KARNATAKA ONE STATE . MANY WORLDS

Hello every one, welcome back to heritage site, after completing our journey to bangalore, the capital city of karnataka. Hope you enjoyed my last post @ heritage.blogspot.com
                                         

As i mentioned in my title" karnataka one state.Many worlds". karnataka having many tourist places in each of its district which is having mesmerizing  scenic beauty.

                

 Karnataka is a land of sheer diversity; be it Heritage, Culture, Nature, Beaches or Wildlife. Karnataka is primarily known for its Heritage destinations and its Wildlife/ National Parks.  Apart from that, it is also famous for its magical hill stations, spectacular waterfalls, pilgrimage centres and a 320km long coastline dotted with unspoilt beaches. Thus, making it an ideal place for a traveller with diverse interests.

so lets move on to next district of karnataka which is also called as city of palaces, it wouldn't be wrong to say that it is mysore

Mysore

                        

"Home to the Mysore Maharajas"

Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore, currently Mysuru, is one of the most important places in the country regarding ancient reigns. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills, Mysore is the third most populated city in Karnataka, and its rich heritage draws millions of tourists all year round. The highlight is the majestic Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-visit.

Mysore was one of the three largest Princely States in the erstwhile British Empire of India. To this day, the Mysore Palace stands tall as one of the most spectacular palaces in India. A very famous tourist spot that sees thousands of visitors milling in and around it every day, the Mysore Palace is a mesmerizing example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, every inch of the palace drips with opulence and intricate details, and every room that you visit stands out in terms of its elaborate architecture, beautiful paintings, rich colours and stained-glass windows. On every Sunday, and during the Dussehra celebrations, the palace is spectacularly lit up once dusk falls.

Another popular element in Mysore is the Ashtanga School of Yoga. This draws visitors and practitioners from around the world to participate in this style of yoga that originated in Mysore. 

1.Mysore Palace

An incredibly breathtaking example of Indo - Saracenic style of architecture, the Mysore Palace is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the former palace of the royal family of Mysore and is still their official residence. Mysore Palace was built in the year 1912 for the 24th Ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty and is counted amongst one of the biggest palaces in the country.

The construction of the Mysore Palace was orchestrated by the Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV referred as "Rajarishi" (saintly king) by Mahatma Gandhi. It was then further expanded by his son and the last Maharaja of Mysore, Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar. The facade of the palace is a harmonious blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles which imparts it a regal quality. With the Chamundi Hills towards its eastern side, the spectacle of the Mysore Palace is an enchanting sight to behold. Needless to say, it is the second most visited historical monument visited by both local and foreign tourists after the Taj Mahal. Presently located inside the Old Fort, Mysore Palace is renowned for its light & sound show and vibrant Dussehra celebrations.

History of Mysore Palace 

The Mysore Palace has a rich history attested to it. It used to be the residence of the royal Wadiyar family of Mysore from 1350 to 1950, for almost 600 years. During its lifetime, the palace had been built and rebuilt many times. In 1897, the then ruler of Mysore, Krishna Rajendra Wadiyar IV, ordered the restoration and reconstruction of the palace after a wooden palace was destroyed by fire at a wedding ceremony. Lord Henry Irwin, the British architect, was commissioned to replace the older palace which had gotten burnt during a fire in 1897. The palace's construction was completed in 1912 and cost an exorbitant amount of INR 41,47,913 at the time.

In 1940, several renovations were made in the palace structure, which included the Public Darbar Hall.The descendants of the royal family continue to reside in one portion of the Mysore Palace, while most of the palace is now state-owned and converted into a museum. It's one of the most famous and well-known attractions in India attracting more than six million tourists annually.

2.Brindavan Garden

Brindavan Gardens- one of the biggest terraced gardens in the world

The Brindavan Gardens, spread over 60 acres, is located at a distance of 21 km away from Mysore. Built across the notable river of India, Cauvery, it took around five years to complete the project. The well-synchronised fountain show with music, boating and well-manicured grass with flowerbeds are some of the top experiences of Brindavan Garden.

