Spending a few days in the heritage corridor of Mysuru is interesting since there are a lot of things to do here. Many of the attractions in Mysuru give visitors a perfect glimpse into the rich legacy of Karnataka's art. But somehow I feel that the city has remained limited within the shackles of its royalty and palaces. Wherein reality there is much more to Mysuru than this. Let us explore it beyond the heritage buildings.
Mysore Zoo: Mysore Zoo is the second most frequented attraction for the tourists visiting the city after Mysore Palace. Located within an area of 157 acre, this Zoo is counted amongst the world's oldest Zoo that exist today. Currently, the Zoo abodes approximately 1,450 specimen of animals and birds consisting of 168 species from more than 25 countries.
Also known as Shri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, this century old Zoo initially was designed as a private facility for the Royals. The entry of the public was allowed only in 1920.
The zoo remains open on all days between 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM except Tuesday
Visitors will need to pay a nominal charge to use the camera along with ticket pricing
Camera Fee: Still Camera Free – Rs. 20/-. Video Camera – Rs. 150/-
Ticket: Battery Operated Vehicle: Rs 150 per adult, Rs 75 for senior citizens, Rs 50 for children 5-12 years.
Brindavan Garden: Spread across 60 acres, this beautifully landscaped Brindavan Gardens is a perfect attraction for you incase you want to spend some quality time with your family.
Don't forget to get yourself clicked in front of various intricately trimmed shrubs which are shaped into varied animal species and might be that perfect spot for you to get photographed. Another thing which shouldn't be missed here is the musical fountain which apparently is quite popular amongst the tourist. It's a choreographed play of water bursts synchronised with tunes of songs and visitors come to enjoy the fountains at night, where they are displayed in their full glory.
Timings to visit the Garden: 6.30 AM to 8.00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 15/- per adults and Rs. 5/- per children between 5 and 10
Music Foundation Show timings: 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm
Rail Museum: The Mysore Railway Museum is the second such museum in the country after the National Railway Museum in Delhi, where you can get to know about the spectacular journey of the Indian railways, which spans over a period of 150 years.
The museum displays ancient steam locomotives, carriages, special purpose vehicles, wagons, telecommunication equipment and several other things related to the operation of the railways through the ages.
Previously most of the exhibits of the museums were kept at the Mysore Palace and later were shifted to their present place.
Mysore Railway museum timings are 10.00 AM to 5.30 PM. The museum remains open on all days except Monday. Entry fee for adults is said to be Rs.15 per person while for child it is Rs.10 only.
Kukkarahalli Lake: In case you are an avid bird watcher, Kukkarahalli Lake is just the right place for you. The lake attracts more than 180 types of birds during the migrating period and species like Spot-billed Pelicans, Little Cormorant, Painted Storks, Open-bill Storks, Eurasian Spoonbills, Black-crowned Night Herons and Oriental Darters can be spotted here.
The lake is used by the naval wing of the National Cadet Corps to provide boat-pulling training to its cadets for the annual boat-pulling competition. Karnataka Tourism board provides the boating facility up here at the lake. Or you can opt to walk along the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM.
Chamundi Temple: The Chamundi or Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the most famous temples in Karnataka dedicated to Devi Chamundeshwari. This 1000 years old temple is considered as one of the Shakti Peethas, located on the top of 3000 feet high Chamundi Hill and can be reached by climbing 1000 plus stairs
The magnetism for the devotees also lies in the Nandi statue, apart from the Divine Mother’s grace. The Nandi here is a beautifully sculpted granite statue which is 16 feet tall, considered to be the third largest Nandi in India.
Timings- 07.30 am - 09.00 pm. Entry is Free
St. Bartholomew’s Church: Built in 1830 during the early colonial era in India, St. Bartholomew’s Church holds the distinction of being the oldest cathedral of Mysore. The church was built in memory of Saint Bartholomew who is believed to be one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus. It was established during the reign of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, the then King of Mysore, on a piece of land gifted by the king for the holy purpose.
Standing in a serene location, the church can easily pass off as a large bungalow. But once inside, the cathedral draws attention with its lovely stained glass windows and tall pillars. The large glass windows of the church and the high dome at the end portion of the church echoes the wonderful architectural style followed in that bygone era.
Devaraja Market: Incase you want to indulge in the local flavours of Mysuru, a visit to Devaraja market is totally recommended for you. An apt place to get a flavor of the local people's daily life.
With more than 100 years of history, this market is a prominent mark of Mysuru heritage where you will find a generous mix of shops selling traditional household tools, beatle vine, banana leaves,seeds and even some souvenir stalls. Don't forget to shop some for your loved ones
Chennakesava Temple: Located on the banks of Cauvery River, Chennakesava Temple was built in 1268 by Somnatha, a general of King Narasimha III. The temple stands on a raised platform like other Hoysala temples. Chennakesava is one of the three famous & finest representations of Hoysala architecture, the other two being temples at Belur & Halebidu.
The most characteristic feature of this temple is its 16 different ceilings, each depicting a different stage of a blooming plantain (banana flower). Small and large pieces of finely carved stone chips are set in complicated patterns. One of the main highlights of this temple is the central wall space. There are images of deities decorated with heavy jewellery, bangles on every arm, towering crowns and chunky anklets. The vimana over the sanctums have greatly carved images of gods. It is one of the well known Karnataka tourist places and also one of the best places to experience Mysore Tourism.
Timings to visit this temple is 8 AM- 6 PM. Entry is Free
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