Mysore is a beautiful city that many people fall in love with. As soon as you arrive, you can feel something special about it. The air often smells like sandalwood and flowers, the roads are clean and lined with trees, and many places have interesting stories behind them.
Mysore is quieter than Bangalore and less crowded than Goa. It is a peaceful city that is easy to enjoy. Whether you are visiting with your family, friends, or your partner, Mysore has something for everyone.
Two days are enough to visit the city’s most famous attractions without feeling tired or rushed. In this guide, you will learn how to spend two perfect days in Mysore, including the best places to visit, where to eat, and useful tips to make your trip better.
Before You Go: Quick Things to Know
Best time to visit: October to March is ideal. The weather is pleasant and not too hot. If you’re visiting during Dasara (usually October), expect massive crowds but also the most spectacular version of the city you’ll ever see — the palace is lit up with nearly 100,000 bulbs and the whole city feels like a festival.
How to reach Mysore:
- From Bangalore: About 3 hours by road (145 km). KSRTC buses run frequently, or you can take a cab. The Shatabdi Express train is also a great option — it’s comfortable and scenic.
- By air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, though most flights connect via Bangalore.
Getting around in Mysore: Auto-rickshaws are everywhere and fairly cheap. For families, hiring a cab for the day (around ₹1,200–₹1,500) makes things easier. Mysore is also one of the few Indian cities where walking between some attractions is actually pleasant.
Where to stay: The city has options for every budget. If you want to stay close to the palace and main market area, look for hotels in the Sayyaji Rao Road or Nazarbad area. For a more luxurious experience, there are some beautiful heritage hotels on the outskirts.
Day 1: Palaces, Markets, and Sandalwood
Morning — Start at Mysore Palace (8:30 AM)
There’s no other way to start your Mysore trip. The Mysore Palace — officially called Amba Vilas Palace — is one of the most visited monuments in India, and rightly so. When you first see it, even if you’ve seen pictures a hundred times, it still stops you in your tracks.
The palace was built in 1912 for the Wadiyar royal family after the earlier wooden palace burned down. What stands today is an Indo-Saracenic masterpiece — a beautiful mix of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic architectural styles. Three architects worked on it, but most of the credit goes to Henry Irwin, a British architect who somehow managed to blend so many styles into one coherent, breathtaking building.
What to see inside:
- Amba Vilas (Durbar Hall): The main hall where the king would hold court. The painted glass ceiling and the ornate columns are absolutely stunning. Look up a lot in this room.
- The Golden Howdah: This is the ceremonial seat in which the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on an elephant during Dasara. It’s made of 84 kilograms of gold. Yes, really.
- The Marriage Hall (Kalyana Mantapa): Huge stained glass ceiling, intricate tiled floors, and ornate pillars. This is the room most people photograph.
- The Armoury: Fascinating collection of old weapons — swords, pistols, daggers, and some truly unusual pieces.
Practical tips:
- Open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. But try to reach by 9–9:30 AM to beat the crowds.
- Entry fee: ₹100 for Indian adults, ₹200 for foreigners. Camera fee is extra.
- Audio guides are available at the entrance — worth getting if you want to understand what you’re looking at.
- Photography is allowed in most areas but NOT inside the main palace halls.
- On Sundays and public holidays, the palace exterior is lit up in the evenings (6:30–7:45 PM) — come back for this if you can.
- Shoes must be removed before entering. Carry a bag to hold them or use the free cloak room.
For families with kids: Children generally love the armoury and the grand scale of the halls. The golden elephant howdah is a big hit with kids — try to explain what it’s used for.
For couples: The palace gardens are lovely for a slow walk after the tour. There’s something about the architecture that feels almost otherworldly, especially in the early morning light.
Mid-Morning — Devaraja Market (11:30 AM)
A 10-minute auto ride from the palace brings you to Devaraja Market — one of the oldest and most atmospheric markets in South India. This isn’t a tourist-friendly, cleaned-up version of a market. It’s the real thing.
