If you're planning a 5-day itinerary for Mysore, here's a suggested breakdown of activities and attractions to explore:
Day 1:
Mysore Palace: Start your trip by visiting the iconic Mysore Palace, a splendid architectural masterpiece. Explore the opulent interiors and witness the grandeur of the palace. Don't miss the evening illumination, when the palace is beautifully lit up.
Devaraja Market: After visiting the palace, head to Devaraja Market, a bustling local market where you can experience the vibrant colors, flavors, and aromas of Mysore. You'll find a variety of fruits, vegetables, spices, and traditional crafts.
Day 2:
Chamundeshwari Temple: Begin your day by visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop the Chamundi Hills. Enjoy panoramic views of Mysore from the hilltop and explore the temple dedicated to the goddess Chamundeshwari.
Mysore Zoo: Next, visit the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India. It houses a diverse range of animals and is known for its conservation efforts. Spend the afternoon exploring the zoo and observing the fascinating wildlife.
Day 3:
Brindavan Gardens: Take a day trip to the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, located near the Krishnarajasagara Dam. Enjoy the well-manicured gardens, musical fountains, and boating in the adjoining lake. The gardens are especially beautiful in the evening when the fountains are illuminated.
Srirangapatna: On your way back from Brindavan Gardens, make a stop at Srirangapatna, an island town steeped in history. Visit the Ranganathaswamy Temple, the Daria Daulat Bagh (Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace), and the Gumbaz (mausoleum of Tipu Sultan).
Day 4:
St. Philomena's Church: Begin your day by visiting St. Philomena's Church, a magnificent neo-Gothic style church known for its striking architecture. Explore the interiors and learn about its rich history.
Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery: Next, head to the Jaganmohan Palace, an erstwhile royal palace which now houses an art gallery. Admire the collection of traditional Mysore paintings and other works of art.
Day 5:
KRS Dam: Start your day by visiting the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam, a major water reservoir built across the Cauvery River. Enjoy the scenic beauty, take a walk along the dam, and capture some memorable photographs.
Rail Museum: Conclude your trip by visiting the Rail Museum, which showcases the heritage and history of Indian Railways. Explore the vintage locomotives, carriages, and other exhibits to learn about the fascinating evolution of rail transportation in India.
Please note that this itinerary provides a general overview of the attractions in Mysore, and you can adjust it based on your preferences and the time you want to spend at each location.