Soaring to a height of over 1,036 meters (3,400 feet), the Chamundi Hills is a revered religious site that is home to the famous Chamundeshwari Temple of Mysore. Several worshipers come here to pay a visit to the temple, and to see the grandiose statue of Mahishasura and the stunning monolith of Nandi, the bull. While on their way, tourists have to climb the 1000 odd steps on the Chamundi Hills which lead to the temple. The hills are not just frequented for the temple but also to catch the wonderful views of Mysore city, which is nestled at its foothills. The Chamundi Hills is a thriving tourist destination especially during the Dasara festival when local festivities and celebrations take center stage.
Mysore Palace is the prime attraction of Mysore, a city renowned as The City of Palaces. Exhibiting a marked architectural blend of Rajput, Mughal and Gothic traditions, this historic monument is visited by people from all around the globe. Built in the late 19th Century, the palace served as the official residence of the Wodeyar royal family. Several unique rooms, temples and a wedding hall can be found inside the gigantic three-story structure. The interiors are adorned with old relics, artillery, furniture, paintings and more while the picturesque garden landscape completes the aesthetics from outside. The illuminated palace is a sight of unmatched beauty on Saturdays and Sundays. This architectural marvel is definitely a sight to watch and is one of the most visited sites in the country. Keep in mind that the entry fee is different for foreign visitors and photography only from outside.
Located at a distance of 19 kilometers (12 miles) from Mysore city, this historic town is often visited along with its high profile neighbor. The town is famous for the Lord Vishnu temple known as Ranganathaswamy Temple, a marvelous piece of history in itself. Other major sites in this small town are The Mausoleum of Tipu Sultan, Daria Daulat Gardens and Rangantittu Bird Sanctuary. Shivanasamudra waterfalls is another spectacle that should not be missed when around. Do visit this beautiful piece of land carved by River Kaveri.
Commonly known as Mysore Zoo, this is a prominent site for tourists in the city. The zoo is home to a large number of wild species including African elephants, green anacondas, zebras and lions. The scenic lake located adjacent to the zoo is home to a wide range of migratory birds. Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens also houses a library, a museum with stuffed animals, and a library. It is good to know that the authorities take initiatives to impart knowledge about preserving wild life to the masses. Closed on Tuesdays, this is an ideal location to unwind in Mysore.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the major abodes of Lord Vishnu in South India. With very distinct exteriors, where the compound wall looks like a fort, one can find a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagar traditions of architecture. The sculptural detailing and the ornate walls portray stellar nuances of craftsmanship. The unique posture of the deity is also one of the reasons for the temple's popularity - the deity is seen relaxing on a huge serpent. A number of other shrines can also be found in and around the temple. A visit to this temple will help one appreciate the brilliant patronage of architecture by the former rulers of Mysore.
Located on the banks of River Kaveri, this tiny conglomerate of six islands have become the haven of a large variety of bird species including migratory birds. Painted Storks are one of the major attraction here with incidents of spotting over 1000 of the species in one season. Ibis, Kingfishers and Egrets can also be spotted in abundance along with a few species of animals and rare plants. The sanctuary is located 16 kilometers (ten miles) from Mysore city center and can be easily reached via road. Call Karnataka Tourist Facility at +91 80 2235 2901 for details.
Opened in 2012, this aviary is the brainchild of Dr.Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, the chief of Avadhoota Datta Peetham. Located at the base of the Chamundi Hills, Shuka Vana is a paradise for bird lovers, especially parrots. Acting as a rehabilitation facility as well for these feathered creatures, it houses not only the Swami's collection of exotic, rare birds, but also those that were rescued, abandoned and endangered. This free-flight aviary that is 50 meters (164.04 feet) in height, is home to about 2100 birds including 468 different varieties. The Guinness Book of World Records holder for the 'most kinds of birds in a bird sanctuary,' is an enchanting place to see these gorgeous beings. Scores of macaws, parakeets, cockatoos, amazon parrots and other colorful types of parrots from across the globe will mesmerize you. The rehabilitation center gives an insight into the cruelty of the pet industry. The birds here are enclosed in cages due to injury or ill-treatment. After the recovery, they are made a part of the aviary. Stroll through the aviary to feed these magnificent birds, catch them flying and enjoy their happy chirping.
This spiritual destination is visited by large number of devotees of guru Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda. The secret behind the mass appeal of the place is the healing properties of the meditation techniques (accompanied with music) practiced by the guru. The ashram represents a more global gospel where people from all religions and faiths can pray together in the hall designated exclusively for this. Do visit Avadhoota Datta Peetham to experience the unique and diverse spiritual practices of the country.
Soaring to a height of over 1,036 meters (3,400 feet), the Chamundi Hills is a revered religious site that is home to the famous Chamundeshwari Temple of Mysore. Several worshipers come here to pay a visit to the temple, and to see the grandiose statue of Mahishasura and the stunning monolith of Nandi, the bull. While on their way, tourists have to climb the 1000 odd steps on the Chamundi Hills which lead to the temple. The hills are not just frequented for the temple but also to catch the wonderful views of Mysore city, which is nestled at its foothills. The Chamundi Hills is a thriving tourist destination especially during the Dasara festival when local festivities and celebrations take center stage.
Built in the 13th Century, the Chennakesava temple, better known as the Keshava Temple was one of the last temples built during the Hoysala period. Located in a small village known as Somanathapura, this ancient temple features stunning rock sculptures of deities all over the temple's exterior. The beautiful temple stands on a star shaped platform built within the temple premises. Well worth a visit to view the amazing sculpture.