Constructed in 1932 by the Diwan of Mysore, Sir Mirza Ismail, Brindavan Garden is visited by millions of tourists every year. Divided into two parts, north and south, boating facility offered by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation which connects the two parts along with a walkway bridge.

Brindavan Gardens Light Show & Musical Fountain 

The main attraction at the Brindavan Gardens in Mysore happens to be the beautiful array of musical fountains. Coupled with laser lights, these fountains are synchronised to music and go live at the time when the garden is lit up. The flow of water is digitally controlled, which in turn operates an aquatic organ. The pressure from the nearby dam fuels these fountains to put up a colourful display for the visitors, who can also visit a rain shelter and a gallery. The songs played range from soulful instrumental to patriotic songs. On weekdays, you will get to enjoy the scintillating show for one hour from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM while on weekends, the show extends with one hour and the timings are 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

History of Brindavan Gardens 

The Brindavan Gardens are built in the complex of Krishnaraja Sagar Dam (KRS Dam) which is in Srirangapatna taluk of Mandya district. Sir Mirza Ismail, the then Diwan of Mysore wanted to enhance the beauty of the area around KRS Dam. Therefore, the construction was started in the year 1927 by the Department of Horticulture and was completed in 1932. Built across the prominent river Cauvery, the designs of Brindavan Gardens have been inspired by the breathtaking Shalimar Bagh of Kashmir which was created in the ancient Mughal Style. Now, the garden is maintained by Cauvery Irrigation Department, Government of Karnataka.

3.Somanathapura Temple

On the banks of Holy river Kaveri is a tiny tranquil town of Somanathapura. Here stands the finest and most exemplary monument of Hoysala architecture known as the famous Prasanna Chennakesava Temple or simply the Kesava Temple. Consecrated in the year 1258 CE, it is a Vaishnav Hindu Temple dedicated to might and beauty of Lord Krishna (Chenna= Beautiful and Kesava= Krishna). Tourists from near and far come to visit the temple to get a view of the beautiful place. The Chennakesava temple is one of the 1500 Temples built by the Hoysala Empire kings in different parts of their kingdom, and is said to be the climax development in Hoysala temple style and yet is unique in many other ways. 

A classic example of the famous Hoysala architecture, and is one of the three temples of the kind to be nominated in the Unesco World Heritage list. Unfortunately, this temple is no longer used as a place of worship because the idols have been broken and desecrated by the invading Muslim armies. However, the beauty of the temple still charms thousands of visitors who visit the site to witness the magnificent artistic and engineering achievements of the era, to seek the Lord's blessing and admire the delicate carvings and sculptures, whose beauty is unequal and as unique as the God that it houses.

Architecture of Somanathapura Temple 

This intricately carved and tastefully architectured temple was built in the 13 century on the banks of the beautiful river Kaveri. Unique and beautiful Hoysala architecture is one of the many features of the place that has made it famous all around the world. The whole temple complex, its gates, mandap and inscription stones are carved out of soapstone that enabled the artists to carve out the beautifully intricate artwork.

Outside

The Chennakesava Temple is enclosed in a walled courtyard that has the ornate main gate or Mahadwar. Outside this Mahadwar stands a tall pillar having a statue of the Garuda on top, that was considered as Lord Vishnu's vaahan (vehicle). The Garuda statue is now missing. As one enters from the Mahadwar, an open public courtyard, with the main three-towered temple in the centre, comes into view. The walls of the courtyard are frames a rectangular verandah with an array of 64 shrines. 

Main Temple

The main temple is built on a jagati, symbolizing a worldly platform, with the idol of Lord Vishnu on top. It is about 3 feet high and is shaped in the form of a star with stairs for climbing up on the east end. Near the stairs are the shrines of two dwarpals (gatekeepers), which are now damaged. Around the jagati is a narrow pradakshina patha (circumambulation path). While doing the parikrama, one can read pictorial stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagavata Purana legends in the correct sequence.

