Places to Visit in Mysore

The special attractions of this beautifully constructed palace encompass shrines, halls, pavilions, etc. During Dussehra, the palace is grandly adorned in order to exhibit the legacy and culture of those days. The entry charge for adults is Rs.40, Rs.20 for students between 10-18 years old, and Rs.200 for foreigners. Mysore Palace can be visited on any day between 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. The management of the palace has introduced battery-operated vehicles to facilitate visitors who want to have a complete tour of the spot.

Lalitha Mahal

Lalitha Mahal, the second biggest palace in the city of Mysore, is situated near the Chamundi Hills. It was built exclusively for the guests of the royal family in the year 1921. The white-coloured palace was transformed into a heritage hotel in 1974. Until 2018, it was a part of the Ashok Group of India Tourism Development Corporation under the Indian Government. Recently, it has been transmitted to a unit of the Karnataka Government. It is wonderful to watch the delicate interiors decorated with Persian carpets and Belgian chandeliers. You can visit the palace any day between 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Karanji Lake

Karanji Lake, Mysore, is very famous for sightseeing, walkers point, wildlife spotting, bird sanctuary, photography, etc. The lake opens at 8:30 am in the morning and closes at 6:00 pm in the evening. The premises remain closed on Tuesdays. Visitors have to pay the entrance fee, which is Rs.10 for adults, Rs.5 for kids between the age range of 5-15 years and seniors. During holidays in Mysore, you may visit this place with your friends and family. It is a paradise for kids who enjoy the most. The lake has spread over 90 acres. Out of which, 35 acres are in the foreshore region whereas the remaining 55 acres are in covered by the hydel region.

Railway Museum

Indian Railways established the Railway Museum in the year 1979. It is the second biggest railway museum after the one in the city of Delhi, the national capital. The museum is located just opposite the Central Food Technology and Research Institute on Krishnaraja Sagar Road. It has a gallery of paintings exhibiting the development of Indian Railways and a section displaying the deluxe travels commenced by the royal dynasties of Mysore. Like Karanji Lake, the museum is also liked by kids. It opens at 10:00 am in the morning and closes at 5:30 pm in the evening on all days except Monday.

Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple is situated just 13 kilometres away from the Mysore Palace. It is a Hindu temple visited by thousands of devotees every day. During Hindu festival holidays in Mysore, the number of devotees visiting the temple increases. Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas in the country. Needless to say, the architecture of the temple has been unique and enticing. The temple is devoted to Goddess Durga.

Brindavan Garden

Brindavan Garden is one of the best places to visit in Mysore during holidays. You have to travel a distance of 23 kilometres from Mysore to reach this beautiful garden. It is famous not only for sightseeing but alsofor spending joyful evening hours. The highlight of this garden is the magical fountain show, which is enthralling to watch with kids and friends. Currently, the Cauvery Niravari Nigama, an enterprise of the Government of Karnataka, manages the garden. Like other tourist points, an entry fee is collected here as well.

Jagmohan Palace

Jagmohan Palace, a palace in Mysore, was constructed in the year 1861 and was initially utilised by the Wodeyars as their residence. Recently, it has been converted into a function hall and an art gallery. It is one amongst the great contributions of the Wodeyar dynasty. The palace has been built in a way that depicts the traditional Hindu style. Visitors can watch several objects and creations from South India. They can visit any day between 10 am to 5:30 pm. Adults are charged an entry fee of Rs.20, while the entry fee charged for kids is Rs.10.

St. Philomena Church

St. Philomena Church is among the best places to visit in Mysore during holidays. It is visited by many people, especially during the Christmas holidays in Mysore. The church was constructed beautifully in the year 1936. The Cologne Cathedral  which is one of the tallest churches in Asia, inspired the architecture of the St. Philomena church, The main hall of the church can accommodate around 800 people and it also has stained glass windows.

Kabini Dam

Kabini Dam is located near Beechanahally village in the district of Mysore. Built in 1974, the length of the dam is 696 meters whereas the catchment region of the dam is 2141.90 square kilometers. Presently, the dam caters the requirements of 14 hamlets and 22 villages. The visitors can enjoy boating on the river, Jungle safari and Elephant safari. Some of the famous tourist points situated nearby the dam include Sagahalli, Taraka Reservoir, Kuppe Betta, Suttan halla crossing road, etc. You need at least a day to cover these points and therefore, consider visiting the dam particularly during holidays in Mysore if you are staying near the city.

