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Mysore was one of the three largest Princely States in the erstwhile British Empire of India.
Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit.
Mysore was one of the three largest Princely States in the erstwhile British Empire of India. To this day, the Mysore Palace stands tall as one of the most spectacular palaces in India. A very famous tourist spot that sees thousands of visitors milling in and around it every day, the Mysore Palace is a mesmerizing example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, every inch of the palace drips with opulence and intricate details, and every room that you visit stands out in terms of its elaborate architecture, beautiful paintings, rich colours and stained-glass windows. On every Sunday, and during the Dussehra celebrations, the palace is spectacularly lit up once dusk falls.
Another popular element in Mysore is the Ashtanga School of Yoga. This draws visitors and practitioners from around the world to participate in this style of yoga that originated in Mysore.
The architectural style of structures in the Mysore kingdom experienced significant changes during British rule – a blending of European conventions with local components. The Hindu temples in the kingdom were constructed in typical South Indian Dravidian style. The city’s main place, the Mysore Palace, was designed by the English architect Henry Irwin in 1897.
Shopping in Mysore
Shopping is a proven medicine for the minds of an explorer.Whether you want to relish the infamous Mysore Pak or wish to take back home rock sculptures as souvenirs for friends and family, Mysore offers a splendid shopping experience.
Mysore over the weekend, well, you are lucky to be heading to an extravagant shopping destination. Famous for its silk sarees, rosewood artefacts, sandalwood products, coffee powder, to name a few, Mysore is nothing less than a blessing for the shopaholic in you.
The Mysore Dasara is a ten-day festival that is celebrated during Navratri which goes on till the day of Vijayadashami.
This festival is the most awaited event of the small city of Mysore and is often referred to as the Royal Festival due to its exuberant vibe.
When visiting Mysore during this festival,
there is a myriad of things to do, from joining in the dance, music and processions to attending the various exhibitions and Food Mela's set up on the grounds or just going on a heritage tour and witnessing Mysore's glitz and glamour up close.
The beautiful decked up Mysore palace with more than 1 Lakh lightbulbs adorning it is a sight to behold.
Mysore Tourism Insights
Wildlife Sanctury
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as the Mysore Zoo is one of the best zoological gardens in India. Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar established this Zoo in the year 1892 for the Royals. The Zoo's meticulous planning is responsible for making it a special zoological garden. It tends to create a natural habitat for the animals in it. From Big to small cats, Aquatic to terrestrial birds, and Primates to reptiles, one Hundred and Sixty-Eight species find their place in this zoo. The world's first caesarian section delivery performed on an elephant in Mysore zoo gave it global fame and recognition.
Bird Sanctury
Located in Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Srirangapatna is a haven for bird watchers as it houses a wide array of bird species. It is the largest bird sanctuary in the state and comprises of six small islands on the banks of the river Kaveri. The scenery of the local vegetation and landscape, coupled with the colourful species of birds makes it a unique learning experience for visitors of all ages and interests. This destination offers many things to do for its tourists; the most popular ones include bird watching, boating, and some good old nature photography.
St. Philomena's Church
Recognized as the second tallest church of Asia, St. Philomena's Church was constructed to pay tribute to the Catholic Saint and martyr of Roman Catholic Church, Saint Philomena. It is one of the most important historical sites in Mysore and is frequently visited by tourists from all over the country. Being one of the most distinctive landmarks of the city, it looks even more beautiful in the evening sky and is given religious importance having a Neo-Gothic style of architecture which makes it all the more famous amongst masses.
Jaganmohan Palace
Situated in the royal city of Mysore, the Jaganmohan Palace is a spectacular edifice that has an illustrious history attached to its name. It was used by the Wodeyars of Mysore when their main residence Amba Vilas Palace was under renovations post a fire incident. It is one of the seven palaces that are situated in the city and is counted as one of the most beautiful contributions of the Wodeyar Kings of the city during their reign. The Jaganmohan Palace was converted into a magnificent art gallery and today hosts some of the most exquisite pieces of artwork for the public to see.