Outer Walls

The outer walls of the Somanathapura Temple have horizontal patches of artwork carved into them divided into three major sections. The lowest section showcase a row of elephants, marching in the clockwise direction. Above the elephants is a row of armed riders mounted on horses or camels. The band further above represents flowers, fruits and occasionally some peacocks and wildlife. Another band above it is the mythology frieze depicts the legends and spiritual capturing stories found in the Ramayana, the Bhagavata Purana and Mahabharata. The upper level of the wall has nearly 200 relief carving showing the life of the people. Most of them are defaced or damaged. Apart from that, there are various other carvings of deities, predominantly Vishnu in his various aspects and avatars. 

Navranga

As one enters the wooden door to the inside of the temple, there is a Navranga with its usual nine squares as mentioned in ancient Hindu texts. There are three ankanas and jagali platforms for the visiting devotees to sit. The interior here and the Navranga suggests that the temple was designed per Panchayatana puja architecture found in Smarta Hindu tradition.

Pillars and Ceiling

The colossal mandap hall is supported by various posts. The four centre pillars portray common life themes stacked in sequence: disc, bell, pot, wheel and umbrella. The four central square pillars yakshas and brackets that are either damaged or have disappeared. Two other pillars on the east are in the shape of 32 pointed stars.

History of Somanathapura Temple 

Somanathapura, the town was founded by a general named Somanatha Dandanayaka in the 13 century, while he was in the service of Hoysala King Narasimha III. After that, he sought the king's permission and granted lands and resources to Brahmins to build and maintain the temples in the town, Somanathapura (known after the name of the patron). In the heart of this new town, General Somanatha built the Kesava temple and consecrated it in 1258 CE. Additionally, several other Hoysala style temples were also built in the city but all these except the Lakshmi Narasimha temple has disappeared or are in ruins after the wars between the Hindu kingdoms and Muslim sultanates ravaged the region.

According to inscriptions, the Chennakesava Temple also suffered huge damage due to the war in the 14th century but was repaired a century later by the grants and financial aid given by the Vijayanagara Empire kings. The difference in the color of stones and quality of work in the verandah and some parts of the northern tower and platform of the main temple is the evidence of these repairs. Once again, the beautiful temple suffered another bout of damage in the 19th century and was again repaired in the early 20th century by the colonial era Mysore government.

4.Mysore Zoo

Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as the Mysore Zoo is one of the best zoological gardens in India. Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar established this Zoo in the year 1892 for the Royals. Furthermore, after the attainment of freedom, it was handed over to the Department of Parks and Gardens of the State Govt. The Zoo's meticulous planning is responsible for making it a special zoological garden. It tends to create a natural habitat for the animals in it. From Big to small cats, Aquatic to terrestrial birds, and Primates to reptiles, one Hundred and Sixty-Eight species find their place in this zoo. The world's first caesarian section delivery performed on an elephant in Mysore zoo gave it global fame and recognition.

Located near the palace in Mysore, The Zoological Garden covers an area of 157 acres. It is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in India. It plays the role of an orphanage to the abandoned animals. Various exhibitions are regularly held here with an insect exhibition stealing the show. Following this, the Zoo carries forward certain Education Programmes such as Youth Club activities, Literary Competitions, and Summer Camp activities. The Karanji Lake was put under Zoo jurisdiction in 1976 and since has been a calm and serene place for boating.

Flora and Fauna in Mysore Zoo 

Flora and Fauna in Mysore Zoo 

• Fauna
• 

The Mysore zoo is the only zoo in India to have a Gorilla. The zoo is also a house to Chimpanzees and Orangutans. Other exotic animals that you can find in Mysore zoo are Giraffes, Zebras, White Deer, African Elephants, Bears, Porcupines, Rhinoceros, Tapir, Otters etc.

Birds like White and Blue Peacocks, Silver and Gold Peasant, Horn Bill, the flightless Emu and Ostrich, Spoon Bill, Pelican, Painted Stork, brightly coloured Flamingos, the largest bird of India the Sarus Cranes, Love Birds, various types of Parrots, Vultures, Eagles etc. can be seen here.

Next, it shelters the reptiles like cobras, King Cobra, Python, crocodiles, alligators and even the star-studded turtles.

The list doesn't end here. The Zoo has the rarest of the animals in its womb. These are red kangaroos, lemurs, sun bear, the female chimpanzee, binturong, Indian rhinoceros, Hanuman langurs, white peafowl, Indian lions, zebra, Rhea, red ibis and baboons.

All these in a single place! Can you just imagine the thrill?

• Flora

The Zoo takes care of thirty-five species of exotic ornamental plants and 85 species of trees from India and abroad.

Karanji Lake Park 

A paradise for birds at nature's bliss, Karanji Lake park was once unknown to the locals. The Zoo authority took it upon itself to make it the country's Biggest Aviary. In 1976 the Zoo laid its hand over this lake and since then have never looked back. It has managed to make the Lake Park a heaven for different species of birds. Built in an area surrounding naturally erected trees, it comprises of a waterfall and a pond as well. There are at present 87 species of birds out of which 12 are migratory. Species like Grey Pelican, Painted Stork, Ibis, Cormorants, Egrets etc. reside here.

The birds have created their island habitats in here. It has a Bird Watch Tower which gives the ardent bird watchers an opportunity to have a panoramic view of its inhabitants. To ensure the complete safety of birds, an all round viewing is provided to the visitors via telescope and binoculars. The Lake Park has more than 100 medicinal plants at its entrance. Also, a nursery has been set up within the park to propagate the growth of new plants near the lake. The entry of vehicles inside the Karanji Park is completely prohibited.

Mysore Zoo Safari 

The Safari is an amazing way to explore the beauty of Zoo's Flora and Fauna. Helpful for the Senior Citizens and fun for the young ones, Mysore Zoo Safari takes you to the ride of the whole park quickly yet efficiently. The charges for the battery operated vehicles are mentioned below- For Adults - Rs 125 each For Children (5-12 years) - Rs 75 each For Senior Citizens - Rs 75 each

History of Mysore zoo 

Initiated in 1892, the zoo has been under the control of different kings and governments. Naming it after its founder Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar Bahadur in 1909 was a way of extending thanks for his efforts in its creation. During his visits to European countries and Africa, the Maharaja used to bring animals which fascinated him. These included Giraffe, Antelopes, Bears, Chimpanzee, and Primates. It has till now established a niche for being a home to some of the rarest family members like American Bison, Californian Sea lions, Guanaco, Polar Bear, Secretary Bird, Kangaroo, Penguin, and White Elephant in the past.

Mysore zoo did not start big. At first, the zoo had only 10.9 acres of land to its use. Gradually with time, more land was allotted giving an opportunity for sheltering more animals. The Mysore Maharajas and the Government together groomed and nourished the gardens. The official control of the zoo was passed on from the Royalty to the Horticulture Department in 1948 and then to the Forest Department in 1972. In 2001, clubbing of all the zoos in the state under the Zoo Authority of Karnataka took place.

5.Chamundeshwari Temple

The Chamundeshwari Temple is a traditional Hindu temple located on the eastern edge of Mysore at the height of 1000ft on the Chamundi hills. Dedicated to and named after goddess Durga, the temple also has statues of Nandi and Mahishasura, the demon. Being one of the oldest temples in the palace city of Mysore, the temple is a must-visit attraction for the travellers. The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered as a Shakti Peetha and is one among the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.

There are two options for the visitors to reach the Chamundeshwari temple, either by steps or by driving through the interwoven valley road. The temple showcases the fierce form of Shakti, a tutelary deity that was held in reverence for centuries by the Maharajas of Mysore; hence deriving its name from goddess Durga. The idol of goddess Durga here is adorned every day and worshipped by a number of priests. The deity is offered a variety of fruits, coconuts and flowers to show respect and reverence.

Located atop the Chamundi hills, the temple is usually not too crowded. The Chamundeshwari temple also has statues of the demon Mahishasura; you can even see the enormous statues from the way driving up to the temple. The temple also has a Nandi statue, which is that of a cow and holds great importance in the Hindu mythology. The view from the temple is stunning, as you can see many significant structures of the city including the Lalitha Mahal Palace. The temple has also been declared as the No Plastic Zone, thus making a huge contribution to the conservation of our environment by curbing the use of plastics and dumping of hazardous materials.

