Officially known as Mysuru, Mysore was renamed to its English name “Mysuru” in November 2014, along with twelve other Indian cities. Mysore is located in the southern part of the state of Karnataka, India and has been deemed the sobriquet Cultural Capital of Karnataka
From its Indo-Saracenic architecture to the royal interiors of its palaces, Mysore’s main sites are the perfect examples as to why this city is also known as the City of Palaces. The most representative palaces you can visit to appreciate the regal nature of Mysore is the grand Mysore Palace. Once the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, it is a historically significant palace where several fairs & parades take place.
One of the largest churches in the country is also located in Mysore – St. Philomena’s Cathedral. Inspired by Gothic architecture, this church was built in 1956 and it is one of the most unique and eye-catching cultural and religious sites in the city. The Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, another majestic and much-cherished attraction in Mysore is a Hindu temple located at 1000ft on the Chamundi Hills in the outskirts of the main city.
The Chamundi hills offer stunning views of the city and it is one of the best areas to stay if you wish to find accommodation in the heart of Mysore. One of the city’s best hotels in this area is the premier Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore offers city-center convenience and scenic views.
Mysore is also known for its special variety of jasmine flower which locals refer to as “Mysore Mallige”. The beautiful Brindavan Garden is one of the best outdoor activities in Mysore and it is the perfect place to spot this beautiful flower. Ideal for families and tourists, where you can also sit back and relax in the park, taking in one of the fountain shows or enjoy a brief boat ride. Other popular activities include the Mysore Zoo and its next-door attraction, the Karanji lake.
If you are traveling with family, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mysore is located three minutes from National Highway 27 and offers easy access to major attractions like the Brindavan Gardens and the Karanji Lake. Not to mention, this location is within a 15-minute drive from the Mysore Zoothe Mandakalli Airport (MYQ).
Aside from its many historical and natural attractions, the city is also home to several museums. The Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, for example, now a major tourist attraction has become one of the most frequented museums among locals and tourists alike. This one-of-a-kind three-dimensional gallery is aimed at making the visitors become a part of the artist experience.
Mysore is also the location of many beloved festivals, the Dasara Festival, observed primarily during the evening in October, is one that brings in many tourists from around the world. Also known as the Dussehra festival, this extravagant affair is one of the best celebrations to attend in India.
The city has gained fame for lending its name to various art forms – including the Mysore Dasara and Mysore Paintings, to a handful of local brands – such Mysore Sandal Soap, Mysore Ink, Mysore Peta, and Mysore Silk, and to a couple of local specialties, including traditional dishes such as the sweet Mysore Pak and the savory Mysore Masala Dosa.
Having been ruled by the Wadiyar dynasty, the patrons of art and culture in India, for almost six consecutive centuries, the city has gained fame for its heritage structures and beautiful palaces that to this day have remained perfectly kept. Considered the cleanest city in India, Mysore attracts millions of tourists every year.
