We went on a day trip from Bangalore to Mysuru / Mysore in July 2010. And why not, it was very a well spent day. Mysore is a major weekend getaway from Bangalore. Since, it is conveniently located at a driving distance of 2.5 hours from Bangalore. The place has all the different flavors of travel to offer – a small hill, temple, church, historical palaces, a refreshing garden, and a big zoo. When we planned our trip, we started early in the morning around 6AM to avoid getting caught in the city traffic. We must add that the traffic on Bangalore – Mysore highway is high, making it a not so pleasurable road trip amongst the ones we have taken in India. So, it’s best to start early from Bangalore and reach Mysore as soon as possible.
This was our first day trip post our wedding and thus a special one. We enjoyed it thoroughly. And thus we decided to pen down a perfect itinerary for you to enjoy a day trip to Mysore.
The Royal Palace of Mysore
PS: If you would like to go on a guided tour of Mysore from Bangalore, we highly recommend you go for this one. Also, please note that one day trip is hectic. As you need to start early in the morning, by 5:30am, to avoid the notorious traffic of Bangalore City. And by the time you return back, it is almost 11-12 pm. So, if you are traveling with elderly and kids, or you have time at hand, we highly recommend you take a 2 days trip of Mysore from Bangalore instead. There are plenty of places to stay in Mysore. And you can easily get an accommodation in your budget range if look at agoda.com and booking.com. One of our bucket list items is to stay in Hotel Royal Orchids facing beautiful the Brindavan Gardens, go for it if you can.
Start as early from Bangalore as possible. Off late, Mysore has also developed into a major economical and business hub of Karnataka. There are numerous vehicles complying on the Bangalore to Mysore route thereby increasing traffic a lot. So, the earlier you start, the better your chances of reaching Mysore on time and utilizing rest of the day for site seeing in Mysore. We started early in the morning. Thus, we were already in Mysore by 8:30am.
7:30am
Breakfast on the way
The way from Bangalore to Mysore is dotted with numerous food outlets. And you will be pretty much spoilt by options on offer. However, our favorite are the South Indian outlets that serve delicious dosas in the morning. We had breakfast at Hotel Kamat en-route to Mysuru almost around 7:30am. There are even fast food outlets like MacDonalds and KFCs. You can as well stop at one of these if you would like to have fast food breakfast. We reached the city by 9:30AM.
8:30am
Lalit Mahal Palace
We started with a visit to Lalit Mahal Palace and so can you. It is a massive architecture in beautiful white color, with beautiful landscaped gardens and great interiors. Actually, this is an old palace turned hotel. But all measures have been taken to maintain it’s ancient charm. Many of the artifacts from the palace are used in the decor of the actual hotel. And I feel this adds to the charm of the place. We visited the areas accessible to public. Then we sat for a while in the well manicured garden of the hotel. It takes around half an hour to cover everything that is to be seen in this hotel cum palace.
9:30am
Chamundeshwari Temple
Next you can head to Chamundeshwari Temple. It is set on a small hill. And the drive uphill is beautiful. Once you reach uphill, you get a wonderful view of the town of Mysore from there. The temple is named after Chamundeshwari or Durga, the fierce form of the Hindu Goddess. And, the temple is dedicated to the same Goddess. The temple is considered as a Shakti Peetha. It is also listed as one of the 18 maha Shakti Peethas in India. And, that makes this temple a must visit on a trip to Mysore. Actually, there is an official website of this temple, with all the timings and other details mentioned in it. Just google for the website and get the information you require. Initially the shrine was built by the Hosala kingdom and later the upper portions of the shrine were developed by the Vijaynagara rulers. As a result, the temple has a unique mixed architecture to offer.
You need to take off your shoes when visiting this temple. There is a counter where you can deposit your shoes for a minimum amount of INR 5. And then you can head to the main temple. There are many street vendors around selling the puja offerings like garland of fresh flower, coconut and other stuff. You can buy from them if you want.
10:30am
Nandi or Bull Temple
On the way fromChamundeshwari Temple, there is a Bull temple. It is nothing but a big statue of Bull made out of a stone, like the many others that you will find across Karnataka. The statue is stationed on a plinth. A small flight of stairs lead up to the temple. Nandi or Bull is actually the animal that is designated as the vehicle of the Hindu God Shiva. This Nandi statue is 4.9 m tall and 7.6 m long. However, the speciality is that it is carved out of a single huge granite stone. Nevertheless, it is beautiful. You can just stop by for 5-10 minutes on your way downhill and then continue your journey.
