Mysore is a small place with a big past. And in sharp contrast to other Indian small towns, it is most clean, well maintained and quiet, with impressive palaces, broad roads and nice people reflecting a benevolent and imperial past.
Mysore palace is world famous and is one of the largest of its kind in India. A city rich in culture and heritage is also known for its sandal, silk, flora, fauna, handicrafts, classical music, architectural wonders and of course Mysore is reknowned for its educational and research centers.
LOCATION
Mysore is located in the South
Indian state of Karnataka around 140 km from Bangalore.
Mysore is well connected through road and rail networks
with other parts of Karnataka and India.
Altitude: 770m above MSL. 12 18' North latitude
and 76 12' East longitudes.
Mysore enjoys a very
hospitable climate all through the year.
Temperature:
Winter - 14°C to 26°C, Summer -22°C to 33°C
HOW TO REACH?
By Air
The nearest airport from Mysore is 140 km away in Bangalore, from where one can take flights for most of the important cities in India.
By Rail
Mysore is connected with most of the metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai through regular trains. Between Mysore and Bangalore, there are several good trains like Shatabdi and Tipu Express. The railway station is located around 2 km from the downtown.
By Road
There is a good network of roads that connects Mysore to other important cities of the region. The Central Bus Stand is located in the downtown area and provides services like computerized reservation, telecom center, cloakroom, dining hall, and toilets.
HISTORY
Mysore was the capital city of the Wodeyars. Abode of untold grandeur and glory, where the rich heritage of the Wodeyars is carefully preserved to this day in its magnificent palaces, gardens, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. There is 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 Mahabharatha and King Ashoka of 3rd century B.C. During the Wodeyar rule of Mysore reached the zenith of its glory as a fabled center of oriental splendor. Mysore still retains a majestic charm, both in appearance and culture. During the Dasara the entire city is adorned like a bejeweled bride.
FESTIVAL
The Dassera celebrations in Mysore bring back the glory and the grandeur of a bygone era. During September-October, the entire city rejoices with colour and gaiety. The ten-day festivity culminates in a grand procession on the last day - Vijayadashami.