Much more peaceful than sister city Bengaluru, Mysuru has become a retirement hub for many Kannadigas. It is one of the best planned and cleanest cities in India. Historically the capital of Mysuru dynasty, it was the centre of all administration, learning and power in erstwhile times. There are enough places to visit around Mysuru, so plan 3 days here for a good time
150 km from Bengaluru, Mysuru is getting its own airport, but connectivity is best from Bengaluru. It is just 2.5 hours away from Bengaluru by road. This post covers all places that can be visited keeping Mysuru as the hub, although they may lie technically in districts like Chamarajanagar, Mandya
Typical itinerary includes
Day 1- Covering the city palace, Philomena Church, Chamundeshwari temple, Brindavan Gardens
Day 2- Somnathapura, Talakadu
Day 3- Srirangapatna summer palace, temple, Ranganathittu sanctuary
Day 4- Nanjangud, Bandipur, Kabini
Best way is to hire a taxi from your accommodation. Typical day package includes 300km at INR 4500-5000. You can also try some of the government tourism department operated tours
Try out local delicacies like Mysore Pak, a sweet dish made from gram flour, sugar and ghee. Other local dishes include Ragi mudde, Akki rotti, Bisi bele bath
Places to visit around Mysuru
Mysuru has something to offer for any kind of traveler. From temples, palaces, wildlife regions at Bandipur, Kabini, Ranganathittu- you can find all varieties of places. Somnathapura, Talakadu, Srirangapatna, Nanjangud are quick getaways from Mysuru
Mysuru Palace
One of the best in India, with royal- artistic halls, furniture. Even today, the Dasara festival during Navratri in October starts from this palace. There is a light and sound show if you want to see the palace in nights
Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery, Jayalakshmivilas mansion and many other royal housing units are converted into museums and galleries. You can have high tea at Lalitha Mahal Palace
Chamundeshwari temple
On top of Chamundi hills, you can find a gorgeous temple and huge Nandi statue
Mysuru Zoo
I have had mixed views about zoos given the captivity in which animals are kept. However, Mysuru zoo provides semi wild environment for animal to roam around in relatively larger space. The collection is one of the best in India
St Philomena Church
One of the largest and most beautiful churches of India, with stained glass similar to European cathedrals
Brindavan Gardens
Vast garden beside Krishna Rajasagara dam. The fountain show at night is quite spectacular at 7 PM everyday. There is also a good collection of fishes in the aquarium
Somnathapura temple
One of the best temples to see South Indian architecture. Built by the Hoysalas, dedicated to Lord Chennakeshava. The idol is a replica of the original one which was stolen, so it is not a live place of worship. The temple is 35 km, an hour away from Mysuru centre
Talakadu
About 40 km from Mysuru, this place has over 30 temples covered in sand dunes. Rani Alemelamma is known to have cursed the Mysuru royal family and when her jewels were seized. Vaidyanatheshwara temple is the most prominent one, followed by Kirti Naryana, Anandeshwara, Gaurishankara temples
Srirangapatna
About 20 km from Mysuru, Srirangapatna has many things to offer for travellers of all kinds- from temples, to bird sanctuaries to palaces. Typically covered on day 2 or 3 when based out of Mysore
Ranganathaswamy temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishu, whom you can find in sleeping posture on snake Anantha
Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan: Made of teak wood, built in 17th century, this palace is quite impressive
Srirangapatna Fort: Well preserved enough for a quick visit when you are in the region
Ranganathittu bird sanctuary: Famous for migratory birds, you can take a boat ride here to observe different varieties of birds including cormorants, egrets, spoonbills, storks, ibis etc. There are crocodiles in the waters, so do not put your hand out of the boat into the waters. Early morning/ late evenings are the best time as birds come back home
Bandipur National Park
Gundlupet is the closest town, 90 km from Mysuru. You can take the bus safari organized by forest department and stay in one of the lodges inside the forest
Kabini
Located between Nagarhole and Bandipur National parks, this place is apt for a staycation, where you can relax amidst the forests and venture out for safaris once or twice a day. Note that prices tend to be on higher side here
Nanjangud
Famous for Nanjundeshwara temple and local ‘Rasa bale’ bananas, about 25 km from Mysuru
Chennapatna
If you are travelling from Bengaluru to Mysuru, stop by this cute town which is famous for making wooden toys. These traditional toys are safe for kids. You can spot the origin just looking at these colorful toys. This is midway, 1.5 hrs from Mysuru and Bengaluru