Mysuru
Though their rule was for a very brief period as compared to the Wadiyar kings, Haidar Ali and Tipu Sultan’s reign in Mysuru can be regarded as one of the hay days of the region. The decisive First and Second Anglo-Mysore wars fought by Haidar Ali and the consequent 30-year long rivalry with the British ensued by his son Tipu Sultan can be regarded as a watershed in modern South Indian history. Incidentally, most of the monuments erected commemorating the father and son duo now lie either in Srirangapatna or Bengaluru.
Things to do at Mysuru
Going on a bike ride to the top of Chamundi Hills is an absolutely blissful experience that tourists should not miss out on. You can also spend a day visiting the local artisans of Mysuru who specialise in cooper work, parquetry and embroidery.
Popular tourist attractions of Mysuru
The most popular tourist attraction of Mysuru is none other than the magnificent Mysuru Palace itself that thousands of people come to see at Mysuru. In fact, a lot of people have only one item on their itinerary and that’s visiting the Mysuru Palace, both at day and at night, when it lightens up in bright lights.
Places to shop at Mysuru
Silk Sarees are the most wanted items for shoppers in Mysuru. The government silk factories of Mysuru produce a uniquely fine quality of silk that is sold in many markets all over Mysuru. Of course, sandalwood is another prized commodity shoppers are looking to get their hands on.
Best time to visit Mysuru
The peak season starts from October and ends in February and this is the most favourable time to visit Mysuru as the temperature is quite soothing. The high temperatures during summer are too overbearing to get any sightseeing done.
Mode of Transport
Railway transport is completely absent here. Mysuru makes up for it with a supremely well-connected city bus and state bus service. Auto-rickshaws, taxis and car rentals are also available.
Weather at Mysuru
The mercury rises to a maximum of about 35°C and drops to about 17°C over the course of the year. As a result, summers are extremely hot and winters are starkly pleasant and on point for tourist activities.
Airport at Mysuru
The Mandakalli Airport (IATA: MYQ), situated 12 km away from the main city, is a small but highly efficient airport with a capacity for 200 travellers inbound or outbound. Out of these several are operated by IndiGo.