Top 10 Places to Visit in Mysore

Mysore rightfully deserves its second name, “city of palaces”. Located in the southern part of Karnataka, it is a cultural hub. The monuments, busy marketplaces, splendiferous palaces and artistic history of the stunning Mysore attract tourists from across the globe.

It can serve as an ideal destination for anyone who possesses a true interest in South Indian rituals, architecture and history. Other than the magnificent architecture, the city is very famous for its desserts, spicy curries and flavored rice dishes. One of the most famous among them is Mysore Masala Dosa. Filter coffee with its strong aroma and rich flavour; Mysore Pak which is a famous sweet made of sugar, ghee, and gram flour – all these cannot be missed out on!

Further, through this comprehensive guide, let’s explore the best places to visit in Mysore that makes it a must visit destination for tourists.

Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace is the most photographed monument of the city and ranks first in the list of top 10 places to visit in Mysore. This distinctive symbol of Karnataka is an impressive historical structure built in the year 1912 for the 24th Ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty, and certainly one of largest palaces in India. It is one of the magnificent palaces, with Indo-Saracenic style of architecture mingled with Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic Architecture. Not surprisingly, it is the second most visited historical monument after Taj Mahal among Indian and foreign tourists.

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Main Highlights:

• Ornate Interiors with intricately carved wooden doors, wall paintings, stained glass, and more. 
• Famous for light & sound shows inside the Old Fort.
  

Timings : 

10:00 am to 05:30 pm 

Entry fees: 

• For Adults : Rs 40
• For children :Rs 20

Chamundeshwari Temple

A serene spot overlooking Mysore city, Chamundi Hill is best known for the hill-top Chamundeshwari Temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari — patron deity of Mysore. The temple, which rests at the top of the hill, is an engineering wonder with complex cuttings, and Dravidian-styled construction. The temple also features a statue of Nandi, a cow–the most sacred animal in Hindu mythology. The temple’s view is stunning; hence, you can observe multiple important buildings like the Lalitha Mahal Palace from there. The temple has also been declared a No Plastic Zone, and this way, the temple has taken a huge step in terms of environmental protection by preventing plastic use and throwing out its harmful components.

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Main highlights

• Peaceful and religious atmosphere
• The stunning view from the top of the hill especially at sunset.
  

Timings : 

• 07:30 am to 02:00 pm 
• 03:30 pm to 06:00 pm 
• 07:30 pm to 09:00 pm 

Entry Fees

Free of cost

Brindavan Gardens

Brindavan Garden is one of the most beautiful floral gardens in India. It is situated at a distance of 21 km away from Mysore and has an area of 60 acres. The project, which was constructed across river Cauvery (a major and important river of India) took approximately five years to complete. Built by the then Diwan of Mysore, Sir Mirza Ismail in 1932, Brindavan Garden attracts thousands of visitors every day. Located next to the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, the gardens are renowned for its dancing musical fountains that twinkle with colors reflective of the music played in evening.

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Key Highlights 

A peaceful walk along the lively mountain show in the evening.

Timings : 

06:00 am to 08:00 pm

Entry Fees:

• For Adults : Rs 15 
• For Children : Rs 5
  

Mysore Zoo

One of India’s top zoological parks is Mysore Zoo, also called Sri Chamarajendra Zoological parks is the oldest and best-kept zoo in India. It was founded in 1892 as a Royal Zoo by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar. Moreover, it was transferred to the State Govt. after independence under its Department of Parks and Gardens. The Zoo’s careful planning makes it a unique zoological garden. Spread across the extensive 157 acres, it is home to elephants, tigers, lions, zebras, and many other bird species.

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Key Highlights :

• Clean and spacious picnic spot for families and animal lovers
• Gazing at the beautiful flora and fauna 
• Chance to spot exotic wildlife around .

Timings :

08:30 am to 05:30 pm  (Tuesday Closed)

Entry Fees:

• For Adults: Rs 50  (Charges would be slightly high on weekends )
• For kids : Rs 20   (Charges would be somewhat high on weekends)
  

Karanji Lake 

Known for its serene and scenic beauty, the beautiful Karanji Lake is a great place to chill and one of the most popular Mysore visiting places. The lake is also a birdwatchers paradise, with many migratory birds visiting the area. The lake has about 147 types of birds, for example, herons, Asian openbill storks, cormorants, grey pelicans, and so on; thus, it becomes a wonderful area to investigate a wide variety of fowls. Karanji Lake is noted to have the largest aviary in India. It also includes a butterfly park that can feed larger than 45 manners of stunning butterflies flapping about with their wings in coloration. The region is particularly rich in rainforests and wildlife, so it is one of the main tourist destinations.

