Mysore Local Sightseeing Trips

admin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 03:22:31 +0000

Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located 80 km from Mysore with several species of animals and birds. It was chosen as a tiger reserve by the WWF’s Project Tiger launched in 1973 to save the tiger. There are guided safaris so you can watch these animals in their natural habitat. The best time to catch a glimpse of wildlife is between May and October. There are also a few wildlife resorts in the area where you can stay such as Water Woods.

Brindavan Gardens

15 km from Mysore, Brindavan Gardens was constructed alongside a dam, covering several acres with manicured gardens on multi-tiered terraces. The garden and paths surround an artificial lake where visitors can take a boat ride. If you’re into dancing fountains (and who isn’t?), then you’ll love the musical fountain shows. You can get there via city bus #365, and there is a small entrance fee.

Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlements

Two generations of exiled Tibetans call India “home” at the Bylakuppe Settlements located approximately 2.5 hours from Mysore. It is a town in itself, rich with Tibetan culture that can be reached by bus, followed by a rickshaw or car ride. Artist cooperatives are scattered throughout where you can view and purchase traditional Tibetan arts and crafts.

Sera Je is Bylakuppe’s largest monastery with over 2,000 resident monks. Here you can stay at the guesthouse and be part of the morning puja if you wake early. Also, try and catch the debates that occur between the monks – these can be very interesting.

The largest Tibetan Buddhism teaching center is Namdroling monastery, which houses the Golden Temple where three golden images of Sakyamuni Buddha, Padmasambhava and Avalokitesvara have been placed facing Tibet. These statues stand approximately 40 feet tall and are made of gilded bronze. Visits to the Golden Temple can be arranged in advance by calling 822-369-4318.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

A group of islands in the Cauvery River form a bird watcher’s paradise just 18 km from Mysore. This is home to many exotic birds, some from as far away as Siberia, Australia and North America. The best time to visit is between July and September. Boats take tourists around the tiny islands to view the birds and the occasional crocodile lying about.

Places to See in Mysore

admin — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:59:32 +0000

Chamundi Hill

On the outskirts of Mysore city is Chamundi Hill. You can get there by auto-rickshaw or city bus 201. Entrance is free, but be prepared for all the vendors anxious to sell you postcards and trinkets.

You can either ride most of the way or take the 1,000 steps to the top. Along the climb, there are vantage points to park and take in the view of Mysore City. Halfway up is a 5-meter high granite statue of Nandi, Shiva’s mount. At the apex is the beautiful Gopuram of Chamundi Temple. Also, nearby are the temple of Mahabaleswara and a statue of Mahishasura, the demon slaughtered by goddess Chamundi, a form of Kali.

Government Silk Factory

Telephone: 821-248-1803
The famous Mysore silk is woven here. You can tour the factory and then visit the showroom and purchase silk at factory prices. However, you must get permission in advance in order to visit.

Government Sandalwood Oil Factory

Telephone: 821-248-3651
As with the silk factory, you must get permission in advance to visit the factory where aromatic sandalwood oil is produced.

Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery

Telephone: 821-242-3693
Built in the mid 1800s, this auditorium and pavilion have since been converted into an art gallery. Paintings of the royal family show their genealogy. Also on display is some of the personal property of the maharajas such as furniture, glass, chinaware, sculpture and musical instruments.

Lalitha Mahal Palace

Telephone: 821-247-4266
Telephone: 821-247-4268
Near the base of Chamundi Hill, is the Lalitha Mahal Palace, which was originally built for guests of the royal family. It now serves as one of the most luxurious hotels in Mysore. Occasionally, you will find yoga students visiting the pool here for the day. It is quieter than the Southern Star pool and much less of a scene, but a bit of a drive to get to.

Mysore Palace

Telephone: 821-243-4425
After the old palace was partially destroyed by fire in 1897, the new Mysore Palace was built of granite on the old foundation. The palace has a gilded dome tower and is surrounded by a large courtyard. The architecture inside the palace is amazing! Stained glass, intricately decorated domes, murals, beautiful doors, carved figures and friezes are only of few of the captivating details. One of the most prized possessions of the palace is the royal throne made of figwood, ivory, gold & silver that is only displayed during the Dasara celebration.

Every Sunday night between 7 – 8 pm and during the 10-day Dasara festival in October, Mysore Palace is lit up with thousands of white lights, almost reminiscent of a Disney attraction. People gather on the lawn on Sunday evenings to watch dance or musical events that take place at this time. The inside of the palace is open for public viewing from 10 am – 5:30 pm for a small entrance fee. Cameras and shoes are not allowed inside.

Mysore Zoo

Telephone: 821-244-0752
Just like any zoo, it’s sad yet intriguing at the same time. The zoo was started in the late 1800s and has grown into 91 acres. The tigers are quite impressive. They are huge and with a roar that will forever be imprinted in your memory. It’s open 8:30 – 5:30 pm except Tuesdays.

Rail Museum

Telephone: 821-242-8750
Established in the 1970s, the Rail Museum is a collection of royal family coaches, engines, railway signals and railway memorabilia. The museum is open 9 am – 6 pm every day except Tuesdays.

St. Philomena’s Church

Telephone: 821-256-3148
St. Philomena’s Church is one if the largest churches in India. Built in the Gothic style with beautiful stained glass windows, the church is open from 5 am – 6 pm. On the outside of the church is the entrance to an underground chamber worth exploring.

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