Mysore Travel Guide 2026 — Palace, Chamundi Hills, Dasara & Tips
Mysore (Mysuru), Karnataka’s royal city, is famous for its dazzling illuminated palace, silk and sandalwood, yoga heritage, and the grand Dasara festival. Clean, walkable, and rich in culture, it’s a perfect heritage getaway and a gateway to Coorg and the Nilgiris. This guide covers the best time, sights, food, and tips.
Best time to visit
October to February is pleasant; the 10-day Dasara festival (Sep–Oct) is the city’s spectacular highlight, when the palace is lit with nearly a lakh bulbs.
Top things to do
- Mysore Palace: The opulent Indo-Saracenic palace — stunning when illuminated (Sundays & festivals).
- Chamundi Hills: Temple and views over the city; the giant Nandi statue.
- Brindavan Gardens: Musical fountain show.
- St. Philomena’s Church & Devaraja Market.
- Day trips: Srirangapatna, and onward to Coorg/Wayanad.
Food & tips
- Try Mysore masala dosa, Mysore pak, and filter coffee.
- Visit the palace on a Sunday/festival evening for the illumination.
- Buy authentic Mysore silk and sandalwood from government emporiums.
- ~2 km from Bangalore by frequent trains/buses (3 hrs); nearest airport Bangalore/Mysore.
FAQs
How many days for Mysore? 1.5–2 days; more if combining with Coorg or Wayanad.
