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MYSORE
The earlier capital of Mysore Maharaja's, Mysore still maintains its old world charm with its heritage buildings, culture and traditions and scores of temples. The city with the main palace as the focal point is separated mostly into the north zone, comprising the Vinobha road; and the south zone by the Nazarbad Main Road. Mysore is well-known for its beautiful crepe silk saris and sandalwood oil and sandalwood and rosewood carved articles, and the delicious Mysore 'Pak'. The month long Dussera celebrations between September to October, with its colorful demonstrations, fireworks and the beautifully lit palace, gives a captivating look to the city.
Places of Interest
City Palace and Museum
One of the biggest palaces in India and residence of the Wodeyar Maharaja's of the Mysore state, it was designed by British architect Henry Irwin and built in 1912, after a fire scorched down the old wooden palace. The stained glass top of the 'Kalyana Mandapa' (marriage pavilion), wall paintings, ivory inlaid rosewood doors and the ornate golden throne here, are all extraordinary and remarkable. The palace now under the administration of Department of Archaeology and Museums of the Karnataka Government is changed into a museum. The royal costumes, children's toys, musical instruments, photographs and several portraits are present here.
Chamundi Hill
The 1150m Chamundi Hill is one of the main tourist attractions of Mysore. It is located at about 13kms south east of Mysore. The Chamundeswari temple on the hill top, dates back to the 12th century is dedicated to Durga Devi or goddess Chamundi (avatar of Parvathi, Lord Shiva’s companion) for celebrating her triumph over the demon Mahishasura. The idol of goddess Chamundi within the sanctuary is in solid gold. The temple is an excellent example of Dravidian temple architecture.
Saint Philomena’s Church
Built in 1933 and designed by Reverend Rene Feuge, St. Philomena's church is one among the magnificent churches in India. Situated about 3 km from the city on Cathedral road, it is the tallest Church in India built in the neo-Gothic style. A statue of 3rd century saint, Philomena is placed in an alternative chamber. Several attractive glass paintings portraying scenes from the birth of Christ, the Last Supper, the Crucifcation, the Resurrection and the Ascension of Christ are also seen here. Currently it is known as St. Joseph's Church.
Jaganmohan Palace
The Jaganmohan Palace, built in 1861 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar, is one of the oldest buildings in Mysore. This 3 storied palace with tainted glass shutters and ventilators is located about a 10 minutes walk from the city bus stand. It is now converted to Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, a treasure house of paintings of unmatched beauty, handicrafts, an uncommon collection of musical instruments and historical memorabilia dating back to the 19th century and earlier.
Krishnaraja Sagar Dam or KRS Dam
KRS dam, built in 1932, is situated 12 km north-west of Mysore. It was designed by Sir M. Vishweswaraiah and built during the rule of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. The dam is approximately 8600 feet long and 130 feet high with a reservoir stretching over an area of 130 sq. km. It represents a phenomenon of civil engineering achievement in pre-independence India and was amongst the first in the world to use automatic sluice gates. The fine-looking terraced Brindavan Gardens is situated just below the KRS dam.
Travel Info
Air : The nearest airport is in Bangalore, 140 km from Mysore, which has daily flights to most of the important cities in India.
Rail: Mysore is well connected with regular trains to most of the metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
Road: Mysore has a good network of roads connecting it to the other important cities of the country.