Mysore, now referred to as Mysuru, a city in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, lies at the picturesque foot of the Chamundi Hills. Mysuru is the second-largest city in Karnataka and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and history, as well as its significant global appeal as a tourism destination. Let’s delve into Top 5 Must Visit Place in Mysore.
Visitors from across the world come to Mysore to see the majestic royal splendor of sites such as the Mysore Palace. But the palaces are not the only appeal of Mysore. This vibrant city is known for its annual Dasara festival, its indigenous artworks such as Mysore painting, and its famous local sweets like the Mysore Pak.
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Top 5 Must Visit Place in Mysore
From its historic cities to its modern development, Mysore is an exemplary piece of India’s glorious past and contemporary evidence of art and culture.
Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas Palace)
One of Mysore’s most recognizable sites, the Mysore Palace, is also a symbol of the Wadiyar dynasty’s wealth. This stunning monument (also called the Amba Vilas Palace) is a fine example of the Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The current structure was built in 1912 after the previous wooden palace was burnt down.
The lavish design includes a multitude of marble domes, stained glass windows, mirrored rooms, and carved decorations. The Palace is most beautiful on Sundays and during public holidays when it shines brightly, lit by around 100,00 light bulbs.
Also, the famous Mysore Dasara festival is celebrated for ten days of excitement and ends with a grand procession that starts, of course, from the Palace.
Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills is situated about 13 km to the east of Mysore and features a spiritual journey and magnificent views of the city. At the top is the Chamundeshwari Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, who is the patron deity of the Mysore royal family.
According to legend, the goddess killed the buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura, on this hill, giving the city its name. Visitors can climb 1,008 stone steps to get to the temple or take an amazing drive.
On the way up the hill, around halfway, is a large statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, that is carved out of one piece of black granite.
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Brindavan Gardens
Brindavan Gardens are a beautifully sculpted terrace garden under the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam, famous for its symmetry and musical fountains. The Brindavan Gardens are modeled after the Shalimar Gardens in Kashmir, and a fun place to hang out and have a picnic.
The musical fountain show in the evening is what everyone looks forward to most. The musical fountain show is an impressive show featuring bursts of spectacular water patterns synchronized with music and colorful lights.
St. Philomena’s Church
If you’re looking for a taste of gothic architecture visit St. Philomena’s Church, one of the biggest churches in India. Built in 1936, it was inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany and is prominent with twin spires.
Both spires rise to 175 feet and are a landmark in Mysore. The interiors are breathtaking with immense stained-glass windows showing images from the life of Christ, a huge ceiling and a crypt below the main altar with a statue and relics of the patron saint, St. Philomena.
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Mysore Zoo
Officially known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, the Mysore Zoo is one of India’s oldest and most well-maintained zoos. Established in 1892, it’s home to a diverse collection of over 168 species of animals, birds, and reptiles from around the world.
The zoo is renowned for its conservation breeding programs and for providing spacious, naturalistic enclosures. Some of the notable residents include big cats like tigers and jaguars, a variety of primates, elephants, and exotic birds. The zoo is a great educational and recreational destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
