Sunday, August 13, 2023: Exploring Mysore's Marvels
Mysore, known as the City of Palaces, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders. Begin your morning by visiting the iconic Mysore Palace, an enchanting structure adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings. Marvel at the grandeur of the palace and immerse yourself in the rich history it holds. Afterward, head to the nearby Devaraja Market, where you can experience the vibrant local atmosphere, shop for exquisite silk sarees, spices, and handicrafts.
Devaraja Market: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
In the afternoon, make your way to the Chamundi Hill, where you'll find the Chamundeshwari Temple. Climb the 1,000 steps to the temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. Afterward, visit the Mysore Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes. Spend your evening at the Brindavan Gardens, famous for its illuminated fountains and musical fountain shows.
Start your day with a sumptuous South Indian breakfast at Hotel RRR, known for its crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, and aromatic filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayaka Mylari, a renowned eatery that serves delectable Mysore-style thali meals. Indulge in a variety of flavorful curries, rice, and traditional sweets. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Enjoy a memorable dinner at Olive Garden, a charming restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and delicious Italian cuisine. Savor authentic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and decadent desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel Mylari. This iconic restaurant is known for its fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, and aromatic filter coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayaka Mylari, a legendary eatery famous for its melt-in-your-mouth masala dosas and lip-smacking vegetarian thalis. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at RRR Restaurant, which offers a variety of traditional Mysore delicacies like Mysore masala dosa, Mysore pak, and Mysore-style biryani. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Restaurants
An ideal place to start your day with a delicious breakfast is Hotel RRR. They offer a wide range of South Indian breakfast dishes like dosas, idlis, and vadas. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to the famous Vinayaka Mylari. Known for its mouth-watering traditional Karnataka meals, this restaurant is a local favorite. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹250 per person.
In the evening, dine at the charming Olive Garden. With its beautiful ambiance and delectable Italian cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, August 14, 2023: Heritage and Handicrafts
Start your second day by visiting the St. Philomena's Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic structure that stands as one of the tallest churches in Asia. Admire the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of this religious site. Next, head to the Railway Museum, which showcases a fascinating collection of vintage locomotives and carriages, offering insights into India's railway history.
St. Philomena's Cathedral: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1 hour
In the afternoon, explore the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, where you can witness intricate sand art creations depicting various themes. Continue your cultural journey by visiting the Folklore Museum, which displays a remarkable collection of artifacts showcasing the local art, crafts, and traditions. End your day with a serene walk around the tranquil Karanji Lake, home to numerous species of birds and surrounded by lush greenery.
For a taste of Mysore's local flavors, don't miss the beloved Mysore Masala Dosa, a crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with a spicy potato mixture. Visit Vinayaka Mylari, a small eatery known for serving the most authentic and delicious Mysore Masala Dosas in town. Another hidden gem is the Chamarajendra Academy of Visual Arts (CAVA), where you can admire stunning artwork by local artists and even take part in art workshops. These off the beaten path attractions will give you a deeper appreciation for Mysore's culture and creativity.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability here.