Mysuru (or Mysore), known as the “Cultural Capital of Karnataka,” is a city steeped in history, tradition, and grandeur. From royal palaces and vibrant markets to serene temples and delectable cuisine, Mysuru offers an unforgettable travel experience. This blog explores the top 20 attractions in Mysuru, beginning with the first five iconic spots.

1. Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas Palace)

Description:
Mysore Palace, a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is the crown jewel of Mysuru. The palace is known for its intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a vibrant display of lights during festivals.

History:
Originally built in the 14th century by the Wadiyar dynasty, the current structure was completed in 1912 after a fire destroyed the old palace. It has served as the royal residence for the Wadiyars.

Google Maps Link:
Mysore Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹70 for adults; ₹30 for children; additional charges for camera use.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located in the heart of Mysuru, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Vinayaka Mylari: Famous for its soft dosas.
– RRR Restaurant: Known for its Mysore-style biryani and thalis.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening to witness the illuminated palace, especially during the Dussehra festival.

2. Chamundi Hill and Chamundeshwari Temple

Description:
Chamundi Hill is a serene spot offering panoramic views of Mysuru, while the Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop the hill, is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the city’s guardian deity.

History:
The temple dates back to the 12th century and has been an important pilgrimage site ever since. The hill is also home to a giant statue of Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva.

Google Maps Link:
Chamundi Hill Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; special darshan tickets available.
– Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 13 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or KSRTC buses.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Hotel Mylari: Known for its ghee-drenched dosas.
– Gufha Restaurant: Offers a unique ambiance and multi-cuisine options.

Pro Tip: Climb the 1,000 steps leading to the temple for a spiritual and scenic experience.

3. Mysuru Zoo (Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens)

Description:
Mysuru Zoo is one of India’s oldest and most well-maintained zoos, housing a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles. It’s a favorite among families and wildlife enthusiasts.

History:
Established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X, the zoo spans over 157 acres and focuses on conservation and education.

Google Maps Link:
Mysuru Zoo Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹100 for adults; ₹50 for children.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays).
– Travel Options: Located near Mysore Palace, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Nalpak Restaurant: Offers North and South Indian cuisine.
– Parklane Hotel Restaurant: Known for its rooftop dining and local dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit during early hours to avoid crowds and catch the animals at their most active.

4. Brindavan Gardens

Description:
Brindavan Gardens, located next to the Krishnarajasagara Dam, is a beautifully landscaped garden featuring fountains, flower beds, and a spectacular musical fountain show.

History:
Built in 1932 under the guidance of Sir Mirza Ismail, the gardens are inspired by the Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir and remain a popular leisure spot.

Google Maps Link:
Brindavan Gardens Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹50 for adults; ₹20 for children.
– Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM; musical fountain show from 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 21 km from Mysuru, accessible by taxi or KSRTC buses.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Malgudi Café House: Famous for its coffee and snacks.
– Hotel Ruchi the Prince: Offers multi-cuisine options.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening for the fountain show and to see the garden lit up beautifully.

5. St. Philomena’s Church

Description:
St. Philomena’s Church is one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in India, with towering spires, stained glass windows, and serene interiors.

History:
Built in 1936, the church was designed by French architect Daly in honor of St. Philomena, a 3rd-century Catholic saint. It is a prominent landmark in Mysuru.

Google Maps Link:
St. Philomena’s Church Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 2 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Green Leaf Restaurant: Known for vegetarian meals and South Indian dishes.
– RasaDhatu Organic Café: Offers organic and vegan-friendly options.

Pro Tip: Visit during the morning hours to admire the church’s architecture in natural light.

6. Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery

Description:
Jaganmohan Palace, an architectural gem, houses one of India’s finest art galleries, showcasing paintings, artifacts, and royal memorabilia. The palace is a testament to Mysuru’s cultural richness.

History:
Built in 1861 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar III, the palace initially served as a royal residence before Mysore Palace was constructed. The art gallery was added in 1915 to preserve traditional art.

Google Maps Link:
Jaganmohan Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹20 for Indian nationals; ₹50 for foreigners.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 1.5 km from Mysore Palace, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Rangasthala Café: Known for snacks and coffee.
– Spring Restaurant: Offers Indian and continental dishes.

Pro Tip: Look out for the famous paintings of Raja Ravi Varma displayed in the gallery.

