Karnataka
Mysuru (Mysore) Travel Guide
A royal city of palaces, markets and the famed Dasara festival.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 1–2 days
Mysuru (Mysore) is a heritage city in southern Karnataka, known for the Mysore Palace, the Chamundi Hills, wide tree-lined streets and its famous Dasara festival. It was the seat of the Wadiyar rulers and is considered one of the most orderly and walkable cities in the region. Two days cover the main sights, and a third allows day trips to Srirangapatna, Somnathpura and the Brindavan Gardens.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the most comfortable season, with pleasant weather for sightseeing. The Dasara festival is held over about ten days during Navaratri, usually in September or October, and the city is at its most colourful then, with processions and illuminations; it is also very crowded, so book early and check the dates and programme. Summers are hot, and the monsoon is mild with occasional heavy showers.
How to reach
Mysuru has a small airport with limited flights, so check current services. Bengaluru's international airport is the main gateway, roughly 150 km away, followed by a road or rail journey of around three hours.
Mysuru Junction is a major railhead with frequent connections from Bengaluru, Chennai and other cities. The journey from Bengaluru takes around three hours on faster services. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available outside the station.
Mysuru is connected to Bengaluru by an expressway-standard road, and to Coorg, Ooty and Wayanad by hill and highway routes. State buses and taxis are frequent. Allow extra time on weekends and during Dasara, when traffic is heavy.
Where to stay
The city has a wide range of hotels, guesthouses and heritage-style stays, and the area around the palace and city centre is convenient for sightseeing on foot or by auto-rickshaw. Rooms fill up during Dasara and on weekends, so book early.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Mysore Palace
The grand royal palace of the Wadiyars, built in an Indo-Saracenic style, with ornate halls and a large courtyard; it is lit up on Sundays and festive days, but check current schedules.
- 2
Chamundi Hills
A hill above the city with the Chamundeshwari Temple and a large Nandi bull statue on the way, offering views over Mysuru.
- 3
Dasara festival
A ten-day celebration around Navaratri, ending with Vijayadashami and a grand procession, with cultural programmes and illuminations across the city.
- 4
Brindavan Gardens
Terraced gardens below the Krishnaraja Sagara dam, known for their layout and the evening musical fountain; check opening details before going.
- 5
Devaraja Market
An old market of flowers, fruit, spices, incense and sandalwood goods, good for colour, smells and souvenirs.
- 6
Srirangapatna and Somnathpura
Day trips to the island town of Srirangapatna, with its temples and Tipu Sultan sites, and to the Hoysala temple at Somnathpura.
Food to try
Mysore pak, a rich sweet made with gram flour, ghee and sugar, is the best-known local treat. Try Mysore masala dosa, idli with chutney, simple vegetarian thalis and filter coffee. Look for clean, busy eateries, and ask about spice levels if you prefer milder food.
Travel tips
- During Dasara, book transport, rooms and any event tickets well in advance, and expect large crowds.
- Follow the rules at the palace and temples, which may restrict footwear, bags and photography, and dress modestly at places of worship.
- Use official taxis or metered autos, and agree on fares in advance if there is no meter.
- Carry back your waste, and avoid single-use plastic at the Chamundi Hills and other sights.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Mysuru?
Two days cover the palace, Chamundi Hills, the market and the main city sights. A third day allows Srirangapatna, Somnathpura or Brindavan Gardens.
When is the Mysuru Dasara festival?
It takes place during Navaratri, a ten-day period usually in September or October, ending with Vijayadashami. The dates vary every year, so check the official Karnataka announcements.
How far is Mysuru from Bengaluru?
It is roughly 150 km, about three hours by road or rail, depending on traffic and the train you take. Check the current options before you go.
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.