The market is divided into sections. You’ll find stalls selling flowers (the jasmine garlands here are fresh and beautiful), vegetables, fruits, spices, and the famous Mysore incense and sandalwood products. Walk slowly. Look around. Don’t be in a hurry.
Things to buy here:
- Mysore Agarbatti (Incense sticks): The cycle agarbatti brand originates from Mysore. Bundles here are cheap and fragrant.
- Jasmine garlands: Even if you don’t need them, holding one for a few minutes is a sensory experience.
- Mysore Pak: This is the city’s most famous sweet — a dense, melt-in-your-mouth fudge made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar. The best quality Mysore Pak is sold at Guru Sweet Mart, which is very close to the market.
- Spices and masalas: Good quality, reasonably priced.
The market can get busy and a little overwhelming, especially with children. Keep your group together. Bargain politely — vendors here are generally fair but will start at a higher price for tourists.
For families: Kids find the flower section magical. The colors and smells are unlike anything in a regular store.
Lunch (1:00 PM)
By now you’ll be hungry. Mysore has excellent food — particularly South Indian vegetarian food. Here are a few good options:
For a traditional South Indian meal:
- Hotel Mylari: A legendary place in the city, known for its soft, small dosas served with thick coconut chutney. Simple, no-frills, absolutely delicious. It gets crowded quickly so try to go early.
- Hanumanthu Military Hotel: If you eat non-vegetarian, this is one of the most beloved local spots. Mutton curry, chicken curry, and rice served on banana leaves.
For something more comfortable (good for families):
- The Old House: A heritage restaurant inside an old colonial bungalow. Good food, lovely setting.
- Vinayaka Mylari: Another Mylari branch that’s a bit more accessible for tourists.
Don’t miss: Mysore filter coffee. It’s not the same as what you get in Bangalore cafes. Ask for it “strong” if you like it bold.
Afternoon — Chamundi Hills (3:00 PM)
After lunch, head to Chamundi Hills, which stands about 1,000 metres above sea level and overlooks the entire city. On a clear day, the view from the top is extraordinary — you can see Mysore spread out below you, and on really clear days, even Nandi Hills in the distance.
At the top is the Chamundeshwari Temple, one of the most important temples in Karnataka. The goddess Chamundeshwari (a form of Durga) is the presiding deity of the Mysore royal family. The temple is ancient — dating back over a thousand years — though the current gopuram (tower) was built in the 17th century.
The 1,000-step staircase: If you’re reasonably fit and have the energy, climb the steps rather than taking the road. Halfway up, you’ll pass a massive Nandi Bull statue — about 5 metres tall, carved from a single block of granite in the 17th century. It’s one of the largest Nandi statues in India and quite impressive up close.
Practical tips:
- The drive to the top takes about 20 minutes from the city.
- Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid heat.
- Weekends get very crowded. If you’re visiting on a weekday, the experience is much calmer.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb the steps.
- The viewpoint near the temple gives you a wonderful view of the city — great for photos.
For families: Kids love the steps and the Nandi statue. There are food stalls near the top selling corn, sugarcane juice, and snacks.
For couples: The sunset view from Chamundi Hills is genuinely beautiful. If timing works out, try to be up there around 5:30–6 PM.
Evening — Palace Illumination + Mysore Zoo (Optional)
If you’ve come back down from Chamundi Hills and it’s a Sunday or a public holiday, head back toward the palace area by 6:30 PM. The palace illumination — where the entire building is outlined in 97,000 light bulbs — is one of those sights that’s hard to describe. You have to see it.
If it’s not a Sunday, this is a good time to explore the Mysore Zoo, which is actually one of the best-maintained zoos in India. It’s open until 5:30 PM, so you’d need to visit right after Chamundi Hills. The zoo is spacious, the animals have large enclosures, and it’s genuinely enjoyable — not the depressing kind of zoo. Kids love it, obviously, but adults often find it surprisingly pleasant too.
