Mysore
Mysuru or Mysore, situated in the southern part of the Deccan Plateau, in the state of Karnataka, India, is an undulating tableland, covered in parts by granite outcrops and fringed by verdant forests.
Located 770m above sea level this picturesque city has pleasant weather for much of the year. This charming city of palaces, hills and rivers also boasts a history of fine urban planning – Krishnaraja Wodiyar reign saw a number of improvements to the planning and infrastructure of the city.
With a population of 7.8 lakhs, Mysore retains a quaint charm that never fails to enchant. Mysore District is a popular tourist destination, offering several attractions ranging from the royal splendour of Mysore City and its fabulous Dasara Festival to exquisite temples, pilgrimage centres and scenic spots.
The city has recorded history dating back a thousand years and a mythical history which explains the origin of the name – apparently, this was the place where the demon Mahishasura was slain by the Goddess Chamundi. You will find a statue of the demon on Chamundi hill which commemorates this event.
Autorickshaws are the most reliable and accessible mode of transport in the city. Private taxis, Stare run buses and Tongas, which are horse driven carts, are also means of transport in Mysore.
Places of interest
Mysore Maharaja Palace
The Palace of Mysore was once the official residence of the former royal family of Mysore, and also housed the durbar (ceremonial meeting hall of the royal court).
Mysore has a number of historic palaces, and is commonly described as the City of Palaces. However, “Palace of Mysore” specifically refers to one of these palaces, Amba Vilas. The palace was commissioned in 1897, and its construction was completed in 1912. It is now one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mysore. The architectural style of the palace is commonly described as Indo-Saracenic, and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture. It is a three-storied stone structure, with marble domes and a 145 ft five-storied tower. The palace is surrounded by a large garden.
Brindavan Gardens
The most attractive tourist destination in Mysore is the Brindavan gardens. It lies adjoining the Krishnarajasagara dam which is built across the river Kaveri. The work on laying out this garden was started in the year 1927 and completed in 1932. Visited by close to 2 million tourists per year, the garden is spread across an area of 60 acres. The garden was renovated in 2005 with a cost of Rs. 5 crores. The renovation included sprucing up the musical fountain using a digitized system and repairs of dysfunctional fountains.
Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills has a temple of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The huge Nandi statue on the mountain is also well known. Chamundi Hills is 800 Feet above sea level and is know for its wild life. Atop the hill, Goddess Chamundi’s (Also called as Chamundeshwari) idol is placed in a beautiful temple with marvelous architecture. It is a plastic free zone and is known for Big Cats like Cheetah, but tourists are rarely attacked by them.
Other places of interest:
Mysore enjoys a wonderful climate all year round. The highest temperatures are from May to June 23-30°C.
Know more about Mysore – http://wikitravel.org/en/Mysore
Hotels at Mysore – http://www.mysore-hotels.hotelskarnataka.com/index.htm
