Things to do in Mysore

An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo - Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence. Referred to as the 'City of Palaces', visiting this magnificent structure is one of the topmost things to do in Mysore.

On the banks of Holy river Kaveri is a tiny tranquil town of Somanathapura. Here stands the finest and most exemplary monument of Hoysala architecture known as the famous Prasanna Chennakesava Temple or simply the Kesava Temple. Tourists from near and far come to visit the temple to get a view of the beautiful place. A classic example of the famous Hoysala architecture, and is one of the three temples of the kind to be nominated in the Unesco World Heritage list. The temple is no longer used as a worshiping place, however, visiting here continues to be one of the top things to do in Mysore.

The Brindavan Gardens, located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, just 21 Km away from Mysore, is the abode of nature. Spread over an area of 60 acres, Brindavan Gardens make you feel overwhelmed right from the entrance with its charming rose gardens and flowerbeds. Spending a refreshing evening at the gorgeous garden is one of the best things to do in Mysore. The garden has symmetrical designs and terrace gardens clustered around topiaries, pergolas and gazebos look captivating. The well-maintained gardens have a variety of colourful flowers and plants that will make you swoon.

Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as the Mysore Zoo is one of the best zoological gardens in India. 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.

The Chamundeshwari Temple is traditional Hindu temple located on the eastern edge of Mysore at the height of 1000ft on the Chamundi hills. Dedicated to and named after goddess Durga, the temple also has statues of Nandi and Mahishasura, the demon. Being one of the oldest temples in the palace city of Mysore, the temple is a must-visit attraction for the travellers and one of the top things to do in Mysore. The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered as a Shakti Peetha and is one among the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. The temple exhibits a divine aura and offers an exhilarating view of the Mysore city.

While in Mysore, take home Mysore silk saris, Mysore sandalwood artifacts and handicrafts, incense sticks, and traditional Mysore paintings called Ganjifa paintings, that the town is known for. Market Browsing is one of the top activities and best things to do in Mysore. It has the finest silk sarees and suits and what more, you can take these home at really reasonable prices.

Karanji Lake, located in the city of Mysore, is a perfect site for relaxing and celebrating a day out with the family. It is sometimes also referred to as the fountain lake. A lot of people come here to celebrate picnics with their loved ones. Visitors are allowed to bring packed food, and there is a coffee shop as well situated near the lake for the coffee lovers. It is a beautiful place to explore the different species of birds as the lake exhibits as many as 147 species including herons, Asian openbill storks, cormorant, grey pelican, etc. thereby making it a mind drawing place for the bird watchers. Be sure to include this in your list of top things to do in Mysore.

The cuisine of Mysore has a distinct influence of Udipi cuisine on its dishes. One of the most famous items here is the traditional sweet, Mysore Pak. Other than this, Mysore's platter is brimming with authentic, traditional and local cuisines. These include Idli, Dosa, Shavige Bath, Pongal, Chutneys and Pickles, Vangi Baath (rice with Brinjal curry), Bisi bele bath (a spicy preparation of rice) as well as a number of sweets such as Payasam, Jalebi, Rave Unde, Ladoo and more. Indian filter coffee and Adike (Areca nut) with Betel leaf are also popular items.

A part of the Mysore University, the museum is home to one of the most elaborate collections of folk art, products and articles. Visit the museum to witness one of the most sprawling depictions of the state's folk art. If you are an art connoisseur or even an art lover, you should definitely put this on your bucket list of things to do in Mysore.

Situated in the majestic city of Mysore, the Jaganmohan Palace is a spectacular edifice that has an illustrious history attached to its name. Built in the year 1869, it was used by the Wodeyars of Mysore when their main residence Amba Vilas Palace was under renovations post a fire accident. 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. Along with the several other exciting things to do in Mysore, this is one activity most loved by the tourists.

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 one of the top things to do in Mysore and is frequently visited by tourists from all over the country. The church is beautiful and 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.

