Begin your tour with a visit to the Mysore Palace, known for its intricate architecture and royal heritage. It was once the residence of the Wadiyar dynasty and is still used for ceremonial purposes. You can explore the sprawling palace grounds, stroll through the Durbar Hall, and catch glimpses of the royal collection of artifacts and paintings. The palace is open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM on all days except Sundays.
Next, visit the Chamundi Hill, located on the outskirts of Mysore. You can take the stairway or hire a cab to the top and catch panoramic views of the city. The hill is home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Chamundeshwari. Later, proceed to the nearby Mysuru Zoo, which has an impressive collection of wildlife, including tigers, lions, and elephants. The zoo is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days except Tuesdays.
On your last day, visit the picturesque Brindavan Gardens, which features ornamental gardens, musical fountains, and a light show in the evening. You can also rent a boat and paddle around the tranquil Karanji Lake, which is teeming with migratory birds. Entry to the gardens is allowed from 6:30 AM to 8 PM, and the light show is from 7 PM to 7:55 PM. The lake is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days except Tuesdays.
If you have more time, consider visiting the sprawling Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, which has over 1500 animal species. You can also check out the St. Philomena's Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic church, and the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum, which displays intricate sand sculptures. For those with less time, skip the zoo and opt for a relaxing visit to the Kukkarahalli Lake, which offers scenic views and bird-watching opportunities.