Things to do in Mysore

Immersing ourselves into wildlife can show us a different side of nature, one that is undomesticated by man and roams freely amidst lush beauty, away from the noise and pollution of urban settlements. To spot an animal in the wild requires a lot of patience and can be meditative in its own way, sharpening your sense of focus as you wait eagerly for a creature to saunter into view. Often when we go wildlife watching, we might not catch sight of any of the forest wildlife and this is part of the magic, motivating you to go back again and again.  

You might think wildlife tours in Mysore is limited to the magnificent Sri. Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, but there’s plenty to explore in and around the city that will keep your love for wildlife buzzing. It’s no surprise that wildlife is best found away from the city, in the quiet havens of towering trees, shrubs and open blue skies, so hop into your car and head to the beautiful Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary filled with vibrantly coloured species of birds or Nagarhole National Park where you can find different types of deer and the glorious Indian Tiger.  

Wildlife tours in Mysore aren’t complete without a stop at Sri. Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens which is one of the oldest zoos in India. Mysore’s iconic zoo is home to a variety of indigenous and exotic amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. The zoo was created from the King’s private menagerie and has completed over a 100 years of existence so dropping by its spectacular enclosures is a must.  

Whether you go on a short drive around the city or walk through its zoo, the wildlife tours in Mysore will give you a satisfying glimpse into the bounty of Karnataka’s wildlife.  

Located just 143 km from Bangalore, Mysore boasts of an old-world charm; complete with sprawling paddy fields and the historical Mysore Palace known for its regal beauty. Around the quaint city lies lush, wooded areas, fields carefully tended by local farmers, shimmering lakes and farms filled with coconut trees that wave gently in the breeze. 

Camping in Mysore is a peaceful experience as the atmosphere is slow paced, reliving a time before IT cities started to evolve rapidly. The city features beautiful architecture with a rich heritage and winding lanes that take you in and around the city. The best part of camping in Mysore is that tourists rarely visit the lovely natural areas surrounding the city and this gives you a chance to relax in the outdoors, unbothered by other campers. 

Spend the night under the Mysore sky; the same glittering night sky that once looked down upon the Indian Kings and Queens of yesteryear. 

The winding roads of Mysore are lined with sprawling trees and these cobbled paths are perfect for exploring this cultural hub, taking you to heritage sites and shopping centres filled with exquisitely crafted handicrafts that hail from centuries past.  

Sightseeing in Mysore begins with a visit to its iconic Mysore Palace that is still the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty. As you walk through the great halls and rooms, it feels as though you have opened the door to the past with delicate paintings and filigree on the walls. Other palaces in the city that are sure to delight your love for history include the Jaganmohan Palace, Lalitha Mahal Palace, Jayalakshmi Villa and Cheluvamba Mansion. If you also want to hear the fascinating stories behind these lovely architectural masterpieces, you can embark on a heritage tour while you’re sightseeing in Mysore, and listen to the tales that will bring these monuments to life.  

Walking through the city as you gaze at its popular hotspots can make your tummy rumble. For food lovers, sightseeing isn’t complete without a quick snack at the many eateries that dot Mysore. Give your taste-buds a bite of delicious South Indian flavours with crispy vadas, bondas, fluffy idlis, Bisibelebath and Poori Saagu. Afterwards, don’t forget to buy a box of the rich, sweet Mysore Pak, that originated decades ago in the kitchen of the King of Mysore and has since become a beloved sweetmeat throughout the country.  

Drop by the shopping centres as you’re sightseeing in Mysore to purchase the fragrant sandalwood items the city is known for, silk saris, gorgeous Mysore paintings with gesso work (gold foil is used in these unique paintings) and traditional toys.  

Sightseeing in Mysore is an experience that stays with you and for good reason, as this enchanting city is known as the ‘Cultural Capital of Karnataka’.  

The historical city of Mysore is popular for its dearth of heritage sites and quiet streets lined with mango trees that sweetly scent the air. Old bungalows still dot the lanes of the suburbs in the city with families that have dwelled in these rooms for decades past, keeping traditions alive.  

The homestays in Mysore are quaint and soulful and the interiors reflect the majesty of the ancient Kingdom of Mysore. Warm bohemian interiors with hardwood floors, unique Mysore paintings and sturdy teak furniture, invite you in for a pleasant stay as you set out to explore one of the most beloved cities in Karnataka.  

