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Places to Visit in Mysore

• Indian adults – INR100
• Children (10–18 years) – INR 50
• Foreign tourists – INR 200
• Children under 10 years – Free

• Stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture blending Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic styles
• Lavish Durbar Hall with stained glass ceilings and ornate teak pillars
• Kalyana Mantapa showcasing mosaic floors and Belgian glass domes
• Museum displaying royal jewelry, costumes, and the Golden Howdah
• Evening illumination with nearly one lakh bulbs lighting up the façade

• Stroll the Terraces – Wander through the symmetrical gardens and tree-lined walks while admiring the horticulture flower beds.
• Watch the Fountain Show – Experience the evening musical fountain performance where the combination of water arches, lights, and music make for a great display.
• Take a Photo of the Dam – Capture a frame of the panoramic view of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam and Cauvery River from the garden.
• Relax by the Lawns – Sit on the manicured lawn at sunset and soak in the changing light.
• Visit Before Dusk – Arrive before evening and explore the gardens fully before the show begins.

• Krishna Raja Sagar Dam (0.2 km) – The adjoining dam and reservoir offering engineering and nature views.
• Mandya Sugar Factory Visitor Centre (5 km) – Learn about local sugar-industry history and production.
• Raja’s Seat and KRS Backwaters (7 km) – Scenic viewpoint over dam backwaters, ideal for a short detour.

About Mysore Zoo:
Location: Zoo Road, Indira Nagar (Ittige Gudu), Mysuru, Karnataka 570010.
How to Reach from Mysore City Centre: Mysore Zoo is approximately 3 km from Mysore Railway Station. A quick 10–15 minute auto ride or city bus from the city bus stand will drop you at the zoo entrance.
Entry Timings: Open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The zoo is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance.
Entry Fee:

• Adults – INR 120
• Children (5–12 years) – INR 60
• Children below 5 years – Free

Note: Separate charges apply for using still/video cameras and battery-operated vehicle tours.

Highlights:

• Wide, naturalistic enclosures housing rare white tigers, giraffes, and diverse primates
• One of India’s oldest zoological gardens founded in 1892 and spread across around 157 acres
• On-site veterinary hospital and active conservation along with breeding programmes help in better maintainance of the zoo

Overview:
Founded in 1892, Mysore Zoo is among the oldest and best-maintained zoological parks in India. Its wide enclosures give animals space to move naturally, making it a model for other zoos. Here you can see white tigers, elephants, giraffes, and even rare primates. Families often spend half a day exploring, but it appeals equally to adults with its conservation focus.

The zoo also houses a veterinary hospital and educates visitors on wildlife protection. Mysore's royal family started it originally, and it continues the legacy of blending recreation with learning. It remains a favourite across generations, much like the various adventure activities to do in Mysore that attract travelers from everywhere.

Historical Background:
Established in 1892 by the Wadiyar monarchy, the zoo began with just over 10 acres and has grown into a premier wildlife centre spanning more than 150 acres. It pioneered in establishing naturalistic enclosures, and it is celebrated for combining heritage with modern animal care methods.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Mysore Zoo is from October to March, when the weather stays pleasant and ideal for taking long walks through the park. For best animal sightings, plan your visit early in the morning between 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM, as most animals are visible before the heat sets in. Also, avoid visiting during midday hours, especially in summer, since many animals often rest indoors. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience for families and photographers.

Must-Have Experiences:

• Observe Rare Species – Visit the white tiger enclosure and the giraffe zone for memorable wildlife sighting.
• Explore Conservation Zones – Learn about endangered animal breeding efforts and rehabilitation at the vet hospital area.
• Enjoy Battery-Vehicle Ride – Take a battery-operated vehicle tour to comfortably cover more ground with children or seniors.
• Stroll the Green Trails – Walk through shaded pathways among trees, plants and open lawns for a relaxed outing.
• Visit the Bird & Primate Houses – Explore zones dedicated to rare primates and colourful birds for a dynamic visit.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Karanji Lake (0.5 km) – Serene bird-watching lake ideal for a quieter nature stop.
• Mysore Palace (2.5 km) – Historic royal residence with grand architecture and heritage appeal.
• Devaraja Market (2.8 km) – Vibrant local market buzzing with spices, flowers and Mysore silk.

About Chamundi Hill and Chamundeshwari Temple:
Location: Chamundi Hill, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010
Entry Timings: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM (Note: The temple can be crowded during weekends and festival days, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays)
Entry Fee:

• Free entry for general darshan.
• Special darshan tickets – INR 30 and INR 100.

Note: Parking is available near the hilltop entrance, and there are no camera fees for general areas.

How to Reach from Mysore City Centre:
Chamundi Hill is about 13 kilometers from Mysore Palace. It takes around 25–30 minutes by car or cab. Regular KSRTC buses and shared autos operate from the city bus stand to the hilltop. Adventurous visitors often climb the 1,008 steps leading to the temple from the foothill.