Architecture of Chamundeshwari Temple 

The Chamundeshwari temple exhibits a quadrangular structure. It is built in Dravidian style, consisting of the main doorway, entrance, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa, Sanctum Sanctorum and Prakara. There is a beautiful seven-stage pyramidal tower at the entrance and a small tower on top of the sanctum sanctorum. On the top of the tower placed at the entrance, there are seven golden Kalashas. The tower at the entrance also has a small image of Lord Ganesha on the doorway. The doorway is silver-plated and has the images of the Goddess in different forms.

As one enters inside, on the right-hand side is a small statue of Lord Ganesha. After a few steps; there is a flagstaff, the footprints of the Goddess and a small statue of Nandi, facing the sanctum sanctorum. This temple is of great antiquity and symbolises the crown of Mysore. The Nandi statue is considered to be built by granite and is placed on the 800th step on the hill. It is adorned with metallic bells around its neck and measures about 15 feet high.

Attractions Near Chamundeshwari Temple 

Besides the Chamundeswari temple, there are many alluring sites nearby. One can see Mahabaladri, Narayanaswamy temples and Mahishasura and Nandi statues. There are few other interesting spots on the Chamundi Hills.

 Among them, the Lalitha Palace is one. It belongs to the Mysore royal family. The Maharajas used to make a short stay in this Palace whenever they visited the hills. Built on the hill-top, it offers an attractive bird eye view of Mysore city and far off places. Lalithadri Palace was built during the reign of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV.

History of Chamundeshwari temple 

This temple, of great antiquity, has a background of over 1,000 years. It was built as a simple shrine but later gained immense popularity due to the divinity of goddess Durga. It gained a lot of significance after the Maharajas of Mysore, the Wodeyars, came to power in 1399 AD. The credit for major contributions for this temple goes to three dynasties- Hoysala, Vijayanagar and Mysore rulers. Placed on the top of the Chamundi hills, the Chamundeshwari temple is one of the most popular and ancient temples of Mysore. According to history logs, the original shrine was built in the 12th century by the Hoysala rulers, with the towers being built by the Vijayanagar rulers of the 17th century. Further, a flight of one thousand steps was built in 1659 that leads up to the 3000-foot summit of the Chamundi Hill.

6.Bonsai Garden

One of the more unique attractions of the Royal Mysore, the Bonsai Garden of Mysore is home to over a 100 different varieties of Bonsai trees spread across this vast estate. It is a part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Initially a pet project by the fascinated Swamiji, the garden now hosts 450 miniature tree across an area of 4 acres, filled with these quirky dwarf trees. The beauty of the garden is accentuated by the stream that flows within, as well as the placement of Buddha statues and monkey statues around the area, representative of the zen culture from where the art of Bonsai was evolved. There is also a deer park to cater to the nature lovers who visit.

The garden and the exhibits have been divided into various zones within, representing different Indian traditions and beliefs as followed by the Swamiji. Thus, one can find plants with connections to the Indian zodiac system, Indian classical music, the representation of the 27 stars of traditional Indian astrology, the seven Indian sages or Saptarishi, and five plant gardens closely linked with the concept of the Mother Goddess. The garden is indeed a delight to walk through, and one can't help but appreciate the fine art and effort required to shape a 100-year-old tree within a lovely terracotta pot.This garden is also the venue for bonsai conventions held during December. These 3-day seminars see experts from different parts of the world conducting workshops on bonsai plants.

7.St. Philomena's Church

Recognized as the second tallest church of Asia, St. Philomena's Church was constructed to pay tribute to the Catholic Saint and martyr of Roman Catholic Church, Saint Philomena. It is one of the most important historical sites in Mysore and is frequently visited by tourists from all over the country. Being one of the most distinctive landmarks of the city, it looks even more beautiful in the evening sky and is given religious importance having a Neo-Gothic style of architecture which makes it all the more famous amongst masses.