Dinner — Explore the Food Street
For dinner, head to the area around Sayyaji Rao Road or the hotel area near the palace for a wide range of options. If you want an experience:
- Hotel RRR: Famous for its South Indian meals served on banana leaves. The sambar here has a very distinct Mysore flavor — slightly sweet, very aromatic.
- Vinayaka Mylari (evening): Dosas, idlis, and vadas if you want a light dinner.
- Oyster Bay: A slightly upscale restaurant with both Indian and continental options — good for families who want variety.
Day 2: History, Gardens, and Silk
Morning — Srirangapatna (8:30 AM)
About 16 km from Mysore lies Srirangapatna — a small island town surrounded by the Kaveri River that was once the capital of Tipu Sultan. For history lovers, this place is a treasure. For those who aren’t particularly into history, it’s still worth a quick visit for the fort and the views.
What to see:
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace (Dariya Daulat Bagh): This is the highlight. It’s a beautiful wooden palace surrounded by a lovely garden. What makes it special are the murals — the walls are painted with detailed scenes from the Battle of Pollilur (1780), where Tipu Sultan’s forces defeated a British contingent. The painting is incredibly detailed and gives you a vivid sense of 18th-century warfare and court life. Entry is very cheap (₹25 for Indians) and it’s rarely crowded.
Ranganathaswamy Temple: An ancient temple on the island, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s a Vaishnavite pilgrimage site and a genuinely peaceful place. The architecture is beautiful.
The Fort: Mostly ruins now, but the walls and the water gate (the spot where Tipu Sultan was reportedly killed during the siege of 1799) are still intact and evocative.
Gumbaz: The mausoleum of Tipu Sultan, his father Hyder Ali, and his mother. Set in a lovely garden, it’s a quiet and respectful place. The inlaid work on the cenotaphs is exquisite.
Practical tips:
- Hire a local guide at the entrance — they know the history and bring the places alive. ₹200–₹300 for a 2-hour tour.
- Budget about 2–3 hours for the whole Srirangapatna visit.
- Best to go in the morning before it gets hot.
For families: The murals at Dariya Daulat Bagh are fascinating for older kids. The story of Tipu Sultan is dramatic and interesting — prepare a short version before you go.
For couples: The gardens at Dariya Daulat Bagh and the riverside views near the fort are beautiful and peaceful.
Mid-Morning — Back to Mysore: Brindavan Gardens (11:00 AM or Evening)
Brindavan Gardens is located at the base of the Krishnarajasagar Dam, about 12 km from Mysore city. These terraced gardens are one of the most famous in India — and with good reason.
The gardens are beautifully maintained, with fountains, flower beds, and a long walkway leading to the dam. There’s a musical fountain show in the evenings (usually 6:30–8 PM) that’s quite popular.
Honest advice: If you’re visiting with kids, go in the evening for the musical fountain show — they’ll love it. If you’re a couple, the evening timing is also more romantic. If you’re a history or garden enthusiast, even the daytime visit is worthwhile.
The gardens can get very crowded on weekends and holidays. Weekday visits are much more pleasant.
Lunch (1:00 PM)
Back in Mysore, try something you might not have had yet:
- Mylari Dosa: If you didn’t have it on Day 1, today is the day.
- Mysore Masala Dosa: The Mysore version has a spicy red chutney spread inside the dosa before the masala filling — it’s different from the Bangalore version and more flavorful.
- A proper South Indian thali: Many restaurants serve a full thali (set meal) at lunch — rice, sambar, rasam, 2–3 vegetable dishes, curd, pickle, and papad. It’s filling, balanced, and usually costs ₹150–₹250.
Afternoon — Mysore Silk and Shopping (2:30 PM)
No trip to Mysore is complete without exploring its famous silk. Mysore silk sarees — with their distinctive gold zari (border) and soft texture — are known throughout India.
Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium (Government run): This is the safest place to buy authentic Mysore silk. Fixed prices, no bargaining needed, good quality guarantee. They stock silk sarees, fabric by the meter, and other Karnataka handicrafts. It’s located on Sayyaji Rao Road.
