Mysore (also known as Mysuru) is a city located in the southern part of India, in the state of Karnataka. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic monuments, and palaces, and is often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of Karnataka”.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mysore include the Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple, Brindavan Gardens, St. Philomena’s Church, Jaganmohan Palace, and the Mysore Zoo. The city is also famous for its silk sarees, sandalwood carvings, and Mysore Pak (a sweet dish).
Mysore has a rich history and was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty for several centuries. The city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore and played an important role in the development of the region. Today, it is a bustling city with a mix of traditional and modern elements.
Mysore has been known by various names throughout history, and some of the other names of Mysore are:
- Mahishuru: According to Hindu mythology, the city was named after the demon Mahishasura, who was killed by Goddess Chamundeshwari.
- Puragere: This was the name given to Mysore during the reign of the Hoysala dynasty.
- Nazarabad: This was the name given to Mysore by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore, during his reign in the 18th century.
- Maisuru: This is the Kannada name for Mysore and is still widely used.
- Mysooru: This is another variant of the Kannada name for Mysore.
- Mysuru: This is the official name of the city in modern times, after it was renamed in 2014 by the government of Karnataka.
Mysore is also known by several nicknames, some of which are:
- The City of Palaces: Mysore is known for its many palaces, including the famous Mysore Palace, Jaganmohan Palace, and Lalitha Mahal Palace.
- The Cultural Capital of Karnataka: Mysore is known for its rich cultural heritage, including music, dance, and art.
- The Ivory City: Mysore was once famous for its ivory carving industry, which flourished during the reign of the Wodeyar dynasty.
- The Garden City of India: Mysore is known for its beautiful gardens, including the Brindavan Gardens and the Kukkarahalli Lake.
- Yoga Capital of the World: Mysore is known for its Ashtanga Yoga tradition, which attracts yoga enthusiasts from all over the world.
- Silk City: Mysore is known for its silk sarees, which are famous for their intricate designs and quality.
How to Reach Mysore:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Mysore is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is approximately 170 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Mysore.
- By Train: Mysore has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train from Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and other cities to reach Mysore.
- By Road: Mysore is well-connected to Bangalore by road. You can take a bus or a taxi from Bangalore to reach Mysore. There are regular buses from other major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states plying to Mysore everyday.
- By Car: You can also reach Mysore by car. The city is connected to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and other major cities by a network of highways. You can either hire a taxi or drive your own car to reach Mysore.
Historical Importance Of Mysore:
Mysore has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of the region. Here are some of the historical events and significance of Mysore:
- The Kingdom of Mysore: Mysore was once the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore, which was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty for several centuries. The kingdom played an important role in the history of South India, and its rulers were known for their patronage of the arts and architecture.
- Anglo-Mysore Wars: Mysore was involved in four Anglo-Mysore Wars between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Mysore. These wars were fought between the 1760s and the 1790s and saw the rise of the legendary ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan.
- Tipu Sultan: Tipu Sultan was one of the most famous rulers of Mysore, who fought against the British East India Company in several battles. He was known for his military prowess and his patronage of the arts and architecture. Tipu Sultan died defending his kingdom in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War in 1799.
- Architecture: Mysore is known for its rich architectural heritage, which is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, and British styles. The city is home to several famous monuments and palaces, including the Mysore Palace, Jaganmohan Palace, and Lalitha Mahal Palace.
- Culture: Mysore has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its music, dance, and art. The city is famous for its Dasara festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura, and is a 10-day long affair.
10 Interesting Facts About Mysore:
- Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty, from 1399 until the independence of India in 1947.
- Mysore is known as the “City of Palaces” because it has several palaces, including the famous Mysore Palace, which is a major tourist attraction.
- The Mysore Palace is the most visited tourist spot in India after the Taj Mahal.
- The Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled Mysore for over 500 years, were great patrons of art and culture. They contributed significantly to the development of classical music and dance forms, including the famous Mysore style of Bharatanatyam.
- Mysore is home to the famous Mysore Silk, which is made from pure silk and is known for its intricate designs and durability.
- The city is also famous for its sandalwood products, including sandalwood oil, soap, and incense.
- Mysore was the first city in Asia to get electric street lighting in 1905.
- The iconic Brindavan Gardens, located near the KRS dam, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mysore.
- The Chamundi Hills, located just outside Mysore, is a popular pilgrimage site and is home to the famous Chamundeshwari Temple.
- Mysore is also famous for its food, including the Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak (a sweet made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee), and Mysore Churumuri (a spicy snack made from puffed rice and other ingredients).
15 Places To Visit In Mysore:
- Mysore Palace – The most famous tourist attraction in Mysore, it is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city.
- Chamundi Hills – Located just outside Mysore, it is a popular pilgrimage site and offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Brindavan Gardens – One of the most popular tourist destinations in Mysore, the gardens are famous for their musical fountain and colorful lights.
