Start your first day in Mysore by visiting the Mysore Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture that was once the seat of the Wadiyar dynasty. Learn about the history of Mysore as you walk through the gilded halls and admire the intricate carvings and artwork. After a leisurely lunch at Gufha Restaurant with its cave-like decor, visit the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery to view a collection of rare paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. End your day by taking in a traditional music and dance performance at the Mysore Palace.
Begin your day with a visit to the Chamundeshwari Temple, an ancient hilltop shrine dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Take in breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills from the temple's vantage point. After a hearty lunch at Oyster Bay, head to the Zoo, one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, to see a wide range of animals including tigers, lions, elephants, and giraffes. End your day with a peaceful stroll through the Brindavan Gardens, a landscaped park with fountains and illuminated musical fountains.
Start your day by experiencing a slice of local life at Devaraja Market, a vibrant bazaar where you can find everything from spices and textiles to fruits and flowers. Afterward, visit the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum to see intricate sculptures made of sand. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Royal Orchid Metropole, an ancient heritage hotel that still retains its old-world charm. In the afternoon, learn about the history of Mysore's silk industry at the Mysore Silk Factory and Museum, and take home some of the city's famous silk sarees and scarves. End your day with a visit to the iconic St. Philomena's Church, a neo-gothic cathedral that is a testament to Mysore's history of religious tolerance.
Take a day trip to the nearby hill station of Coorg, known for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty. After a winding drive through the hills, visit the Namdroling Monastery, a vibrant Tibetan Buddhist temple complex with ornate decorations and colorful prayer flags. Enjoy a traditional lunch at Coorg Cuisine, a restaurant offering local delicacies like pandi curry and bamboo shoot pickle. Next, visit the Abbey Falls, a 70-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. On your way back to Mysore, stop at the Dubare Elephant Camp to get up close with gentle giants and learn about elephant conservation.
If you have extra time in Mysore, consider visiting the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary to see a variety of migratory birds. For a taste of Mysore's spicy cuisine, make a stop at Mysore Masala Dosa, a restaurant famous for its dosas and chutneys. If you have less time, you can skip the day trip to Coorg and spend your last day exploring more of Mysore, for example, visiting the Karanji Lake where you can take boat rides to the island park in the center of the lake. Keep in mind, some places may have different hours of operation depending on the time of year, so double-check opening and closing times for your specific travel dates.