Mysore is the second-largest city in Karnataka and is known as the cleanest among 476 cities in India. Tourists are drawn to Mysore for its rich cultural heritage, grand palaces, and vibrant arts scene. It covers an area of 128.42 square kilometers and it lies at the foot of the Chamundi Hills.

The ideal time to visit Mysore is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, with temperatures ranging between 15 and 27 degrees Celsius.

Direct flight options to Mysore are limited, instead travelers can fly to Bangalore and then take a road trip to reach the city. The Mysore railway station is well-connected to major cities across South India and several in the North. Furthermore, there is a well-maintained network of state and national highways that make it simple to go to Mysore by car or bus.

Places to Visit in Mysore

Mysore Palace :  

Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is a historical royal residence which is located in the heart of Mysore, facing the Chamundi Hills. It's one of India's most famous tourist attractions, drawing over three million visitors annually. The palace is lit up on Sundays, public holidays, and during the Dasara celebrations. The best time to visit Mysore palace is between the month October and March. 

Timings : 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 100 for Adults

Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum :

India's first sand sculpture museum, located in the KC layout of Mysore, is a tranquil and unique spot just 2 km from the Mysore Bus Stand and Railway Station is 3km away. About 150 different sculptures fashioned out of more than 100 truck loads of sand are on display at this museum. 

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee : Rs. 40 for Adults

Brindavan Gardens :

Located 12 km from Mysore. The ethereal beauty and majesty of the Brindavan Gardens have made them famous worldwide. These gardens are situated along the Cauvery River at the foot of the Krishnaraja Sagara Dam (KRS) and span 60 acres. The garden is famous for its musical fountain show held every evening after sunset. The best time to visit Brindavan Gardens is only just before sunset.

Timings : 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 50(Adults)

Mysore Zoo :

Mysore Zoo covers 157 acres and is home to over 168 species. It's only 700 meters away from Mysore Palace. With its founding in 1892, the Mysore Zoo, also known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is the most well-known zoo in Karnataka and among the oldest in the nation. The best time to visit Mysore zoo is between June and September.

Timings : 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 50 (Adults)

Jaganmohan Palace :

This royal mansion, art museum, and auditorium once served as an alternative residence for the Maharaja of Mysore. The palace features traditional Hindu architecture and a mural depicting Mysore Dasara, painted with vegetable dyes. This famous palace is well-known for its rich artistic history and magnificent artistic characteristics. The best time to visit Jaganmohan Palace is between October and March.

Timings : 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 20 (Adults)

Karanji Lake :

Karanji Lake spans 90 hectares and is surrounded by a nature park, including a butterfly park and walk-through aviary, and is managed by the Mysore Zoo Authority. Karanji Lake is over a century old, and is among the most ancient urban lakes in Mysore. 

Timings : 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fee : Rs 10 (Adults)

St Philomena’s Church :

This Catholic cathedral, the pride of Mysore, is a prominent landmark of the city and a place of worship for the devotees of St. Philomena. It is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and one of the biggest cathedrals in India. An architect from France created it.

Timings : 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fee : No Entry Fee

Edmuri Falls :

Also known as Edmuri Falls, this serene waterfall is located on the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Marg. The falls are accessible via a scenic trek through forested and rocky terrain. The distance between the waterfalls and Mysore is roughly 16.5 km. The coconut trees are the most attractive in this fall. The best time to visit Edmuri falls is between March and August.

Timings : No specific timings

Entry Fee : No Entry Fee

Chamundi Hills :

Chamundi Hills, located about 13 km from Mysore city, is one of the most iconic and spiritual sites in Karnataka.

Timings : 7 Am to 9 Pm

Entry Fee : No Entry Fee