Begin your cultural immersion experience at the Mysuru Palace, the official residence of the Wadiyars, the erstwhile royal family of Mysuru. Admire the exquisite architecture and intricate woodwork of the palace, which is also a center for learning various art forms. The palace is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Next, head to the Devaraja Market, a traditional marketplace that has been in existence since the Mysuru kingdom. Here, you can interact with the locals, taste local street food, and bargain for an array of products, including silk, sandalwood, and spices. The market is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
After lunch, visit the Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery, an art museum that houses one of the largest collections of South Indian art. Walk through the three halls that showcase works of Indian artists like Raja Ravi Varma, S.G. Subramania Iyer, and M. F. Hussain. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
On day 2, head to the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as Mysuru Zoo, which is home to a diverse range of animals like lions, tigers, gorillas, and elephants. The zoo also has a walk-through aviary, a reptile house, and a butterfly park. The zoo is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Finally, visit the Namdroling Monastery, the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism outside Tibet. Admire the ornate golden statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus, and witness the daily rituals of the Buddhist monks. The monastery is open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Brindavan Gardens and the Chamundi Hill, both of which provide breathtaking views of Mysuru. On the other hand, if you have less time, skip either the Devaraja Market or the Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery, depending on your interests.