Mysore isn’t just about its palaces and temples—it’s a city full of immersive cultural, culinary, and heritage experiences. From royal rituals to spice-scented markets and age-old yoga traditions, Mysore invites you to dive deeper into its vibrant soul. Here are the must-have experiences to enjoy in Mysore.
1. Witness the Mysore Palace Illumination
Why visit: Seeing the grand Mysore Palace lit up with over 97,000 bulbs is a magical spectacle and a city tradition.
Highlights: Full palace lighting on Sundays and public holidays – Perfect for photos – Accompanied by live music during festivals
Timing: 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (Sundays and holidays)
Entry: Free (palace entry charges apply during day)
Photo by Chaitanya Rayampally on Unsplash
2. Climb the 1,000 Steps to Chamundi Hill
Why visit: A spiritual and physical journey that rewards you with blessings and panoramic views of Mysore.
Highlights: Ancient stone steps – Nandi bull statue midway – Peaceful temple ambiance
Timing: Early morning or late afternoon recommended
Entry: Free (₹30–₹100 for special darshan)
3. Take a Heritage Walk in the Old City
Why visit: Discover Mysore’s colonial past, local bazaars, and quiet lanes with heritage architecture and traditional homes.
Highlights: Devaraja Market – Agrahara neighborhoods – Guide-led or self-paced
Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM or 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free (guided walks ₹300–₹500)
Photo by Antoine Similon on Unsplash
4. Enjoy a Traditional Mysore Thali
Why visit: A must for food lovers—taste a variety of dishes in one meal, served on a banana leaf with local flavors.
Highlights: Bisibele bath, kosambari, Mysore pak – Served in hotels like RRR, Mylari, and Dasaprakash – Authentic and satisfying
Timing: Lunch hours (12:00 PM to 3:00 PM)
Entry: ₹200–₹400 per thali
5. Explore the Royal Car Collection at Rail Museum
Why visit: Discover the luxurious way Mysore royalty traveled, along with interactive exhibits for kids.
Highlights: Maharani's saloon – Vintage steam engines – Toy train ride
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry: ₹50 for adults, ₹20 for children
6. Shop for Sandalwood and Silk
Why visit: Mysore is famous for its fragrant sandalwood products and fine Mysore silk sarees—perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Highlights: Government Sandalwood Oil Factory – KSIC Mysore Silk showroom – Local boutiques and co-op stores
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free (shopping costs vary)
7. Take a Yoga Class in the Birthplace of Ashtanga
Why visit: Mysore is globally recognized for its yoga schools—especially Ashtanga yoga, taught by the lineage of Pattabhi Jois.
Highlights: Short courses and drop-in classes – Morning Mysore-style sessions – Authentic, teacher-led instruction
Timing: Varies by school (early mornings preferred)
Entry: ₹300–₹1,000 per session
8. Boat at Karanji Lake
Why visit: Relax on the water and enjoy the natural beauty of Mysore at this peaceful urban lake.
Highlights: Boating – Butterfly park – Aviary with exotic birds
Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry: ₹10–₹50 depending on activities
9. Attend the Dussehra Festival (if visiting in October)
Why visit: Mysore Dasara is Karnataka’s most celebrated event, featuring grand processions, cultural shows, and palace festivities.
Highlights: Jumbo Savari elephant parade – Torchlight parade – Cultural performances at palace grounds
Timing: 10-day festival in September/October
Entry: Free (seating at events may be ticketed)
10. Try Authentic Mysore Pak from Original Vendors
Why visit: This melt-in-your-mouth sweet originated in Mysore, and tasting it fresh is a must-do for every visitor.
Highlights: Guru Sweets or Sri Krishna Sweets – Ghee-rich and grainy texture – Available in boxes to take home
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹300 per box
Food Photography Stock photos by Vecteezy
Feature Image:- Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash
