A 3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Mysore

Monday, July 24: Exploring Mysore Palace

Begin your Mysore adventure by visiting the iconic Mysore Palace in the morning. This magnificent palace is a blend of Hindu, Gothic, Muslim, and Rajput architectural styles, and is a sight to behold. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of Mysore. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Mysore Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals including tigers, elephants, and giraffes. Spend the evening at the Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountain and beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Mysore Palace: Entrance fee - INR 50 per adult, INR 30 per child | Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mysore Zoo: Entrance fee - INR 80 per adult, INR 40 per child | Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Brindavan Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 15 per person | Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, July 25: Chamundi Hill and St. Philomena's Church

On the second day, start with a visit to Chamundi Hill in the morning. Climb the 1,000 steps to reach the top and explore the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Enjoy panoramic views of Mysore from the hilltop. In the afternoon, visit the impressive St. Philomena's Church, known for its Neo-Gothic architecture. Take a moment to admire the beautiful stained glass windows and serene ambiance. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the vibrant Devaraja Market, filled with local crafts, spices, and fresh produce.

• Chamundi Hill: Free entry | Time spent - 2-3 hours
• St. Philomena's Church: Free entry (donations appreciated) | Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Devaraja Market: Cost depends on purchases | Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, July 26: Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum and Karanji Lake

On your final day, start with a visit to the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum in the morning. Marvel at the intricate sand sculptures created by talented artists. Afterwards, head to the beautiful Karanji Lake, located near the Mysore Zoo. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake and spot various bird species in the surrounding nature park. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Regional Museum of Natural History, which showcases the rich biodiversity of the region. End your Mysore trip by savoring traditional South Indian cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum: Entrance fee - INR 40 per adult, INR 20 per child | Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Karanji Lake: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Boat ride - INR 50 per person | Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Regional Museum of Natural History: Entrance fee - INR 20 per adult, INR 10 per child | Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience in Mysore, consider visiting the Folklore Museum, located within the Mysore University campus. This museum showcases traditional artifacts, costumes, and art forms from various regions of Karnataka. Another hidden gem is the Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, which houses a stunning collection of paintings by renowned Indian artists. Don't forget to sample the famous Mysore Pak, a delicious sweet made of ghee, sugar, and besan. You can find the best Mysore Pak at Guru Sweet Mart in the heart of the city.

For the best hotel and flight prices in Mysore, you can check here.