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Luxuriant forests, majestic palaces and temples hold within them tales of yesteryear. Heritage and royalty draw people in by thousands, making Mysore tourism the most popular holiday idea. All of them, looking to uncover the mystery that is Mysore
Mysore Tourism: A Quick View of the City | |
State | Karnataka |
Official Language | Kannada |
Dial Code | 0821 |
Population | 9.21 lakhs |
Currency | Indian Rupee (INR) |
Time Zone | GMT+5:30 (IST) |
Area | 155.7 square kms |
Mysore palace is one of the most famous places to visit in Mysore. Reflecting Rajput, Gothic and Islamic architectural influences, this palace is a sight to behold when illuminated. Not too far from the historically significant Chamundi hill, lies the Lalitha Mahal. This majestic palace has been converted into a hotel, giving you the opportunity to live in luxury. Chamundeswari temple is situated on the Chamundi hills and it was here where Goddess Chamundeswari killed the demon king of Mysore. This temple is said to have been built around the 12th century. The last king of Mysore left his mark by building the Gayathri temple in 1953. You will find the idols of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Ganesha. The temple is located inside the premises of Mysore Palace.
Apart from lush green trees, petrichor and majestic palaces, Mysore has rich and scrumptious food to offer. You will be able to explore Mysore better if you have some yummy and filling food in your stomach. Try the steamed and pillow like fluffy rice cakes better known as idlis. These are usually dipped in either coconut chutney or a spicy soup made of pulses. Another dish to try would be vada - you could call it the savory Indian version of a doughnut. This dish is usually deep fried and made from an amalgamation of black lentils, curry leaves and cumin. Uttapam could be the Indian version of a pancake made of thick rice with all sorts of veggies incorporated into it. This dish is served with coconut chutney or spiced lentil soup, called sambar. You might be familiar with upma, a popular breakfast dish in the south. This dish comprises vegetables, semolina topped off with some spices. This is popularly known as Khara Bath in the South.
If you are looking to buy some handicrafts and souvenirs head to the Devaraja Market and get some powdered colours, sandalwood, flowers and garlands. You will also find some shiny jewellery, pooja items, coconuts and spices. Do not miss out a chance to own a lush Mysore silk saree. Head to the Government silk factory, which offers you a range of colours. You will feel like nothing less than a queen as you drape these sarees on. If you want to buy some antiques and curios, head to the Cauvery Handicrafts emporium to get a wide range of artefacts. You will find rosewood pieces, corner tables and more. Do not miss out on the jasmine incense sticks and wooden chairs if you are making your way to the Chamundi hills. If you are looking for some sweet dishes to indulge in, do go to the Guru Sweet Mart on Sayyaji Road.
Due to its rich cultural heritage and intriguing history, Mysore tourism has seen a boost over the last few years. The lip-smacking food with spices galore, steaming filter coffee and authentic silk sarees will leave you wanting more. You can never get enough of Majestic Mysore.
The royal highness awaits you bordered by exuberant forests, Mysore stands in the Southern part of the Deccan Plateau. This royal tourist spot is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka.
Click here to view Mysore on Google Map
If you are looking to encounter pleasant weather with a rush of cool winds during your trip, the best time for tourism in Mysore would be during the months of October to February. For the honeymoon travellers out there, love will surely be in the air. If you think you have it in you to beat the heat, visit during the months of March to May. The temperature soars up to 39 degrees Celsius in May - making it the hottest month of the year. The monsoon brings with it moderate to heavy spells of rain leaving behind the lush greenery to marvel at. Do visit during the months of June to September if you want to witness Mysore in all its monsoon glory.
By Rail - The Mysore railway station is two kms away from the city centre. Trains run from Mysore to Bangalore on a regular basis. Bangalore itself is well linked to the major cities in the country.
By Road - There are buses available from Bangalore to Mysore, be it AC or non-AC. Major cities such as Coimbatore and Conoor also connected by the road and could be a stop along the way.
By Air - The Bangalore International airport is located 170 kms away from Mysore. Bangalore is well connected to other major cities in the country. Buses and taxis are easily available from the airport to
Mysore.
There is a mythological tale attached to the history of the city of palaces. Mysore was ruled by the buffalo-headed monster called Mahishasura. Hence the city was first known as Mahishuru. This demon
was then killed by Goddess Chamundeshwari and henceforth its name changed to Maisuru, in the language. The city was then ruled by the Ganga dynasty in the second century. After which the Cholas
ruled the region for about a century. The events of this city, during the 11th and 12th century, are detailed in old manuscripts from the past, which you can explore at your leisure.
From 1761 to 1799, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan ruled the city. The advent of the British brought with it growth and development in to the city. The city soon became well known for its open roads, splendid buildings and majestic parks.