Historical Karnataka

THINGS TO DO IN MYSORE, RECOMMENDED BY THE LOCALS

Mysore does not seem like much on first glance. Quite like the people of the city, who seem to be in no hurry to do anything, everything in Mysore seems to be understated. Until you take a closer look, i.e. . The city centre may seem crowded like any other Indian city but you only have to travel a couple of kilometers into the residential areas to see why Mysoreans live a charmed life. Not every city in India boasts of tree lined boulevards along wide roads everywhere you go, which happen to be sparklingly clean, more often than not.

Maharajas of the Wodeyar dynasty have been lording it over the people of Mysore since 1399 when King Yaduraya first claimed the site and built a palace. Being born to such a lineage can be considered a blessing or a curse depending on how you view such things but the various incarnations of palace buildings, culminating in the present day grand opulence are surely recompense for any of the more onerous aspects attached to those fated to rule. 

We are standing inside one of the five entrances to what is now the most visited building in India after the Taj Mahal. Six million visitors a year become 6 million and 15 as we make our way to the turn stile and shoe depository - bare feet are necessary as it seems verucas haven't sufficiently gotten a hold in India so far and need a little helping hand - or foot! We are joined by a new guide Mr Ramish who we've been warned is somewhat humourless and serious. If we step out of line he is likely morph into bossy Maharaja mode! 

We move into the main hall. It's huge with a central glass dome decorated with what look like peacock tail feather designs. Much of the object d'art decorative features come from Europe; marble from Italy and chandeliers from Venice for example. The outer walls include 29 mural paintings, mostly of battalions of soldiers in their red coats. One is of the Scottish band and pipers, another shows the state carriage and accompanying bullock cart and there is even one with an ambulance carriage with a red cross on the side. To show the acceptance of the Maharaja's rule by everyone there's a painting of St Philomena's Church with 'God bless the Maharaja' written above the entrance gate.

CHAMUNDI HILLS

After a heady day out around Mysore, ride atop the Chamundi Hills and watch the city turn on the lights to welcome in the night. It gets even more surreal on a Sunday night to watch the palace lighting from the top of the hills.

After Chamundi View you may stay there for Evening light up of Mysore Palace or head towards Brindavan Garden 

 Brindavan Gardens of Mysore is undeniably one of the best terrace gardens in the world. A must sightseeing place of a Mysore tour, Brindavan Garden mesmerizes everyone. It is located about 12km towards the north west of the Mysore city. Brindavan gardens with its illuminated fountains, botanical park, extensive varieties of plants and fulfilled boating, is place for everyone.

Especially famous for its symmetric design and illuminate terrace gardens, Brindavan Gardens was built by Sir Mirza Ismail, the then diwan of Mysore state. He was the brain behind its modelling and conceptualization. Spread across an area of more than 60 acres, this garden is laid out in three terraces, and ends in a horseshoe shape.

                                                                Night Light Show

All these are just some of the offbeat things to do in Mysore. To get the real essence of Mysore, we recommend at least a few days walking around the streets and hanging around the small cafes in the city centre.