Mysore, the spectacular capital of erstwhile Wodeyar dynastry is stunning for its grand palaces, sacred temples, art museums and water parks. It is a must visit destination in any South Indian itinerary. Proximity to Bangalore makes it a great weekend getaway too.
Reaching there:
By Car: Mysore is 140 Kms from Bangalore. You can reach in two to two and half hours by your car thru the well-maintained state highway (route map ).
By Bus: Frequent KSRTC Non Stop Buses start from Bangalore. There are Volvo buses of KSRTC which are pretty comfortable.
By Train : Frequent trains from Bangalore - Click here for list of trains from Bangalore and their timings . Train travel to Mysore is enjoyable with lush green Paddy fields of Mandya keeping you company.
Mysore Sights Mysore Palace sits majestically in the center of city. The Indo-Saracenic building was completed in 1912. The sheer opulence and grandeur of the building (245 Ft in length and 156 Ft in width) mesmerizes all visitors. The palace is open to visitors from 10 A.M to 5.30 PM. Unfortunately, cameras are not allowed inside the Palace and you will have to deposit them at the entrance. It is advisable to hire a Govt. approved guide to take you around the palace, as there are many interesting anecdotes and sights that the guide will share with you.  Palace You enter the palace thru’ Gombe Thotti (Pavillion for the Dolls). You will find tasteful collection of Indian and European artifacts that Royal family had received as gifts. The star attraction at Gombe Thotti is the Golden Howdah. 84 Kgs of gold envelop the wooden howdah. There are several grandeur rooms – the most popular being Ambavilasa, Kalyana Mantapa and Durbar Hall. Amba Vilas is opulent with ivory inlaid rosewood door and ornately decorated columns. The roof has an amazing collection of stained glass and chandeliers. The king used to schedule meeting with important guests in Amba Vilas.  Amba Vilas Kalyana Mantapa (Gombe Thotti opens to Kalyana Mantapa) is famous for beautiful oil paintings that adorn the wall. Most of the paintings depict the grandeur of Dussera celebration in the bygone days.
You can admire the grandeur of Mysore Palace when it is lit. More than 97,000 bulbs are used to create a wonderful spectacle. Unfortunately, it is not a sight available everyday as the palace is illuminated only on Sundays, national holidays and state festivals and between 7.00pm and 8.00pm.
Jagmohan Palace: Visit to Jagmohan Palace is recommended as it houses some of the best collections of Indian Paintings. It is close to the Palace and an autorickshaw should take you there for minimum fare. Jagmohan Palace has a room devoted to house the paintings of Raja Ravi Verma, one of the earliest Indian artists to work on oil paints. His paintings are known for their realism. You can preview some of Ravi Verma's paintings here . S L Haldekar's 'Woman with the Lamp' is another remarkable painting. As you walk towards the painting, it appears the lady with the lamp is advancing towards you. Apart from these famous paintings, you also get to see some unusual musical instruments. Chamundi Temple Chamundi Hills: Chamundeshwari is the presiding deity of Mysore. Chanundi temple is on top of Chamundi hills, a landmark you can see from most parts of Mysore. Legend has it that that the demon king Mahishasura was annihilated by the Goddess Chamundeswari. Chamundi hills provide panoramic view of the city. Some of the landmarks that can be seen are Lalith Mahal Palace (Built by the King of Mysore to house the visiting Viceroy and is now a palace hotel), the palace and the popular Mysore Lakes.
Mysore Zoo: At the foothills of Chamundi temple, Mysore Zoo is one of the best-managed Zoos in India boasting a collection of exotic animals and birds from all parts of the world. There are battery-operated vehicles to take you around the Zoo for a nominal fee. Get more details at their website  St. Philomena Church St. Philomena's Church
The church was built by the King of Mysore in response to the requests by European soldiers. This gothic styled church, designed by French architect Daly, is one of the largest Cathedrals in India. The Church has the relic of St. Philomena in a beautiful catacomb below the main altar. Church is located 2 Kms from the palace and is open from 8 AM to 6 PM.  Brindavan Gardens Brindavan Gardens:
Brindavan Gardens is on the downstream of the Krishanrajasagar dam. Krishnarajasagar dam (KRS dam), built in 1932 across river Cauvery, is India's first modern irrigation dam. Brindavan gardens transforms into a fairy land in the evening with numerous lights that are placed near the flower beds and fountains. The music fountain at Brindavan garden is popular. There are plans to introduce laser shows and boating at Brindavan gardens.  GRS Fantasy Park
This is a latest addition to list of attractions at Mysore. GRS Fantasy Park is located on the KRS road and is spread over 30 acres. It provides the latest rides and water sports. The walk through simulated Dark Ride " The Dragon's Den" is interesting. A visit to GRS Fantasy Park is a must, especially, for children. The management of GRS Fantasy Park have arranged for buses from city centre. Details of the park and transportation can be had from their website .
Srirangapatna , Just 13 Kms away from Mysore towards Bangalore, is another key attraction near Mysore.
Shopping at Mysore
Mysore is renowned for Mysore Silk Sarees, sandalwood and rosewood artifacts. For the silk sarees head to the Govt run KSIC retail showroom at KR Road. Cauvery Emporium, a Govt run handicrafts showroom, on Sayaji Road houses the best of Handicrafts from Karnataka and is the best place to buy Sandalwwod and Rosewood items. At Cauvery Emporium, check the Channapatna section where Lacquerware products including brightly colored wooden Channapatna toys and jewellery are displayed. Channapatna toys are made of a specific wood called "Aale mara” and vegetable dyes are used for painting making these toys safe for children. Cuisine: Mysore is also famous for its cuisine. There are many good restaurants offering authentic “Mysore Meal”. A visit to one is a must to get the real flavor of Mysore
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