Traveling from Bangalore to Mysore is a great idea because the journey is short, smooth, and pleasant. In just a couple of hours, you reach a peaceful city full of history, beautiful palaces, and calm surroundings. Mysore is cleaner and quieter than Bangalore, and you can enjoy places. The food is great, everything is affordable, and it’s perfect for a relaxed trip.
Why Mysore ?
Mysore is a calm and beautiful city with a rich history. It has a royal charm, clean surroundings, and plenty of interesting places to explore. Many travellers also choose it because it’s perfect for a short and relaxing getaway.
Best places to visit
Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace is the most famous landmark in the city and truly reflects its royal past. The stunning architecture, detailed interiors, and large courtyards make it a place you shouldn’t miss. The palace looks even more magical when it is illuminated with thousands of lights in the evening on special days.
Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills is a peaceful spot that offers a beautiful view of the entire city. At the top, you’ll find the Chamundeshwari Temple, an important spiritual place for locals and visitors. The drive up the hill is scenic, and the cool breeze makes the experience even better.
Brindavan Gardens
Brindavan Gardens is well known for its neatly arranged gardens and the popular musical fountain show held in the evenings. The light and water display attracts many visitors and is especially enjoyable for families and couples.
Mysore Zoo
Mysore Zoo is one of the oldest and best maintained zoos in India. It has a wide variety of animals, spacious enclosures, and clean pathways, making it a fun outing for children and adults alike. It’s a great place to spend a few hours learning about wildlife.
St. Philomena’s Church
St. Philomena’s Church stands out for its tall spires and charming Gothic-style design. The peaceful interiors, stained glass windows, and overall structure make it a beautiful place to visit, whether you’re interested in architecture or just want a quiet moment.
Mysore Car Museum
The Car Museum in Mysore is a great place for anyone who loves vintage vehicles and classic designs. The museum displays a collection of old cars, each restored and maintained beautifully. You can see iconic models, rare vehicles, and automobiles that highlight how car design has changed over the years. The setup is neat, easy to walk through, and gives visitors a close look at each car. It’s a fun and interesting stop, especially for families, car lovers, and anyone curious about automotive history.
Famous attractions
Mysore Dasara
Mysore Dasara is one of the biggest festivals in Karnataka and attracts visitors from all over the country. The entire city comes alive with colourful decorations, cultural events, processions, and celebrations that showcase Mysore’s rich traditions. It’s a lively and unforgettable experience for anyone visiting during this time.
Palace Lighting
On special days, the Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, making it look absolutely breath taking. The entire structure glows beautifully, turning it into a magical sight that visitors love to photograph and admire. It’s one of the most iconic experiences in the city.
Mysore Silk Sarees
Mysore silk sarees are known for their smooth texture, rich colours, and high-quality craftsmanship. Many travellers shop for these sarees as souvenirs because they are elegant, durable, and represent the city’s traditional weaving heritage.
Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a legendary sweet that originated in the city. Made with ghee, sugar, and gram flour, it has a melt in the mouth texture that people absolutely love. Visitors often buy it to taste on the spot and also pack boxes to take home.
Off-beat spots
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu is a peaceful sanctuary filled with greenery, water, and a wide range of bird species. The highlight here is the boat ride, which takes you close to birds resting on small islands. It’s a calm and refreshing place for nature lovers, photographers, and families.
KRS Backwaters
The KRS Backwaters offer a quiet and scenic setting, especially during sunset. The open views, gentle breeze, and calm water make it a relaxing spot to unwind, sit back, and enjoy nature away from the city.
Balmuri & Edmuri Falls
Balmuri and Edmuri Falls are small but charming waterfalls located just outside Mysore. They are perfect for short visits, casual photos, and spending a little time near the water. It’s a popular place for quick breaks during road trips.
Somanathapura Temple
The Somanathapura Temple is known for its detailed stone carvings and unique Hoysala architecture. Since it’s not as crowded as other tourist spots, visitors can take their time exploring the artwork and absorbing the peaceful atmosphere.
Kukkarahalli Lake
Kukkarahalli Lake is ideal for morning or evening walks. Surrounded by greenery, it has a relaxing vibe that makes it perfect for birdwatching, exercise, or simply enjoying some quiet time by the water.
