Mysore in the south Indian state of Karnataka is a city of palaces, gardens, shady avenues and sacred temples and retains some of the old world charms with its many institutions that propagate Carnatic Classical music and dance. Mysore city was the capital of the old royal Mysore province. The word Mysore expands to "Mahishasurana Ooru" which means the town of Mahishasura. The story goes that the demon Mahishasura was killed by godess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi hill near Mysore, from which it derived its name. Ever since, the Mysore royal family have worshipped Chamundeshwari as the palace deity. Hills dedicated to her stand at the eastern end of Mysore town today.

Sightseeing at Mysore

Chamundi Hills : Situated at the top of 1,100 ft high Chamundi Hills, is the temple dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal family's patron deity. One may reach the temple either through a 13 km drive or climb the 1,000 stone steps. Near the temple is the gigantic statue of Mahishasura, the demon that had been killed by the Goddess Durga. Midway up along the stone steps, is the 300 year old 4.8 m monolithic statue of Nandi Bull, chosen mount of Lord Shiva. Its main attraction is its size and the amazing craftsmanship of its ornaments - from its delicate anklets to the awesome pendant bell around its neck. 

Srirangapatnam : 15 km from Mysore, Srirangapatnam has many captivating sites including the summer palace of Tipu Sultan, which was built in 1784 in the Indo-Saracenic architecture. It also boasts a small museum displaying Tipu's trivia such as a gold-embroidered tunic, old paintings and a coin collection. Then, there is Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali. Another famous place to visit is Jami Masjid. The slender minarets of this mosque are visible from several kilometers. 
 
Brindavan Gardens : Brindavan Gardens has watercourses bordering the well-manicured steps of these world famous terrace gardens. Musical fountains with soft coloured lights are sites of attraction here.
 
Lalitha Mahal Palace : The snow-white Lalitha Mahal, the guesthouse of Wodeyar rulers was built in the 1930s. The attraction of the palace is a staircase of Italian marble branching off from a landing to reach the first floor hall. Now, converted into a prestigious hotel of the India Tourism Development Corporation, Lalitha Mahal is surrounded by lush green lawns and stately trees. 

Mysore Palace : Built in & around 1897 AD in Saracenic style, the Mysore Palace is a find composition of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Designed by an English architect, the palace was built in place of an earlier palace burnt down in 1897 and was completed in 1912. The entire palace is tastefully shaped with massive gray granite stones, beautiful and colourful gem stones, paintings etc. There is a temple within the royal courtyard, from where the Dussehra procession starts in the month of October. The museum of the palace houses a collection of musical instruments, children's toys, many paintings, costumes and weapons belonging to the Maharaja's family.

Best Season to Visit : Through out the year.