Mysore officially known as Mysuru. The place in the southern part of Karnataka State. Known as "The City of Palaces. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which are the places to visit in Mysore.
Mysore was one of the three largest Princely States in the erstwhile British Empire of India. To this day, the Mysore Palace stands tall as one of the most spectacular palaces in India. A very famous tourist spot that sees thousands of visitors milling in and around it every day, the Mysore Palace is a mesmerizing example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, every inch of the palace drips with opulence and intricate details, and every room that you visit stands out in terms of its elaborate architecture, beautiful paintings, rich colours and stained-glass windows. On every Sunday, and during the Dussehra celebrations, the palace is spectacularly lit up once dusk falls.
1. Mysore Palace
Reaching the garden surrounding the palace, we realise the immensity of the place ; even the garden is impressive with its variegated flowers and tiger sculptures in particular. After leaving our shoes with the concierge, we enter the museum inside the publiwing of the palace. We reach a room filled with European statues and Hindu religious instruments. Continuing right next to a Hindu statue, we see a miniature of the first version of the palace. Then, getting closer to the inner courtyard, we come face to face with an elephant. A stuffed elephant, of course, this has no impact on the effect produced because it is in real elephant skin and even has real tusks. The hallway has two stuffed elephants. One of the places to visit in Mysore.
2. Somnathapura temple
On the banks of Holy river Kaveri is a tiny tranquil town of Somanathapura. Here stands the finest and most exemplary monument of Hoysala architecture known as the famous Prasanna Chennakesava Temple or simply the Kesava Temple. Consecrated in the year 1258 CE, it is a Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to might and beauty of Lord Krishna (Chenna= Beautiful and Kesava= Krishna). Tourists from near and far come to visit the temple to get a view of the beautiful place. The Chennakesava temple is one of the 1500 Temples built by the Hoysala Empire kings in different parts of their kingdom, and is said to be the climax development in Hoysala temple style and yet is unique in many other ways. One of the places to visit in Mysore.
3. Mysore Zoo
Mysore zoo, also known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, was established in the year 1892 by the Royals of Mysore and is one of the oldest zoos in the India. It is one of Mysore’s most popular attractions and the second most visited place after Mysore Palace. Mysore zoo park was originally built on 10 acres of the summer palace of Maharaja Sri Chamaraja Wodeyar and was called the Palace Zoo. It was handed over to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka in 1979. After acquiring an artificial lake and the Karanji tank with an artificial island as a sanctuary for birds in Mysore zoo, this zoo stands on a staggering 157-acres of land. With a long history of 125 years, the zoo houses more than 1450 specimens belonging to 168 species in natural enclosures.
Mysore Zoo animals include various Indian species like Gaur, Bisons, Nilgai, Spotted Deer, Black buck, Bears, Barking Deer, and a great number of Elephants. Other exotic animals present here are Giraffe, Zebra, African elephants, Otters, Chimpanzees and others. Mysore zoo is the only zoo in India to have a Gorilla. The reptile section includes a number of Cobras, Python and the star of the place, a Turtle.
A massive aviary with a bridge passing right through the centre is located inside the zoo where visitors can observe a diverse species of bird like Spoonbill, Painted stork, Hornbill, Flamingos, Sarus Cranes and various types of Ducks, Geese and so on.
The Mysore zoo also runs an animal adoption program where the general public is encouraged to adopt the animals for a specific period of time.One of the places to visit in Mysore.
4. Shuka Vana
In 2014 he opens an aviary named Shuka Vana that’ s a hospital for sick and injured parrots & birds. This center is something completely incredible for it provides any kind of help for any parrot or bird in need. Sri Swamiji is an amazing man. He cures birds even from very serious diseases and leaves none of those that have lost any extremity. Imagine, what chances to live might a limb parrot have in the wild? Sure, few ones. Shuka Vana gives the second life to ill or injured parrots & birds. I attach a small video below for you, Esteemed Readers, could value the great contribution this simple man makes to save our planet. May his example inspire you too and remind us that we must follow the way of our own Destiny & develop our own talents for the good of all.
5. Chamundeshwari Temple
Chamundeshwari Temple of Mysore is a landmark of the temple architecture of Karnataka. You can get a sight of the Chamundeshwari Temple from a distance as the Chamunda hills rise to a height of 3489 feet. Located in close proximity to the Mysore Palace, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, also known as Goddess Durga.
Goddess Chamundeshwari, the fierce incarnation of Shakti is the deity of the Mysore kings for hundreds of years.The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas and is known by the name of Krouncha Pitham; Shakti Peethas refer to the sites on which the body parts of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her and wandering through different places in deep morose. It is believed that the hair of Goddess Sati fell at the site where the Chamundeshwari Temple has been constructed. It is named after the name of the place; the site was known as Krouncha Puri during the Puranic times. The deity is seated on a lion with a trident in her hand, which is pierced into the demon Mahisasura. The buffalo lies in the body of the asur.The Chamundeshwari Temple was built during the Hoysala rule in the 12th century. The temple is enormous and there are 1000 steps to reach the hilltop to the temple.
The Chamundeshwari Temple comes with a seven-storied Gopura. The interiors of the sanctum are spectacular with numerous intricate carvings. While the statue of Goddess Chamundeshwari is said to be made of gold, the entrance gates are made of silver. The Chamundeshwari Temple is a quadrangle structure, built in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple can be segregated into different parts, like the doorways, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa and Prakara. The Gopura consists of a small tower, known as Vimana while the Shikaras come with glittering golden Kalashas. The inside of the entrances of the Chamundeshwari Temple is adorned with images of Lord Ganesha, while the images of Dwarpalakas, that is, doorkeepers seem to guard the goddess.There is also a Kalbhairab temple within the temple complex, dedicated to Kalbhairab, another incarnation of Lord Shiva.