Hidden Viewpoints on Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills has several lesser-known viewpoints that offer beautiful views of Mysore city. These spots are calm, uncrowded, and great for photography, meditation, or simply enjoying the fresh air and scenic landscape.
Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple
Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple is a peaceful and beautifully restored temple near the KRS backwaters. The original shrine was submerged after the KRS dam was built, so it was rebuilt stone by stone at a higher spot. Its detailed carvings, calm surroundings, and stunning lake views make it a special place to visit. The temple looks even more beautiful during sunrise and sunset, making it perfect for photography and quiet moments.
Sagarkatte Bridge
It is a peaceful scenic spot near the KRS backwaters, just a short drive from Mysore. It’s known for its quiet surroundings, open water views, and beautiful sunsets. The bridge area is perfect for a quick escape, photography, or simply enjoying some calm away from the usual tourist crowd. Early mornings and evenings make the place look especially stunning.
Talakadu – The Mysterious Sand-Covered Town Near Mysore
Talakadu is a unique riverside spot near Mysore, known for its ancient temples buried under sand. Set along the Cauvery River, it offers a mix of history, mystery, and calm surroundings. Visitors often explore the Pancha Linga temples and enjoy the peaceful sandy landscape, making it a great offbeat getaway.
If you have extra time in Mysore, you can explore several other interesting places. These include GRS Fantasy Park, a lively amusement park, the Railway Museum, featuring old locomotives and vintage train displays, Jaganmohana Palace, known for its art gallery and traditional Mysore paintings, the Sand Sculpture Museum and Wax Museum, which offer creative and entertaining experiences; and Lalitha Mahal Palace, admired for its majestic architecture and royal heritage and many more.
Ideal Duration
1 Day: Covers the main attractions such as Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, and a quick stop at Mysore Zoo.
2 Days: Perfect for a relaxed trip, allowing you to explore palaces, temples, gardens, museums, and nearby spots like Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and KRS Backwaters.
3 Days or More: Ideal if you want to include offbeat locations, waterfalls, heritage sites, and nature trips around Mysore at a comfortable pace.
Best Time to Visit
Mysore is most enjoyable to visit between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The month of October is particularly special, as the city celebrates the vibrant Dasara Festival with colourful decorations, grand processions, and lively cultural events. April to June tends to be quite hot, which can make long trips less comfortable. During the monsoon season from July to September, the city and its surroundings become lush and green, creating a beautiful landscape, though occasional rains may affect travel plans.
Transportation Options
| Mode | Distance | Time | Estimated Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bike | ~150 km | 3–3.5 hours | ₹500–700 (fuel) | Flexible, adventure feel, easy parking | Weather-dependent, less comfortable for long rides, |
| Car (own) | ~150 km | 2.5–3 hours | ₹1,200–1,500 (fuel) | Comfortable, carry luggage, family-friendly | Traffic may slow journey, |
| Car (taxi/cab) | ~150 km | 2.5–3 hours | ₹2,500–3,500 one way | Comfortable, convenient, no driving stress | Expensive compared to self drive |
| Train | ~140–150 km | 2–3 hours | ₹70–₹500 (depends on class) | Affordable, comfortable, no traffic issues | Fixed schedule, booking required |
Stay Recommendations
Budget Friendly Stays
Hotel Crystal Park Inn, Hotel Roopa, Hotel Kings Kourt, LA VILLA Guest House, Casa Meridian, Simple Homestays around Mysore. These options are suitable for those who want to keep costs low while enjoying basic comfort where the pricing will be ranging from INR 800 to 1500 approx
Mid‑Range / Comfortable Hotels
Gitanjali Homestay, The Green Hotel, Hotel Ruchi The Prince, Hotel Pai Vista, Ginger Hotel Mysore, These stays are ideal for families or groups looking for a balance of comfort, affordability, and convenience where the pricing will be ranging from INR 2500 to 5000 approx.
Heritage / Premium / More Comfortable Hotels & Resorts
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore, Silent Shores Resort & Spa, The Windflower Resorts & Spa, Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel, The Green Hotel, Boutique Heritage Homes & Homestays in areas like Gokulam / Lakshmipuram. Luxury options are ideal for couples, families wanting extra comfort, or travellers planning a longer stay and looking to treat themselves where the pricing will be ranging from INR 5000 to 10000 approx.
