GOC Holidaymaker Holidays to Mysore South India
MYSORE was for many years the capital of Mysore state, until Karnataka state was formed in 1956, and the seat of the Maharaja, and Tipu Sultan. It therefore has many palaces and other historic sites. These include the main Palace, Tipu Sultan's fort, Summer Palace and Mausoleum at Srirangapatnam, and the beautifully preserved Somathpur Temple (33 km trip)
Above Mysore on a 1060 m hill stands the temple of Chamundi. with excellent views over the town, and this is an ideal sunset viewpoint.
The Maharaja's Palace dominates the centre of the town, and is a very worthwhile visit. The crowds can be overwhelming, so go early, avoiding the heat, or better still go out of season (not April/May school holidays). A guide will describe some of the hundreds of items in the Peacock Pavilion, Durbar Hall, and Amber Vilas, including the Golden Throne.
Mysore is one of the most atmospheric Indian towns, and has plenty of market stalls and shops to buy silk, jewellery, and flowers. There are a huge variety of specialised shops for everything from ropes to spices. The open air offices, where people go to have their documents typed are interesting.
In addition to the palaces, there are many old buildings which merit study of their local architecture. Nearby is Chamundi Hill with its temple, Srirangapatnam with Tipu Sultan's island fortress Gumbaz (Tomb) and Summer Palace. At Somnathpur (1 hour away), is a perfect example of a complete Hoysala Temple.
Above Mysore on a 1060 m hill stands the temple of Chamundi. with excellent views over the town, and this is an ideal sunset viewpoint.
MYSORE PALACES
The Maharaja's Palace dominates the centre of the town, and is a very worthwhile visit. The crowds can be overwhelming, so go early, avoiding the heat, or better still go out of season (not April/May school holidays). A guide will describe some of the hundreds of items in the Peacock Pavilion, Durbar Hall, and Amber Vilas, including the Golden Throne.
MYSORE MARKETS
Mysore is one of the most atmospheric Indian towns, and has plenty of market stalls and shops to buy silk, jewellery, and flowers. There are a huge variety of specialised shops for everything from ropes to spices. The open air offices, where people go to have their documents typed are interesting.
MYSORE ARCHITECTURE
In addition to the palaces, there are many old buildings which merit study of their local architecture. Nearby is Chamundi Hill with its temple, Srirangapatnam with Tipu Sultan's island fortress Gumbaz (Tomb) and Summer Palace. At Somnathpur (1 hour away), is a perfect example of a complete Hoysala Temple.