11:00am
Mysore Palace
From here, proceed to the infamous Mysore Palace. We spent quiet some time marveling the interiors of the palace, the possessions of the kings and queens of Mysuru and the royal atmosphere. Mysore palace is a very beautiful palace. It is the official residence of the Royal family of Mysore, who ruled from 1399 to 1950 AD. The descendants of the Royal family still reside in Mysore Palace. However, a huge part of the palace is open to the public now for viewing. Attractions inside the palace consist of the artifacts used in the ancient times, a huge wedding hall where royal weddings are still commenced, beautiful carvings, pictures of all the royal kings etc.
Photography is not allowed inside the palace. So, you have got to deposit your camera before entering. Also, you need to walk inside the palace bare foot. So, you can deposit your shoes at the shoe counter. Once you enter inside, there is a dedicated path to be followed, which is lined by ropes tied to pillars. So, you need not worry about which path to take while visiting inside this massive palace. It easily will take two hours to cover the grounds of Mysore Palace fully.
The palace also has a very beautiful garden. The garden is well maintained and is host to beautiful flowers of different varieties including a big garden dedicated to roses. You can spend some time admiring the beautiful landscaping as well. (And, you might start feeling like staying over in this palace 🙂 )
1:30pm
Lunch
It will be noon by the time you head out of Mysore Palace. So, from here you can proceed for lunch. Normally, I have witnessed that when you take a guided tour , or book a cab to Mysore for the day trip, the guide or the driver always take you to one particular restaurant that specializes in South Indian thali. Looks like definitely they have some tie up for brining in guests and they are getting some goodies out of it. Anyways, there are many other restaurants in Mysore, of all kinds. So, I will rather suggest, put your phone and it’s network to use, look at some nearby restaurants and their reviews and then head to one for lunch as per your choice.
2:30 pm
St. Philomena’s Cathedral
Post lunch you can proceeded to St. Philomena’s Church. It is a catholic church constructed in 1936 using the neo gothic style of architecture. It’s complete name is Cathedral of St. Joseph and St. Philomena. It is also fondly called St. Josheph’s cathedral. It is known as one of the tallest churches in Asia. The height of this church is so much that I was really having a hard time being able to capture it in my camera in one single snap. There is an interesting history of being built and rebuilt, associated with this Church. If interested, you can read more here. As of now, it is one of the must visit spots in the town of Mysore.
3:30pm
Brindavan Garden
From the church, you can next visit Brindavan Garden. The garden is located on the outskirts of Mysore. It takes almost half an hour to reach here from the main town since the last stretch of road leading to the garden is not in a good shape (At the time of this writing). I hope the road gets rebuilt as soon as possible since this is one of the major spots that tons of visitors like to visit every day. Actually, this Garden is built adjacent to the Krishnarajasagara Dam, across the river Kaveri. And, it has a very refreshing aura to it, it gets very pleasant in the evening with the scent of the flowers further boosted by the numerous colorful water fountains big and small. It’s a very refreshing place. You can as well go on a boat ride on the water body in the garden.
You can reach here by 4 or 4:30 pm and then enjoy the scenic views and the fresh scent of flowers. Or, you can simply relax in the lawns of Brindavan Gardens. There are plenty of hawkers selling Indian snacks and ice-cream. You can enjoy these snacks while you cover the expanse of the garden. As the evening approaches and it gets darker the lights start getting turned on into the garden, adding splash of color to each and every corner of it. Towards 6:30-7pm there is a musical fountain show conducted at the amphitheater of the garden. You can enjoy this show and there after exit the garden.
7:30pm
Back to Bangalore
From here, you can start on a backward journey to Bangalore. Usually, the journey back takes a little more time since the traffic is normally higher. On the way, half way through, you can stop for dinner on the side of the highway. Again, there are multiple options for dinner and you can choose a hotel as per your liking. We prefer the Adigas hotel on this stretch which has nice options of meals as well as lighter dinner recipes on offer. The restaurant also has a usable restroom alongside. You can as well try other restaurants as I have heard most of them are very good. With the dinner time included, you will reach back to Bangalore by 10-10:30pm at night if you follow this itinerary.