Food Recommendations
Mysore is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of traditional and flavourful dishes. The city is famous for its Mysore Pak, a rich, melt in the mouth sweet made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour, available at popular sweet shops like Guru Sweets and Laxmi Sweets. Another must try is the Mysore Masala Dose, known for its crispy texture, spicy potato filling, and special chutney, best enjoyed at iconic spots such as Mylari’s or RRR.
Classic Karnataka dishes like Bisi Bele Bath, a spicy rice and lentil dish, and Rava Idli served with crispy Vadas, provide wholesome and comforting meals. Street food is also popular, with snacks like Maddur Vada, pakoras, bhajjis, and tangy chaat available near local markets. To complete the experience, don’t miss the aromatic filter coffee, a staple in Mysore’s cafes and restaurants like Hotel Dasaprakash and modern spots like Cafe 42. Overall, Mysore’s culinary scene combines tradition, taste, and comfort, making it a delight for every visitor.
Market Recommendations for Shopping
When visiting Mysore, a stop at Devaraja Market is a must for fresh flowers, spices, and local snacks, giving you a true taste of the city’s vibrant life. For authentic souvenirs, head to Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium or the Mysore Silk Factory Outlet to pick up silk sarees, sandalwood products, and traditional handicrafts. Don’t forget to try the famous Mysore Pak at Laxmi Sweets or Guru Sweets. For casual shopping, the streets around Gandhi Square and the city center offer clothing, jewelry, and small keepsakes at reasonable prices.
Travel Budget
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel (Bangalore → Mysore) | Bike: ₹500–700 | Own Car: ₹1,200–1,500 / Taxi: ₹2,500–3,500 | Private cab / luxury car ₹3,500+ |
| Accommodation (per night) | ₹700–1,500 | ₹2,500–4,000 | ₹5,000–10,000+ |
| Food & Dining (per person/day) | ₹150–300 | ₹400–700 | ₹1,000+ |
| Sightseeing & Entry Fees | ₹50–200 | ₹200–500 | ₹500+ |
| Shopping & Souvenirs | ₹200–500 | ₹500–2,000 | ₹2,000–5,000+ |
| Estimated Daily Total | ₹1,500–2,500 | ₹3,000–5,000 | ₹6,000–10,000+ |
Above budget is for a one day budget breakdown trip to Mysore, including travel, stay, food, sightseeing, and shopping.
Tips to Travel Smart
When heading to Mysore, pack light, breathable clothes for the day and a sweater or jacket for the cooler mornings and evenings between October and March. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring palaces, markets, and hills, and don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, or an umbrella during the monsoon season. Keep essentials like a water bottle, hand sanitizer, basic medicines, and phone chargers handy.
If you plan to visit temples, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and be ready to remove your shoes. Mysore is generally safe, but stay alert in crowded places, avoid isolated areas after dark, and prefer registered taxis or ride apps for convenience.
Drink bottled water and enjoy street food carefully if you have a sensitive stomach. Respect the local culture follow temple etiquette, be mindful of photography rules in palaces and museums, and bargain politely in markets. Lastly, remember public rules like no smoking, no littering, and adhering to traffic regulations to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Mysore is a destination that beautifully combines history, culture, and nature, offering something for every type of traveler. The city invites you to explore its grand palaces, peaceful temples, and lush gardens, while also savoring local cuisine and browsing vibrant markets. Whether for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Mysore’s unique charm and warm hospitality make it a perfect place to relax, explore, and create unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. How far is it from Bangalore?
Mysore is approximately 150 km from Bangalore.
2. What is the best time to visit ?
The ideal time is October to March. October is special for the Dasara Festival.
3. How many days are enough to explore the city?
2–3 days are sufficient to cover major attractions, markets, and nearby offbeat spots.
4. What is it famous for?
Mysore is known for palaces, Mysore silk sarees, Mysore Pak sweets, and Chamundi Hills.
5. Is it safe for tourists?
Yes, Mysore is generally safe. Take usual precautions in crowded areas and avoid isolated places at night.
6. What local food should I try?
Don’t miss Mysuru Masala Dosa, Bisi Bele Bath, filter coffee, and Mysore Pak.