Mysore, often celebrated as the “City of Palaces,” invites travelers on a captivating journey through its rich heritage and grandeur. Renowned for its stunning royal architecture, including the magnificent Mysore Palace, the city offers a blend of historical splendor and vibrant culture. As you explore the elegant streets, you’ll encounter traditional markets, serene temples, and lush gardens, all steeped in the legacy of the Wodeyar dynasty. Whether savoring the world-famous Mysore pak or wandering through the picturesque Chamundi Hills, Mysore promises an unforgettable experience that beautifully bridges the past with the present.
1. Mysore Palace
The second most famous attraction in India, first being the Taj Mahal, Mysore Palace is easily one of the most imposing architectural buildings in the country. It is amazing that the palace was only built in the 20th century and is the fourth structure to be constructed on the same location.
Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, it is one of the seven palaces in the City of Palaces. Often mistaken for a Gothic structure, the Palace is, in fact, an exemplary showcase of Indo-Saracenic architecture with a blend of Gothic, Rajput, Hindu and Muslim styles and it is one of the famous places to visit in Mysore.
There are four awe-inspiring arched gates to enter the massive garden area that engulfs the Palace. Some of the important places to visit here are the Ambavilasa, the Durbar Hall, and the Royal Howdah. The Palace is a spectacle come every evening when it is lit with approximately 97,000 lights.
Location: Sayyaji Rao Road, Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysuru, Karnataka 570001, India
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
2. Brindavan Gardens
The Brindavan Gardens are located just a level below the Krishna Raja Sagara dam. It is a major tourist attraction for all the Mysore and KRS dam visitors. It is also regarded as one of the most beautiful gardens in the state of Karnataka.
The most popular and exciting experience at this garden is the musical fountain that is scheduled in the eveningsBeing one of its kind, Brindavan Garden attracts tourists from across the world.
Distance from Mysore: 19.9 Kms
3. Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens
Treat the animal lover in you, visit Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens at Mysore. Popularly known as Mysore zoo, this place makes it to the best of places to visit in Mysore. A number of school and college students visit this place periodically making it a popular educational trip location.
While you are busy taking trips of various palaces, museums and temples in this city, Mysore zoo is an offbeat and enthralling destination that can engage you for an entire day.
Location: Zoo, Main Rd, Indira Nagar, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010
Timings: 8:30am–5:30pm
4. Sri Chamundeshwari Temple
Located on the top of the peak this is not only a sacred place but also caters to the 360-degree view of the city and one of the famous places to visit in Mysore. Homing the deity of Goddess Durga, devotees from all over the map come here to seek her blessings.
The structure of the temple is adorned with intriguing pillars and the walls are carved with the sayings. Build back at the time of Maharaja’s this place is of utmost importance and is one of the most revered places to visit near Mysore. Temple opens from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm.
Location: Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, Chamundi Hill, Mysuru – 570010 Karnataka, India
Timing: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
5. Shuka Vana
Established by the highly revered Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Shuka Vana is among the one-of-a-kind tourist places in Mysore and is aimed to be a rehabilitation center for birds. A great place for bird lovers and ornithologists, the park houses endless colourful and rare species of Parrots from all over the world.
Shuka Vana also serves as a shelter for birds who are injured or uncared for. Interestingly, the park and Swamiji believe that parrots represent our planet according to our birth date. This place is the only one of its kind where you can experience a distinctive opportunity to being in the presence of so many astonishing bird species.
Location: Avadhoota Datta Peetham, SGS Ashrama, Ooty Road, Datta Nagar, Mysuru, Karnataka 570025, India
Timings: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM; 3:30 AM to 5:30 PM
closed on Wednesday
6. Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden
One of the most famous gardens in Mysore, the Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden has been made popular through the many varieties of bonsai plants that it houses. Regarded as one of the most peaceful places to visit in Mysore, the garden is a very popular spot for families traveling with children as it offers an extensive educational opportunity for kids to know about the many bonsai plant species.
Established by HH Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, the garden is spread across 4 acres of unbelievable natural beauty and approximately 100 species of bonsai trees.
