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Mysore, affectionately known as the City of Palaces, offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty that enchants every visitor. Places to visit in Mysore showcase its royal heritage and lively traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the grandeur of historical landmarks like the magnificent Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the intricate architecture of the Chamundi Temple perched on a hilltop. Beyond history, Mysore also delights the senses with its mouth-watering local cuisine, featuring dishes like Mysore masala dosa and filter coffee.
8 Best Places To Visit In Mysore
Here’s a list of the top ten places to visit in Mysore, along with a few suggestions for the night.
1. Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace, the crown jewel of the city, is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Mysore. This grand structure, built in IndoSaracenic architecture, is a blend of Hindu, Mughal, and Rajput influences. The palace showcases intricate carvings, vibrant colours, and royal artefacts that depict the opulence of the Wodeyar dynasty. Don’t miss the stunning palace illumination, which happens on Sundays and public holidays, when the entire palace is lit up with thousands of bulbs, creating a magical atmosphere.
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹70 for adults, ₹30 for children
2. Chamundi Hill
Photo: Derek Torsani / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
For a spiritual experience, head to Chamundi Hill, which offers panoramic views of Mysore along with its iconic Chamundeshwari Temple. The hill, located around 13 km from the city centre, is a popular pilgrimage site and is often visited by those seeking peace and divine blessings. At the summit, you can admire the majestic 1000-step stairway and the gigantic Nandi statue. The scenic drive up the hill makes it one of the most enchanting places to visit in Mysore.
Timings: Early morning or late evening
Major Attractions: Chamundeshwari Temple, Nandi Statue
Entry Fees: N/A
3. Brindavan Gardens
Photo: Joe Ravi / Wikimedia Commons
Famed for its well-manicured lawns, fountains, and colourful flower beds, Brindavan Gardens is a favourite evening spot for both locals and tourists. The highlight of the garden is the musical fountain show, which happens in the evening and creates a mesmerizing visual display with water jets dancing to music. The garden, located below the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, becomes even more captivating after sunset, making it one of the best places to see in Mysore at night.
Timings: Evenings for the musical fountain
Entry Fees: ₹15 for adults, ₹5 for children
4. St. Philomena’s Church
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest churches in India, St. Philomena’s Church is an architectural marvel in Mysore. Built in the neo-gothic style, the church features tall spires, stained glass windows, and intricate stonework that gives it a majestic presence. The interiors are equally beautiful, with a peaceful ambience that’s perfect for quiet reflection. Visiting this church at night is a surreal experience, as the structure looks even more impressive under the soft glow of lights.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Major Attractions: Neo-Gothic architecture, tall spires
Entry Fees: N/A
5. Mysore Zoo
Photo: SlowPhoton / Wikimedia Commons
One of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, Mysore Zoo (also known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens) is a favourite spot for families and nature lovers. The zoo houses a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. It’s an educational experience for children and adults alike, offering insights into wildlife conservation. The zoo is well organized, with shaded paths and spacious enclosures, making it an ideal place for a leisurely visit.
Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
Timings: Morning
Entry Fees: ₹80 for adults, ₹40 for children
6. Karanji Lake
Photo: Harshitha B J / Unsplash
Karanji Lake is a serene escape in Mysore, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to over 90 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The park also features a butterfly park and an aviary, which is one of the largest walkthrough aviaries in India. A boating experience here, along with the peaceful environment, makes it one of the most relaxing tourist attractions in Mysore.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
Major Attractions: Birdwatching, boating, picnics
Entry Fees: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
7. Railway Museum
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons
For those interested in India’s rich railway history, the Railway Museum in Mysore offers an insightful glimpse into the evolution of Indian railways. The museum houses vintage locomotives, carriages, and artefacts related to the Indian rail system. The outdoor exhibit showcases old steam engines and an indoor gallery with photographs and documents from the golden age of rail travel. It’s a unique spot in Mysore and perfect for history enthusiasts and families.
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fees: ₹15 for adults, ₹10 for children
8. Jaganmohan Palace And Art Gallery
Photo: Shashank Mehendale / Wikimedia Commons
Once a royal residence, Jaganmohan Palace now houses one of the finest art galleries in South India. The gallery exhibits works of renowned artists like Raja Ravi Varma, along with intricate royal artefacts and antiques. The palace itself is an architectural wonder with its grand halls and ornate doors. Visiting the Jaganmohan Palace offers a deeper understanding of Mysore’s artistic and royal heritage, making it one of the most culturally enriching places to explore in Mysore.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Major Attractions: Raja Ravi Varma paintings, royal artefacts
Entry Fees: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Places to visit in Mysore offer history, culture, and natural beauty seamlessly come together to offer an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re exploring its majestic palaces, relaxing in serene gardens, or diving into the city’s vibrant nightlife, Mysore never disappoints. From the royal grandeur of Mysore Palace to the peaceful beauty of Karanji Lake, each attraction has its unique charm. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the charm.
Cover Photo: TheSachuHopes / Wikimedia Commons
