Tourist places in and around Mysore
A Hilltop Pilgrimage
Dominating Mysore is Chamundi Hill and its Chamundi, orkali Temple. The infirm and aged can catch a bus; the rest of us will take the pilgrims' route up the thousand steps to the top. Two-thrids of the way up (the steps are numbered so you can check on your progress) is a huge statue of Nandi. As Kali is a form of Shiva, this is the traditional, though distant, adjunct to the temple. The temple itself (closed noon-5pm) is dwarfed by its gopuram. Non-Hindu visitors are welcome. A temple car is in a shed to one side of the temple, and there is a museum to be visited. Chamundi Hill is more for the view than the temple.Chamundi Hill (13 km)
The chamundeswari Temple perched atop the hill is believed to be 2,000 years old, present structure dates back to 11th century. It is dedicated to Goddess chamundi, the patron deity of the Wodeyar's. On the half way up there is a 4.8 metre tall monolith of ‘Nandi', the bull, carved out of a single black rock. There is also a gigantic statue of Mahishasura atop the hill, who was vanquished in the battle byChamundi Hills Forming the backdrop of the city is the 1,100-feet-high Chamundi Hill. On the top of the hill stands the temple dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari, the royal family's patron deity. To reach the temple one can either drive through the 13-km stretch up to the summit or climb the 1,000 stone steps. Nearby the temple stands the huge statue of Mahishasura, the demon slain by the Goddess. Halfway up along the stone steps stands the majestic 4.8-metre monolith of Nandi the Bull, Lord Shiva's chosen mount. The statue is believed to be 300 years old and its chief attraction, apart from its size, is the meticulous craftsmanship of its ornaments-from its delicate anklets to the magnificent pendant bell around its neck.
The shrine of Goddess Chamundeshwari commands a panoramic view of Mysore on the plains below. Sri Chamundi is the tutelary Goddess of the Wodeyar kings, who lavished lots of gifts to the temple. The gopuram was constructed by Krishnaraja Wodeyar (1794-1868).
The Goddess is worshipped as Mahishasuramardhini. There is a life size statue of demon Mahishasura, whom the Devi vanquished at this holy spot. Shrines dedicated to Siva as Mahabaleshwara and Vishnu as Lakshmi Narayana are situated near the Chamundi temple.
Named after the Goddess Chamundeshwari (manifestation of Durga), the hills offer you the best view of the city, including important landmarks as the Race Course, Lalitha Mahal Palace, Mysore Palace, the Karanji and Kukkarahalli lakes. The legend that Goddess Chamundeshwari killed the demon Mahishasura renders it its name. You would reach the temple by climbing about 1000 steps, en route passing the 15 ft high monolith of the Nandi Bull. At the top of the hill is a statue of the demon Mahishasura, the Chamundeshwari Temple and several other smaller temples. The Chamundeshwari Temple atop has a seven storey tall intricately carved gopuram. The Chamunda Devi idol is said to be made in solid gold and the gates of silver.
Open for puja from: 7:30 am 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm 6:00 pm, 7:30 pm 9:00 pm,
Vehicle entry fee - Rs 10
Perched atop a hill is a 12th century temple of Chamundeshwari. About 13km from Mysore by road, there is also a 1000 step walking track for all those young at heart to try. The gigantic 4.8 metre tall monolith of Nandi, the sacred vehicle of Lord Shiva is a marvel to watch. Also close to the temple, stands a gigantic statue of the demon.
A prominent landmark, located at the outskirts of the city, Chamundi Hills can be reached by a 13 kms motorable road or 1000 steps built by the Wodeyars. At the crest of this hill is Sri Chamundeshwari Temple that dates back to the 11th century. The striking gopura (Pyramidal Temple tower) was added by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar-III in 1825-1826. Goddess Chamundi was the patron deity of the rulers. Near the temple is the statue of Mahishasura, the demon slayed by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Half way up the stone steps, is the 4.8 meter high monolith of Nandi, Lord Shiva's mount.
Navaratri
This festival is celebrated in a spectacular manner. The grand Vijayadashami procession marks a colourful finale in a royal way.Nandi
This giant monolithic sculpture, about 5 metres high and 7.6 metres long, was consecrated during the reign of Dodda Devarja (1659-1672). Known for excellent workmanship, this Nandi is equal in importance to those at the temples of Thanjavur and Lepakshi.Deva Ganga and Pathala Vahini are sacred waters on the hills.
