India · City Guide
Mysore
Mysore, now officially Mysuru, is one of India's most regal and beautifully maintained cities, the former capital of the Wodeyar Kingdom and home to the magnificent Mysore Palace, one of the most visited buildings in India, outstanding silk and sandalwood traditions, the famous Dussehra festival and beautiful access to Nagarhole and Bandipur tiger reserves. From the illuminated palace and the vibrant Devaraja Market to the zoo and the Chamundi Hills temple, Mysore offers a deeply enjoyable South Indian royal city experience.
Explore Mysore →Elect's take
"Mysore is one of the most enjoyable cities in South India. The palace is magnificent, the silk and sandalwood shopping is outstanding and the combination of regal heritage, excellent food and proximity to outstanding wildlife creates a destination that rewards every day spent there."
The Mysore Palace is one of the most lavish royal buildings in India, an extraordinary Indo-Saracenic building of columns, domes and turrets filled with stained glass, carved wood, mosaic floors and golden throne. On Sunday evenings and during the Dussehra festival the palace is illuminated by nearly 100,000 bulbs creating one of the most spectacular sights in India. The Dussehra festival in October is one of India's most celebrated, a ten-day celebration culminating in a magnificent royal procession with elephants, camels and the royal family. The Devaraja Market is one of the finest traditional markets in South India. Nagarhole National Park with excellent tiger and elephant sightings is approximately 90 minutes away.
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What to expect
Mysore Palace
One of the most lavish royal buildings in India, spectacular when illuminated by 100,000 lights.
Dussehra Festival
One of India's most celebrated festivals with a magnificent royal procession of elephants.
Devaraja Market
One of the finest traditional markets in South India with flowers, spices and local produce.
Mysore Silk & Sandalwood
Outstanding traditional crafts including Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood products.
Nagarhole National Park
Outstanding tiger and elephant wildlife experiences approximately 90 minutes away.
Chamundi Hills Temple
A beautiful temple on the hills above Mysore with outstanding views over the city.