Travel tips

Small things that make a Mysuru trip run smoothly - when to come, how long to stay, and what to know before you go.

Oct-Mar season

Before you come

Timing and length of stay

Best season

October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Dasara falls in October and is the year’s highlight - book well ahead for it.

How long

Two to three days covers the palace, temples, parks and a nearby sanctuary at a comfortable pace.

With family

Mysuru is family-friendly and safe. The zoo, Karanji Lake and Chamundi Hill all work well with children.

On the ground

Good practice

Temples ask that you remove footwear before entering, and many restrict photography inside the sanctum.
The palace is closed to photography indoors; cameras are allowed in the grounds.
Carry water and a hat for Chamundi Hill and the open palace grounds, particularly between March and May.
Safaris at Nagarahole and Kabini run to fixed morning and evening slots and should be booked in advance.
Mysuru is a global centre for Ashtanga yoga; several schools run courses and retreats for all levels.
Silk and sandalwood are best bought from the KSIC factory outlet or the government Cauvery emporium, where authenticity is assured.

Questions

Answered by the department

What is the best time to visit Mysuru?

The best time to visit Mysuru is between October and March, during the winter season when the weather is pleasant. Mysuru Dasara, in October, is a major highlight, drawing many tourists.

How do I reach Mysuru?

By air: Mysore Airport has limited domestic flights, and Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (170 km away) offers broader connectivity. By train: Mysuru Junction is well connected by trains from major cities. By road: regular buses and a smooth highway make road travel easy from Bengaluru, 140 km away.

What are the must-visit attractions in Mysuru?

Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, St. Philomena’s Church and Brindavan Gardens are some of the top attractions. Wildlife lovers can visit Nagarahole National Park and Kabini for safaris.

How many days are ideal for exploring Mysuru?

Two to three days are ideal to explore the major attractions in Mysuru, including the palace, temples, parks and nearby wildlife sanctuaries.

Is Mysuru a good destination for families and children?

Yes. Mysuru is family-friendly, with attractions like Mysore Zoo, Brindavan Gardens and Chamundi Hill that work well for children. The city is safe and has a variety of activities suitable for all ages.

What are the popular local cuisines to try in Mysuru?

Must-try dishes include Mysore Masala Dosa and Mysore Pak, alongside traditional South Indian meals. Street food such as idli, vada and biryani is also popular.

All questions

Before you go