Highlights:

• Ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the guardian deity of Mysuru
• Panoramic views of Mysuru city from the hilltop viewpoint
• Majestic 40-meter Nandi statue carved from a single black granite block halfway up the hill
• Rich Dravidian-style temple architecture with ornate gopuram and golden kalasha
• Spiritual significance, especially during the Dussehra festival celebrations

Overview:
Chamundi Hill rises above Mysore and is central to its identity. At the top stands the Chamundeshwari Temple, a revered shrine with a seven-tiered gopuram visible from the city. Many pilgrims ascend the 1,000 steps to the temple, pausing halfway to admire the massive granite Nandi statue.

From the vantage point at the top, you can observe the entire city, which is particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset. The temple is not just a place to pray; it also reminds people of Mysore's connections to mythology. This place is both spiritual and a wonderful place to see the city's royal and cultural layout from a distance.

Historical Background:
The Chamundeshwari Temple dates back to the 12th century and was significantly expanded by the Wadiyar kings in the 17th century. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Durga, who is believed to have killed the demon Mahishasura on this hill. The city’s name, Mysuru, is said to have come from this legend, which was originally known as “Mahishuru.”

Must-Have Experiences:

• Seek Blessings at the Temple – Visit the sanctum and witness rituals dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari.
• Climb the 1,008 Steps – Trek from the foothill for a spiritual and scenic ascent lined with small shrines.
• Admire the Nandi Statue – Stop midway to see the colossal granite Nandi and enjoy sweeping views of Mysuru.
• Capture the Cityscape – Photograph Mysore Palace and the city skyline from the hilltop viewpoint.
• Visit During Dussehra – Experience vibrant festivities and temple decorations during the Mysuru Dussehra celebrations.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Mysore Palace (13 km) – Grand royal residence and the city’s most iconic landmark.
• Karanji Lake (10 km) – Peaceful lake and nature park ideal for boating and birdwatching.
• Mysore Zoo (10.5 km) – Historic zoological garden known for conservation and wide animal diversity.
• Nandi Statue (5 km) – Massive monolithic sculpture located on the hill’s scenic mid-point.

• Striking Neo-Gothic architecture inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany
• Twin spires rising 175 feet high and visible across the city
• Stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ
• Underground crypt housing a relic of Saint Philomena
• Peaceful interiors welcoming both travelers and worshippers

• Admire the Spires – Stand in the courtyard and take in the 175-foot-high towers framing the sky.
• View the Stained Glass Art – See the vivid panels depicting the birth, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ.
• Visit the Crypt – Walk down to the underground chamber housing the relic of Saint Philomena.
• Attend a Mass – Experience the serenity and chant of a service in this historical church.
• Capture the Facade – Photograph the cathedral’s front view from the gardens for a perfect symmetrical shot.

• Mysore Palace (2.5 km) – Iconic royal residence showcasing Mysuru’s grandeur.
• Devaraja Market (2 km) – Bustling bazaar filled with spices, flowers, and local produce.
• Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery (2.8 km) – Features classic paintings and royal collections.
• Rail Museum (3 km) – Displays vintage locomotives and colonial-era railway artifacts.

• Adults – INR 75
• Children – INR 40
• Foreign visitors – INR 150
• Camera fee – INR 50 for still photography.

• It is the former royal residence of the Wadiyar family before the construction of Mysore Palace
• Houses one of South India’s oldest and largest art galleries
• Exhibits original paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and other renowned Indian artists
• Features Mysore-style art, sculptures, musical instruments, and royal artefacts
• You can see its elegant architecture that blends traditional Hindu design with colonial influences

• Explore the Art Gallery – Admire the extensive collection of Raja Ravi Varma’s mythological paintings and Mysore-style works.
• Discover the Royal Artefacts – View antique musical instruments, furniture, and portraits from the Wadiyar era.
• Study the Regional and Traditional Crafts – Observe the fine detailing of the palace doors and carved wooden ceilings.
• Attend Cultural Events – Check for ongoing exhibitions or performances held in the palace auditorium.
• Capture the Architectural Wonders – Photograph the ornate exteriors and courtyards in the morning light.

• Mysore Palace (1 km) – The city’s grand royal residence known for its Indo-Saracenic splendour.
• Devaraja Market (1.5 km) – Historic market famed for flowers, sandalwood, and silk.
• St. Philomena’s Cathedral (2.8 km) – Neo-Gothic church with stained glass windows and twin spires.
• Karanji Lake (3 km) – Tranquil lake and nature park ideal for boating and birdwatching.

• Adults – INR 100
• Children – INR 50

• It is the second-largest palace in Mysuru and a prime example of Renaissance and Edwardian architectural styles
• Designed by British architect E. W. Fritchley and commissioned by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV in 1921
• Grand double columns, Italian marble staircases, and an iconic central dome inspired by St. Paul’s Cathedral, London
• Luxurious interiors featuring chandeliers, Belgian mirrors, and ornate ballrooms
• It is now converted into a heritage hotel, managed by the Government of Karnataka

• Tour the Interiors – Explore the marble staircases, domed halls, and antique furnishings that reflect royal grandeur.
• Dine at the Heritage Restaurant – Enjoy a regal meal in the former ballroom overlooking the palace lawns.
• Capture the Architecture – Photograph the stunning white façade and symmetrical design from the garden entrance.
• Stay Overnight for an Extraordinary Experience– Experience royal living by booking a stay at the palace’s heritage suites.
• Visit the Terrace Viewpoint – Step onto the terrace for panoramic views of Mysore city and Chamundi Hill.