Some of you might not be aware that this day trip to Mysore was where the story behind our travel stories started. It was the first destination we visited as a couple. And then there was no turning back. Almost the same weekend when we returned from our Bangalore Mysore day trip, we booked our next one. Which was a weekend at Ooty during monsoons. And then followed the 5 days trip to Kerala through Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey. Followed by a trip to Goa. And then 100s of more cities and destinations in the years to follow, filling our lives with memorable travel experiences.
In conclusion, it will be a day well spent.
General tips on visiting Mysore
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will need to do a lot of walking during this day trip
Carry some snacks and water with you. Although there are multiple outlets along the way to keep you supplied with enough food and water
I would insist once more that start from Bangalore as early as possible , otherwise you may end up wasting a major chunk of your day trying to reach Mysore.
There are regular trains also complying between Bangalore and Mysore so you can take one as well. But the train travel time will be longer since you need to include the time taken towards your journey to and from the railway stations.
There are regular buses also between Bangalore and Mysore
If you have time, stay in Mysore for a few days. Since there are plenty of weekend getaway options around Mysore, you can base yourself in this beautiful city and then visit these weekend getaways over a period of a few days. I will soon dedicate a post to these destinations that can be conveniently visited from Mysore.
Did you know that Mysore is one of the cleanest cities of India at this point. So, definitely that adds to the pleasure of visiting this town.
PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.
57 thoughts on “A day in the royal city of Mysore / Mysuru”
Mysore Palace is the one that gets all the plaudits of course, and I can see why from the photos here! But some other great sites here – the garden looks exquisite, and St Philomena’s Cathedral ver much worth a visit. Know what you mean about struggling to fit it in to our camera lens; I’ve been there with similar buildings!
From one amazing sight to another, I can’t believe all those images were in one place! So many religions and so much culture coming together. The Chamundeshwari Temple is absolutely and intricately amazing.
This looks like such an incredible trip! I cannot believe how magnificent this architecture is. I also love how in depth all of your details are. If I was planning a trip to Mysore, this would be the only guide i need!
I would even recommend a stop at Ranganthithu and Srirangapatnam enroute. It is the migration season now and you can sight some amazing birds. And of course Tipu’s palace in Srirangapatnam is a nice heritage part of the journey. Loved your pics.
your post has been of immense help to me. I am planning a trip with a friend from Kolkata to Bangalore-Mysore and Coorg. Do you have any recommendations. We would love to travel by bus or train and are ready to leave as early as possible so that we get a whole day to visit Mysore and Coorg. If you do have some tips please let me know. Thanks.
Thanks Subha. From Bangalore you can go to Mysore and then spend one day there. From Mysore you can go to coorg for onwards journey. If you want help with lodging/what all to do and see etc. you can drop me a mail at [email protected] with the number of days you have at hand. I can help you with a sample plan
Because a few hundred years ago, it was a state, a kingdom. And the royal family – the king and his family used to live in the Mysore palace and rule the kingdom from there. Actually, the descendants of the royal family still reside in a part of the palace while other parts have been opened to public.
Looks like a nice itinerary. Bummer that you can’t take photos inside Mysore Palace. I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable leaving my camera while I explored.
Nice and comprehensive post. Mysore has such an old world charm that it always draws you to it again and again. Whenever I visit Mysore, I always have this sense that the place is caught in a time warp.
Thank you. You are right, we have been there so many times. The first being almost a decade back. Yet the place feels untouched the same it was when we visited the first time.
I like the palaces and Chamundeshwari Temple. Your post reminded me how much India has to offer to be seen and experienced. India is still on my bucket list, waiting to be taken off it!
I’ve read a few guides and accounts of visiting Mysore but this is the first one I’ve seen that included Brindavan Gardens. Really beautiful and I’d love to add this to our itinerary. I’m becoming more and more obsessed with #IncredibleIndia.
Thank you! I wonder why someone would not include Brindavan Gardens in the itinerary. Maybe because it is a little farther the city limits. But for me it is a must visit. So refreshing and beautiful
I absolutely love your website.. Great colors & theme.
Did you create this amazing site yourself? Please reply
back as I’m hoping to create my own website and would like to learn where you
got this from or exactly what the theme is
named. Kudos!
Yes Amy. We have technical background. So, it was easy to setup a wordpress website.I am so happy that you liked the effort we put in. The theme is ‘hueman’. Go ahead and setup yours. We will help you out with any queries
I love palaces SO MUCH! This is simply stunning. I love the architecture so much, and that temple!! Gosh, another one for the bucket list…
Wow this sounds amazing! No wonder royalty chose it as their place to live.
