Mysore

A charming city at the foot of Chamundi Hills in the southern state of Karnataka is Mysore. It wears the crown of Cultural Capital of Karnataka, its cultural ambience and achievements having been honed by the erstwhile rulers Wodeyars. This rich cultural heritage is on display at the Mysore Palace, Jagmohan Palace and Art Gallery, Lalit Mahal Palace and Jayalakshmivilas mansion.
This city has also been blessed by nature with the beautiful Chamundi hills known for their wildlife and numerous lakes. For nature lovers, trekking to the top of the hills is a good option. The temple of the presiding deity of the city, Chamundeshwari stands atop the Hill. The many lakes and gardens adjoining them like Kukarahalli kere, Lingabuddhi kere and Happy Man Park are wonderful places to relax or have fun. The beautiful St. Philomenas Church combines religion and heritage and Datta Peetham ashram is a confluence of serenity and spirituality.
Mysore also has its share of interesting museums like National Museum of Natural History, Folk Art Museum, Rail Museum, Oriental Research Institute, Melody World wax museum. Popular attractions in Mysore also include the Mysore zoo, boating in Karanji kere and Musical fountains and Brindavan Gardens at Krishna Raja Sagar Dam. The city has is well connected by rail and road and the nearest airport is in Bengaluru.
Best time to visit: September to March
Languages spoken: Kannada
Climate: Hot summers, good monsoon and pleasant winters
Heritage sites: Mysore Palace, Jagmohan Palace and Art Gallery, Lalit Mahal Palace, Jayalakshmivilas mansion
Holy places: Chamundeshwari Temple, Bull Statue, St. Philomenas Church, Datta Peetham
Natural wonders: Chamundi Hills
Picnic spots and Parks: Brindavan Gardens, Musical Fountain at the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam, Kukarahalli Kere, Andolan Circle Park, Lingabudhi Kere, Mysore Zoo, Karanji Kere, Happy Man Park
Knowledge Centres: National Museum of Natural History, Folk Art Museum, Rail Museum, Oriental Research Institute, Melody World wax museum