There are many Mysore tourist places that offer the best of history, spirituality, and nature for Mysore visitors, and they have beautiful architecture, blooming gardens, and energetic cultural scenes. Here is a list of places to visit in Mysore.
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace, popularly known as Amba Vilas Palace, remains the epitome of Mysore’s architectural heritage. The Indo-Saracenic masterpiece was designed by the British architect Henry Irwin and built-in 1912. The palace’s intricate interiors ornamented with stained glass, mirrors and beautifully carved wooden doors exhibit Wadiyars’ lavish lifestyle. During Dasara festival season, over 97,000 bulbs light up the entire palace, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that features it among India’s most visited sites, which have over 3 million visitors annually. The palace has also been converted into a museum that showcases royal costumes, paintings, and jewellery, giving insight into the extravagant way of life led by previous kings.
Brindavan Gardens
Another one of the places to visit in Mysore city is The Brindavan Gardens, which is situated about 12 kilometres from Mysore city and is one of the best examples horticulture can offer. These gardens cover an expanse of sixty acres below Krishnaraja Sagara Dam, terraced on one side by Sir Mirza Ismail. They include topiary works and musical fountains synchronised with water bursts according to the musical tunes they play. During evenings, when fountains are turned on to shine their lights at night, these gardens become magical, attracting nearly two million people every year.
Mysore Zoo
Established in 1892 by Chamaraja Wodeyar X, Mysore Zoo, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is one of the oldest and best-kept zoos in India. Encompassing an area of 157 acres, it accommodates over 168 species, including gorillas, white rhinos, and green anacondas, among others, which are not readily found in the country. The zoo's concentration on conservation, education and breeding programs makes it an important attraction for wildlife lovers. All this lush green environment of the zoo combined with well-maintained enclosures plus informative signboards make it loved by families and school groups. This makes it still one of the best tourist places to visit in Mysore.
Somnathapura Temple
The Keshava Temple at Somnathapura, built in 1268 AD, is an outstanding example of Hoysala architecture. This three-shrined temple dedicated to Lord Krishna consists of various gods carved into it, as well as scenes from epics presented through intricate carvings on the walls around the temple. Though the idols were desecrated, rendering them useless for worship purposes, they still remain a testament to the artistic and engineering genius of the Hoysala period. The star-shaped platform, elaborate sculptures and symmetrical design make it a paradise for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts alike, in addition to its quiet ambience, which adds more charm to this place, giving peace seekers a chance to experience away from chaotic world concerns whenever they come here.
Chamundeshwari Temple
Situated on top of the Chamundi Hills, the Chamundeshwari Temple is dedicated to Mysore’s Goddess Chamundi. It has a seven-tier gopura (tower) from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of other tourist spots in Mysore city. Also found on the hill is an enormous Nandi statue that belongs to Lord Shiva and a statue of Mahishasura, the demon whom the Goddess Durga killed. The temple doubles as an important pilgrimage site and a reflection of Mysore’s religious heritage. The climb to this temple which is made up of 1,000 steps, provides its own kind of adventure that combines both spiritual gratification and physical exertion.
Rail Museum, Mysore
Established in 1979, the Rail Museum in Mysore paints a fascinating picture of Indian Railway history. Among its attractions are old locomotives used during pre-independence days by the Maharaja of Mysore, as well as an Austin rail-motor car. In addition to being an outdoor exhibit where children can take mini-train rides around, it makes it fun for kids and families, too. There are interesting exhibits at this museum that do justice to documenting how railways have evolved in India over time since its inception, such as interactive displays and informative plaques targeted at all age groups.
Jaganmohan Palace
Constructed in 1861, Jaganmohan Palace served as a temporary residence for the royal family while the new Mysore Palace was being built. Today, it houses Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery which has an extensive collection of paintings, artefacts and musical instruments. This palace is one of the most famous tourist places in Mysore city due to its traditional Hindu architectural style. The gallery features works by well-known artists such as Raja Ravi Varma. Inside it, however, are elaborate decorations showcasing the opulence of Wadiyars' rule. Also, exhibitions of special interest and cultural events take place here sometimes.
St. Philomena's Cathedral
The building of St. Philomena’s Cathedral took place in 1936, and it ranks among Asia’s tallest churches, which were modelled after the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. This Neo-Gothic edifice has twin spires standing at a height of 175 feet, with stained glass windows. Mysore considers it one of its landmarks that illustrate how diverse our culture in this city can be. It is located right at the heart of Mysore and is visited by both tourists and residents because of its serene atmosphere coupled with architectural grandeur. Furthermore, the cathedral contains a crypt, which holds a relic of St. Philomena, making it more important spiritually.
Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum
India’s first sand sculpture museum, Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, was established in 2014. Situated at the foothills of Chamundi, there are about 150 sculptures by MN Gowri created here. These sculptures contain over 115 truckloads of sand depicting various aspects covering Mysore’s heritage, wildlife and mythology concept-wise. The fact that it is different art-wise gives this museum a special place among museums, thus confirming creativity and skill for sand art enthusiasts. This open air museum enables visitors to view intricate details on sculptures which are very interesting to art lovers, making it unique among places to visit in Mysore city.
Chamundi Hills
The Chamundi Hills, being an elevation of 1060 metres above sea level, is a conspicuous feature of the Mysore skyline. Apart from the temple of Chamundeshwari, there are other attractions, such as the Nandi statue, where one can get panoramic views of the city. Additionally, these are favourite hills for nature walks and trekking away from the noisy city; they are characterised by green vegetation and cool weather, which are favourable to outdoor enthusiasts. The road leading to its top is well-kept, and many viewpoints along it give a clear view of this town.
Travellers to places to visit in Mysore now can experience layers upon layers of history, traditions and natural beauty. Plan your journey there if you want to get a feel for these Mysore tourist places and have a memorable time in this regal municipality.