The foundation for the church was laid in the year 1933 by the then king of Mysore, Sri Krishnarajendra Wodeyar Bahadur IV for the European residents in the city. After the construction went on for about eight years, the church started functioning in the year 1941. The remains of Saint Philomena have been preserved here and are present even today.

Saint Philomena was the daughter of the monarch of Greece and had always been a devotee of God and believed in him. She was taken to meet the Emperor when she was 13 years old, after which, the Emperor on seeing her beauty offered to marry her. However, she refused and the emperor ordered to have her executed. The church stands as a symbol of the secular viewpoint and the religious accord of Mysore.

Architecture of St. Philomena's Church 

The church follows the Victorian (Neo-Gothic) style of architecture and follows the pattern of the Cologne Cathedral of Germany. The church is designed by Daly who was a French artist. The design is a cross with the congregation hall being the longest end of the cross, the transepts being the two arms of the cross, altar being the upper part of the cross and the choir is the crossing of the cross. The church has twin spires which are 175 feet high and can be seen even from a mile away. The spires resemble those of St. Patrick's Church which is located in New York. There is a cross of 12 feet of height present on each spire.

There is a statue of St. Philomena present on the altar which is made up of marble. In the catacomb which lies beneath the altar, the remains of St. Philomena are kept. The hall of the church is large enough to accommodate 800 people. The sanctum comprises of stained glass windows and beautifully drawn paintings depicting events such as the birth, crucifixion, resurrection and last supper of Jesus Christ. These glasses were made in France. The church has three front doors along with few small side doors which open up in the prayer halls. Pillars of the church are adorned with beautiful flower patterns.

History of St. Philomena's Church 

St. Philomena's Church was built in the year 1840 and was then known as St. Joseph Chavez. It started off with being a small church and got its present form under the rule of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV in 1933. The spectacular church was constructed for the European residents of the city. However, with the increasing number of people, a bigger church was needed. Its construction began in 1933 and was completed after a long period of 8 years in 1941. One can find the remains of St. Philomena is preserved in the church even now.

St. Philomena was the daughter of a monarch of a small state in Greece. The monarch and his wife had been childless, and after a lot of prayers, they were blessed with a baby girl who they named Philomena. The girl was devoted to God since birth. The monarch took his daughter along with him to Rome when she was 13 years old to seek some help from Emperor Diocletian. The emperor was mesmerized by the girl's beauty and wished to marry her. However, Philomena refused to marry him for she was a follower of God. The emperor who could not handle this rejection went ahead and ordered to torture her an

8.Jaganmohan Palace

Situated in the royal city of Mysore, the Jaganmohan Palace is a spectacular edifice that has an illustrious history attached to its name. It was used by the Wodeyars of Mysore when their main residence Amba Vilas Palace was under renovations post a fire incident. It is one of the seven palaces that are situated in the city and is counted as one of the most beautiful contributions of the Wodeyar Kings of the city during their reign. The Jaganmohan Palace was converted into a magnificent art gallery and today hosts some of the most exquisite pieces of artwork for the public to see.

Jaganmohan Palace held an important position in the administrative and legislative affairs of Mysore for a long period. From hosting the early convocations of the Mysore University to holding the first session of the Legislative Council of Mysore, this facade has seen it all. Finally, in 1915, the palace was deemed fit to be an art gallery and is a safe house for as many as 2000 paintings which pertain to various art forms such as Mysore, Mughal and Shantiniketan.

Mimicking the beautiful art that is housed within, the architecture of Jaganmohan Palace is intricate and detailed beautifully. The main door is a beautiful example of the typical Hindu style of architecture and two wooden displays illustrating the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu embellish the premises as well. Visit this destination to experience the history of Mysore through colours and pictures that will leave a long-lasting impression on your mind.

Architecture of Jaganmohan Palace 

The construction of the Jaganmohan Palace has been done along the lines of traditional Hindu style of architecture and is built over the course of three stories. An external facade gives way to three entrances where the entablature is embellished with religious carvings and miniature temples.

