Situated at the base of Chamundi Hills, Mysore (officially known as Mysuru) is the third largest city in Karnataka. It served as the capital city of the Kingdom of Mysore for about six centuries and the beautiful palaces, monuments, gardens, temples – every part of Mysore in general – oozes the rich heritage, architecture, and culture of the city. Mysore is also termed as the “Cultural capital of Karnataka” and is fondly referred to as “The City of Palaces” because of the presence of the second- highest number of palaces in an Indian city after Kolkata.
From eateries to distinctive art forms and festivities, everything Mysore is famous for came to be known to the world by the city’s name associated with the thing in question, say the Mysore Painting, Mysore Silk, Mysore Sandalwood, Mysore Pak, Mysore Masala Dosa and Mysore Dasara. So it is obvious that there are a lot of interesting things to do in Mysore, a city that is famous in many ways.
- Behold the beauty of the royal Mysore Palace:
Visiting the Mysore Palace undoubtedly tops the list of things to do in Mysore. One of the ten most-visited tourist attractions in India, this grand palace located in the heart of the city with the Chamundi Hills on the East, was the former residence of the Wodeyar rulers. It is a breathtaking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture featuring reddish-pink domes, stained glass ceilings, mighty chandeliers, vibrant colours, carved wooden doors, temples, and a Kalyana Mandapa. On top of the central arch of the facade with seven arches lies the astonishing sculpture of Goddess Gajalakshmi. The galleries display traditional dolls, sculptures, mythological paintings, and also paintings depicting the celebrations of Dasara in Mysore.
- Seek the blessings of Goddess Shakti at Chamundeshwari Temple:
The history of Mysore and that of this temple are closely connected. It is believed that Goddess Durga has slain a demon named Mahishasura who ruled certain parts of the Mysore Kingdom collectively called Mahishapura, after which this sacred place is named as Mysore. The idol of Goddess Durga (Shakti) in Her fierce form is worshipped here. The temple is constructed in Dravidian style with an impressive seven-tier Gopura. One can also enjoy the panoramic views of Mysore city from the top of the hill. The sunset view of the city from here is just majestic!
- An evening of recreation at Mysore Zoo:
Mysore Zoo (also called Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens) is one of the best, oldest, and most famous zoos in India. Initially maintained as a private zoo by the Royals of Mysore near Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar’s summer palace, it was later handed to the Department of Forests. Covering an area of 157 acres, this zoological garden is the natural habitat for 168 varieties of birds and animals. So, if you are a wild-life lover carrying a DSLR with you, we bet that the most exciting activity to do in Mysore for you is to spot these diverse species and click them wild! Don’t wait book cheap flights to India right here!
- Shop for the famous Mysore Products:
If asked to pin down one irresistible thing to do in Mysore, the answer would definitely be shopping! Certain products of Mysore like the Mysore sandalwood, incense sticks, legendary sweets, silk sarees, coffee powder, handicrafts are famous all over the country. The best souvenirs to take back home are the Mysore paintings and rosewood artefacts! Go on a shopping spree and scour for these products at Devaraja Market, Government Sandalwood Oil Factory, Government Silk Weaving Factory, Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium – we are sure you’ll have the best shopping experience!
- Witness the magic at 3D Selfie Gallery:
Do the three-dimensional works of art mesmerize you? To be bowled over by a whole new level of 3D impact, you must visit the 3D Selfie Gallery at the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, which is itself a popular tourist attraction in Mysore displaying nearly 150 sculptures made of sand.
The peculiarity of the images showcased in this gallery is that the 3D effect shows up when the viewer comes in contact with the work of art! The image of an angel with wings looks leveled when seen casually but when a person stands in front of it, the three-dimensional effect becomes perceptible! Don’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience, right? For a similar one-of-a-kind experience with flight bookings, visit Indian Eagle.