Location: Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Ashrama, Mysore – Ooty Rd, Gundurao Nagar, Datta Nagar, Mysuru, Karnataka 570025, India
Timings: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM; 3:30 AM to 5:30 PM, closed on Wednesday
7. Karanji Lake
Holding the meaning of a ‘fountain’- Karanji Lake is another place of extreme tourist attraction in this city of palaces. It is situated at the foot of Chamundi hills and was constructed by one of the kings of Mysore.
It is the largest lake in the state of Karnataka with the total area of about 90 acres.It qualifies as one of the best tourist places in Mysore because of its scenic beauty. It is also a home for different birds that make your visit to this lake all the more blissful and exciting.
Location: Chamundipuram, Mysore, India
Timings: 08.30 am to 05.30 pm
Closed on Tuesdays
8. St. Philomena’s Cathedral
With a history of over 200 years, St Philomena’s church is one of the most popular tourist places in Mysore. Not just in Mysore but this church is a well-known tourist spot in the entire state of Karnataka. Take a break from exploring the history, sooth your mind at this divine tourist spot in Mysore.
Initially built as a small church was then reconstructed by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar. It is one among the largest Cathedrals in the whole of South Asia.
Location: Lourdes Nagar, Ashoka Road, Lashkar Mohalla, Mysuru, Karnataka 570001
Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
9. Talakad
As you take a tour through the city of palaces, also visit Tourist Places near Mysore like the birth place of Cauvery River, one of the most popular rivers of South India. Amidst the soft and serene landscapes enjoy not just sightseeing and birdwatching but also take time and visit the temples in and around this place.
Talakad, popularly known for the origin of Cauvery River is also a home for great architectural and historical temples. It is suree to enthral you with its scenic and historic beauty.
Distance from Mysore: 48.8 Kms
Timings: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
10. Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills is one of the most popular places to visit in Mysore with nature lovers, religious travellers, and photographers pouring in from all over the world. It is also one of the best points for a panoramic view of Mysore city. You can reach the hill summit either via road or for something more adventurous, take the stone stairs.
If you are on a spiritual journey, spend some time at the temple on the summit. Mahabaleshwara Temple, the oldest one in the city, was established roughly around the 9th century to commemorate the mythological goddess, Mahishasurmardini, who killed the demon Mahishasur to save the world.
Location: 13 kilometres east of Mysore
Timings: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM; 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM; 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
The temple is open from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM every day.
11. Lalitha Mahal
The second largest palace in Mysore, Lalitha Mahal Palace is situated near Chamundi Hills and has been in existence since 1921. Constructed to serve as the exclusive resting place of the then Viceroy of India, Lalitha Mahal was designed to imitate St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
Pure white in colour, the Palace was transformed into a heritage hotel in 1974 and is now maintained by the Government of Karnataka. Enclosed by sprawling gardens, the Palace balcony offers a spectacular view of Chamundi Hills to the left and Mysore City to the front.
Location: Lalitha Mahal Palace Road, Lalithmahal Nagar, Siddhartha Layout, Mysuru, Karnataka 570028, India
Timings: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
12. Shree Shvetha Varaha Swamy Temple
Also known as Varahaswamy temple, Shree Shvetha Varaha Swamy Temple is among the most religiously significant Mysore tourist places and portrays a fine example of Hoysala style of architecture. As you walk in, it is impossible to not notice the intricately carved doorway and fascinating pillars around the Goddess’ shrine.
There are also several brilliant mural paintings on the walls of the Navaranga, most of which depict the life of Lord Krishna as well as the two famous Hindu mythologies, Ramayana and the Bhagavata. There are several inscriptions on the pedestals, including the one that commemorates its donor, Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar.
Location: Near South Gate, Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysuru, Karnataka 570004, India
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
13. Kukkarahalli Lake
Set in the heart of the city, Kukkarahalli Lake is a J-shaped lake spread over 58 hectares and has a shoreline of 5 kilometres. Oozing with an awe-inspiring natural landscape, the lake is one of the best tourist places in Mysore to get away from the bustling city and catch a breath.
With the magnificent Chamundi Hills as a backdrop, the hills have been an inspiration to many authors and poets in the past including R.K. Narayan, T.S. Venkannaiah, and G.S. Shivarudrappa. The lake is home to approximately 180 bird species and several migratory birds.