The Kalbhairab temple also features a huge granite statue of Nandi, the Vahana of Lord Shiva. With a height of 15 feet and length of 24 feet, this idol is adorned with bells.
6. Bonsai Garden
One of the more unique attractions of the Royal Mysore, the Bonsai Garden of Mysore is home to over a 100 different varieties of Bonsai trees spread across this vast estate. It is a part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Initially a pet project by the fascinated Swamiji, the garden now hosts 450 miniature tree across an area of 4 acres, filled with these quirky dwarf trees. The beauty of the garden is accentuated by the stream that flows within, as well as the placement of Buddha statues and monkey statues around the area, representative of the zen culture from where the art of Bonsai was evolved. There is also a deer park to cater to the nature lovers who visit.The garden and the exhibits have been divided into various zones within, representing different Indian traditions and beliefs as followed by the Swamiji. Thus, one can find plants with connections to the Indian zodiac system, Indian classical music, the representation of the 27 stars of traditional Indian astrology, the seven Indian sages or Saptarishi, and five plant gardens closely linked with the concept of the Mother Goddess. The garden is indeed a delight to walk through, and one can't help but appreciate the fine art and effort required to shape a 100-year-old tree within a lovely terracotta pot.
7. Karanji lake
Karanji Lake, also known as Karanjikere Lake, is a beautiful place to visit. Apart from its natural beauty, this picturesque lake is noted for being home to a wide variety of indigenous and migratory birds. Spanning in an area of about 90 acres, this lake area features a butterfly park, boating point, children's corner, watchtower and India's largest walk-through aviary (with over 70 species of birds).
Inhabited by a wide variety of birds, including peacock and geese, the aviary is the main highlight of Karanji Lake. Neighboring the aviary is another huge area that is home to Sarus Cranes (a striking and possibly one of the tallest flying birds). A stroll in the butterfly park, located on an island in the lake, is a must while you are here. Brimming with plenty of natural treasures, this picturesque site is definitely a must-visit for every tourist coming to Mysore. One of the places to visit in Mysore.
8. St. Philomena's Church
The entire church is built in the Gothic style is one of the largest Cathedrals in South Asia. The Church has the relic of the 3rd century Saint Philomena that is in a beautiful catacomb that is below the main altar. The construction of the church was completed under Bishop Rene Fuga's supervision. At that time Thamboo Chetty, was the Huzur Secretary to the Maharaja of Mysore, heard about the greatness of Saint Philomena. Is obtained a relic of the saint from Peter Pisani, Apostolic Delegate of the East Indies in 1926. After obtaining the relic it was handed over to Fr. Cochet.
The next year a new state of Saint Philomena was brought from France. The story of Saint Philomena dates back to the 3rd century A.D. Philomena was the daughter of the monarch of a small state in Greece. Her parents were childless. They prayed to God and asked Him to bless them with a child. Promised to convert to Christianity if their wish was granted. The next year Philomena was born to them. Even in her childhood Philomena showed signs of piety. When Philomena was 13 years' old her father took her to Rome to obtain the favour of Emperor Diocletion. The Emperor was enthralled by her beauty and wanted to marry her. But she refused and vowed to give herself to God. As she refused to marry the Emperor she was tortured and beheaded in Rome. One of the places to visit in Mysore.
9. GRS Fantasy Park
GRS Fantasy Park is one-of-a-kind amusement park, located about 6 kilometres away from the city center. An endeavor of Baliga Investments Pvt. Ltd., the park is ideal for both adults and kids as there are a number of fun-filled rides for everyone. Sprawling over an area of 10000 sq ft, Jal Tharang or Wave Pool is the prime highlight of the park. For an experience similar to that of sea waves, this is an ideal place to be. Next is the Dragon's Den, built in an area of 60000 sq ft, which takes visitors to the Jurassic Age. This particular attraction won the National APT Award in 2003 for being the most innovative ride.
The Red Indian Falls or theme based man-made waterfall catches the fancy of visitors. Witnessing 72000 litre of water falling per minute from a height of 80 feet is truly a sight worth beholding. Keeping the zest alive is the Aqua Tornado that is a four-seater family float ride. Other attractions of the park include Pendulum Slide, Amazinia, Lazy River, 5D Virtual Ride, Hawaiian Paradise, Aqua Dance Floor, Snow Sledge and Baby Train, to list a few.
10. Jaganmohan Palace
Situated in the royal city of Mysore. The Jaganmohan Palace is a spectacular edifice that has an illustrious history attached to its name. It was used by the Wodeyars of Mysore. When their main residence Amba Vilas Palace was under renovations post a fire incident. It is one of the seven palaces that are situated in the city. Counted as one of the most beautiful contributions of the Wodeyar Kings of the city during their reign. The Jaganmohan Palace was converted into a magnificent art gallery. Today hosts some of the most exquisite pieces of artwork for the public to see.
Jaganmohan Palace held an important position in the administrative and legislative affairs of Mysore for a long period. From hosting the early convocations of the Mysore University to holding the first session of the Legislative Council of Mysore, this facade has seen it all. Finally, in 1915, the palace was deemed fit to be an art gallery and is a safe house for as many as 2000 paintings which pertain to various art forms such as Mysore, Mughal and Shantinekaten.
Mimicking the beautiful art that is housed within, the architecture of Jaganmohan Palace is intricate and detailed beautifully. The main door is a beautiful example of the typical Hindu style of architecture and two wooden displays illustrating the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu embellish the premises as well. Visit this destination to experience the history of Mysore through colours and pictures that will leave a long-lasting impression on your mind. One of the places to visit in Mysore.
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