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Immerse Yourself in Exciting Mysuru
India has captured the hearts of travellers for decades, and the country’s intoxicating appeal is on full display in Mysuru. The city formerly known as Mysore is steeped in history and opulent architecture, while walking hand in hand with modern times, claiming the title of the cleanest city in the country, and the first Wi-Fi enabled urban centre in India. As with anywhere in exotic India, a sensory overload awaits, and you can look forward to engaging all five of your senses with a dizzying array of markets, temples and outdoor sites. When you arrive, say “hello” to India with your taste buds over a steaming bowl of bisi bele bath , a Mysuru specialty of lentils and rice that will fuel any adventure, or consider stretching those sore muscles with some Ashtanga yoga. Whatever you decide, every day that you leave your hotel will already have you looking forward to the next.
Make the Most of Your Time
If your journey to Mysuru is on the short side, there are a few sites that should top everyone’s must-see list. And if you only have time for one, make it Mysuru Palace. This World Heritage-listed grand palace has it all: over-the-top colours, intricate carvings, enough stained glass for several churches, and even an armoury with an impressive display of weapons dating back to 1897. It would be hard not to imagine the Wodeyar maharajas going about their day here, and it’s worth spending a good part of your day to soak up the atmosphere of such a majestic sight. On Sundays and national holidays, nearly 100,000 lights twinkle on the already lustrous exterior. For something totally different, Devaraja Market is an exciting place to take in not only the local wares, but a good dose of local culture. Bring your bargaining skills for an exhilarating hunt that includes everything from perfume to spices and chillies. Meander through the overflowing fruit and vegetable piles, and check out the flowers that are brought in daily from the local countryside. Amongst all of the frenetic energy, don’t be surprised if you see a cow or two munching on some of the produce- nothing goes to waste here. Accommodation is plentiful near both the palace and market, and range from lodges with simple furnishings, to hotels with an international flair.
Too Many Religious Sites to Choose From
If you are planning on an extended stay and appreciate historical places of worship, does Mysuru ever have a treat for you! It seems that there is a temple, monastery, or church around every corner, with one of the best also offering a spectacular vantage point to see the city. You can easily get to the top of Chamundi Hill, where you can not only enjoy sweeping views of Mysuru, but also a visit to one of the most talked about religious sites around, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. This 12th century Hindu temple is worth fighting the crowds over- just conjure your inner Shakti, the fierce tutelary deity that the temple was named after. St. Philomena’s Church is another example of intriguing architecture, and India’s second tallest church has an equally interesting history, having been inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Neo Gothic accents are on full display here, and you might question whether you are actually in India when you step inside. And while it’s true that Mysuru is at once old-fashioned and modern, it will never be clearer than when you see a row of boutique hotels in walking distance to an ancient temple. Other notable stops on your urban pilgrimage include Chennakesava Temple, a sprawling complex where it might be possible to escape the tourist hustle and bustle, and Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery, another location with potential for quiet reflection.
Not Your Average Day
If you’d rather return home with stories of tourist attractions that are a little more unconventional, consider a stop at the Mysuru Sand Sculpture Museum. Just when you thought you had seen it all, the museum will open your eyes to art in a very unexpected form. Be sure to bring your camera for a delightful sampling of what can be made using nature’s most basic elements- sand and water. And for another out of the ordinary tale, remember that no visit to India would be complete without a brush with Bollywood. Head over to the Brindavan Gardens where you can explore some of the movie backdrops used in popular films. In addition to a worthwhile walk through the many varieties of flowers, you can also stay into the evening where you can watch the illuminated fountains dance to the tune of Bollywood classics. A stop at the Rail Museum will also provide you with some interesting facts to bring home with you, and you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience perusing the many locomotives, engines, and carriages, as well as a wood panelled saloon where royals travelled in style.