- St. Philomena’s Church – One of the largest churches in India, it is known for its Gothic architecture.
- Jaganmohan Palace – A beautiful palace that has been converted into an art gallery and museum.
- Karanji Lake – A scenic lake that is home to several species of birds and has a butterfly park.
- Mysore Zoo – One of the oldest and most popular zoos in India, it is home to a wide variety of animals.
- Lalitha Mahal Palace – A beautiful palace that has been converted into a luxury hotel.
- GRS Fantasy Park – A popular amusement park with several water rides and attractions.
- KRS Dam – Located about 18 km from Mysore, it is a popular picnic spot and offers a scenic view of the surrounding hills.
- Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens – A spacious and well-maintained zoo with a wide variety of animals.
- Railway Museum – A fascinating museum that displays various models of trains and engines.
- Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum – An interesting museum that showcases sand sculptures created by artist M.N. Gowri.
- Kukkarahalli Lake – A serene lake that is popular among joggers and nature lovers.
- Folklore Museum – A museum that showcases the rich culture and heritage of Karnataka through its exhibits.
Art And Culture Of Mysore:
Mysore has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its contributions to classical music, dance, and art. Here are some aspects of the art and culture of Mysore:
- Mysore Style of Bharatanatyam: Mysore has contributed significantly to the development of the Bharatanatyam dance form. The Mysore style of Bharatanatyam is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive facial expressions.
- Dasara Festival: The Dasara festival is one of the most important festivals in Mysore. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and lasts for 10 days. The highlight of the festival is the procession of the Goddess Chamundeshwari on a beautifully decorated elephant.
- Mysore Paintings: Mysore paintings are known for their intricate details and bright colors. These paintings often depict scenes from Hindu mythology and are made using natural dyes and colors.
- Mysore Silk: Mysore Silk is a type of silk that is produced in Mysore. It is known for its soft texture, rich colors, and intricate designs. Mysore Silk sarees are popular among women in India and abroad.
- Classical Music: Mysore has been a major center of classical music in South India. The city has produced several famous musicians, including Veena S. Balachander, Mysore T. Chowdiah, and Mysore Vasudevachar.
- Literature: Mysore has a rich literary tradition, with several famous writers and poets hailing from the city. The Mysore University has a Department of Kannada Studies that promotes the Kannada language and literature.
- Architecture: Mysore is known for its beautiful architecture, with several palaces, temples, and other historical buildings that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Overall, the art and culture of Mysore reflect the city’s rich history and tradition.
Delicacies And Cusines Of Mysore:
Mysore is a city in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, known for its rich cultural heritage, magnificent palaces, and delicious food. The city’s cuisine is a blend of traditional South Indian and Mughlai flavors, which have been influenced by the royal kitchens of the Wodeyar dynasty. Here are some of the famous delicacies and cuisines of Mysore:
- Mysore Pak: Mysore Pak is a popular sweet dish made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee. It has a soft, crumbly texture and is a must-try when in Mysore.
- Masala Dosa: Masala Dosa is a staple South Indian breakfast item, made by stuffing a crispy rice and lentil crepe with a potato and onion filling, served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Mysore Masala Dosa: This is a spicy variation of the Masala Dosa, which is made by adding a special red chutney made from garlic, red chillies, and onion to the potato filling.
- Bisibele Bath: Bisibele Bath is a popular rice dish made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. It is served hot with a dollop of ghee on top.
- Mysore Churumuri: Churumuri is a street food snack made with puffed rice, vegetables, and a blend of spices. Mysore Churumuri is a spicy version of the snack, which is a favorite among locals.
- Mysore Bonda: Mysore Bonda is a deep-fried snack made with a batter of urad dal and spices. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and is usually served with coconut chutney.
- Mysore Rasam: Rasam is a spicy South Indian soup made with tamarind, tomato, and spices. Mysore Rasam is a tangy and spicy version of the soup, which is a popular comfort food in the city.
- Mysore Pak Ice Cream: This is a unique dessert that blends the traditional Mysore Pak with vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious and refreshing treat.
These are just a few of the many mouth-watering delicacies and cuisines of Mysore. The city is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous restaurants and street food vendors offering a wide variety of dishes to savor.
Hotels And Restaurants In Mysore:
Hotels:
- The Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel: This heritage hotel is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as amenities like a swimming pool, spa, and tennis court.
- Royal Orchid Brindavan Gardens: This hotel is situated near the Brindavan Gardens and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
- Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore: This upscale hotel is located near the Mysore Palace and offers modern rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, and a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
- Fortune JP Palace: This hotel is located near the Mysore Zoo and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
- The Windflower Resorts & Spa: This luxury resort is situated on the outskirts of Mysore and offers villas with private plunge pools, a spa, and a restaurant.
- Regenta Central Herald: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mysore: This hotel is situated near the Mysore Palace and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop swimming pool.
