In Mysore for a week as a visitor? Here are some really amazing things you can do in this heritage city. Mysore served as the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore for almost 6 centuries. It has a very interesting history and is one of the major tourist attractions of the state of Karnataka.
Chaat with a twist
If you are wondering what is the difference between the normal ones and this, then, while the normal pani puri walas offer the masala fluid with boiled green peas, diced onions, diced carrots, minced coriander leaves and the classic Pani, the Bangarpet variant offers the Bangarpet Pani – transparent chilli water. The taste is incredible. The tangy, spicy taste of the water will make you ask for more.
PS: Mind the chilli water. Very, very hot!
Ride to the Chamundi Hills
The chamundi hills takes after the temple on top of the hills that is dedicated to goddess chamundi. Goddess Chamundi is considered to the deity of power, who is responsible for the triumph of good over evil in the city. It has always been a destination of historical importance, but off late, this place had become a tourist attraction. The ride to the top makes for most part of the fun. You can easily rent a bike in Mysore from Wheelstreet. Pray to the god of strength and also enjoy some mouth-watering snacks. The view of the entire city makes for a spectacular experience, especially so, when the Palace is lit up.
The Royal Mysore palace
Mysore’s pride is its palace. It was ruled by the Wadiyar Dynasty until India’s independence when it got incorporated into the Dominion of India. Mysore palace has 4 gates from which you can enter into the premises. The palace is now a tourist attraction. The last ruler was Jayachamaraja Wadiyar and the current titular monarchy is Yaduveera Chamaraja Wadiyar. This palace is majestic to look at. It was royalty written all over it. In fact, Mysore palace is the 2nd most famous tourist attraction, after Taj Mahal, in India with more than 6 million visitors annually. Zoom around the palace for time that it is lit up, on a bike.
Mysore Masala Dosas
When a dish is named after the city, it is understood that it has to be that good. The masala dosas are available is almost every nook and corner, on almost all major streets. Everyone one of these stalls/eateries have their own unique taste. In fact, this dish is as flexible as it is tasty, as you can have it for breakfast, lunch, dinner and also as evening snacks.
Brindavan Gardens & KRS Dam
The Brindavan gardens is located in Mysore Karnataka. As, you can guess by its name, it is a huge garden, covering 60 acres of land. It is currently being maintained by Cauvery Niravari Nigama. Huge stretch of lush greenery and trees, this garden is a hot tourist destination in the city of Mysore. This was recently renovated in 2005. It hosts around 2 million tourists every year. This is on the list of every foreigner visiting India, that is how well maintained this place is and definitely calls to be visited atleast once. While you are here, make it a point to visit the KRS dam, which has been popularized in many Indian movies.
Visit Ranganathittu Bird sanctury
Located 16kms away from Mysore, is Karnataka state’s largest bird sanctuary – Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Situated on the banks of the river Kaveri, it comprises of 6 islets within the sanctuary that spans over 40 acres. The sanctuary is filled with flora and fauna. Ranger guided boat tours are available on all working days. Since the sanctuary is just a few hours away from the city centre, people usually rent a bike in Mysore and ride to the location.