Mysuru, in the Indian state of Karnataka, is a former royal city. Its character comes from that past, and a visit here is largely a walk through the history and crafts that the city has kept. It is the kind of place to spend a relaxed few days rather than a single rushed afternoon.
What to see
- Mysore Palace, the city's best-known landmark, is the centrepiece for most visitors and gives the city its identity as a royal seat.
- Traditional silk sarees are closely associated with Mysuru. Browsing the shops and weaving traditions here is a good way to understand one of the city's enduring crafts.
- Cultural heritage runs through the city's streets, temples, and daily life, so wandering beyond the palace gates often reveals as much as the set-piece sights.
Planning your visit
Mysuru suits travellers interested in history, architecture, and handicrafts. Give yourself time to see the palace at an unhurried pace, and leave room to explore the markets and the silk trade, where the city's heritage is most visible in everyday commerce.
Because the city's appeal rests on its palace and its crafts, many visitors find that a slower itinerary, with time set aside for both, makes the trip most rewarding.
