Mysuru – ‘Birthplace of Masala Dosa’
The age-old city of Mysuru, or Mysore as the British called it, is famous for the awe-inspiring Mysore Palace, the lip-smacking Mysore Pak sweet and gorgeous Mysore silk sarees. However, many do not know that Mysuru is the birthplace of the Masala Dosa that we relish so often at South Indian food joints. The name itself was coined from ‘Mahishuru’ which means the abode of the mythological demon Mahishasura in native Kannada. Historically, Mysuru was a vassal state of the glorious Vijayanagara Empire but later gained independence under the Wadiyar Dynasty.
- Things to do at Mysuru: Tourists can take a gentle stroll and soak in the beauty at Brindavan Gardens; laze about on the tranquil banks of the Karanji Lake, or even revel on the laps of Mother Nature at the Chamundi Hills. Eager pilgrims may also delve into the architecture of the Somanathapura Temple.
- Popular tourist attractions of Mysuru: First and foremost, the majestic Mysore Palace, home to the Wadiyar Kings, is an absolute must-visit for any tourist. Secondly, the Chamundeshwari Temple, St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Jaganmohan Palace, Bandipur National Park and the Lalitha Mahal Palace are among other chief attractions.
- Places to shop at Mysuru: Mysore being a shopper’s delight, manages to craftily achieve a soothing blend of old-world charm and modern trends. The Devaraja Market is such an example where tourists are often spotted buying the famous Chenapatna dolls. And, let’s not forget the appetising Mysore Pak available at Guru Sweets Mart.
- Best time to visit Mysuru: The months from July to February are considered as the peak season to visit Mysuru. As the summers are scorching hot, this season provides a relieving respite to tourists. The summer and monsoon months are generally not considered ideal for travelling and sightseeing in Mysuru.
- Mode of transport: The legendary ‘Tongas’ or horse-driven carts are a specialty of Mysuru and most tourists are keen to have at least one experience on a Tonga. Apart from this, auto-rickshaws, private taxis and state-run bus routes are more popular among the native folk.
- Weather at Mysuru: Temperatures are always soaring in the city of Mysuru with an average high of 34°C. Mysuru receives maximum rainfall in the month of October, while May to September is also considered as the official rainy season.
Airport at Mysuru
Mandakalli Airport, is a comparatively small airport with a single runway strip and only one terminal. It is one of the least busy airports, handling small traffic of passengers. While at Mandakalli Airport you can offer your taste buds the various snacks in the cafes within the premises.
- Airport Address: Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Hwy, Mysuru, Karnataka 571311
- Airport IATA code: MYQ