Mysore may be the cultural capital of Karnataka, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only place you can go to experience the state’s rich heritage and natural beauty. With its scenic mountain ranges, tranquil lakes, and pleasant weather year-round, there are many exciting places to visit in Mysore, as you can easily reach within a day, or two by road, train, and bus.

Places to visit in Mysore

There are many places to visit in Mysore. You can find ancient temples, stunning places, beautiful gardens, and many more. Here is the top five list of sites that you shouldn’t miss out on if you visit Mysore.

1. Mysore palace

Places to visit in Mysore

Mysore palace which is also known as Amba Vilas is one of the largest historical places in India. It stands as one of the best places to visit in Mysore. Indian famous festival Dussehra is celebrated in the palace following the rituals of the Wodeyar Dynasty every year in October and the palace was architectured in Indo-Saracenic style by Henry Irwin. King Krishna Rajendra Wodeyar built it in 1897 and a visit can take more than hours. Tourists are able to take in some 600 rooms and 25 galleries at their own pace viewing everything from works of art and jewelry collections to famous paintings by Italian artists.

  • How to reach: cabs, autos, and buses are available from Mysore city.
  • Entry fee: Adult: Rs 40/- per head, Children: Rs 25/- per head (7-12years), Foreigns: Rs 200/- per head
  • Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Also, visit: Hill stations near Bangalore

2. Chamundi Hills (places to visit in Mysore with families)

places to visit in mysore

The Chamundi hills in Mysore are also known as Chamundeshwari. A top of a hill rising over 1200 feet. It offers a spectacular view of the Kaveri river and lush forests for tourists and devotees alike. King Pulakesin II of Badami built it, the temple at the top of Khairatabad Hill has been rebuilt several times after natural calamities destroyed it. It built the current structure during the early 19th century. Chamundeshwari temples comprise 1000 steps from the foot of Chamundi hills.

  • How to reach: cabs, autos, and buses are available from Mysore city.
  • Entry fee: No
  • Timings: 7:30 am – 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm, 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm

3. Jaganmohan Palace

places to visit in mysore

Jaganmohan palace is one of the best tourist places in Mysore. The royal family of the Wodeyar kingdom 1869 established the Jaganmohan palace. Royal King Krishnaraja Wodeyar III built this palace as another home to stay with his family alternative to his royal residence Mysore Palace. In this palace, the gallery presents lots of exquisite pieces of artwork and antiques and some intricate masterpieces. The important artwork here is S.G Heldnkrs “Lady with the Lamp”. The famous lamp is displayed in the room on its own. The art gallery displayed 2000 more paintings of Mysore, Shantiniketan, and Mughal styles.

  • How to reach: cabs, autos, and buses are available from Mysore city.
  • Entry fee: Adult: Rs 20/- (per Head), Children: Rs 10/- (per Head)
  • Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

It is a famous tourist place in Mysore for couples, and it is at a distance of 18km from Mysore city one easily reach the place to view the beauty of nature. It is established in a wide area comprising various species of birds to attract thousands of visitors every year. It’s now home to UNESCO has declared over 150 species of birds a National Bird Sanctuary and an Important Bird Area (IBA). If you love taking photos of Exotic birds, Ranganathittu will be your paradise. The best time to visit is between November and February when migratory birds descend on the island.

  • How to reach: cabs, autos, and buses are available from Mysore.
  • Entry fee: Adult: Rs.50/-, Children’s: Rs.25/-, Foreigners: Rs.300/-
  • Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00npm

5. Brindavan Gardens (within 50kms)

It is one of the best tourist places in Mysore and was constructed in 1932 by Sir Mirza Ismail. They spread it over 60 acres of land filled with lush green landscapes, beautifully carved trees, designed plantations, fountains and many food stalls are the refreshing spot in Mysore. It is said that the project took 5 years to complete and plant the trees. Millions of tourists visit it every year. Divided into two parts north and south.

  • How to reach: cabs, autos, and buses are available from Mysore.
  • Entry fee: Adult: Rs.50/-, Children’s: Rs.25/-, Foreigners: Rs.300/-
  • Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00npm