One of the more unique attractions and top things to do in Mysore, the Bonsai Garden of Royal Mysore is home to over a 100 different varieties of Bonsai trees spread across this vast estate. It is a part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Initially a pet project by the fascinated Swamiji, the garden now hosts 450 miniature tree across an area of 4 acres, filled with these quirky dwarf trees. The beauty of the garden is accentuated by the stream that flows within, as well as the placement of Buddha statues and monkey statues around the area, representative of the zen culture from where the art of Bonsai was evolved.

Built in the year 1921, Lalitha Mahal is the second largest palace in Mysore. It was built at the orders of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV of Mysore for stay of the then Viceroy of India. The architecture of the grand palace was inspired by St. Paul? Cathedral in London, making it one of the most remarkable structure to grace the landscape of the city. Be sure to put it in your bucket list of things to do in Mysore.

The Mysore Rail Museum is the second of its kind in India, right after the National Railways Museum of Delhi. It was built in the year 1979 by the Indian Railways and has been the safehouse of Railway collectables ever since. The museum basically depicts the journey and development of the Indian railways through an opulent collection of photographs and various other items. With a plethora of information and insight into the intricacies of the railway engine, Mysore Rail Museum is especially enjoyable for children up to 10 years of age. 

The two temples in Melukote are Tirunarayana temple and Yoga Narasimha, both located at the foothills and top respectively of the Yadavgiri hills. Other than offering picturesque views of the valley and surrounding hills, the temples also boast of utter peace and serenity. The temples are visited by tourists and pilgrims alike.

Home to over 2000 birds, the Shuka Vana in Mysore is a must visit for ornithophiles and nature lovers. With over 450 varied species, this striking 50m high aviary spanning an area of 1 acre currently holds the record for most bird species in an aviary in the Guinness Book of World Records. This unique park, commonly known as parrot park, is a part of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashram, and also serves as a rehabilitation centre for abused, injured and abandoned birds. Visiting the beautiful birds here is one of the top things to do in Mysore.

Chunchanakatte Falls are situated on River Kaveri in Chunchanakatte village of Mysore. The river fall off at a height of 20 metres divided as two different waterfalls, then at the base it continues as one river again. The spot is one of the most peaceful serene in all of town and people scutter here to find peace and to spend some time in solitude. If you are a nature lover, this should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Mysore.

This ancient temple is located outside the Mysore Fort, the main deity being Trinesvara i.e. the three eyed Shiva. The gopura of this temple was destroyed in the 18th century, but the beauty of the Dravidian architecture is still on display here. This is one of the top places to visit and top things to do in Mysore.

Located in Jayanagar, Dr. Ambedkar's Park is one of the popular parks in Mysore. Built in between the residential properties, the park is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate from the pell- mell of life. It is specifically ideal for early morning and evening walks in between natural environment.

Balmuri Falls is situated in the village of Balmuri, 16 kms away from Mysore. The 6-feet-tall waterfall is a man made stretch of cascading water formed by the check-dam on River Cauvery. It is a popular picnic spot for the people of Mysore and Bangalore.

Nestled on the banks of River Kaveri, the town of Talakadu in Karnataka is a mystic place submerged in the sand of extremely fine quality. Steeped with rich past and heritage, it is famous for its Vaidyanatheshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place derives its name from two local chieftains Tala and Kada and thus is called Talakadu. Situated only 3 hours drive from Bangalore, this is an ideal place for history buffs and for the devotees of Lord Shiva.  With a rich past and heritage, the town is also quite famous among the devotees who come here for a special worship.

Located just 15 minutes drive from Mysore, GRS Fantasy Park is an amusement and water park that serves perfectly as a picnic spot for everyone. Set amid a lush green environment on the Mysore-Bangalore highway, it has been a part of several memorable holidays and unforgettable memories for the past 13 years. GRS Fantasy Park is a theme based amusement park and one of the favourites among the locals of Mysore. It offers some really amusing rides and activities making it a perfect spot for friends and families to hang out and one of the fun-nest things to do in Mysore.