- Hotel Pai Vista: This hotel is located near the Mysore Zoo and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
- Hotel Sandesh The Prince: This hotel is situated near the Mysore Palace and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
- Parklane Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
Restaurants:
- Oyster Bay: This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes and also offers vegetarian options. The ambiance is casual and relaxed.
- Vinayaka Mylari: This is a famous restaurant in Mysore known for its traditional dosas, idlis, and vadas. It is a no-frills, small eatery with limited seating.
- Hotel RRR: This restaurant offers a range of North Indian and Chinese dishes. It has a simple decor but is popular among locals for its delicious food.
- Tiger Trail: This restaurant is located in the Royal Orchid Brindavan Gardens hotel and offers North Indian and Continental cuisine. The ambiance is elegant and sophisticated.
- The Old House: This restaurant is located in a restored colonial bungalow and offers Indian and Continental cuisine. The ambiance is charming and romantic.
- Mahesh Prasad: This is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of South Indian dishes. It is known for its filter coffee and delicious thali meals.
- The Foodie Restaurant: This restaurant offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes. The ambiance is casual and relaxed.
- The Green Hotel: This hotel has a restaurant that offers organic and vegetarian food made from locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is eco-friendly and tranquil.
- Biryani Paradise: This restaurant is known for its biryanis and also offers other North Indian and Chinese dishes. The ambiance is simple and unpretentious.
- Anima Madhva Bhavan: This is a vegetarian restaurant that offers traditional South Indian dishes. It is popular among locals for its delicious food and casual ambiance.
Places Of Worship In Mysore:
Mysore is home to several places of worship, including temples, mosques, and churches. Here are some notable ones:
- Sri Chamundeshwari Temple: This is a famous temple located atop the Chamundi Hills, about 13 km from Mysore. It is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a form of Durga, and is considered one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.
- Mysore Palace: Although it is primarily known as a royal palace, Mysore Palace also has a temple within its premises. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Gayatri and is located in the southern wing of the palace.
- St. Philomena’s Cathedral: This is a beautiful neo-Gothic style church located in the heart of Mysore. It is one of the largest churches in India and is dedicated to Saint Philomena.
- Jama Masjid: This is a historic mosque located in the old city of Mysore. It was built by Tipu Sultan in the late 18th century and is still in use today.
- Sri Nandi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Nandi, the bull that serves as the mount of Lord Shiva. It is located at the base of the Chamundi Hills and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.
- Sri Lakshmi Venkataramanaswamy Temple: This temple is located in the heart of Mysore and is dedicated to Lord Venkataramana, a form of Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Nanjundeshwara Temple: This temple is located in Nanjangud, about 24 km from Mysore. It is dedicated to Lord Nanjundeshwara, a form of Lord Shiva, and is considered one of the holiest temples in Karnataka.
- Sri Prasanna Krishnaswamy Temple: This temple is located in the north of Mysore and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is known for its beautiful idol of Lord Krishna, which is said to be over 800 years old.
- Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: This temple is located in the heart of Mysore and is dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba. It is known for its peaceful ambiance and is a popular destination for Sai Baba devotees.
- Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Ashrama: This is a spiritual center located on the outskirts of Mysore. It is home to several temples, including a temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, and is known for its serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Schools And Colleges In Mysore:
Mysore has several schools and colleges that offer education across various fields. Here are some notable ones:
Schools:
- Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala: This is a renowned school for boys that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level and is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
- Excel Public School: This is a co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. It is affiliated with the CBSE.
- JSS Public School: This is a co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. It is affiliated with the CBSE.
- St. Joseph’s Central School: This is a co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level and is affiliated with the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE).
- Kautilya Vidyalaya: This is a co-educational school that offers education from kindergarten to higher secondary level. It is affiliated with the CBSE.
Colleges:
- University of Mysore: This is a public university that offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various fields including arts, science, commerce, management, law, and education.
- National Institute of Engineering: This is a private engineering college that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering and technology.
- JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research: This is a deemed university that offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various fields including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, engineering, and management.
- Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering: This is a government engineering college that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering and technology.
- All India Institute of Speech and Hearing: This is a premier institute that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in speech and hearing and is affiliated with the University of Mysore.
- Maharani’s Science College for Women: This is a government college for women that offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science and technology and is affiliated with the University of Mysore.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Mysore is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. It is famous for its majestic palaces, serene gardens, and exquisite silk sarees. The city is also home to several notable places of worship, including temples, mosques, and churches, and has several excellent schools and colleges offering education across various fields.
Mysore’s culinary scene is also noteworthy, with a range of delicious delicacies and cuisines to try. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from traditional South Indian cuisine to international cuisine.
Overall, Mysore is a must-visit destination for those who wish to explore India’s rich heritage and culture. Its blend of history, architecture, spirituality, and natural beauty make it a fascinating city to explore and a memorable experience for visitors.