Location: Kukkarahalli lake, Saraswathipuram, Mysore, Karnataka, 570011, India
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
14. Javaregowda Park
Boasting several fun rides and swings, Javaregowda Park is among the Mysore tourist places which are most famous among travellers with children, nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. The paved pathways are most ideal for jogging and walking activities while the manicured garden floors are perfect for yoga and meditation.
Recently, a gymnasium facility has been added to the park and is open for public use. The facility has over 10 equipment and includes shoulder press, leg press, cross trainer, and pull-ups bar.
Location: 179, 11th Main Road, Saraswathipuram, Mysuru, Karnataka 570009, India
Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
15. Shivanasamudra Falls
Take a tour to the birth place of Cauvery River as you also visit the nearby tourist spots like Shivanasamudra, a water fall that originates from the Cauvery River. The two falls that together make Shivanasamudra are named as Gaganachukki and Bharachukki.
It is also one of the most popular water falls not just in the south but the whole of India. It is known for being Asia’s first hydroelectric power station.
Distance from Mysore: 73.3 Kms
Timings: Open 24 Hrs
16. KRS Dam
Krishna Raja Sagara dam and the Mysore palace is what this city of palaces is best known for. Built in 1924, this is one of the major tourist place near Mysore. Almost all the tourist that make it to the palace in Mysore, visit the KRS dam and refresh in its soothing atmosphere.
The Dam also holds the honour of being the first irrigation dam in India. The back waters of Krishna Raja Sagara dam is also accounted to be one of the most beautiful tourist spots around Mysore.
Distance from Mysore: 19.9 Kms
17. Melukote
Melukote is a home for one of the most ancient and exotic temples in the state of Karnataka. Not so far from Mysore, it is a one-day-trip destination that should definitely make it to your list. Melukote is also famous for several temples and its festivals attract tourist from across the country.
Folk dances, ethnic cuisines and several cultural activities make it an exciting tourist destination to be explored. This place is also a well-known location to film makers for shooting as the surrounding contains lot of scenic areas.
Distance from Mysore: 54.2 Kms
The Hot Spots for Clothes and Electronics in Mysore
1. Mall of Mysore
Mysore is a shopper’s delight, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern trends. You can get lost in the vibrant bazaars and pick up local handicrafts such as wooden dolls and incense sticks, or head to a swanky new mall for the latest brands and eateries.
With silks, sandalwood and sweets, Mysore has a lot to offer. Read on to find out some of the best shopping destinations for you in our list.
The 3 Best Local Shops for Buying Gifts and Souvenirs
1. Devaraja Market
Chikka Gadiyara Clock Tower in Devaraja Market, Mysore (source)
This market is just buzzing with activity. Here, you will find everything from coloured powders to shiny jewellery and perfumes to clothes. They have a large variety of produce as well such as fruits, vegetables and our favourite, the sweets.
It’s a must visit to get a glimpse into local life in Mysore. It can get a little crowded and hectic, so avoid going there on the weekend as the market is popular with locals and tourists alike.
- Location: Sayyaji Rao Road, Shivarampet, Mysore
- Best buy: This is a great stop for those looking to buy gifts to take home. Don’t miss the adorable Chenapatna Dolls.
- Timing: 10 am to 9 pm
Also read : Things to do in Mysore at Night
2. Guru Sweets Mart
Guru Sweets Mart (source)
Good things come in small packages and that’s exactly what this small shop is a testament to. Stop by this sweet mart that is situated in the bustling Devaraja market for some ridiculously tempting treats.
Packed with all types of local sweets such as laddoos, pedas, barfis, soan papdis and jalebis, the star of the store is still the famous Mysore Pak. Melt in the mouth with the richness of ghee, we recommend you don’t leave until you buy a box or five. Definitely an unmissable tourist shop when you’re in Mysore.
- Location: Devaraja Mohalla, Mysore
- Best buy: The Mysore Pak is the best seller and rightly so. The pedas are also good.
