Mysore
Mysore, often called the City of Palaces, is a charming blend of royal heritage, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the grand Mysore Palace, climb Chamundi Hill for panoramic views, stroll through the Brindavan Gardens, and experience the bustling local markets. Known for its art, festivals, and peaceful vibe, Mysore offers a perfect mix of history, spirituality, and vibrant city life for travelers.
Highlights
- Majestic Mysore Palace – A royal spectacle glowing in golden lights.
- Chamundi Hill & Temple – Spiritual heights with panoramic city views.
- Brindavan Gardens – Dancing fountains and colorful floral magic.
- Heritage Streets – Old-world charm meeting vibrant local markets.
Itinerary
Just a short drive from Mysore city, Ranganathittu offers a tranquil retreat into nature. As you pass under the beautifully illustrated entrance arch, you're greeted by the calls of exotic birds and the rustle of leaves — a gentle reminder that you're entering their world.
Brindavan Gardens, located near Mysore, is famous for its beautifully landscaped gardens and musical fountain shows. Visitors can enjoy colorful flowers, manicured lawns, and serene water channels that create a magical ambiance. It’s a perfect spot for evening strolls, photography, and family outings.
Chamundi Hill, overlooking Mysore, is a spiritual and scenic landmark crowned by the Chamundeshwari Temple. Visitors can climb the steps or drive up to enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The hill offers a blend of devotion, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
The Mysore Fish Aquarium is located near the Mysuru Zoo and Karanji Lake, in the city of Mysuru, Karnataka. It is one of the oldest and most popular aquariums in South India. The aquarium houses a wide variety of freshwater and marine fish species, including colorful ornamental fish, exotic species, and rare aquatic creatures. Visitors can see fish like goldfish, angelfish, catfish, and koi carp. The aquarium is well-designed with glass tanks, lighting, and educational displays that explain fish habitats and breeding. It’s a great place for families, students, and tourists to learn about marine life and conservation while enjoying a peaceful environment near the lake.
St. Philomena’s Church is one of the tallest and most beautiful churches in India, located in Mysuru, Karnataka. It was built in 1936 in Neo-Gothic style, inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The church is dedicated to Saint Philomena, a young Christian martyr. Its twin spires rise about 175 feet high, and the interiors feature stunning stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. The church also has an underground chapel and a peaceful prayer hall.
The Nandi Statue is a famous landmark located on the way to the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, Karnataka. It represents Nandi, the sacred bull and devoted vehicle (vahana) of Lord Shiva. The statue is carved out of a single block of black granite and is about 16 feet high and 25 feet long, making it one of the largest Nandi statues in India. Built during the 17th century under the rule of the Wodeyars of Mysore, it is beautifully sculpted and polished. The statue sits peacefully facing the temple, and the spot offers a scenic view of Mysuru city, attracting both devotees and tourists
The Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most famous and beautiful palaces in India, located in the heart of Mysuru, Karnataka. It was the royal residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, who ruled the Kingdom of Mysore. The palace is known for its grand Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles. It has majestic domes, arches, and intricate carvings. The interiors are richly decorated with stained glass, mirrors, and ornate ceilings. Every year, during the Dasara festival, the entire palace is illuminated with nearly 100,000 lights, creating a breathtaking view. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India.
The Sand Museum in Mysuru, Karnataka, is one of the first sand art museums in India. It is located near Chamundi Hills and was created by artist M.N. Gowri. The museum displays over 150 beautiful sand sculptures made using around 115 truckloads of sand. The themes include Indian culture, mythology, wildlife, fairytales, and national symbols. Famous figures like Lord Ganesha, Goddess Chamundeshwari, and the Mysore Palace are beautifully carved in sand. The sculptures are preserved using glue and water to protect them. It is a unique and creative attraction, showing the artistic talent and culture of Mysuru.
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace in Mysore is a historic marvel of Indo-Islamic architecture with intricate arches and wooden carvings. It served as the summer residence of the legendary ruler Tipu Sultan. Visitors can explore its rich history, royal artifacts, and regal charm, reflecting the grandeur of Mysore’s past.
Mysore Zoo, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is one of India’s oldest and most well-maintained zoos. It houses a diverse collection of animals, birds, and reptiles in naturalistic enclosures. The zoo offers visitors an educational and enjoyable experience amidst lush greenery and wildlife.
The Jaganmohan Palace in Mysuru is renowned for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and houses the esteemed Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery. While the palace itself doesn't offer direct sunset views, its proximity to other landmarks provides opportunities to capture the beauty of Mysuru's sunsets.
The Lalitha Mahal Palace in Mysuru is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture, originally constructed in 1921 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV to host the Viceroy of India. Designed by British architect E.W. Fritchley, the palace draws inspiration from St. Paul's Cathedral in London, featuring a grand dome, imposing columns, and expansive terraces. Its pristine white façade and Italian marble interiors reflect the opulence of the Wodeyar dynasty
Srirangapatna, near Mysore, is a historic town steeped in Indian history and culture. It was the capital of Tipu Sultan and features landmarks like Ranganathaswamy Temple,The Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna is a historic and revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a form of Vishnu). Known for its intricate carvings and Dravidian architecture, it attracts devotees and tourists alike. The temple is a spiritual center reflecting centuries of faith, culture, and tradition.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
