Hello from the Mysore (or Mysuru) side, and welcome to the ultimate Mysore travel guide! The city of Mysore teems with historical anecdotes and cultural elegance that seamlessly blends with its modern charm. The city’s charming streets, grand colonial architecture, bustling markets, and culinary delights echo its royal legacy. Mysore is a vibrant canvas of lively festivals, ornate handicrafts, and lush gardens that are a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, a gastronomical adventure, or a serene getaway, Mysore is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.

And with this guide, you’re all set to uncover the wonders of this enchanting city.

Aerial view of the Mysore city and the glowing Mysore palace

Best Time to Visit Mysore

The best time to visit Mysore is Winter, from October to March, when temperatures can drop to a pleasant 15 degrees Celsius. The city's vibrant festivals during this period also add to its overall charm. 

Alternatively, the Monsoon season from July to September is also an excellent time to visit, with Mysore's weather turning refreshingly pleasant.

The weather in Mysore heats up between April and June, making it relatively challenging to explore the city. 

Just Mysore Things: What Mysore is famous for

While this charming city is known for many things, here are some of the most popular things Mysore is famous for:

• Mysore Masala Dosa: Imagine being named after a dosa? Just kidding. Mysore Masala Dosa is made for spice lovers. It’s a thin, crispy dosa smothered in a fiery red chutney filled with savoury potato masala. Are you drooling yet?

Where to try: Original Vinayaka Mylari

• Mysore Pak: This decadent delicacy doles out a delicious flavour loved far and wide. Made with just gram flour, sugar, and ghee, Mysore Pak packs a punch of flavour that's simply unforgettable.

Where to try: Guru Sweet Mart

The mouthwatering Mysore Pak

• Mysore Sandalwood: Mysore is a paradise for sandalwood! As one of the largest producers of this fragrant wood, the city offers an aromatic array of sandalwood products, like luxurious soaps and oils and aromatic incense sticks.

Where to try & buy: You can learn about the history and cultivation of Mysore Sandalwood at India’s first Sandalwood Museum.

• Mysore Silk: This is the ultimate treasure for anyone lucky enough to snag one. Made of mulberry silk, these dazzling drapes add a touch of elegance to any wardrobe and are a must-have!

Where to try & buy: Government-run Cauvery Emporiums or Mysore Saree Udyog

Places to Visit in Mysore

With a rich royal history from the Chalukyas and Vijayanagar kings, Mysore has a plethora of sights that’ll wow you. Here’s what you can add to your places to visit in Mysore list: 

• St Philomena’s Cathedral: Set 5 km from the city centre, this cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in India. It is built in the neo-gothic architecture style and has an intricately crafted exterior and stained-glass windows. 

Timings: 8 am to 8 pm

The fascinating facade of the St. Philomena's Cathedral

• Jaganmohan Palace: Once a royal auditorium, this place now dazzles as an art gallery featuring stunning paintings and artefacts by notable Indian artists like Raja Ravi Varma, traditional Japanese art, and rare musical instruments. The palace's intricate carvings make it an architectural marvel you won't want to miss! It’s only a stone’s throw from the city centre and a 10-min drive from our Zostel Mysore!

Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Ticket: 150 INR per person

• Mysuru (Mysore) Palace: Also known as Amba Vilas Palace, Mysore Palace is the crown jewel of all Mysore tourist attractions. Just 4 km from the city centre, this three-story wonder, rocking the Indo-Saracenic style, flaunts ornate ceilings, dome-covered pillars, and dazzling stained glass. But the real magic happens during Dasara when it lights up with thousands of lights, making for an epic sight!

Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Ticket: 50 INR per person

The Iconic Mysore Palace overlooking a riot of pink blossoms

• Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya: Step back in time and visit the Wellington Lodge! Once the residence of Colonel Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, and the hero who defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. Only a short drive from Mysore city centre, this charming colonial building is now a museum displaying ancient artefacts, vibrant textiles, and extraordinary terracotta sculptures. 

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm (Close on Mondays and National Holidays)

• Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum: This quirky museum is home to sculptures and artworks made entirely from sand! Drop by on your way to the revered Chamundi Hill, just a 14-min drive away.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry Ticket: 40 INR per person

Things to Do in and Around Mysore

Apart from sightseeing, there’s more to Mysore! Here’s the list of all the fun things to do in Mysore:

• Hike up 1000 steps to the Chamundi Hill: When in Mysore, you can’t miss the ancient Chamundi Temple, just a breezy 30-minute drive from the city centre. Get ready to feast your eyes on a panoramic view of the entire city and check out one of the world’s largest Nandi statues along the way.

There are two ways to the summit:

1. Hike up 1,000 steps barefoot for a spiritual (and leg day) challenge! There are plenty of refreshment spots to keep you hydrated and motivated. 
2. You can also hop on the KSRTC bus, which departs every 20 minutes from the Mysore Bus Stand, or cruise up in your vehicle.

Pro tip: Head out early to beat the crowd and snag a good parking spot. Watch out for those cheeky monkeys, and keep the place clean!