Somanathpur Temple

Somanthpur Temple or Keshava Temple or Channakeshava Temple is located in a village in the district of Mysore. Constructed by Hoysalas, it is an artifact of the previous era. This beautifully constructed temple has 3 sanctums, 3 shrines and a joint navranga. The idol of Lord Janardhana can be seen in the northern sanctum whereas the idol of Lord Venugopal can be seen in the Southern sanctum. It is an extremely beautiful temple to be captured in your cameras. You just need to commute a distance of 35 kilometers from the city of Mysore to reach the temple, which is one of the famous places to visit in Mysore during holidays.

Mysore is a stunning city in Karnataka. It is a perfect blend of tourist points that are liked by children, adults and senior citizens. The people residing in the city of Mysore can plan a trip during holidays in Mysore. The same goes for outside visitors too.

Mysore Zoo

Mysore Zoo, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, stands as one of India's premier zoological gardens. Established by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar in 1892 to cater to the royal family, it later transitioned to the Department of Parks and Gardens of the State Government post-independence. The zoo's meticulous planning distinguishes it as a unique zoological garden, emphasising the creation of natural habitats for its diverse range of animals. Encompassing 157 acres near the palace in Mysore, this zoo ranks among the oldest and most renowned in the country. Home to 168 species, spanning from large and small cats to aquatic and terrestrial birds and from primates to reptiles, it offers a diverse and vibrant collection.  

The global recognition of Mysore Zoo reached new heights when it achieved fame for conducting the world's first caesarean section delivery on an elephant. Beyond its role as a haven for abandoned animals, Mysore Zoo actively engages in educational initiatives. The zoo hosts various exhibitions, with a notable insect exhibition drawing significant attention. Additionally, it conducts educational programs such as Youth Club activities, Literary Competitions, and Summer Camp activities. In 1976, the zoo assumed jurisdiction over Karanji Lake, transforming it into a tranquil and scenic location for boating. 

Bonsai Garden

Nestled within the Royal Mysore, the Bonsai Garden stands out as a distinctive attraction, showcasing an impressive collection of over 100 varieties of Bonsai trees across its expansive estate. A part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama, this garden, initially a personal endeavour of the intrigued Swamiji, now spans 4 acres and hosts 450 miniature trees, each a captivating example of the art of cultivating dwarf trees. Enhancing the garden's allure is a meandering stream and strategically placed Buddha and monkey statues, embodying the zen culture that influenced the evolution of Bonsai art. For nature enthusiasts, a deer park adds to the scenic charm. 

The garden and its exhibits are organised into distinct zones, reflecting various Indian traditions and beliefs embraced by the Swamiji. Visitors encounter plants linked to the Indian zodiac system, Indian classical music, representations of the 27 stars in traditional Indian astrology, the seven Indian sages (Saptarishi), and five plant gardens intricately connected to the concept of the Mother Goddess. Walking through this garden is a delight, admiring the artistry and effort required to shape century-old trees within charming terracotta pots. The Bonsai Garden also serves as the venue for bonsai conventions held in December. These three-day seminars feature experts from around the world conducting workshops on bonsai plants. 

Edmuri Falls

Situated along the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Marg, approximately 3 km from Mysore city, Edmuri Falls, also known as Yedmuri Falls, is a charming waterfall that complements the nearby Balmuri Falls. Originating from the River Cauvery, the waterfall is created as the river encounters a 6-foot rocky steep slope in its course. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking lush green hills and with the glistening water in view, the waterfall provides a visually pleasing experience. 

Regarded as one of the most popular weekend retreats from the city, the location is also a highly sought-after picnic destination. Apart from the cascading water creating a pool at the base, ideal for swimming and various water games, there is an ancient temple near the waterfall dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting numerous pilgrims. 

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Situated in Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Srirangapatna stands as a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a diverse range of bird species. As the largest bird sanctuary in the state, it encompasses six small islands along the banks of the river Kaveri. The captivating scenery of the local vegetation and landscape, coupled with the presence of vibrant bird species, creates a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and interests. This destination offers various activities for tourists, with popular options including bird watching, boating, and nature photography. 

Among the 170 species of birds residing here, notable ones include the Painted Stork, Common Spoonbill, Asian Openbill Stork, Black-headed Ibis, and Woolly-necked Stork. This biodiversity hub is also home to smaller animals such as the Bonnet Macaque, Flying Fox, and small mammals like the common palm civet, Indian grey mongoose, and monitor lizard. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary serves as the perfect retreat for relaxation and unwinding amidst nature in the delightful company of family and friends.

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