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The Mysore Palace or the Amba Vilas Palace is one of the most stunning tourist attractions in Karnataka. The palace, situated at the centre of Mysore, reflects the city’s royal history and exquisite craftsmanship. The regions of Mysore are teeming with fascinating places that are rich in culture, history and essence. If you are a person interested in history, an outdoor enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, these places to visit near Mysore Palace will surely serve for an enjoyable experience. This article will help you know some of the most interesting places located close to Mysore Palace which are worth visiting.
10 Places To Visit Near Mysore Palace
Here’s a curated top-picked list of ten places to visit near Mysore Palace and make your trip to Karnataka memorable.
1. Chamundi Hill
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Chamundi Hill is situated 13 km from the Mysore Palace, making it one of the most frequently visited places around Mysore. There is a temple located at the top of the hill, known as the Chamundeshwari Temple, which was built in honour of Goddess Chamundeshwari believed to be the guardian of the city. Attached to the temple are devoted pilgrims as well as interested tourists. There’s a massive sculpture of Nandi on the way and one can either walk the 1,000 stairs to the temple or drive to the hill where the temple is situated.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 13 km
Timings: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
2. St. Philomena’s Church
Photo: Arshad.ka / Wikimedia Commons
St. Philomena’s Church is approximately 2.5 km from the Mysore Palace, boasting a neo-gothic architecture, constructed in 1936. This Church has a prominent twin spire of 175 feet in height, similar to the Cologne Cathedral in Germany and situated in one of the largest Churches in India. Dedicated to Saint Philomena, a Roman Catholic Saint of the 3rd century, this church is particularly famous for its stained glasses representing different incidents in the life of Christ. The tranquil environment and captivating sculptures along with the magnificent tower lure both worshippers and general tourists.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 2.5 km
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
3. Mysore Zoo
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens or Mysore Zoo, as it is popularly known, lies approximately 2km from the Mysore Palace and ranks among the oldest yet well-maintained zoos in India. The zoo, founded in the year 1892, covers an area of more than 150 acres and boasts a considerable collection of animals that range from tigers, elephants, and giraffes to more exotic animals such as zebras and chimpanzees. The zoo is also well-known for its concern for animal welfare and animal-friendly designs. It also attracts many families as well as animal lovers, as one can sit back and enjoy the greenery while learning about the wildlife.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 2 km
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
4. Karanji Lake
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled at a distance of around 3 kilometres from the Mysore Palace, Karanji Lake is an idyllic place known for its scenic beauty and wildlife enrichment. The lake is spread across an area of 90 acres and serves as a great spot for bird watching as it harbours more than 90 different species of birds including the migratory ones. This nature park also has the largest walk-through aviary in India, which also features a butterfly park, making it one of the best places to visit near Mysore Palace.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 3 km
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
5. Brindavan Gardens
Photo: Ezhuttukari / Wikimedia Commons
Brindavan Gardens is a roving fenced garden associated with Krishnaraja Sagar Dam. Popular for its in-order arrangement and stepped gardens, the gardens are mostly noted for the musical fountain show organised in the evening when the Dusk to Dawn garden lights up. One can witness a one-of-a-kind display of light and water with music in synchrony. There are also flower beds, topiary works and many fountains in the garden, making it an ideal place for walks and family gatherings or picnics. Brindavan Gardens is not for nature enthusiasts alone, but also for those in pursuit of a calm evening that stains the horizon.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 21 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
6. Srirangapatna
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons
Located 18 kilometres from the Mysore Palace, Srirangapatna is surrounded by history predominantly associated with the Tipu Sultan and the Wadiyar kings. This place is also home to the Ranganathaswamy Temple, a popular Vaishnavite temple dedicated to God Vishnu and designed in the Dravidian style of architecture. Srirangapatna also features Daria Daulat Bagh, the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, decorated with stunning paintings and a collection of historical relics. Another interesting thing to explore is Gumbaz, a place where Tipu Sultan and his family are buried. The incredible history of this place along with its natural beauty is something worth exploring.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 18 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
7. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
Located a distance of 16 km from Mysore Palace, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary serves as a haven for all bird lovers. The sanctuary comprises six tiny islands in the river Kaveri and is home to a variety of exotic birds including painted storks, spoonbills, and pelicans among other migratory birds. Boat rides are also available to visitors that provide a closer view of the birds and the crocs sunbathing on the river banks. The sanctuary allows one to get away from the busy city into the serene surrounding nature. This is a perfect place for bird-watching, photography, and refreshing strolls in the greenery.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 16 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
8. Lalitha Mahal Palace
Photo: Rb.sg / WIkimedia Commons
Lalitha Mahal Palace, a mere 5 kilometres from the Mysore Palace, stands categorically as the second biggest palace in Mysore, constructed in 1921 for the Wadiyar dynasty’s royal guests. The palace’s façade is predominantly white and is inspired by St. Paul’s in London with a touch of Indo-Saracenic styles. The palace features royal interiors, entire Italian white marble staircases, a grand ballroom and vintage furnishings. The Palace now serves as a luxury hotel and a popular tourist destination. Located amid huge green lawns, the Lalitha Mahal Palace is perfect for historians and people who want to take a closer look at royalty.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 5 km
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (for visitors) and 24-hour access to guests
9. Balmuri Falls
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Balmuri Falls, approximately 15 km away from Mysore Palace, is a lovely artificial waterfall on the Kaveri River. Although it may not be a natural waterfall, the manmade check dam creating this waterfall adds beauty to the entire place with its calm shallow soft water making it convenient for picnics and short trips. Due to the gentle flow of water, visitors can wade in the water which is suitable for children and the family. Nestled in lush greenery, Balmuri Falls is also a place loved by photographers or just for chilling out on a weekend.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 15 km
Timings: Open all day
10. Somnathpur Temple
Photo: Bala.gop76 / Wikimedia Commons
Somnathpur Temple, positioned nearly 35 km from Mysore Palace is another beautiful example of Hoysala architecture built in the 12th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is famous for the detailed carvings and ornamental sculptures that embellish the outer and inner walls of the temple premises. The three-tiered structure known as Keshava Temple features a depiction of mythological scenes and floral patterns representing artistic imagination during the Hoysala era. With lush greenery, Somnathpur gives peace and serenity to the visitors. The temple holds great historical and structural significance, hence, this place is a must-visit if you are looking for a calming holiday.
Distance From Mysore Palace: 35 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Visiting Mysore Palace and its nearby attractions is an amazing experience. The rivers, dams, ancient temples and mesmerizing architecture are a must-visit. Plan your visit to places near Mysore Palace today and learn about the rich history and beautiful architecture. If you are a history lover, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday then places near Mysore Palace have something for everyone. Plan your trip with TripXL and book your tickets now for a memorable experience.
Cover Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons
