Mysore

Mysore was the old capital city of Mysore state. In 16 century wadayar kings ruled the kingdom as their capital. Later in 17 century when military revolution came. Hyderali who was one of the military chief took over the rule. Later HyderAli and he son tippusultan expanded their kingdom, up to half of tamilanadu state and half o keralastate. Later on 1799 on battle with British Tippusultan were defeated. Later the area came to the control of British. Mysore,140 Kms from Bangalore lies the abode of untold grandeur and glory, the capital city of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm,rich heritage, magnificent palaces,beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings,broad shady avenues and sacred temples. There's an old world charm about the city that reaches out and leaves no one untouched.

Mysore ,or Mahishur as it was called then, traces its history back to the mythical past,when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mysore Dasara is the celebration of this victory of good over evil. Mysore also has associations with the Mahabharata and King Ashoka of the 3rd century B.C. During the Wodeyar rule Mysore reached the Zenith of its glory as a fabled centre of oriental splendour.

Places of Interest in Mysore

Mysore Palace

Built in 1912 in the Indo Saracenic style, this place excludes a grandeur that is unmatched. The Golden Royal Elephant Throne, the Durbar Hall, the Kalyana Mantap and the Gallery are the main attractions here. Palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world. Intricately carved doors open on to luxuriously furnished rooms. The majestic Durbar Hall has an ornate ceiling and many sculpted pillars. The magnificent jewel studded golden throne of the Wodeyars is displayed here during the Dasera festival. Illuminated on Sundays and public holidays ,the palace presents a spectacle of breathtaking beauty.

Chamundi Hills

Chamundi Hill can be reached by a 13 km road or by climbing up the 1,000 steps laid out by the Mysore Maharaja in the 17th century.Half-way up along the stone steps is Nandi, Lord Shiva's Bull, a majestic 4.8 metre monolith. At the top is the 12th century temple of Chamundeshwari, the patron goddess of the Wodeyars.Close to the temple is the gigantic statue of the demon Mahishasura. The summit offers a panoramic view of Mysore's lakes, parks and palaces. The gigantic 4.8 meter tall monolith of Nandi the sacred vehicle of Lord Shiva is a marvel to watch. Also close to the temple stands a gigantic statues of the demon Mahishasura.

Brindavan Gardens

Located at the KR Sagar Dam [Kannambadi],Built by the famous engineer Sir. M. Vishvesvariah this was one of the first multi purpose dams built in India. Spread over 150 acres, Adjacent to the dam is the beautiful Brindavan Garden. Brindavan Gardens has since the 1960s provided the backdrop for many Indian films. With lighting and musical fountains this place transforms it self into a fairy land in the evenings. Special attractions include the 'Dancing Fountains'. In Dec 2004 the entire garden was revamped with new fountains and lights.

St. Philomena's Church

A beautiful Cathedral, reminiscent of medieval architectural style,is one of the largest churches in the country. Built in the gothic style,the Church is an imposing structure with stained glass windows and lofty towers.

Mysore Zoo

One of the county's best zoo, this is famous for rare animals bred in captivity and is housed in lush green surroundings. The Mysore Zoo was set up under royal patronage in the nineteenth century. Its fauna includes rare and exotic species which are housed in lush, green surroundings. The Zoo is famous for breeding some very rare animals in captivity.