Mysore Silk Factory (Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation): If you want to see how the silk is woven, visit the factory (about 3 km from the city center). They have tours and also a showroom. The prices here are the most competitive for genuine Mysore silk.
What else to buy in Mysore:
- Sandalwood products: Soaps, oils, carvings, and incense. Mysore is one of the world’s top sandalwood producers. Government emporiums are the safest place to buy.
- Mysore Pak: Carry some home as gifts.
- Rosewood inlay work: Beautiful decorative items with intricate wood inlay patterns.
- Bidriware: Black metalwork from Karnataka, very distinctive.
Caution on private shops: Many autorickshaw drivers will offer to take you to “their uncle’s silk shop” or a “government-approved shop” that isn’t actually government-run. Prices at these shops are significantly inflated. Stick to the official emporiums or the silk factory showroom.
Late Afternoon — Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery (4:30 PM)
This is often skipped by tourists who run out of time, but it’s worth visiting if you have an interest in art or history. The Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 and now houses an art gallery with an interesting collection — paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, antique musical instruments, Chinese and Japanese artifacts collected by the Wadiyar kings, and old photographs of Mysore.
It’s not as grand as the main palace, but it’s far less crowded and gives you a quiet hour of culture.
Entry: ₹100 for Indians. Open 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Evening — Kukkarahalli Lake (6:00 PM)
End your Mysore trip with something calm and unexpected — a walk around Kukkarahalli Lake, right next to the University of Mysore campus. It’s a beautiful birdwatching spot with over 150 species recorded. In the late afternoon, the light on the water is gorgeous.
It’s free, peaceful, and a world away from the tourist hustle. Couples will particularly enjoy this — it’s genuinely romantic without being clichéd.
Last Dinner
For your final dinner, if budget allows, treat yourself to something special:
- Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel: This is a palace-turned-heritage hotel that serves dinner to non-guests. The architecture alone is worth the visit. The food is good, but the experience of dining in a 100-year-old palace is unforgettable.
- The Green Hotel: A charming place set in a heritage bungalow with a lovely garden. Good vegetarian food, peaceful atmosphere.
Practical Day-by-Day Summary
Day 1
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Mysore Palace |
| 11:30 AM | Devaraja Market |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at Mylari or Hotel RRR |
| 3:00 PM | Chamundi Hills |
| 6:30 PM | Palace Illumination (Sunday) or Mysore Zoo |
| 8:00 PM | Dinner near Sayyaji Rao Road |
Day 2
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Srirangapatna (half day) |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch in Mysore |
| 2:30 PM | Silk shopping and Cauvery Emporium |
| 4:30 PM | Jaganmohan Palace |
| 6:00 PM | Kukkarahalli Lake walk |
| 7:30 PM | Dinner at Lalitha Mahal or Green Hotel |
Tips Specifically for Families
- Start early. With kids, mornings are easier. The palace and temple are less crowded, and children are fresher.
- Carry water and snacks. Especially for Chamundi Hills and Srirangapatna.
- Mysore Zoo is a full half-day activity if you have young children who love animals.
- Auto-rickshaws can be difficult with big families. Book a cab for the day — it costs ₹1,500–₹1,800 for a full day with AC, and it’s worth it.
- Most temples require removing shoes. Carry a bag or use the shoe counters.
Tips Specifically for Couples
- Book the Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel for dinner or even stay there if the budget allows — it’s one of the most romantic settings in South India.
- The palace illumination on Sunday evenings is genuinely special and not to be missed.
- Chamundi Hills at sunset is beautiful. Time your visit accordingly.
- Kukkarahalli Lake at dusk is one of Mysore’s hidden romantic spots.
- Brindavan Gardens in the evening with the musical fountain is lovely for a relaxed walk.
