and is spread over 3 acres of land.
There are various sections allotted for different products, for instance, you will find the fresh flower section, vegetable section, craft section, etc.
Like every other market, this market also comes alive much before sunrise. The fresh flowers smell to be savored, and the hurry of the vendors setting up their stands is a sight to be captured, especially by photographers. Shops are open till late evening, and many traders offer discounts to help sell their perishable goods.
2. Govt Sandalwood Oil Factory
If you love fragrances, then a visit to the Oil Factory would be worthwhile. The Government Sandalwood Oil Factory was established in 1917 to harvest the oil to be used for a variety of purposes, most notably the state’s signature and iconic sandalwood soap.
There is usually a guide to take visitors around the factory explaining the process of powdering the wood, then the laborious process of boiling, distilling, condensing, and extracting the oil. A store on the premises offers a variety of products made with the oil including soaps, incense sticks, cosmetics, and perfumes.
The factory is open throughout the week except on Sundays from 9.30 am to 1 pm - 2 pm to 5.30 pm.
3. Govt Silk Factory
Interested in learning how looms are made? This is the place for you. The skilled weavers work in front of you, and you can watch the silk transform into a saree from a bundle. It is the busiest on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
Entry is free. It is open from 10.30 am to 8 pm throughout the week.
Waterfalls
1. Balamuri Falls
Balamuri falls is a small water cascade located on the way to Brindavan Gardens and KRS Dam. Though known as a waterfall, it is a human-made check dam over the Cauvery river, which allows the water to flow in a 6-foot cascade over the Cauvery. Coconut palms and trees adorn the shore, and a cascade of water sparkles in the sun, making this a scenic spot.
If you visit during the summer, the locals organise fun boat rides since the river near the falls has a smooth flow.
There is honestly no best time to visit the Balamuri falls. It usually starts getting crowded in the morning hours. There are tourists here at all times of the day. There are fewer tourists here only during the monsoon season because of the increased water level which is not safe.
In addition to the Balamuri falls, there are also Yedamuri Falls and Chikka Devaraya Sagara Dam not too far away.
Food Tour
Did you know? Mysore was once known for its coffee and dosas. Many old restaurants still exist in the city, preserving the city's traditions. Few food items you cannot miss when you are in Mysore - Mysore Pak, Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Churumuri.
Some of the restaurants that you must visit include -
1. Mylari Agarhara
Over the years, not much has changed in one of the oldest places. The hotel offers heavenly food (Saggu Masala Butter Dosa is a must try here) at a reasonable price that will not burn a hole in your pocket. It’s very different from the common dosas and is served with delicious onion gravy.
2. Guru Sweets, KR Market
The Guru Sweets are the inventors of the famous Mysore sweet — Mysore Pak. Their ancestor, Kakasura Madappa, a chef in the courts of the King of Mysore, invented the Mysore Pak. If you love Mysore Pak or sweets in general, you really MUST visit this store.
What’s interesting is that it comes in two broad varieties - First, The “wet”, ghee-infused, fudgy versions, and Second, the powdery, porous blocks kind.
P.S.: When you visit Devaraja Market, make sure you drop by this store.
3. Hotel Vishnu Priya
This is a great place for lunch. You should drop by here if you are a rice lover. They serve really tasty Pongal rice and Bisi Bele Bath. They are also known for their Mallige Idli which is served with sambhar and coconut chutney.
4. Hotel Hanumanthu
With 90 years of history, this hotel has a lot to offer. It is the oldest and finest hotel for non-veg items, especially Chicken and Mutton Biryani. What’s more fascinating is that they still use the same old recipe devised by Sri Man Hanumanthu, their founder. This place is a delight for every meat lover.
5. Gayathri Tiffin Room (GTR)
This is a MUST visit for every Dosa lover. If you want to start your day in Mysore right, you should have a hot dosa with filter coffee from here early in the morning. They have varieties of Dosas to choose from.
Other Restaurants to visit:
6. Hotel RRR Mysuru (for Andhra-style meaty delights)
7. Depth N Green (for English Breakfast)
8. Mahesh Prasad Veg Restaurant (for South Indian food)
9. The Old House
I personally love this place for its classic pasta. The heritage house turned into a café serves delicious salads, pizzas cooked in wood-fired ovens, hot chocolate, and more.
10. Madhushahi Samosa Centre (for your craving for chats in the evening)
11. Tiger Trail (for North Indian and Chinese cuisines)
12. Olive Garden (for a romantic dinner under the sky)
13. By the Blue (for a luxurious romantic candlelight dinner by the poolside)
14. Dosa Point (for over 20+ varieties of Dosa)
Kabini
At an hour's distance from Mysore (60 km away) is Kabini - the land of spectacular landscapes and wildlife. Kabini is one of the country’s richest biodiversity locales and tiger territories. There are many reasons to visit Kabini, including the whispers of drying leaves, the silence of the forest, the chirping of birds, the calmness of River Kabini, thrilling safaris, and the excitement of spotting wildlife.
Located on the edge of the Rajeev Gandhi National Park or popularly known as Nagarhole, the Kabini corridor connects the Nagarhole and Bandipur forests or the national parks. Part of the Nilgiris Biosphere, Kabini connects Nagarhole, Bandipur, Mudumalai, Wayanad, and many other parks and reserves making it one of the largest forest areas in the country.
Kabini is home to more than 250 species of birds, approx 40-50 species of mammals and other animals. If you are lucky or have a good amount of time in hand, you may also be able to spot the rarest Black Panther. Get on the jungle jeep or boat ride every morning and evening to explore Kabini, and you'll be surprised and mesmerised by its rich flora and fauna.
P.S.: There are ample stay options available to suit everyone’s budget. You can reach Kabini only by road crossing the dense lush green forests. The park is open throughout the year and the weather is always moderate.
Srirangapatna
Srirangapatna is a small island town located 18kms from Mysore. The town is an architectural masterpiece of Hoysala and Vijayanagar styles evident in its monuments. It used to once be the capital of Mysore during the reign of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, and their bodies are also said to be cremated here.
A guide to Srirangapatna will follow next.
If you found this blog useful, please share it with your friends and family. I hope you have an exciting trip to Mysore! <33
Disclaimer: All the pictures posted in this blog post are clicked by me. Please do not use it without due credits :)
Comments