The interior is ornamented with murals and paintings which pertain to the Mysore style of artwork and depict scenes from Dasara and Jumbo Savari. Incidentally, it is one of the first known paintings of Mysore Dasara that had been painted using vegetable dyes. A family tree of the Wodeyars is also present within the Jaganmohan Palace, which delves deep into the history of this amazing destination.

History of Jaganmohan Palace 

The Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 by His Highness Krishnaraja Wodeyar III as a resort for the royal family. The Mysore Palace, which was the original home of the royal family was burnt down in a fire and the construction of a new palace in its place was started in 1897. In the meantime, the Jaganmohan Palace was used by the royals as their home.

In the year 1902, King Rajarshhi Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar was installed to the royal throne and this grand occasion was held in the premises of the Jaganmohan Palace. The palace was also used as the special Dusara Durbar by the king during the festive season, and was finally reinvented as an art gallery in the year 1915.

9.Folklore Museum

Folklore Museum

A part of the Mysore University, the museum is home to one of the most elaborate collections of folk art, products and articles. Visit the museum to witness one of the most sprawling depictions of the state's folk art

10.Rail Museum

The Mysore Rail Museum is the second of its kind in India, right after the National Railways Museum of Delhi. It was built in the year 1979 by the Indian Railways and has been the safehouse of Railway collectables ever since. The museum basically depicts the journey and development of the Indian railways through an opulent collection of photographs and various other items. With a plethora of information and insight into the intricacies of the railway engine, Mysore Rail Museum is especially enjoyable for children up to 10 years of age.

Most of the exhibits were earlier placed at the Mysore Palace which was later shifted here. The first steam engine along with the first signals made is exhibited here. There are also wooden pillars and doors belonging to the Old Srirangapatna railway station. The other fascinating display here includes a wide range of lights, tickets, ticketing machines, clocks, signal signs, and a hand-operated the steam water pump. There is a battery-operated mini toy train that takes the tourists around the grounds of the museum.

The major attractions of the Rail Museum can be summed up as follows;-

1. An Austin Railway Car:  Originally used as an automobile made for running on the road, the Austin Railway Car was sold off to a scrap dealer from where it was salvaged by a railway employee. Seeing its potential, he restored the automobile and fitted it with rail wheels and removed the steering wheel. From then on, it was mainly used as a railcar and was used to carry inspection officials to their destination and could carry six people in a single go.

2. YP 2511: YP2511 was a meter gauge steam engine built by Telco in the year 1963. 

3. Wagnall 119-E: This was another narrow gauge steam engine which was built by WG Wagnall and Co. Ltd in the year 1900. This engine was numbered NWR NG tank loco no: 119 E. An interesting fact about this engine is that it used wood as fuel as opposed to the more popular coal. It covered the route between Bangalore and Tumkur. 

Other collectables worthy of a mention include railway coaches used by the Maharaja of Mysore, saloon carriage of the Maharani and a working model of a steam locomotive. Chamundi Gallery and Sri Ranga Pavilion are prominent parts of the museum that have pictures and paintings of the railway revolution on display.

11.Trinesvaraswamy Temple

This ancient temple is located outside the Mysore Fort, the main deity being Trinesvara i.e. the three eyed Shiva. The gopura of this temple was destroyed in the 18th century, but the beauty of the Dravidian architecture is still on display here

12.Nanjangud

Mysore is a temple town located on the banks of Kabini river. The temple is built in the Dravidian style. It houses three main deities, Lord Nanjundeshwara, Goddess Parvathi and Lord Vishnu with Sridevi and Bhudevi. During the procession of the chariot festival, shivalingas, mantapas and other idols are used. The temple built in 300-1000 CE during the reign of the Ganga dynasty. Later on, renovations were also done by the Hoysalas. That time the deity was called 'Hakim Nanjunda'. This name was being suggested by Tipu Sultan, when his elephant got cured through the prayers offered to the deity. From that day, the deity is considered as a healer among the worshippers and the devotees take a holy dip in the Kapila river after they are done with performing their rituals. They believe the ritual would cleanse them of their diseases. Lord Srikanteshwara is also known as Nanjundeshwara.

