In the midst of our bustling lives, there come those rare moments when the universe aligns perfectly, granting us the gift of a long weekend. It was during one such fortuitous occasion, from August 11th to 16th, that we seized the opportunity to escape the everyday and set off on a remarkable five-day journey. With a well-planned itinerary and a spirit of adventure, we kicked off our journey with a late-night flight from Pune to Bangalore on August 11th. Arriving in Bangalore at 11 PM on August 11th, we proceeded to board the KSRTC Fly Bus for our journey to Mysore. By 5 am the next morning, we had reached the Mysore Bus stand and then made our way to the hotel.
Day 1 : Mysore
Mysore is the altered version of its original name, “Mahishur or Mahishasurana Ooru”, – Meaning the village ruled by King Mahishasura. In the Hindu religion, It is believe that Mahishasura was a demon killed by the goddess Chamundi to restore peace on earth near Mysore.
Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Mysore is a captivating blend of rich heritage, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. Known as the “City of Palaces” Mysore boasts a regal charm that is sure to enchant any traveler. Mysore offers a glimpse into India’s royal past while also embracing the modern era.
Most of the city’s development during modern times could be attributed to the maharaja of Mysore and the Wadiyar dynasty, who were patrons of art and culture. Hyder Ali and Tipu, when they were briefly in power in succession, also contributed significantly to the economic growth of the city.
Places to Visit :
1. Railway Museum
On the 12th of August, our exploration began around noon, and our first destination was the Railway Museum, where we embarked on a fascinating journey through the history of rail transport. The museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, carriages, railway artifacts and the Maharani’s saloon.
Don’t forget to visit the Rail Coach Cafe within the museum premises, offering a delightful selection of snacks and refreshments, all while embracing the charming ambiance of a railway-themed eatery.
2. Mysore Silk Saree and Handicrafts :
While in Mysore, a visit to the local Silk Saree shop and handicraft emporium is a must. Here, you’ll discover a treasure trove of exquisite Mysore silk saree designs and authentic sandalwood products, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
3. Brindavan Gardens
The Brindavan Gardens is a garden located 12 kms from the city of Mysore in the Mandya district of the Karnataka. It lies adjoining the Krishnarajasagara Dam (KRS Dam) which is built across the river Kaveri. Brindavan gardens with its illuminated fountains, botanical park, extensive varieties of plants and fulfilled boating, is place for everyone.
Visitors can delight in an enchanting light show and serene boating experiences at Brindavan Gardens.
Since our first day began in the late afternoon, we opted for a leisurely and relaxed itinerary, allowing us to ease into our exploration at a comfortable pace. Subsequently, we made our way to a reputable restaurant to savor some authentic local cuisine.
Exploration of Mysore’s Diverse Food Scene :
1.Green Heritage restaurant
A must-try is the mouthwatering Mysore Masala Dosa ,served here with a side of freshly made coconut chutney and flavorful sambhar, creating a delightful culinary experience.
2.Hotel Original Vinayaka Mylari
Established since 1938, this restaurant is renowned for its incredibly soft and buttery dosa, accompanied by white coconut chutney and a flavorful green gravy. However, be prepared for weekend and holiday crowds, as we experienced an hour-long wait in line. While highly recommended, take note that this particular restaurant has no branches, and there are numerous imitations claiming to be the original Mylari restaurants in the vicinity.
3. Hotel Siddharta
Indulge in a must-try experience by savoring the Pongal and Bisibele Bath at this establishment. Don’t miss the chance to relish their Akki Roti as well, while their idlis stand out for their incredible fluffiness and softness.
You can find Hotel Siddharta at this address: Hotel Siddharta Location.
While you have the flexibility to visit these restaurants based on your trip’s schedule, seizing the opportunity to explore Mysore’s local flavors is a must.
Additional Information :
For our accommodation, we rested at VILLA PARK Mysuru, located here: VILLA PARK Mysuru Location.
To ensure a smooth journey, consider making an online booking for the KSRTC Fly Bus at your preferred time through this link: KSRTC Fly Bus Online Booking.
Note :
Considering my travel taste, I’d suggest prioritizing the historical gems of Mysore and exploring the local shops for an authentic experience. While gardens and zoos are appealing, focusing on the unique specialties of each place, such as historical sites and local cuisines, is a must to truly immerse in the destination’s essence.
And that concludes our escapades on the first day in Mysore. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this blog to continue the journey with us!
Feel at ease to reach out if any further details are required. Your inquiries are most welcome!
