Mysore

Though the administrative capital of the South Indian state Karnataka is Bangaluru, there exists a city which is known as the state’s cultural capital preserving the age old traditions of art and culture and passing on the legacy to the subsequent generations.

Mysore - City Guide

Mysore city which was once the power center of the various dynasties ruled the Mysore Kingdom for more than four centuries. As the city was under the Kings belonging to different culture and heritage, it benefitted to have more number architecturally wonderful temples and palaces which are portraying varied styles.

From the state capital Bangaluru, the city Mysore is situated at a distance of 146 kms in the southwest direction at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills. Due to the Tropical Savanna climate prevailing in Mysore, from December to February is the winter season. Monsoon is from July to November and the summer extends from March to June.

Mysore is famous among the tourists across the world for the Dusserah festivals which is celebrated in a very grand manner lasting for ten days during September or October every year. Successfully conducting the ten days’ festival without any hurdles was once considered as the symbol of power among those competing to rule the city. Even today it is symbolized during the celebrations on the ninth day when the Royal Sword is taken on a decorated elephant in a huge procession. The peak of the celebrations is on the tenth day of the Dusserah festival when the sacred God of Mysore Kingdom, Goddess Chamundeeswari is taken atop a decorated elephant followed by a large pageantry of horses, camels, group of dancers and elephants too.

Besides the Dusserah celebrations, there are many places of interest in Mysore. Bearing the name as City of Palaces, the city gives you a wonderful experience with its magnificent palaces built in different centuries. The outstanding among the list is the Mysore palace and next to that you should definitely pay a visit to Rajendra Vilas, Lalitha Mahal Jaganmohana palace and Jayalakshmi Vilas.

The list does not stop here. Adding to the credits of Mysore, the world famous sweet Mysore Pak, the major industry for the cosmetic items Mysore Sandal Soap and Powder, Mysore painting and Mysore Peta (A silk turban) and Mysore Silk Sarees preferred by almost all the women. Name any article, that will speak the pride of Mysore.

The National Highway NH – 212 connects this city to Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Lot of buses ply between Mysore and other cities. Superfast trains like Shatabdi Express halt at Mysore. The Intelligent Travel System ensures a hassle free drive in the city.

Come and enjoy the city of culture, heritage and tradition which has still maintained its legacy despite the vagaries over the centuries.