Royalty are Royalty after all 🙂 Even if I were given a choice I would happily choose it as my residence 😀
Mysore Palace is the one that gets all the plaudits of course, and I can see why from the photos here! But some other great sites here – the garden looks exquisite, and St Philomena’s Cathedral ver much worth a visit. Know what you mean about struggling to fit it in to our camera lens; I’ve been there with similar buildings!
You are absolutely right Joe. But all the places are truly beautiful in Mysore. So, it is difficult to drop any from your list.
Mysore is really a cool place. Have been there last year and enjoyed it a lot 🙂
From one amazing sight to another, I can’t believe all those images were in one place! So many religions and so much culture coming together. The Chamundeshwari Temple is absolutely and intricately amazing.
You are so right about Mysore. A small town that has got so much heritage to offer
My goodness so many places to see and things to do in this royal city! I would love to visit one day!
You will love it when you visit here
This looks like such an incredible trip! I cannot believe how magnificent this architecture is. I also love how in depth all of your details are. If I was planning a trip to Mysore, this would be the only guide i need!
Thanks Erin
I would even recommend a stop at Ranganthithu and Srirangapatnam enroute. It is the migration season now and you can sight some amazing birds. And of course Tipu’s palace in Srirangapatnam is a nice heritage part of the journey. Loved your pics.
Thanks for the additions Ami. They are indeed marvelous places to stop by
your post has been of immense help to me. I am planning a trip with a friend from Kolkata to Bangalore-Mysore and Coorg. Do you have any recommendations. We would love to travel by bus or train and are ready to leave as early as possible so that we get a whole day to visit Mysore and Coorg. If you do have some tips please let me know. Thanks.
Thanks Subha. From Bangalore you can go to Mysore and then spend one day there. From Mysore you can go to coorg for onwards journey. If you want help with lodging/what all to do and see etc. you can drop me a mail at [email protected] with the number of days you have at hand. I can help you with a sample plan
Thank you so much. Would leave a mail soon. 🙂
A beautiful city.
I don’t recall reading the reason in the post, but why is it known as the ‘Royal City’?
Because a few hundred years ago, it was a state, a kingdom. And the royal family – the king and his family used to live in the Mysore palace and rule the kingdom from there. Actually, the descendants of the royal family still reside in a part of the palace while other parts have been opened to public.
Looks like a nice itinerary. Bummer that you can’t take photos inside Mysore Palace. I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable leaving my camera while I explored.
Don’t worry, you will get lockers to safely deposit the camera while you explore the palace.
Congratulations on your marriage! This looks like a lovely place to visit with your new wife!
hanks Tracie. When you are in love..any destination turns romantic and the first one always holds a special place in your heart..isn’t it?
So many beautiful architecture. I love the gorgeous cathedral and the temple most. I’d love to see them in person soon.
Nice and comprehensive post. Mysore has such an old world charm that it always draws you to it again and again. Whenever I visit Mysore, I always have this sense that the place is caught in a time warp.
Thank you. You are right, we have been there so many times. The first being almost a decade back. Yet the place feels untouched the same it was when we visited the first time.
I like the palaces and Chamundeshwari Temple. Your post reminded me how much India has to offer to be seen and experienced. India is still on my bucket list, waiting to be taken off it!
There is definitely so very much on offer in India. You will know once you step here and start your trip 🙂
I’ve read a few guides and accounts of visiting Mysore but this is the first one I’ve seen that included Brindavan Gardens. Really beautiful and I’d love to add this to our itinerary. I’m becoming more and more obsessed with #IncredibleIndia.
Thank you! I wonder why someone would not include Brindavan Gardens in the itinerary. Maybe because it is a little farther the city limits. But for me it is a must visit. So refreshing and beautiful
I love palaces and castles. Those would be on the top of my to do list. The Garden and fountains also look amazing. So beautiful!
It is wonderful when one single destination has it all to offer..from palaces to gardens to a small hill to some temples
I absolutely love your website.. Great colors & theme.
Did you create this amazing site yourself? Please reply
back as I’m hoping to create my own website and would like to learn where you
got this from or exactly what the theme is
named. Kudos!
Yes Amy. We have technical background. So, it was easy to setup a wordpress website.I am so happy that you liked the effort we put in. The theme is ‘hueman’. Go ahead and setup yours. We will help you out with any queries