Timing: 8 am to 11 pm
Also Check the Hotels near University Of Mysore
3. The Heritage
The Heritage (source)
While it looks unassuming from the outside, this shop is choc-a-bloc with great buys. It showcases some of the best items Mysore has to offer such as pashmina, clothes, shawls, rugs, carpets as well as sarees and home décor items.
The staff is helpful and well-versed with the products, offering you an insight into the history of it. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs to take back home.
- Location: Near Malabar Gold Showroom, Mysore
- Best buy: The home décor items and pashmina shawls are worth checking out.
- Timing: 10am to 7pm
The Best Handicrafts on Offer in Mysore
1. Sandalwood Oil Factory
Sandalwood Oil Factory (source)
Established in 1916, this factory celebrates sandalwood. Here, you will be able to find amazing products, that all use this anti-ageing and healing properties of sandalwood.
Choose from sandalwood oil, sandalwood soaps, agarbattis, high-quality perfumes, cosmetics, detergents and more. But this shopping trip can turn education too as you can walk around and see how they manufacture the products from start to finish.
- Address: Mananthavadi Road, Ashokapuram, Mysore
- Best buy: All their products are good but the soaps and oils are standout.
- Timing: 9.30am to 6.30pm.
Also check the Hotels near Manasagangotri Saraswathipuram Mysore
2. Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium
Idols at Cauvery Arts _ Crafts Emporium (source)
If you’re interested in culture and handicrafts, then add Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium to your list of places to visit. This attraction boasts of unique and traditional pieces that are made from a variety of materials and have been inspired by Karnataka.
Some of the items you can find here are sandalwood carvings, rosewood inlay, traditional Mysore paintings, stone carvings, other wood carvings, traditional jewellery and more.
- Location: Sayyaji Rao Road, Mysore
- Buy: The stone carvings are beautifully made, though they are a little pricey.
- Timing: 10.30am – 8pm
The Hot Spots for Clothes and Electronics in Mysore
1. Mall of Mysore
Mall of Mysore, Mysore
If you’re looking for major brands and great variety, then visit this premium mall. Getting here is easy as it is a landmark and you will find all the popular brands here as well as gaming centres, food joints and other entertainment options.
Apart from looking for the best deals, you can also take in the architecture of the mall that aims to balance traditional with contemporary.
- Address: MG Road, Mysore
- Best Buy: Latest electronics and clothes.
- Timing: 10am – 11pm
2. Garuda Mall
This mall is a very popular spot for locals as well as tourists. It’s always full of activity and the range of stores is quite impressive. You can pick up clothes from some popular international brands, catch a movie at the PVR cinema there and dig into some fast food or local treats at the eateries.
You can spend a whole day in the mall, and there are quite a few stores that sell local treats for you to indulge in.
- Address: Makkaji Complex, K R Circle, Mysore
- Best buy: If you’re looking for trendy clothes and international brands, it’s worth a visit.
- Timing: 11 am to 9 pm on weekdays and 10.30am t0 10.30 pm on weekends.
3. Devaraja Market
is market is just buzzing with activity. Here, you will find everything from coloured powders to shiny jewellery and perfumes to clothes. They have a large variety of produce as well such as fruits, vegetables and our favourite, the sweets.
It’s a must visit to get a glimpse into local life in Mysore. It can get a little crowded and hectic, so avoid going there on the weekend as the market is popular with locals and tourists alike.
- Location: Sayyaji Rao Road, Shivarampet, Mysore
- Best buy: This is a great stop for those looking to buy gifts to take home. Don’t miss the adorable Chenapatna Dolls.
- Timing: 10 am to 9 pm
Best Street Foods in Mysore
1. Idlis
Idlis are steamed rice cakes that are generally served with a spicy lentil soup and coconut chutney (the spiciness of which varies). A favourite with the local crowd, idlis are mostly a breakfast item, though you’ll find many people eating them at all times of the day.
In Mysore, you can see them being served in restaurants as well as on food carts in the market and commercial areas. Although it is generally made with rice, you’ll also find shops selling idlis made of semolina or even jackfruit. Some shops will also fry the idli (not traditional, but delicious).
- Price: Idlis are cheap, in the range of Rs. 20 to Rs. 60 a plate, depending on where they’re eaten.
