Visiting Mysore, a historic cultural hub in Karnataka
Located in the state of Karnataka, Mysore is defined by its royal legacy. It is recognized for its architectural heritage, sandalwood craftsmanship, and a measured cultural pace that offers a genuine look at Southern India.
The Mysore Palace: an architectural masterpiece
The Mysore Palace is arguably the most famous site in the city. As the former residence of the Maharajas of Mysore, it stands out for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, stained glass, and opulent interiors. Every Sunday evening and during the Dussehra festival, the structure is lit up by thousands of bulbs, creating an impressive display. There is an entrance fee, but it is worth the cost.
Chamundi Hill: a panorama of the city
A few miles from the city center, Chamundi Hill is a spiritual site housing the Chamundeshwari temple, dedicated to the goddess of the same name. You can take a staircase of 1,000 steps to reach the summit, or simply drive up. Along the way, you will pass an imposing statue of the Nandi bull. The panoramic view of Mysore makes this a popular spot for photographers and travelers.
Devaraja Market: a sensory immersion
Located in the heart of Mysore, the Devaraja market is the best place to get a feel for local life. You will find spices, sandalwood essential oils, fruits, flowers, and handmade souvenirs here. The atmosphere is energetic and colorful, though it can get crowded. It is a great place to pick up incense or sandalwood products, which are local specialties.
The Sandalwood Museum and the zoo
To better understand the importance of sandalwood in the region, a visit to the Sandalwood Museum is worthwhile. It details the history and uses of this precious wood. Wildlife enthusiasts can head to the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and best-maintained in India. It houses a wide variety of animals, including white tigers and giraffes.
Typical Karnataka cuisine
Mysore is famous for its Mysore Pak, a melt-in-your-mouth dessert made from ghee and chickpea flour, as well as its Mysore Masala Dosa, a spicy rice crepe filled with potatoes. Other specialties include Bisi Bele Bath, a rice and lentil dish with spices, and Chiroti, a sweet, flaky pastry.
Where to eat?
- Mylari: an iconic spot for soft, flavorful dosas, a local specialty.
- Vinayaka Mylari: known for its butter dosas and authentic atmosphere.
- Hotel RRR: a favorite for thalis served on banana leaves.
Where to stay?
- Royal Orchid Metropole: a historic hotel offering an elegant setting and high-quality service.
- Green Hotel: an eco-friendly property housed in a former palace.
- Hotel Sandesh The Prince: a comfortable option featuring a pool and a quality restaurant.
When to go?
The best time to visit Mysore is from October to March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. Dussehra, in October, is the city's signature event, drawing crowds for its royal processions and light displays. The summer months (April-June) are hot, while the monsoon (June-September) brings frequent rain.
How to get there?
Mysore is accessible by air via the Bangalore airport, located 105 miles away. Taxis and buses connect to Mysore in about 3 hours (cost: 900 to 1,800 INR ($11-22) by bus, 3,600 to 5,400 INR ($43-65) by taxi). A direct train from Bangalore takes about 2.5 hours and costs between 90 and 900 INR ($1-11) depending on the class.
How to get around?
The city is well-served by rickshaws, an economical option that requires negotiating the fare beforehand. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Ola are also available. Local buses are inexpensive but can be very crowded.
Mysore is a golden city in South India! You eat well there, the city is less hectic than other major metropolises, and you find some unique spots. First off, the must-see site is its opulent palace. Crazy architecture is on the agenda, and if you are lucky like I was, come at the end of the day to watch the illumination as the amazed visitors cheer. Thousands of light bulbs light up the site, splendid! I also loved wandering through the aisles of the Mysore market, a temple for fruits, vegetables, and especially the flowers sold by the thousands, often in the form of garlands, magnificent!