• Chamundi Hill and Temple (4 km) – Sacred hilltop temple offering panoramic city views.
• Mysore Palace (5 km) – The city’s grand royal residence and main heritage attraction.
• Karanji Lake (3 km) – Scenic lake ideal for boating and birdwatching.
• Mysore Zoo (3.5 km) – Historic zoological garden featuring wide species diversity.

• Adults – INR 50
• Children (5–12 years) – INR 25

• It is one of India’s oldest railway museums, established in 1979 by the Indian Railways
• Exhibits vintage steam engines, royal coaches, and narrow-gauge locomotives
• Outdoor display of railway signals, cranes, and miniature models
• Toy train ride around the museum campus for children and families is a major attraction here
• Indoor gallery featuring photographs, uniforms, and railway memorabilia from the colonial era

• See the Vintage Locomotives – Explore a collection of steam engines and diesel locomotives dating back to the early 1900s.
• Ride the Toy Train – Take a fun mini-train ride through the museum’s landscaped grounds.
• Step Inside the Royal Coach – View the luxurious teak-panelled interiors used by the Wadiyar kings.
• Visit the Exhibits Hall – Discover rare photographs, signaling systems, and railway artifacts.
• Capture Heritage Moments – Photograph the vintage engines and open-air exhibits surrounded by gardens.

• Mysore Palace (3 km) – Grand Indo-Saracenic palace showcasing the city’s royal heritage.
• Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery (2.5 km) – Renowned for classic paintings and royal artifacts.
• St. Philomena’s Cathedral (3 km) – Prominent Neo-Gothic church with towering twin spires.
• Devaraja Market (2.8 km) – Traditional market offering flowers, spices, and Mysore silk products.

• Historic open-air market dating back to the reign of Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar IX in the late 19th century
• More than 700 shops selling flowers, fruits, spices, sandalwood, and traditional Mysore silk
• Vibrant local atmosphere which is ideal for photography and cultural immersion
• Architectural blend of colonial and traditional design with tiled corridors and arched passages
• Popular among both locals and tourists for authentic Mysore shopping experiences

• Shop for Sandalwood and Spices – Browse stalls selling fragrant sandalwood powder, incense, and regional spices.
• Explore the Flower Aisles – Walk through rows of colorful jasmine, marigold, and rose garlands.
• Capture Local Life – Photograph the bustling vendors, bright produce, and vibrant market scenes.
• Buy Mysore Silk – Pick up authentic silk sarees and handicrafts directly from local sellers.
• Try Local Snacks – Taste Mysore pak, banana chips, or freshly cut fruits from street-side stalls.

• Mysore Palace (0.5 km) – The city’s grand royal residence and top heritage attraction.
• Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery (1 km) – Art gallery featuring classic paintings and royal collections.
• St. Philomena’s Cathedral (2 km) – Neo-Gothic church known for its soaring twin spires.
• Railway Museum (2.8 km) – Outdoor museum showcasing vintage locomotives and royal coaches.

• One of three regional museums established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Exhibits on the biodiversity and ecosystems of southern India, with emphasis on the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats
• Life-size dioramas of forest habitats and wildlife native to Karnataka
• Skeleton of a 40-foot blue whale displayed in the open-air section
• Accessibility features including Braille descriptions, tactile models, and interactive displays for visually challenged visitors

• Explore the Habitat Galleries – Walk through realistic forest and marine dioramas showing India’s diverse ecosystems.
• See the Blue Whale Skeleton – View the 40-foot-long skeleton displayed outdoors, a rare sight in India.
• Experience the Tactile Exhibits – Engage with touch-friendly displays and Braille panels designed for inclusive learning.
• Join Environmental Programs – Attend guided tours, student workshops, or nature education sessions.
• Relax by the Lake – Spend time at the rear lawns overlooking Karanji Lake’s peaceful scenery.

• Karanji Lake (0.3 km) – Picturesque lake with boating, butterfly park, and a large aviary.
• Mysore Zoo (1 km) – One of India’s finest zoological parks focused on conservation and breeding programs.
• Lalitha Mahal Palace (3 km) – Grand colonial-era palace turned heritage hotel.
• Mysore Palace (3.5 km) – The city’s most iconic royal residence.

• Adults – INR 60
• Children – INR 40
• Camera – INR 30
• Video Camera – INR 100

• One of India’s first musical theme-based wax museums
• Over 100 life-size wax statues and more than 300 musical instruments from around the world
• Thematic galleries depicting bands, orchestras, folk performances, and global music cultures
• Intricate recreation of musicians and famous performers crafted by artist Shreeji Bhaskaran
• Separate section dedicated to Indian classical and tribal music traditions