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Key Highlights:

• Walk through the largest aviary and butterfly park 
• Boating facilities are available.
  

Timings :

08:30 am to 05:30 pm (Tuesday closed )

Entry fees:

• For Adults:  Rs 10 
• For kids: Rs 5
  

St. Philomena’s Church

One of the tallest churches in India, has a neo-gothic architectural style which is almost similar to Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. The church, because of its 175 feet height, can be seen even from afar,  and offers a unique sight in the distance skyline of Mysore. One of the unique structures in Mysore and comes out more beautiful when it’s evening sky; it is a symbol of the secular viewpoint of this center & the harmony that prevails in Mysore.

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Key Highlights

• Historical and religious architecture.
• Beautiful high standing ceiling and architecture
  

Timings:

05:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entry fees:

Free of charge

GRS Fantasy Park 

GRS Fantasy Park is a water and amusement park in Mysore, which makes it an ideal family outing spot, especially on summer days. The park features several water rides, dry rides and play areas for kids. Located on the Mysore-Bangalore highway, surrounded by verdant greenery, the park has been functional for 13 years. It is a great place for families and friends to hang out because it has some entertaining rides and activities. Lockers, restrooms, dining options, a gift shop, an amphitheater, and other amenities are available at the park.

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Key highlights :

• The very famous wave pool
• Water slides 
• Adventurous activities
  

Timings:

• 10:30 am to 06:00 pm  (Monday to Saturday )
• 10:30 am to 07:30 pm (Sunday)
  

Entry Fees:

Monday to Friday

Saturday, Sunday and Holiday

Railway Museum 

A delight for all the train enthusiasts, the Railway Museum in Mysore is the second museum of its kind after the National Railways Museum of Delhi. It has been a treasure trove for all Railway collectibles since its inauguration in 1979. It was here where the first steam engine and signals were exhibited. It features antique locomotives, carriages, and other exhibitions highlighting Indian Railways’ past. A variety of lights, tickets, ticketing machines, clocks, signal signs, and a manually controlled steam water pump are all part of this other intriguing exhibit.

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Main Attractions:

• Collection of steam engines and royal carriages 
• Mini train ride running on batteries for children
  

Timings: 

10:00 am to 05:30 pm 

Entry Fees:

• For Adults: Rs 15
• For Children : Rs 10

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

One of the best Mysore visiting places, the sanctuary, is located about 18 km from Mysore, and is a sure hit for all the nature lovers who have deep interest in bird watching. Spread over six small islands on the banks of river Kaveri, it is the largest bird sanctuary in the state. The diversity of birds is complemented by the beauty of the local flora and landscape, making it a unique educational experience for people of all interests and ages. This Bird Sanctuary is abundant in storks, kingfishers, herons, and pelicans and is the ideal spot to chill with a few family and friends in Mother Nature.

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Main Attractions

• Special boat ride in the river Kaveri
• Thousands of bird species in the sky.
  

Timings:

09:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entry Fees:

• For Indians
  • Adults : Rs 50
  • Kids : Rs 25
• For Foreigners: Rs 300
  

Shopping in Mysore 

Do you love exploring traditional crafts ? or want to grab unique souvenirs ? then shopping in Mysore can never disappoint you. Mysore is a real treat for all the shopping lovers, you can grab on some high quality silk sarees, sandalwood products, rich coffee, and  rosewood artefacts.

Let us make your task easier by suggesting Mysore best market with the items they are famous for :

Devaraja Market

Famous for : Spices, incense sticks, flower garlands, and sandalwood products.

Government Sandalwood Oil Factory 

Famous for : High-quality sandalwood oil, soaps and cosmetics.

Mysore silk udyog

Famous for : Luxurious Mysore silk sarees

KR Circl 

Famous for : Budget friendly shopping

Ashoka Road

Famous for : Handicrafts, furniture, antiques, and jewellery items. 

Mysore : A city you would fall in love with!

Mysore is a city that masterfully combines culture, history, and scenic beauty. There is something for everyone in this city, from the majestic Mysore Palace to the picturesque Chamundi Hill and tranquil Brindavan Gardens. Mysore guarantees an unforgettable experience, regardless of your interests—history, wildlife, or simply a peaceful vacation.

So gather your belongings and prepare to explore the City of Palaces—Mysore is waiting for you!