Located in the Indian state of Karnataka, Mysore was the former capital of this region. A city of palaces, people and smells, the princely city of Mysore is worth a visit whatever the month or season. Mysore is a dream city that never lets down the visitors with its clean, light and easygoing environment. Even with the growth of the city in response to modernization, Mysore has acquired only a mild change of pace. Mysore is well known for its handicraft products that range from silk, ivory and sandalwood goods. Handicraft products are major contributors towards the commerce of the city therefore Mysore houses a number of significant handicraft retailing stores and factories on its outskirts.
Well known for its palaces and gardens, Mysore lies in close proximity with a lot of places of interest – such as Srirangapatnam and Krishna Raja Sagara Dam. This erstwhile capital of the Maharajas of Mysore still restores an old world charm which makes it an interesting tourism destination.
Attraction in Mysore
Chamundi Hills - Forming the backdrop of the city is the 1,100-feet-high Chamundi Hill. On the top of the hill stands the temple dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal family's patron deity. the temple stands the huge statue of Mahishasura, the demon slain by the Goddess. Halfway up along the stone steps stands the majestic 4.8-metre monolith of Nandi the Bull, Lord Shiva's chosen mount.
Brindavan Gardens - A half-hour's drive from the city takes you to the Brindavan Gardens. The well-manicured steps of these world famous terrace gardens are bordered by watercourses. Musical fountains with soft coloured lights add to the visitor's delight. The view of the gardens during the nights is a thing to be seen.
Mysore Palace - The main palace building is made of massive grey granite with a tower covered by a gilded dome. Colours abound the palace architecture. The huge rooms and the floor tiles are covered with colours like turquoise blue, magenta, golden yellow and leaf green. The central hall, incredible in its beauty, was used for marriages and other major gatherings. A temple is also situated within the royal courtyard. The Dussehra procession, an annual affair in the city in the month of October, starts from here.
Mysore Zoo - The zoo was set up in the 19th century under royal patronage. It houses rare and exotic species of fauna in its lush green surroundings. The zoo is known for breeding some of the rarest animals in captivity.
Jagmohan Palace - The palace was converted to an art gallery in 1875 and exhibits paintings dating back to that period. It displays the famous Mysore golden leaf styled paintings. It has the collection of the paintings of the late 19th century, including the paintings of Raja Ravi Verma of Travancore and the Russian Painter Svetoslav Roerich.
Climate - Mysore boasts of warm summers and cool winters and a pleasant season throughout the year.
How to reach By Air - The nearest airport to Mysore is Bangalore Airport, 140 km away from here that has domestic flights throughout India.
By Rail - Mysore railway station is connected to Bangalore and Chennai. Major railhead is Bangalore which has trains from important places of India.
By Road - A good network of roads connects Mysore with Bangalore, Hassan, Ooty and other cities of India.
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