Mysore

Mysore Tour Guide

Get to know about Mysore, its history, tourist attractions, transport options, the famous Mysore Dasara and much more. Plan your Mysore holiday today

About Mysore

Mysore, also known as Mysuru, is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India, after the capital city of Bangalore.

It is the headquarters of the Mysore district. A city of palatial buildings and tree-lined boulevards, laid-back Mysore is possessed of a quaint charm, a dignified hangover from the days when it was the capital of a rich princely Mysore state. Illuminated Mysore Palace

It remains a popular destination for travelers and is perhaps the most visited tourist destination in Karnataka.  

Like seeing the world-famous Mysore Palace or experiencing the Mysore Dasara festival, there are a lot of things to see and do here.

Whether you're want to holiday in Mysore, or going on a short tour, or want to go sightseeing in this city of palaces or just want to know about tourism in Mysore, you can read, print and email these pages to your friends and take it along with you as a guide for knowing, enjoying and experiencing Mysore's sights and sounds.   

(Photo of the magnificent Mysore Palace by Vijay Pandey)

History of Mysore

Mysore, or Mahishur as it was called then, traces its history back to the mythical past, when Goddess Chamundeshwari (who is also the main deity at Chamundi Hills) killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. 

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Climate of Mysore

Mysore is is situated in the southern region of the state of Karnataka, at the base of the Chamundi Hills. It enjoys pleasant climate all year round, like its neighboring city of Bangalore. Because of its weather and its old world charm, it is sometimes referred to as "Pensioner's Paradise". 

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How to reach Mysore and Local Transport 

Mysore is 140 Kms from Bangalore (Bengaluru) (capital of Karnataka) is well connected by rail and road. You can hire auto rickshaws which are around every busy corner or a taxi. 

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Tourist Places to see in Mysore

(Photo: Mahishasura, the demon's statue in Chamundi Hills in Mysore. Captured by: shiva shenoy) 

Mysore Palace is the biggest tourist attraction here. The Brindavana Gardens, Chamundi Hills, KRS Dam, Mysore Zoo, Lalit Mahal Palace (hotel), Jag Mohan Art Gallery are some other attractions.

Read more for a complete list of Mysore Places to see

Tourist attractions around Mysore / Weekend Getaways

South India's famous hill station Ooty is located about 2 hours from here. Enroute to Ooty are two famous wildlife sanctuaries in Bandipur and Mudumalai.  Mysore is conveniently located to Bangalore, which is about 3 hours away.

From Bangalore, enroute to Mysore, there are lot of tourist attractions such as Somnathpur, Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu, Talakadu, Coorg, Ramanagaram, Savanadurga, Bylakuppe, Shivanasamudram and more. You could spend days exploring places between these two cities.

Read more to see an exhaustive list of tourist attractions around Mysore

Festivals in Mysore

Mysore Dasara is the most famous festival here. It is a 10-day event held all over the city featuring music and dance events, fairs & exhibitions and the famous Jumbo Savaari (elephant procession).

This festival is held every year during the months of September and October. It is endorsed by the government of Karnataka as Nada Habba (festival of the country). 

Read more about the Mysore Dassera 

What to buy

Mysore is known the world over for its exotic Sandal and Sandalwood/Rosewood carvings, imitation ivory and rich silks.

At the Government Sandalwood Oil Factory, you can buy Sandal Powder, Sandal Oil and scented incense sticks.

At the Government Silk Factory you can see the master weavers at work. Buy shimmering silk straight off the looms. Mysore Silk Sari originates from here and is famous all over India.

Cuisine

Regular South Indian Cuisine is generally preferred. However there are some special items one can try. Taste the exotic Mallige Idli & Set Masala Dosa (at Mailari restaurants), Ragi Roti (at Nalpak restaurants).

You can have a taste of traditional Bisi bele bath (a spicy rice preparation), Mysore Pak (a sweetmeat), Mysore Kootu and Mysore Rasam.