7. Railway Museum

Description:
The Railway Museum in Mysuru is a treat for train enthusiasts, showcasing vintage locomotives, carriages, and artifacts that highlight the evolution of railways in India.

History:
Established in 1979 by Indian Railways, the museum aims to preserve the rich history of the railways, particularly in South India.

Google Maps Link:
Railway Museum Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹50 for adults; ₹10 for children.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Located near Mysore Junction Railway Station, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Sampoorna Café: Offers light meals and South Indian dishes.
– Le Olive Garden: Known for its ambiance and multi-cuisine options.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the outdoor exhibits, including the vintage Maharani’s saloon coach.

8. GRS Fantasy Park

Description:
GRS Fantasy Park is a family-friendly amusement and water park featuring thrilling rides, wave pools, and water slides. It’s a great spot for a day of fun and relaxation.

History:
Established in 1999, GRS Fantasy Park has become a popular leisure destination in Mysuru, offering entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Google Maps Link:
GRS Fantasy Park Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹750 for adults; ₹650 for children (prices may vary).
– Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 15 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Park Café: Offers fast food and snacks.
– Adyar Anand Bhavan: Serves South Indian meals.

Pro Tip: Carry swimwear and sunscreen for a comfortable visit.

9. Kukkarahalli Lake

Description:
Kukkarahalli Lake is a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers and bird watchers. The lake is ideal for morning walks, jogging, and photography.

History:
Constructed in 1864 during the reign of Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the lake was initially created to provide water for irrigation and drinking purposes.

Google Maps Link:
Kukkarahalli Lake Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 3 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel Café: Known for its luxurious setting and high tea.
– Dosa Point: Offers crispy dosas and chutneys.

Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best views and a peaceful atmosphere.

10. Karanji Lake and Park

Description:
Karanji Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by a well-maintained park and a butterfly garden. It also features a walk-through aviary, one of the largest in India.

History:
The lake and park were developed as a recreational and ecological hotspot, promoting conservation and offering a green retreat for locals and tourists.

Google Maps Link:
Karanji Lake Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹50 for adults; ₹10 for children.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays).
– Travel Options: Located 4 km from Mysuru Palace, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– RasaDhatu Organic Café: Offers organic meals and beverages.
– Anima Madhva Bhavan: Known for traditional Mysuru vegetarian dishes.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars to spot exotic birds and explore the aviary.

11. Lalitha Mahal Palace

Description:
Lalitha Mahal Palace is a stunning white palace that reflects European architecture, set against the backdrop of the Chamundi Hills. Today, it operates as a luxury heritage hotel.

History:
Built in 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV to host the Viceroy of India, the palace is a symbol of opulence and grandeur, inspired by St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Google Maps Link:
Lalitha Mahal Palace Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Entry fee for non-residents is ₹100 per person.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 5 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Lalitha Mahal Restaurant: Known for its royal dining experience and traditional dishes.
– Spring Restaurant: Offers a mix of Indian and continental cuisine.

Pro Tip: Stay overnight to enjoy the full royal experience and high tea at the palace.

12. Melody World Wax Museum

Description:
Melody World Wax Museum is a unique attraction that features life-size wax figures showcasing Indian music and cultural traditions. It also displays an array of musical instruments.

History:
Established in 2010, the museum was designed to celebrate the rich musical and cultural heritage of India through wax sculptures.

Google Maps Link:
Melody World Wax Museum Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹40 per person.
– Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 3 km from Mysore Palace, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Green Leaf Restaurant: Offers vegetarian South Indian meals.
– The Old House Café: Known for its continental and Indian snacks.

Pro Tip: Pair your visit with the nearby Regional Museum of Natural History for a well-rounded cultural experience.

13. Shuka Vana (Parrot Park)

Description:
Shuka Vana is a unique aviary and rehabilitation center for parrots, housing over 2,000 birds of 450 species. It is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.

History:
Founded by Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Shuka Vana is part of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham and aims to protect endangered parrot species.

Google Maps Link:
Shuka Vana Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; donations appreciated.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 5 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Hotel Siddhartha: Known for its vegetarian South Indian dishes.
– RasaDhatu Organic Café: Offers organic and vegan options.

Pro Tip: Visit during feeding times for a more interactive experience with the birds.

14. Avadhoota Datta Peetham (Ganapathy Ashram)

Description:
The Avadhoota Datta Peetham is a serene spiritual center featuring a Vishwam Museum, a Bonsai Garden, and a meditation hall. It’s a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility.

