The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a must-visit attraction in Mysore. Built in the early 20th century, the palace is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and features intricate carvings, stunning gardens and a rich history. Be ready for a lot of walking and sun exposure as the palace grounds are expansive and there is plenty to explore.
The Mysore Zoo is a popular attraction for families with kids. It houses a wide variety of animals and birds from around the world, including tigers, lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The Zoo is famous for its white tigers and offers a unique safari experience. It is advisable to carry water bottles and snacks as the zoo grounds are vast, and the walk can be tiring in the sun.
Hotel RRR Restaurant is a popular local restaurant in Mysore, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including idlis, dosas, vadas, and thalis, and is perfect for a family lunch break from the day's activities. The prices are reasonable, and the quality of food is excellent.
Brindavan Gardens is a beautifully landscaped garden located at the Krishnarajasagara Dam, a little outside of Mysore city. The garden is spread over 60 acres and features musical fountains, a boating pond, and a variety of flora and fauna. The garden hosts a musical fountain show in the evenings which should not be missed. However, do note that timings for the fountain show may change based on the season and weather conditions.
The Chamundeshwari Temple is a prominent religious site located on the top of Chamundi Hill, overlooking the city of Mysore. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari and is a popular pilgrimage spot in the region. The temple is surrounded by scenic views, and there is a cable car ride available from the base of the hill to the top to avoid the long climb.
Oyster Bay is a family-friendly restaurant located in central Mysore. The restaurant serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian, and is perfect for a family dinner. There is indoor as well as outdoor seating, and the ambiance is lovely.
If you have more time, you may consider visiting the Karanji Lake Nature Park which is located near the Mysore Zoo. It is a beautiful park and has a lake, a butterfly park, and a variety of bird species. You can also visit the Railway Museum, which houses vintage locomotives and carriages. If you are interested in shopping, visit the Devaraja Market in the city centre. For a side trip, you can visit the nearby hill station of Coorg, which is famous for its coffee plantations and scenic beauty.