The magnificent Chamundi Hill peeking through the clouds

• Explore the age-old Devraja Market: Just a 10-min hop from the city centre and Zostel Mysore, you'll find a charming market straight out of Tipu Sultan's time! While it might not be the place for typical souvenirs, it's the ultimate spot to snap the true essence of Mysore City and its vibrant daily life. So if that’s something that strikes your fancy, then this is one of the best places to explore in Mysore.

Bonus: Spot the two clock towers near the market: Chikka Gadiyara (small tower) and Dodda Gadiyaara (bigger tower).

• Explore Brindavana Gardens: Settled beside the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, this magnificent garden is known for its 3-tiered terrace full of flower beds, well-manicured lawns, and world-class musical dancing fountains. 

Timings: 8:30 am to 9 pm, Fountain light show: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Mon-Fri) and 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Sat-Sun) 

Entry Ticket: 15 INR per person 

• Spot exotic feathered friends at Ranganathittu Birds Sanctuary: Just a 30-min drive from the city of palaces, this avian paradise is where nature puts on its finest feathered show. From elegant storks to spot-billed pelicans, every winged resident here has a story to tell. What’s more, many crocodiles also reside here. And a scenic boat ride will help you spot them. 

Timings: 6:30 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Ticket: 75 INR Per Person (100 INR per person for boating) 

• Visit the Chennakeshava Temple: Just an hour’s drive from Mysore city centre, this ancient temple is one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture. Witness the intricate craftsmanship and detailing, marvel at its over 5000 sculptures, and snap that perfect pic with its stunning backdrop. 

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Ticket: 20 INR per person

The intricate stone carvings of the ancient Chennakeshava Temple

Best Restaurants in Mysore 

Your search for the best restaurants in Mysore ends here because we’ve got you a whole list. From lip-smacking delicacies to desserts and drinks, Mysore has a culinary fiesta waiting for you! 

• Hotel Sri Durga Bhavan: Drop by this charming little restaurant for a soul-stirring vegetarian breakfast. Every bite is a comforting start to your day, from fluffy idlis to crispy dosas and aromatic sambar.

Must Try: Mysore bisibele bath, Idly vada, Dosa, Mangalore buns 

Cost for two: 200 INR

• Tegu Mess: This hole-in-the-wall Maharashtrian restaurant serves a whole world of flavours, with its spicy curries paired with steaming idlis. (They don’t serve vegetarian options.) Plus, it’s only within walking distance of Zostel Mysore.

Timings: 6:30 am to 3:30 pm, 7 pm to 10:30 pm (closed on Mondays)

Must try: Chilli chicken curry, pepper chicken curry, and mutton keema.

Cost for two: 400 INR

• Original Vinayaka Mylari: This humble haunt has served steaming Mylari dosas for the past century. After you try that, you can also indulge in some flavourful masala dosas and idlis. It is hands down one of the best restaurants in Mysore. (Note: Many restaurants are going by this name, so count on the locals to point out the real deal.)

Timings: Serves breakfast between 6:35 am to 1:30 pm (closed on Wednesdays)

Must try: Mylari dosa, Roast Dosa, and Sagu Dosa.

Cost for two: 100 INR 

A steaming platter of Mysore Masala Dosa 

• Guru Sweet Mart: Did you even visit Mysore if you didn’t try Mysore Pak or Mesu Pak? Head to Guru Sweet Mart, where the fifth generation of the original inventor is still crafting this iconic treat!

Timings: 8:30 am to 10:30 pm (Mon-Sat) and 8:30 am to 3 pm (Tues)

Must try: Mysore Pak

• Hotel Hanumanthu: This little gem serves up pulavs and biryanis so delicious that people happily queue for them. No joke, there's always a line, but the flavours are totally worth the wait!

Timings: 10 am to 12 am (Mon), 7 am to 10 pm (Tues-Fri), 7:30 am to 8 pm (Sat), and 6:30 am to 10 pm (Sun)

Must try: Nati Kodi Pulav and Mutton Pulav

Cost for two: 550 INR  

Best Pub in Mysore

If you’re looking to chill and wash down the lip-smacking Mysore-special fare with some freshly made cocktails, we’ve got you with the best pub in Mysore: 

• Pelican Pub: This minimalistic pub oozes timeless charm with its classic furnishing and indoor and garden seating. Drop by for chilled draught beers and delicious bites that won't break the bank.

Cost for two: 900 INR

• Infinit: Enjoy a multicuisine fare with chilled drinks and the city view at this cosy rooftop bar.

Cost for two: 1000 INR 

About Zostel Mysore 

Are you looking for a hostel in Mysore? You’ve found it! Zostel Mysore invites you to dive into an adventure full of relaxation and fun. Tucked away in a tranquil bylane of Gokulam, Zostel Mysore offers a serene retreat in the city of palaces. The hostel boasts cosy work and living spaces, numerous seating areas, and a lively rooftop lounge. For all the aspiring chefs, our community kitchen is all set for you to cook up a storm. And don’t forget to explore Mysore’s decadent culinary delights. Crack open a good book and relax, or head to the common room to chat with fellow backpackers and join them on exciting explorations of the city.

Check out Zostel Mysore. 

The facade, outdoor seating area, and the community kitchen at Zostel Mysore

The rooftop seating area, dorm room, and private room at Zostel Mysore

Whether planning a weekend trip or looking for places to visit in Mysore in 1 day, let our guide to the palace city lead the way!