Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India.
One of the most visited monuments in India, the Ambavilas Palace (also known as Mysore Palace) is the center of the Dasara festivities.It was the official residence of the former royal family of Mysore, and also housed the durbar (royal offices). The term “Palace of Mysore” specifically refers to one of these palaces, Amba Vilas.
Built in Indo-Saracenic style, with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades, the palace is a treasure house of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world. Known as Amba Vilas Palace, it was designed by Henry Irwin, the British consultant architect of Madras State, and completed in 1912 on the site of the old wooden palace that was destroyed by fire in 1897. The majestic Durbar Hall with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars, and the Marriage Pavilion with its chandeliers, cast-iron pillars, and Belgian stained glass arranged in peacock designs on the domed ceilings, are the main attractions. Make sure you see the magnificent jewel-studded golden throne, the pride of the Wadiyars and the symbol of their sovereignty, displayed here during the Dasara festival in October. A row of souvenir shops leads to the Residential Museum, which houses musical instruments, Tanjore and Mysore paintings, and an array of personal effects belonging to the Maharaja’s family. The palace, illuminated on Sundays and public holidays, presents a spectacle of breathtaking beauty.
Brindavan Gardens
Brindavan Gardens is a show garden that has a beautiful botanical park, full of exciting fountains, as well as boat rides beneath the dam.
Chamundi Hills
Chamundi Hills is close to the palace city of Mysore. Its average elevation is 1,000 meters. A panoramic view of the city is seen from the top of the hills
St. Philomena’s Church
St. Philomena’s Church is a church built in the honour of St. Philomena in the city of Mysore. It was constructed in 1956 using a Neo Gothic style and its architecture was inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.
