The rich and majestic city of Mysore

Mysore is the cultural capital of Karnataka. This ‘City of Palaces’ is based at the foot of Chamundi Hills. The stunning beauty and the colourful palaces are Mysore’s main claim to fame. Here is a short description of Mysore which will help you plan your forthcoming holidays.

Mysore is the perfect blend of modernity and tradition. The name Mysore is derived from ‘Mahishuru’. It was the adobe of Mahishuru, the demon god. In the year 1916, Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, the king of Mysore established the Government Soap Factory in Bangalore. And the very famous Mysore Sandal Soap came into existence. The city is known for the production of sandalwood carving, incense, bronze work and premium quality of the silk. Mysore was the former capital of Karnataka but slowly the position was given to Bangalore. But still Mysore was a major city of the state. Being one of the cleanest cities of India, Mysore is very appealing. This majestic city has experienced the rule of various dynasties. British Raj, Wodeyar dynasty, and Tipu Sultan brought changes to the city at different points in history. In the midst of strong cultural heritage and grand architecture, Mysore is a booming IT sector. In the year 2010, Mysore became the first Wi-Fi city of India.

Evidently, every year, Mysore witnesses a good crowd of tourist. The vibrant city of Mysore now has a cosmopolitan feel. Mysore hotels are available throughout the city. Even you can plan your stay in Palace turned hotel, the very popular Lalitha Mahal Palace. The palace was built in 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and it is located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills. It provides luxury stay to the guests.

Mysore is commonly known as the ‘City of Palaces’ and the most famous Palace is the Mysore Palace. Mysore Palace is situated in the heart of Mysore and also known as ‘Amba Vilas Palace’. The construction of the Palace was started in 1897 and completed in 1912. The palace is a great example of Muslim, Hindu, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture. It houses two durbar halls, meeting hall, courtyards and gardens. On Sunday night, the palace is illuminated with thousand bulbs which is a grand treat to the visitors. Brindavan Gardens, Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery, Srirangapatna, Railway Museum, Lalitha Mahal Palace, etc. are some of the very popular tourist spots of Mysore. Government Sandalwood Oil Factory also comes on the must-visit list. A perfect place to perceive the process of production of sandalwood oil and other products made of sandalwood. This 85 years old factory is a major attraction amongst the tourists. Souvenir shops for buying sandalwood items are also located in the vicinity.

Mysore is also known for its Dussehra festival and this ten-day festival attracts a lot of tourists from nearby places. However, Mysore is a year-round destination for holidaying. The pleasant climate is good for sightseeing. There are enough budget hotels in Mysore, but if you plan to visit this royal city during Dussehra, it is better to book rooms before reaching the place.

Sandeep is an experienced travel consultant, who enjoys travelling and loves to write about the destinations he has been to and shares his experience. He also writes about travel tips, world's best holiday destinations, best hotels in a destination,