Location

Mysore
is located in the Southern Indian state of Karnataka, around 140 km from
Bangalore.
The City Mysore
The mesmerizing city of Mysore is known as the cultural capital of the
state Karnataka. Its rich heritage, beautiful gardens, magnificent palaces,
sacred temples and other historical and heritage buildings mesmerize
tourists. The present city was the capital of the princely state of Mysore.
The city got its name from the demon Mahisasura, who was killed by Goddess
Durga according to the Hindu mythology. The city is also renowned for its,
the festival of Dussehra, which occurs in the month of October and continues
for 10 days.
Climate
The City experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year. April is the
hottest month with a temperature variance of 21 and 34 degrees C while
December is the coldest with a minimum temperature around 15 and 16 degrees
C. It receives an average annual rainfall of 667mm. October to March is the
ideal time to visit the city.
Sightseeing
Numerous historic monuments, temples and festivals of the city Mysore
offers an insight view of its rich culture and tradition. Some of the major
tourist attractions of the city are :
» Mysore Palace - It is a fine example of
Indo-Saracenic style architecture. Built in the year 1911, it has vast
pillared halls, corridors and domes, turrets and arches. It offers a
spectacular and breathtaking beauty to its tourists.
» Chamundeshwari Temple - At the top of the Chamundi
Hills, the 12th century temple of Chamundeshwari is a fine example of
Dravidian temple architecture. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess
Durga. The temple atop of the hill offers a panoramic view of the city
Mysore.
»
St. Philomena's Church - Built in the year 1956, it is one of the
largest churches in the country. It reflects the Gothic style of
architecture with beautiful glass windows and lofty towers.
Other Attractions
Other tourists destinations in the list of attractions of Mysore are the
Mysore Zoo, the Art Gallery, Brindavan Garden etc.
Fairs and Festivals
The city celebrates all the popular Indian festivals. Some major festivals
celebrated in harmony are the Dasara Festival, Yugadi Festival, Makara
Samkramana, Sri Ramanavami, Janmashtami, Deepavali, Christmas.
The Dasara festival which generally held in the month of September and
October consists of several cultural events including music, dance, folk
dance and sports competitions.
Shopping
Shopping in Mysore will be a delightful experience for any tourists. Gold
jewellery, silk saree and handicrafts in sandalwood or rosewood are
available in various state owned emporia and private stores. Some of the
popular shopping centres at Mysore are the Cauvery Arts & Crafts,
Emporium on Sayyaji Rao Road. At the Government Sandalwood Oil Factory, one
can buy Sandal Oil, Sandal Powder and scented incense sticks.
Accommodation

Various
categories of hotels ranging from five star to budget class offers the best
of facilities. Most of the hotels are easily accessible from the railway
stations and airports. Some popular hotels are the Oberoi Hotel, the Leela
Palace, Taj Residency, the Le Meridien, Ramanashree Hotel, Lalitha Mahal
Palace etc.
Transportation
The city of Mysore is easily accessible from all parts of the country
through air, rail and road.
» Air - The nearest airport is at Bangalore at a
distance of 140 km. It is connected to all the major cities of India.
» Rail - Mysore is connected by rail to all the
important cities of Karnataka and the rest of India. The railway station is
located around 2km from the city centre.
» Road - A good motorable road network links all the
cities of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
» Commutation - The city has private bus
transportation connecting to all parts of the city. Taxis, auto rickshaws
are also available for travelling in the city.