Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka and the cultural capital of the state. Also known as the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore has a large number of palaces around the city to be visited. During the time of Dussehra – a 10 day festival, the entire city is dressed in great splendour and magnificence. For the locals, the festival of Dussehra is most important and is both, of royal as well as religious significance. Processions constituting of ornamented elephants, camels and horses are taken out and this is the best time to visit the city.

Mysore is famous for its most traditional sweet, the Mysore Pak. Mysore Pak is a sweet dish generally cut into rectangular pieces and is made out of Gram Flour, Sugar (or Jaggery) and lots of Ghee (clarified butter). This is a must-try and can be found all over the city. Kannada is the most widely spoken language in the city and the residents of the city are known as Mysoreans in English and Mysoorinavaru in Kannada.

Best time to visit:

Mysore can be visited throughout the year but the best time to visit is from September to March or in specifically in October when the Dussehra festival is held.

Top places to see:

Mysore Palace – One of the most beautiful Palaces located in the heart of the city is the Mysore Palace. Spacious halls, paintings and architectural magnificence adorn the halls of this palace. The palace dominates the city's skyline and is an edifice beautified by ornate domes, archways, turrets, colonnades and sculptures. The palace has a magnificent Durbar Hall with a 200 kg. Gold throne inlaid with precious stones.

Chamundi Hill – Atop the Chamundi Hill is a temple dedicated to Chamundeshwari, the consort of Lord Siva. The temple has the Nakshatramalika jewel with 30 Sanskrit slokas inscribed on it. The colossal Nandi bull stands high and 25 ft. long, carved out of a single rock.

Brindavan Gardens – The Brindavan Gardens is one of the most beautiful gardens in Mysore and a center of tourist attraction. The terraced Brindavan Gardens, with swirling fountains and illuminated by myriad colorful lights, looks like a fairy land. This garden is also open for boating facilities.

Mysore Zoo –One of the main tourist attractions is the Mysore Zoo. The zoo has an excellent collection of animals, a beautiful outdoor stage, a colourful setting with the Chamundi Hills as its background and a contrived lake on its premises.

Lalitha Mahal – This beautiful palace stands to the east of the city and was named as the ‘Summer Palace’. It stands at the highest point commanding a magnificent panoramic view of the city. At present, it serves as a Five Star Hotel.