Leave early from Bangalore via NH275 / Mysore Road to avoid city traffic; the drive normally takes about 3–3.5 hours depending on traffic. This gives you a full first afternoon in Mysore.
Short stop to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple (and the large Nandi statue viewpoint) — kids enjoy the view and the climb/steps are an adventure; temple usually open mornings (approx 6:00am–12:30pm).
Check in to your hotel and have a kid-friendly lunch of famous soft dosas and mild chutneys at Vinayaka Mylari (simple, quick, and popular with families).
Explore the grand Mysore Palace interior and the surrounding grounds — a highlight for children because of the ornate rooms and royal artifacts; palace visiting hours are typically 10:00am–5:30pm (confirm current timings before you go).
Walk through the colourful Devaraja Market to see spices, flowers and local snacks — sensory and fun for kids, and a good spot to buy Mysore souvenirs and sweets.
Drive ~30–40 minutes to Brindavan Gardens for the evening musical fountain show (garden open typically till ~9:00pm; fountain show usually around 7:00–8:30pm depending on season). This is magical for children; plan travel time back to Mysore afterward.
Spend the morning at Mysore Zoo which is very kid-friendly with a good collection of animals, an informative layout and often a toy-train or battery-operated carts for children; typical opening hours ~8:30am–5:30pm (closed day varies — check in advance).
Lunch at a family-friendly spot near the zoo; Hotel RRR serves a range of South Indian and Andhra food, or choose a hotel buffet for variety — good choices for fussy eaters and kids.
Head to Karanji Lake for a relaxed afternoon of boating, the butterfly park and the small nature trail — excellent for children who enjoy birds, fish and gentle outdoor play; park usually open daytime until late afternoon (often ~6:00pm).
Visit the small but charming Rail Museum with historic locomotives and carriages that thrill young train-lovers; typical opening around 9:30am–5:00pm (confirm day/time before visiting).
Family-friendly dinner with local items like Mysore masala dosa or mild curries; choose a restaurant with a children’s menu or return to your hotel for easier, familiar options.
Drive ~30–45 minutes to Ranganathittu for the best bird activity and safe, guided boat rides — early morning is ideal for sightings and cooler temperatures (sanctuary best visited early; boat rides operate mainly in the morning and late afternoon).
Take a short boat safari to see pelicans, storks, kingfishers and other birds — children love the small boats and the close-up views; boat rides usually charged per person/boat and operate from early morning to late morning (confirm schedule locally).
A quick visit to this striking Gothic-style cathedral — visually impressive for children to see stained glass and tall spires; generally open during the day for visitors.
Drive back to Bangalore along NH275; with an afternoon start you'll miss the earliest traffic but still reach Bangalore in the late afternoon (approx 3–4 hour drive depending on traffic).