Mysore: Palaces, Markets & UNESCO Somanathapura Temple Tour
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6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
This Mysore tour is a perfect blend of history, culture, and local life. Begin with the grandeur of Mysore Palace, stroll through the colorful Devaraja Market, and admire the calm beauty of St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Step into Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace to uncover Indo-Islamic heritage, then enjoy a traditional banana leaf lunch. End the journey at Somnathpur’s UNESCO temple before returning to your hotel, making this 6–7 hour trip seamless, authentic, and free of tourist traps.
Available options
1. City Tour & Srirangapatna
Entry fee & lunch NOT included: Mysore Palace, Tipu Sultan Summer Palace, Devraja Market & St. Joseph's Cathedral Church. Entry fee & lunch NOT included.<br/>Pickup included
City Tour with Somnathpura
Somnathpura<br/>Entry fee & lunch NOT included: Mysore Palace, Prasanna Chennakesava Temple, Devraja Market & St. Joseph's Cathedral.
Entry fee & Lunch NOT included.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Certified english speaking tour guide
All transfers & sightseeing by private air-con vehicle
Pure exploration, free from tourist traps
Detailed itinerary
1
Your trip begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Mysore, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start. The first stop is the Mysore Palace, where you’ll spend about 1.5 hours walking through its grand halls, colorful courtyards, and learning about the city’s royal heritage.
2
Next, you’ll head to the lively Devaraja Market. Spend around 45 minutes here enjoying the sights and smells of fresh flowers, fruits, spices, and local goods. It’s the perfect way to experience Mysore’s everyday life.
3
From there, you’ll visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Take about 30 minutes to admire its tall Gothic spires, stained glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere.
4
Stop 4
Afterwards, you’ll drive to the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, where you’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring the Indo-Islamic architecture, delicate wooden carvings, and learning about Tipu Sultan’s legacy as the “Tiger of Mysore.” Guests will walk through the palace halls, see historic artifacts, and hear stories of his resistance against colonial powers.
5
By now, it will be time for lunch. You’ll stop at a local restaurant where food is served on a banana leaf. This traditional South Indian meal is both authentic and filling, and you’ll spend about 1 hour enjoying the flavors.
6
After lunch, you’ll take a scenic drive to the Prasanna Chennakesava Temple in Somnathpur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend about 1.5 hours here exploring the temple’s intricate stone carvings, marveling at the detailed Hoysala architecture, and soaking in its calm and spiritual vibe.
Finally, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel, ending your 6–7 hour journey with rich memories of history, culture, and local flavors.
What's not included
optional but recommended
Items of personal nature
Mysore Palace & Tipu Sultan
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Mysore
Mysore, known for its magnificent palaces and rich cultural heritage, is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. It's famous for the Mysore Palace, vibrant festivals, and delicious Mysore Pak, a popular sweet dish.
Top Attractions
Mysore Palace
The iconic Mysore Palace is a magnificent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It was the residence of the Wodeyar dynasty and is illuminated on Sundays and during festivals.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
INR 70 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners
Brindavan Gardens
Beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains, terraces, and a boat ride. It's a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
Nature
2-3 hours
INR 50 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners
Chamundi Hills
A sacred hill housing the Chamundeshwari Temple and offering panoramic views of Mysore. The hill is also home to various wildlife.
Religious/Nature
1-2 hours
Free entry, temple donation optional
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mysore Masala Dosa
A crispy dosa stuffed with spiced potatoes and served with chutney and sambar.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Mysore Pak
A sweet made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar, famous for its rich taste and texture.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Bisi Bele Bath
A spicy and flavorful rice dish cooked with lentils, vegetables, and a special spice mix.
Lunch
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Popular Activities
Trekking in Chamundi Hills
Boating at Brindavan Gardens
Visiting Brindavan Gardens
Enjoying a traditional massage
Exploring Mysore Palace
Visiting temples and monasteries
Visiting Shivanasamudra Falls
Enjoying the pleasant weather during Dasara festival
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This period offers pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals like Dasara.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kannada
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
IST (GMT+5:30)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mysore is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help
Getting there
By air
- Mysore Airport • 10 km from city center
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru • 180 km from Mysore
By train
Mysore Junction
By bus
Mysore Bus Stand, KSRTC Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely available. Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Mysore.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Lalitha Mahal Area
Vijayanagar
Day trips
Srirangapatna
15 km from Mysore • Half day
A historic town known for its temples, forts, and the grave of Tipu Sultan. It offers a glimpse into Mysore's rich history.
Shivanasamudra Falls
130 km from Mysore • Full day
A stunning waterfall on the Kaveri River, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities.
Bylakuppe
35 km from Mysore • Half day
A Tibetan settlement with beautiful monasteries and a unique cultural experience.
Festivals
Dasara Festival • September-October
Mysore Dasara Exhibition • September-October
Pro tips
- Visit Mysore Palace during the evening illumination for a spectacular experience.
- Try Mysore Masala Dosa at Mylari Hotel, a legendary spot for this dish.
- Explore the local markets like Devaraja Market and K.R. Market for authentic shopping experiences.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to avoid plastic waste and stay hydrated.
- Use app-based taxi services like Ola or Uber for fixed fares and convenience.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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