Budget Guide (Approximate Per Person, Per Day)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹700–₹1,200 | ₹2,500–₹4,000 | ₹6,000+ |
| Food | ₹400–₹700 | ₹900–₹1,500 | ₹2,000+ |
| Transport | ₹300–₹500 | ₹600–₹900 | ₹1,200+ |
| Entry fees | ₹200–₹400 | ₹400–₹600 | ₹600+ |
Mysore is genuinely one of the more affordable places to travel in India. A couple can have a very comfortable two-day trip for around ₹10,000–₹15,000 including a nice hotel. Families of four can manage the same itinerary for ₹20,000–₹30,000 comfortably.
A Few Things People Often Get Wrong
“I’ll cover everything in one day.” You won’t. The palace alone takes 2–3 hours if you want to see it properly. Chamundi Hills is another 2 hours. Srirangapatna is a half-day in itself. Two days is the right amount of time.
“Mysore Pak is just a sweet.” No. It is a lifestyle. Try it fresh, at the source. Packaged Mysore Pak sold at railway stations doesn’t compare to what you get at Guru Sweet Mart.
“I’ll bargain at the government silk emporium.” You can’t. That’s kind of the point of going there.
“Brindavan Gardens is just a garden.” In the morning, it’s a nice garden. In the evening with the musical fountains and lights, it transforms into something much more festive and fun — especially for kids and couples.
One Last Thing
Mysore is a city that is best enjoyed slowly. Do not hurry from one place to another. Take time to enjoy an extra cup of filter coffee. Sit in the palace garden for a few minutes and admire the beautiful buildings. Walk through the local markets and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
You can also talk to local people, such as shopkeepers or auto-rickshaw drivers. They are friendly and love sharing stories about their city. You may learn things that are not written in travel guides.
Mysore is famous for its culture, art, and handicrafts. If you spend time exploring and understanding the city, you will take home wonderful memories that are more valuable than anything you can buy.
FAQs
1. Is 2 days enough to explore Mysore?
Yes, 2 days are enough to visit the main attractions in Mysore, including Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, St. Philomena’s Church, and Mysore Zoo.
2. What is the best time to visit Mysore?
The best time to visit Mysore is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing.
3. Is Mysore a good destination for families?
Yes, Mysore is a family-friendly destination with beautiful gardens, historical sites, a famous zoo, and many cultural attractions suitable for all ages.
4. Is Mysore suitable for couples?
Yes, couples can enjoy peaceful gardens, scenic viewpoints, palace visits, and romantic evening walks at Brindavan Gardens.
5. How can I travel around Mysore?
You can travel around Mysore using auto-rickshaws, taxis, local buses, or by renting a scooter or car.
6. What are the must-visit places in Mysore in 2 days?
Some must-visit places include Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo, St. Philomena’s Church, and the Devaraja Market.
7. Is Mysore expensive for tourists?
No, Mysore is generally budget-friendly. Accommodation, food, and local transportation are affordable compared to many other tourist cities in India.
8. What local food should I try in Mysore?
Visitors should try Mysore Masala Dosa, Mysore Pak, Idli-Vada, Bisi Bele Bath, and authentic South Indian filter coffee.
9. Can I visit Brindavan Gardens in the evening?
Yes, evening is the best time to visit Brindavan Gardens because you can enjoy the famous musical fountain show and beautiful lighting.
10. How far is Mysore from Bangalore?
Mysore is about 145 kilometers from Bangalore and can be reached in around 3 to 4 hours by road or train.
11. Is Mysore safe for families and couples?
Yes, Mysore is considered one of the safest tourist cities in India and is generally safe for families and couples.
12. Which area is best to stay in Mysore?
Staying near Mysore Palace, the city center, or the railway station is convenient for sightseeing and transportation.
Rahul Sharma is the founder and editor of BrindavanaGarden.com. With over two years of experience working on travel and tourism websites, he focuses on creating informative guides, visitor resources, and destination-based content. His goal is to provide readers with clear, practical, and well-researched information about Brindavan Gardens, Mysore, and nearby attractions.