Spend your day exploring the iconic Mysore Palace, complete with great halls, lush, regal courtyards, and pillars embedded with artwork and delicate filigree. At night, the palace is lit up by thousands of lights and this sight can leave you enthralled, even from a distance. You can spot this night-time visual treat from your balcony at one of the homestays in Mysore and fall asleep to the flickering lights of this architectural masterpiece.  

After a long day of walking through a city and uncovering its hidden secrets, you want to relax away from dust and noise, without traveling too far. The homestays in Mysore give you large green gardens for you to sink back and unwind as you enjoy a delicious hot cup of chai and crispy snacks. And after all, what better way to complete a long day of exploring on foot than to sink into a fluffy, cozy bed at the end of the day?  

Are you yearning for a getaway that perfectly blends regal heritage with modern luxury? Look no further than Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka! Situated in the heart of Karnataka, Mysore, known as the 'City of Palaces,' offers an enchanting escape into the opulent world of Maharajas and the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. But where should you stay to fully immerse yourself in this regal atmosphere?

Mysore, with its majestic Mysore Palace, the spiritual Chamundi Hill, and the mesmerizing Brindavan Gardens, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural heritage. This city, once the seat of the Wodeyar dynasty, invites you to stroll through its bustling markets, savor the iconic Mysore Pak, and witness the traditional Dasara celebrations that light up the city with festivity and joy.

To make your stay as memorable as the city itself, we’ve curated a list of the best resorts in Mysore. These havens of luxury offer unparalleled comfort and impeccable service, ensuring that your experience in this historic city is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature or a lavish resort with all the modern amenities, Mysore’s finest resorts promise to cater to your every need. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the royal splendor of Mysore, all while enjoying the finest accommodations the city has to offer!

Change is the only constant - so if you're looking to switch up your daily routine with something exciting and new - discover these trekking locations near Mysore. While we focus on the big cities and the life there, the hills and routes in between pass us by. Mysore is the cultural hub of Karnataka and has a plethora of places and things to explore. The city also finds itself close to some of the best trekking spots in the state and has impeccable connectivity to all of them.  

Trekking in Mysore might involve a drive up to the location since there aren’t any present within Mysore but makes it all the more worth it.  If you're a beginner in this field, trekking in Mysore is perfect for you as the trails here are not so demanding and are short distance ones. All trails and routes here are safe, easily accessible and of course, come with stunning views. Trekking in Mysore is a fresh way to explore this city and the places around it. As the cultural and adventure hub in the area, you will have no difficulty finding a guide in Mysore or booking your trek to any of the picturesque locations around. If you’re unsure of where to start and how to find a trek best suited for you, visit our website for in- depth assistance with the same.  

If you're looking for an answer to the question - what's better - traditional art or new, modern pieces; pay a visit to Mysore's streets. Mysore is a town with history that dates back years but is still on the go with modern amenities and lifestyle necessities designed for you.  

Much like that, shopping in Mysore will give you glimpse into a world where age old techniques have been used and practiced in a modern way to meet all our requirements. The items here are priced decently but be sure to remember that many stores in Mysore sell similar items and some stores could be selling items similar to what you’re looking for at a better price – so look around a little bit at all the options before deciding on one.  

Shopping in Mysore won't look like your usual shopping at the malls or your street with jewellery but has some timeless pieces to pick from even if you're not at an exclusive store. With sandalwood and rosewood being a very popular raw material here, you will find many things made using these, the famous Channapatna dolls and toys that are crafted to perfection and are symbolic of the craft from that small town and of course, the infamous silk sarees, Mysore Pak and coffee beans from all the nearby hill stations. Shopping in Mysore is exciting and the gift that keeps on giving for the shopaholic in you - it has the best souvenir and gift options to ensure that you don't leave the city empty handed.   

Mysore is very popular among tourists and attracts tourists from all over India. It’s a heaven for people who are looking to explore a city rich in history and culture. Mysore has many heritage sights including the Mysore Palace, Lalithamahal Palace, and Jagmohan Place. Mysore Palace used to be the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and its architecture is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, Gothic, and Rajput styles. Another attraction to the city is the tantalizing local cuisines that are a treat to the tastebuds. The best time to visit Mysore is between October to February. 

Mysore is situated close to hills stations like Ooty, Coorg, and Coonoor and this adds to the reason why the Jungle Lodges and Resorts here are something you shouldn’t miss out on. The outskirt of Mysore has beautiful jungles, filled with a plethora of intriguing flora and fauna. So, take a break from your stressful job. Get away from the city’s pollution and spend some time in heart of Mother Nature and visit Jungle Lodges and Resorts near Mysore.