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The second largest city of Karnataka, which also serves as the headquarters of the Mysore district, Mysore counts amongst the popular tourist destinations of India. It is situated at a distance of approximately 140 km from Bangalore, the IT Hub of India, and is easily accessible by road as well as rail networks. Mysore is regarded as the hub of Karnataka's historical as well as cultural legacy. The large number of temples strewn across the city bears a testimony to this fact. Then, there is the Mysore Palace, exhibiting the rich architectural heritage of the state.
Apart from architectural beauty, you will also find lots of natural splendor abounding in Mysore. People come to this city, from far-off places, to visit the sprawling Brindavan Gardens, spread across an area of 60 acres (240,000 sq m). Apart from the wide variety of blooming flowers, the gardens are known for the heavenly ambience they provide in the evening, with musical fountains and multi-colored lights. Then, there are the Chamundi hills, which serve as the abode of Goddess Chamundeshwari and surely merit a visit.
Mysore, initially, served as the capital of the erstwhile old royal Mysore province, ruled by the Wodeyar family. From the 14th century till the independence of India, in 1947, Wodeyar family continued to rule over the city. The only exception came in the 18th century, when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan took power, but only for a brief period. Since the Wodeyars patronized art and culture, Mysore witnessed great cultural growth under their rule, even to the point of earning the sobriquet 'Cultural Capital of Karnataka'.
Mysore, though not a very big city, mesmerize the tourists with its quaint and simplistic charm. The splendid palaces, magnificently laid-out gardens, impressive buildings, wide shady avenues and revered temples only add to the attraction. Keeping in view the heavy rush of tourists visiting the city every year, lots of accommodation options have come up. The hotels in Mysore provide lots of options to tourists, catering to every need and budget. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head for one of the most beautiful places in South India.