History:
Established by Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, the ashram promotes spiritual growth and harmony through yoga, music, and meditation.

Google Maps Link:
Avadhoota Datta Peetham Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; donations appreciated.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 6 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Sri Raghavendra Bhavan: Offers authentic South Indian meals.
– Malgudi Café House: Known for its coffee and snacks.

Pro Tip: Spend time in the Bonsai Garden, which houses over 450 miniature trees.

15. Regional Museum of Natural History

Description:
This museum is an educational hub showcasing the natural heritage of South India, featuring exhibits on ecology, wildlife, and conservation.

History:
Established in 1995, the museum is part of the National Museum of Natural History network, focusing on biodiversity and environmental awareness.

Google Maps Link:
Regional Museum of Natural History Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Located 4 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Mylari Hotel: Famous for its ghee dosas.
– Parklane Hotel Restaurant: Known for its rooftop ambiance and Indian dishes.

Pro Tip: Allocate an hour to explore the museum and its adjoining garden.

16. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Description:
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird lovers, with over 170 species of resident and migratory birds. The sanctuary is spread across six islets on the Cauvery River and offers serene boat rides for bird watching.

History:
Declared a bird sanctuary in 1940 by the Wadiyar dynasty under the guidance of Dr. Salim Ali, the sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving avian biodiversity in the region.

Google Maps Link:
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: ₹50 for adults; ₹25 for children; additional charges for boat rides.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 19 km from Mysuru, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Kaveri River View Café: Offers snacks and beverages.
– Empire Restaurant, Srirangapatna: Known for its biryanis and kebabs.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting exotic birds.

17. Gomatagiri Jain Temple

Description:
Gomatagiri Jain Temple is a serene hilltop temple featuring a 20-foot monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara, surrounded by panoramic views of the countryside.

History:
The temple, believed to be over 700 years old, is a significant site for Jain pilgrims and is modeled after the famous Shravanabelagola statue.

Google Maps Link:
Gomatagiri Jain Temple Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 25 km from Mysuru, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Nandini Restaurant: Serves vegetarian South Indian meals.
– Thotada Mane: Offers organic and traditional Karnataka cuisine.

Pro Tip: Visit during Mahamastakabhisheka celebrations for a unique cultural experience.

18. St. Philomena’s Church

Description:
St. Philomena’s Church is an iconic neo-Gothic church with twin spires reaching 175 feet, stained glass windows, and serene interiors. It is one of the largest churches in India.

History:
Built in 1936 to honor St. Philomena, the church was designed by French architects and stands as a symbol of Mysuru’s colonial history and religious harmony.

Google Maps Link:
St. Philomena’s Church Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 2 km from Mysuru city center, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Green Leaf Restaurant: Famous for South Indian vegetarian dishes.
– RasaDhatu Organic Café: Offers vegan and organic meals.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to admire the architecture in natural light.

19. Balmuri Falls

Description:
Balmuri Falls is a tranquil spot on the banks of the Cauvery River, known for its scenic beauty and shallow cascades that make it a popular picnic destination.

History:
The falls were created by a man-made check dam, providing water to the surrounding agricultural areas. It is a favorite among locals and tourists for its picturesque charm.

Google Maps Link:
Balmuri Falls Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (daytime visits recommended).
– Travel Options: Located 14 km from Mysuru, accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Balmuri Dhaba: Known for local snacks and beverages.
– Hotel Mayura River View: Offers South Indian and North Indian meals.

Pro Tip: Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to strong water currents.

20. Srirangapatna

Description:
Srirangapatna, an island town on the Cauvery River, is steeped in history and features attractions like the Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and the Gumbaz mausoleum.

History:
Once the capital of Tipu Sultan’s empire, Srirangapatna played a pivotal role in South Indian history, especially during the Anglo-Mysore Wars.

Google Maps Link:
Srirangapatna Location

Details:
– Ticket Price: Entry fees vary by attraction (₹20–₹50).
– Opening Hours: Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Located 19 km from Mysuru, accessible by taxi, private vehicle, or bus.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Empire Restaurant, Srirangapatna: Known for biryanis and kebabs.
– Mysore Mayura River View: Offers local delicacies with a scenic view.

Pro Tip: Allocate a full day to explore the town’s multiple attractions.