Nanjangud also known as "Dakshina Kashi", is a town in Mysore of Karnataka that lies on the banks of the river Kapila, which is situated 23 km from Mysore.This city is also popular for a variety of banana that are grown in the region. The temple is built in the Dravidian style. It houses three main deities, Lord Nanjundeshwara, Goddess Parvathi and Lord Vishnu with Sridevi and Bhudevi. During the procession of the chariot festival, shivalingas, mantapas and other idols are used. The temple built in 300-1000 CE during the reign of the Ganga dynasty. Later on, renovations were also done by the Hoysalas. That time the deity was called 'Hakim Nanjunda'. This name was being suggested by Tipu Sultan, when his elephant got cured through the prayers offered to the deity. From that day, the deity is considered as a healer among the worshippers and the devotees take a holy dip in the Kapila river after they are done with performing their rituals. They believe the ritual would cleanse them of their diseases. Lord Srikanteshwara is also known as Nanjundeshwara.

13.Melukote Temples

The two temples in Melukote are Tirunarayana temple and Yoga Narasimha, both located at the foothills and top respectively of the Yadavgiri hills.

14.Srikanteswara Temple

This temple built in the Dravidian style is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to have healing powers. The 125 feet tall Gopura along with the 7 gold kalash are a must see on visiting this temple.

15.Chunchanakatte Falls

Chunchanakatte Falls are situated on River Kaveri in Chunchanakatte village of Mysore. The river fall off at a height of 20 metres divided as two different waterfalls, then at the base it continues as one river again.

16.Freedom Fighter's Park



Speaking of parks, we cannot forget to include Freedom Fighter's Park in the list owing to its resplendent beauty, vibrant flower beds and lush green lawns. The park also has a separate play area for kids and space for yoga, meditation etc.

17 Edmuri Falls

Located on the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Marg, 3 km from Mysore city, Edmuri Falls (also known as Yedmuri Falls) is a quaint waterfall that comes in pair with the adjoining Balmuri Falls. Originating from the River Cauvery, the waterfall is generated when it comes in contact with a 6 feet rocky steep slope on the path of the river. In the view of the lush green backdrop of the hills and the sparkling water in sight, the waterfall is a pure visual delight.

Considered to be one of the most popular weekend getaways from the city, the site is also a much sought after picnic spot. Besides the cascading waterfalls forms a pool at the base which is considered ideal for swimming and other water games and activities. There is also an ancient temple located near the waterfall that is enshrined by Lord Ganesha and is visited by a lot of pilgrims.

18 Krishnarajasagar Dam

Located in Mandya in Karnataka, KrishnaRajaSagara Dam, also known as KRS Dam, is a huge gravity dam situated near the confluence of the rivers - Cauvery, Hemavathi and Lakshaman Tirtha. Named after Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV of Mysore, the dam was initially built to provide water for Mandya and Mysore. But later, it eventually became a source of water supply for the city of Bangalore that was rapidly growing. Today it is a major tourist attraction and amongst the most scenic spots in the region.

Flanked by flashy fountains, beautiful gardens and stunning rivers, the site looks so scintillating that it has been the sets for several movies in the past. Besides, it is considered an ideal weekend getaway from the chaos and din of the city to spend some peaceful time amidst surreal natural beauty. Also known as the first irrigation dam of India, KRS Dam also ensures power supply to Shivanasamudra hydroelectric power station.

19. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Located in Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Srirangapatna is a haven for bird watchers as it houses a wide array of bird species. It is the largest bird sanctuary in the state and comprises of six small islands on the banks of the river Kaveri. The scenery of the local vegetation and landscape, coupled with the colourful species of birds makes it a unique learning experience for visitors of all ages and interests. This destination offers many things to do for its tourists; the most popular ones include bird watching, boating, and some good old nature photography.

Out of the 170 species of bird that reside here, the most notable ones are the Painted Stork, Common Spoonbill, Asian Openbill Stork, Black-headed Ibis, and Woolly-necked Stork. This biodiversity hub also houses many small animals such as the Bonnet Macaque, Flying Fox and small mammals like common palm civet, Indian grey mongoose and the monitor lizard. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the lap of nature and the company of family and friends.

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