From Yogeswari, a senior Jivamukti teacher and founder and president of AZAHAR Foundation:

Magnificent Mysore

Mysore, a cultural hub in southern India, is known for its rich history, yoga traditions, and stunning sites.

Here is my roundup of must-see attractions and experiences:

Getting There

Fly into Bangalore and take a 3 to 5 hour drive (priced around $50 to $60) to Mysore. An Uber or a private driver works well, though traffic in Bangalore can be challenging. With that in mind, many opt for a comfortable stay at the Taj in Bangalore before heading to Mysore.

Where to Stay

For longer stays in Mysore, consider Airbnb or apartments, especially for yoga travelers. The Grand Mercure and Southern Star are both great hotel options, offering amenities like pools. The Radisson is also a top choice.

Top Attractions

Mysore Palace: A stunning palace with beautiful architecture and treasures. On Sunday nights, the whole palace is lit up and music is played. And in all four corners of the palace, there are major temples, so you can see the palace and partake in some of the Hindu rituals. 

Chamundi Hills: A pilgrimage site with a temple at the summit. You can hike the 1,000+ steps or take an auto rickshaw. You have to be careful because there are a lot of monkeys. And if they see you with a coconut or some banana, they'll try to grab it from you. It can get a bit intense up there because not only are there mischievous monkeys, but there are also a lot of crowds and vendors. It’s a good idea to go with someone who is local and purchase a ticket for the express line.

Jaganmohan Palace: A historical site where the first yoga lessons by Krishna Macharia took place.

Sri Rangapatnam: A former capital city with temples, including a famous Vishnu temple on the holy Kaveri River.

Yoga and Wellness

Beyond the festivities, Mysore remains a prominent destination for yoga enthusiasts, steeped in the teachings of legendary figures like K. Pattabhi Jois, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, and B.K.S. Iyengar, further cementing its status as a cultural and spiritual hub of India.

In Mysore, you can practice yoga, find a shala (like KPJAY), study philosophy at a Sanskrit college, and enjoy a massage at the Ayurvedic Institute in Gokulam.

Shopping

Devaraja Market is a vibrant spot for spices, flowers, and local goods. For textiles, visit Rashinkar for affordable tailoring or Badsha Silk for upscale silks. Fab India offers modern, ready-made clothing. And Silver Nest, in Gokulam, is very good for jewelry. If you want clothing made for you, bring your favorite pieces and have them copied.

Dining

Many people like to eat in their hotels, but Mysore offers delicious South Indian cuisine, from local thalis to dosas.

There are a few notable spots. Reserve 3 Sisters for a home-style meal. Dhatu, a favorite of yoga students, provides vegetarian options. And the Lalitha Mahal Palace is known for fine dining. For a quick snack, Dosa King, near the market, offers the iconic Mysore masala dosa (a rice pancake filled with potatoes and spices). And Depth N Green is where Westerners can find their juice and salads.

Local Insights

Every October, Mysore transforms into a vibrant hub of tradition and celebration with the grand Dussehra procession.

Held on the 10th day after Navaratri, this three-and-a-half-hour spectacle showcases floats representing various regions of Karnataka, highlighting everything from rural life and coffee plantations to ashrams and local traditions.

Accompanied by musicians, magicians, and colorful displays, the procession culminates with 14 majestic elephants. The lead elephant carries a golden idol of the goddess Chamundeshwari, the revered deity of Mysore, drawing thousands of spectators from across the region.

For those seeking a premium experience, the Grand Mercure hotel offers an exclusive vantage point with bleachers for guests to enjoy the parade in comfort.

Outside the City

Just outside Mysore, several historic landmarks offer a glimpse into India’s rich past. Belur and Halebidu, dating back to the 14th century, are renowned for their exquisite stone sculptures. Another must-visit is Shravanabelagola, a Jain pilgrimage site featuring a towering statue of a Jain saint atop a hill, accessible via a climb past a large water tank.

Srirangapatna, once the capital city before Mysore rose to prominence, is another fascinating destination.

Known for its historical significance, it was the summer residence of the Mysore Maharajas and houses several temples, including a famous Vishnu temple on the banks of the sacred Kaveri River.

Inside Tip

Whether you’re visiting for yoga, history, or simply to soak in the local culture, Mysore offers a rich and peaceful retreat with a blend of modern comforts and timeless traditions.

A tour guide, which you can secure through your hotel, is greatly recommended.

Contact

🌐 Karnataka Tourism

About

Yogeswari is a senior Jivamukti teacher and founder and president of AZAHAR Foundation, a non-profit committed to empowering others through yoga and community development in war and conflict-torn countries.

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Photo by Arun Prakash on Unsplash