Mysore has a warm sense of familiarity like the loving aunt who makes killer chai. There’s a distinct storybook old world charm, but also has a buzzing energy about it that beckons. Mind you, this is no overhyped tourist trap. Mysore is more a la la land from the past, to be savoured and experienced at a relaxed and leisurely pace.
If history, food, shopping, and new experiences are your thing, Mysore has plenty to offer. When it’s reset time for your exhausted brain, this is where you visit. Explore Karnataka’s history, enjoy South India’s street food, and swoon over stunning palaces and gardens. Some of the best things to do in Mysore are exploring the palaces and temples, checking out the lively markets and peaceful lakes, and trying the drool-worthy biriyani.
The Mysore Palace is an icon. We’ve all either seen it or at least heard about it. The architecture, with its domes, arches, stained glass windows, and ornate carvings, takes you back to a glorious past where opulence was the name of the game. Inside, the halls are filled with intricate details, paintings, and reminders of the city’s royal past.
We also feel that it should be on your list of things to do in Mysore at night, as the illumination is absolutely stunning. Thousands of bulbs light up the palace and turn it into a glowing spectacle. Sundays and festival days are the best times to catch it, and it’s truly magical.
To visit the Chamundi Hill (where the Chamundeshwari Temple sits proudly), you could rent a car. This one should be on your bucket list if you wish to explore the spiritual scene in India. The temple itself is beautiful, but the view from the top is glorious! On the way up, stop at the giant Nandi statue, one of the biggest in India. Some people also climb the 1,000 steps up the hill, which is both a devotional practice and a great workout.
Even if you’re in Mysore for a short time, please make time for Jaganmohan Palace. It’s impressive collection of traditional and modern paintings, including works by the legendary Raja Ravi Varma, makes it one of the must-visit things to do in Mysore. The palace itself has a vintage charm, and it’s a nice way to connect with Mysore’s cultural side beyond just the main palace.
This is a fun and slightly offbeat stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just curious about history. The Rail Museum has old locomotives, carriages, and memorabilia from India’s railway past. You can even climb into some of the vintage coaches and get a feel of how train travel used to be. It’s not a long visit, but it’s quirky and memorable.
Foodie alert! The Mysore Masala Dosa is soft, fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and tastes divine. Drop by Mylari, an old eatery known for serving the most authentic version. Then there’s Mysore Pak, a rich, ghee-filled sweet that was actually invented here in the royal kitchens. It’s heavy, but you can’t leave Mysore without tasting it. Apart from these, street food and filter coffee are must-haves. If you like exploring local flavors, step into the markets where you’ll find everything from fresh fruits to spicy snacks.
Well, as most locals would insist, a trip to this market is surely one of the best things to do in Mysore. Enjoy some retail therapy at the stalls selling flower garlands, pyramids of fruits and vegetables, sacks of spices, and tons of essential oils and incense. Devaraja Market is also one of the best places to buy souvenirs like sandalwood products and Mysore silk sarees, both of which the city is famous for. Even if you don’t buy much, just walking around and soaking in the atmosphere is worth it.
Simply rent a car and enjoy an hour’s drive from Mysore to this bird sanctuary – a peaceful escape into nature. You can take a boat ride along the river and spot migratory birds like storks, pelicans, and kingfishers. The sanctuary is also home to crocodiles and bats, so keep your eyes open. It’s best to visit early in the morning or just before sunset for the best experience. If you’re a bird lover or just enjoy quiet, scenic places, this is a must-do.
This is one of the classic Mysore experiences and one of the things to do in Mysore at night. The fountains, flower beds, and walking paths provide a perfect setting to relax. Whichever attraction holds your attention in the day, make sure to check out the musical fountain show in the evening. You will not regret it. It can of course, get a bit crowded, but the pros outweigh the cons by a large margin. Visit early, so that you can also see the nearby KRS Dam, which is a sight for sore eyes. A self-drive car rental in Mysore might just be the answer if you wish to explore on your own terms.
The birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, people from across the globe come here to learn it. There are numerous yoga schools and retreats where you can enjoy a course. Even if you’re a beginner, there are classes that are just right for you. Ayurvedic massage centers and wellness retreats are also what make Mysore that right place for someone looking for a lifestyle overhaul or just to heal.
If you are in the city for a short while, car rental in Mysore could make travel and commuting a breeze. You don’t need to rely on cab services, and you can pick out the car of your choice depending on the size of your group and where all you plan to visit.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during Dasara, you are in for a whopper of a treat. The palace is illuminated, cultural performances are held across the city, and the streets come alive with processions and festivities. It’s one of the biggest celebrations in Karnataka and attracts visitors from all over the world. Even outside Dasara, Mysore still puts on a show with music, dance, and little splashes of culture.
Mysore is a great base for exploring nearby places. Srirangapatna, the historic town associated with Tipu Sultan, is just a short drive away and filled with forts, palaces, and temples. If you’re a nature lover, head out to Bandipur National Park or Nagarhole National Park for a safari. These parks are famous for their elephants, deer, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a tiger.
If you are compiling a list of things to do in Mysore in 1 day, do your research well. But more importantly, check out the best deals on self-drive cars in Mysore on the Revv website to create a travel plan that’s pocket-friendly, safe, and flexible.
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