Located in the Indian state of Karnataka, Mysore was the former capital of this region. A city of palaces, southern, the princely city of Mysore is worth a visit whatever the month or season. Mysore is a dream city that never lets down the visitors with its clean, light and easygoing environment. Even with the growth of the city in response to modernization, Mysore has acquired only a mild change of pace.

The city of Mysore offers a visitor an insight into the lifestyles, cultures and traditions of its erstwhile rulers. The palaces and temples around the city speak volumes about heritage and architecture of the medieval times and the kind of patronage the city received from its rulers. The Chamundi Hills that towers over the city like a colossus houses a temple dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal family's patron deity. About 15 km from the royal city of Mysore lies the town of Srirangapattanam where the summer palace of Tipu Sultan is located. The Brindavan Gardens are world-famous terrace gardens bordered by watercourses. The Lalitha Mahal Palace, built in the 1930s, has now been converted into a prestigious hotel of the India Tourism Development Corporation. The Mysore Palace, built in Saracenic style, shows both Hindu as well as Muslim influences.

A visit to the places around Mysore casts light on the region's rich heritage. The temples of Somnathpur (35 km), Belur and Halebid give an insight into Hoysala dynasty while the Bandipur National Park and the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary showcase the region's bio-diversity.

Dasara (September/October) in Mysore is an occasion to remember even after leaving the place. It is believed that the presiding deity of the city has the power to conquer evil forces and this has led the citizens to celebrate the festival with much gaiety and fervor.