- Where to Eat: Vinayaka Mylari in Doora.
2. Vada
Vada is made from a mixture of black gram (lentil) flour, cumin, curry leaves, sometimes onions and chilli, and is deep-fried to a crispy crust.
Like the idli, vada is served with a spicy lentil soup (sambar) and coconut chutney. The idli-vada combination (with one idli and one vada) is very popular for breakfast or for tea-time snacks.
- Price: Prices of vadas lie in the range of Rs. 20 to Rs. 60 a plate.
- Where to Eat: Nalpak, Vani Vilas Mohalla, Gokulam,
3. Bonda
Bonda, a ball-shaped pakoda or dumpling commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch. In Mysore, a famous variation is a potato (aloo) bonda (it made using mashed potato).
Just like other breakfast local delicacies available here, Bonda is served with sambar and coconut chutney. A morning breakfast of Bonda is incomplete without a piping hot cup of tea.
- Price: A plate of Bonda costs around Rs.35 a plate.
- Where to eat: Suvarna Bhawan, Kuvempunagar
4. Khara Bath
Khara Bath, also known as Upma or Uppittu, is a typical South Indian breakfast delicacy. It is made from semolina and is roasted with vegetables and spices and topped with cashew nuts.
It is just like a savoury porridge and is usually prepared with only a few spices. Khara Bath can also be eaten with coconut chutney.
- Price: Around Rs.40 a plate.
- Where to Eat: Om Shanthi, Nazarbad
5. Kesari Bath
Kesari Bath is what it’s called in Mysore, though you may know it as Sooji Halwa or Sheera (if you’re from North India, that is). A delicious sweet item, it is often eaten for breakfast. On Sundays, many restaurants will serve a pineapple-flavoured version. It is also served as prasad on festival days at temples.
- Price: Around Rs.40 a plate.
- Where to Eat: Anima Madhva Bhavan, Vontikoppal,Vani Vilas Mohalla
6. Poori Saagu
Like most cities in the South of India, the people of Mysore take their dosas, idlis, and vadas very seriously. While there are many variations to these dishes, Mysore cuisine is deeply influenced by the Udipi style. But it isn’t all borrowed either.
You’ve got the rich and wonderful Mysore Pak that, of course, originated here; you’ll also get some of the best versions of Karnataka’s bisibelebath here. Here are the best street foods in Mysore:
7. Uttapam
Uttapam
Uttapam is a thick rice pancake usually cooked with vegetables. Prepared on the spot, it is best eaten immediately (or it will be too soggy). Have it topped with onions or tomatoes, which are the most popular versions of the dish, and sprinkled with podi. A variation on the dosa, it’s a must-try.
- Price: Betwee Rs.40 and Rs.100
- Where to Eat: Anima Madhva Bhavan, Vontikoppal,Vani Vilas Mohalla, Mysore,
8. Kori Gassi
This dish is also known as Mangalorean Chicken Curry. Succulent pieces of chicken cooked in finely ground fresh coconut with spices.Although native to the Bunt community that resides in the Mangalore area, it has become a favourite of meat-eating communities in Mysore. Kori Gassi is best eaten with neer dosa or rice.
- Price: Rs. 150.
- Where to Eat: Hotel RRR
Mysore presents visitors to the city with many options when it comes to food. The above list is restricted to those we feel you must try. Don’t be shy to look for more options in the City of Palaces. Let us know what interesting items you enjoyed in the comments section
9. Payasam
A creamy rice pudding that’s flavoured with cardamom and topped generously with nuts, the South Indians call it Payasam. It’s a great dessert at any time of the year, but is typically eaten only on grand occasions, such as weddings and big festivals.
- Price: Rs. 50 to Rs. 125 a plate
- Where to Eat: Anima Bhavan, Kalidasa Road, Near Reliance Fresh
10. Bisibelabath
A lunch item, bisibelabath is a very popular dish in all of Karnataka. The name bisibelebath literally means hot lentil rice in Kannada. This dish is best eaten with boondi, chutney, salad, or potato chips.
- Price: Around Rs.50 a plate.
- Where to Eat: Mahesh Prasad Chamrajpura, Mysore
