Best Places to Visit in Mysore
1. Mysore Palace (Mysuru Palace)
Mysore Palace is the city's pride and main landmark. Famous for its evening light display, the palace features grand architecture, detailed wall paintings, marble halls, and lovely gardens, making it one of India's most impressive royal palaces. The palace looks stunning when lit in the evening. The collection of royal robes and weapons offers a wonderful experience.
Things to Do
- Experience the stunning evening light display of the palace.
- Explore the collection of royal robes and weapons.
- Walk through the grand marble halls and admire the detailed wall paintings.
Opening Hours
Evening illumination runs from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
Lighting
Evening lighting typically starts around 7 PM to 7:45 PM on Sundays and festivals.
2. Chamundeshwari Temple (Chamundi Hills)
The Chamundeshwari Temple is situated at the top of Chamundi Hills, about 13 km from Mysuru. The temple can be reached by trekking, car, or taxi, and it offers scenic views of the city. From Chamundi Top, you get a full 360-degree view of Mysore. Visiting at sunrise or sunset is especially beautiful. The temple has 1,008 steps.
Things to Do
- Visit Goddess Chamundeshwari.
- Enjoy a beautiful view of the entire city from the hill.
- Take a photo op near the Nandi statue.
- Experience trekking up the hill for stunning panoramic views.
Opening Hours
7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
3. Mysore Zoo (Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens)
This is a world-class zoo. According to a 2022 report, Mysuru Zoo was ranked second in India for zoo management and hygiene in the large category. The zoo is popular with families and children, offering the chance to see elephants, giraffes, and a variety of other native and exotic animals. The zoo offers convenient facilities such as cafes and restrooms, making it easier for families to spend a longer, more enjoyable day. For the best experience, it's advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. Ticket prices range from INR 60 to INR 150 for adults and from INR 30 to INR 75 for children.
Things to Do
- See elephants, giraffes, and exotic animals.
- Enjoy family-friendly facilities including cafes and restrooms.
- Educational experience for children about wildlife conservation.
Opening Hours
- 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
Ticket Prices
- Adults: INR 60 to INR 150
- Children: INR 30 to INR 75
4. Brindavan Gardens
Located on the banks of the KRS Dam, these gardens are famous for their symmetrical fountains, light shows, and musical water displays. They look especially beautiful in the evening. The musical fountain show is a major attraction that combines water, lights, and music in a spectacular display.
Things to Do
- Watch the musical fountain show.
- Take an evening stroll through the beautiful gardens.
- Enjoy the symmetrical garden design and colorful flowers.
Opening Hours
6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (weekdays) and 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM (weekends). Musical fountain show: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM on weekdays and 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM on weekends.
5. Kukkarahalli Lake
This peaceful lake area is open daily and is ideal for jogging, walking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature. A serene early-morning walk along the lake offers peace, watching the sunrise as birds glide over the water. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Things to Do
- Go for a walk and jog along the lake.
- Enjoy birdwatching and the natural scenery.
- Experience peaceful early morning or evening ambiance.
Opening Hours
6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
6. Devaraja Market
Here you'll find a wide variety of fruits, flowers, spices, and traditional handloom textiles. The market is colorful and a great way to experience local culture. An evening at Devaraja Market provides vibrant stalls where you can savor street snacks and sweet Mysore Pak, capturing local flavors. It's an authentic experience that showcases the heart of Mysore's daily life.
Things to Do
- Shop for fresh flowers, spices, sandalwood, and traditional items.
- Experience the local culture and colorful market atmosphere.
- Try local street snacks and authentic Mysore Pak.
Opening Hours
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
7. St. Philomena's Cathedral
This large Gothic cathedral features stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to visit. It is one of the tallest churches in Asia and is considered the second largest church in Asia and features magnificent stained-glass windows and beautiful interiors inspired by European cathedrals.
Things to Do
- Explore the magnificent Gothic architecture.
- Admire the beautiful stained glass windows.
- Experience the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Opening Hours
5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
8. Dufferin Clock Tower (Silver Jubilee Clock Tower)
One of the city's main landmarks, this beautiful clock tower reflects local culture and history. The nearby streets offer a great glimpse of everyday life. It's a perfect spot for photography, near the historic clock tower, and for exploring the surrounding markets and streets.
Things to Do
- Take photographs near the historic clock tower.
- Explore the surrounding markets and streets.
- Experience the local culture and daily life of Mysore.
Opening Hours
24 Hours (Outdoors)
9. Other Heritage Sites
Mysore also has many other fascinating heritage sites, including the Rail Museum – for train and history lovers, Lalitha Mahal Palace – a royal heritage hotel with stunning architecture, and Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion Museum – featuring royal collections and artifacts. These sites offer deeper insights into Mysore's rich royal heritage and cultural history.
Notable Heritage Sites
- Rail Museum: Perfect for train and history enthusiasts.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace: A royal heritage hotel with magnificent architecture.
- Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion Museum: Showcases royal collections and artifacts.
10. Local Food and Market Experience
Mysore's local food is delicious, featuring treats like Mysore pak, dosas, filter coffee, and street snacks. You can enjoy these authentic flavors at Devaraja Market and nearby spots. For a taste of traditional Mysorean cuisine, visit RRR Restaurant for flavorful biryani, or Vinayaka Mylari for their famous dosas. Don't miss the street vendors offering Mysore pak and filter coffee at Gandhi Square. If you're looking for more local favorites, check out Mylari Hotel for its soft, buttery dosas or try the authentic South Indian thali at Nalpak. For those who crave something sweet, Mahalakshmi Sweets is a hidden gem offering an array of delectable sweets and savory snacks.
Must-Try Foods
- Mysore Pak: The city's signature sweet treat.
- Dosas: Try at Vinayaka Mylari or Mylari Hotel.
- Filter Coffee: Authentic South Indian coffee at Gandhi Square.
- Biryani: Flavorful biryani at RRR Restaurant.
- South Indian Thali: Complete meal at Nalpak.
Recommended Restaurants
- RRR Restaurant – Biryani
- Vinayaka Mylari – Famous Dosas
- Mylari Hotel – Soft, buttery dosas
- Nalpak – South Indian Thali
- Mahalakshmi Sweets – Sweets and snacks