Shries in Mysore Palace
The Lingam at the ancient shrine of Thrineeswara is said to have been installed by sage Thrina Bindu. The Goddess is Tripurasundari. There are other shrines dedicated to Varahaswami, Bhuvaneswari, Devi Gayatri and Lord Krishna.Maharaja's Palace
Designed by the English Architect, Henry Irwin, the Mysore Palace dominates the skyline of Mysore. A three storied structure in the Indo-Saracenic style built between 1897-1912, the palace has beautifully designed square towers at cardinal points, covered with domes. The Durbar Hall with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars and the Kalyanamantapa (Marriage Pavilion) with its glazed tiled flooring and stained glass, domed ceiling are worth noting. Intricately carved doors, the golden howdah (elephant seat), paintings as well as the fabulous, jewel encrusted golden throne (displayed during Dasara) are amongst the palace's other treasures. The walled palace complex houses the Residential Museum (incorporating some of the Palace's living quarters), temples and shrines including the Shwetha Varahaswamy temple. The palace is illuminated on Sundays, Public Holidays as well as during the Dasara Celebrations when 97,000 electric bulbs are used to illuminate it.Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery
The art gallery is housed in the Jaganmohan palace, one of the most beautiful buildings of Mysore. A museum established here in 1915, has a fine collection of ceramics, sandalwood, ivory, stone, antique furniture and ancient musical instruments. It also treasures valuable art collection like traditional Mysore gold leaf paintings and paintings of renowned artists like Travancore ruler, Raja Ravi Varma and the Russian painter Svetoslav roerich etc.Other shrines
Markandeya Ashram and Jwalamukhi Tripurasundari shrine are other holy spots.Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace Built in around AD 897 in Saracenic style, the Mysore palace has both Hindu as well as Muslim influences. The palace, designed by an English architect and completed in 1912, was built in place of an earlier palace which was burnt down in 1897.The main palace building is made of massive grey granite with a tower covered by a gilded dome. Colours abound the palace architecture. The huge rooms and the floor tiles are covered with colours like turquoise blue, magenta, golden yellow and leaf green. The central hall, incredible in its beauty, was used for marriages and other major gatherings. A temple is also situated within the royal courtyard. The Dussehra procession, an annual affair in the city in the month of October, starts from here.
The palace also houses a museum which has a collection of musical instruments, children's toys, many paintings, costumes, weapons, etc., belonging to the Maharaja's family.
The focus of Mysore city is this palace, which was home to the Wodeyars. Displaying a grandeur that is yet unmatched, the architectural style is largely Indo-Saracenic. It has strikingly beautiful interiors, complete with ornate ceilings, jeweled mosaic floor, paintings of rulers and the royal family and beautiful chandeliers. The Durbar Hall has the famous golden throne weighing 200 kgs! The Ambavilasa was the hall of public audience and its entrance is exquisitely carved in rosewood with gilded interiors replete with floral motifs and jewel-encrusted floors. You would enter the palace through the Gombe Thotti or the Doll's Pavilion. This houses a wide array of traditional dolls from the 19th and 20th centuries and the 84 kg Golden Howdah or elephant's seat, used to carry passengers. The Kalyana Mantapa was the marriage hall done in multihued stained glass, peacock mosaic and oil paintings depicting Dussera festivities during the days of royalties. The palace complex also has a Residential Museum, which houses the royal collection of silver, chandeliers, crystal and royal trousseau. The Armoury contains different weapons used by the royal family. There are 12 temples within the palace complex, including the Varashaswamy Temple, whose gopuram is said to be the precedent to the Chamundeshwari Temple. Other important temples include the Someshvara Temple dedicated to Shiva and Lakshmiramana Temple dedicated to Vishnu Once the residence of the Wodeyars, this structure is one of the largest of its kind in India. Built in 1912, in the Indo Saracenic style, this place excludes a grandeur that is unmatched. The Golden royal Elephant Throne, the durbar Hall, the Kalyana Mantap and the Gallery are the main attractions here.
The palace looks particularly enthralling at night when it is lit up by no less than 97,000 bulbs at one time! Remember to take off your shoes to enter the palace and cameras are not allowed inside.
Open from: 10.00 am - 5.30 pm
Entry fee - Adults Rs 15, Children Rs 5
This magnificent three storeyed palace in the heart of the town was built between 1897-1912 on the foundation of an old palace which was partially destroyed in a fire in 1897. The palace has splendid square tower at cardinal points, crowned with domes. The main attractions are - ‘Durbar Hall' with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars and the kalyanamandapam (Marriage Pavilion), noted for its chandeliers, east-iron pillars, Belgian stained glass arranged in peacock designs in the domed ceilings and glazed tiled florring. The palace is also known for its rich collection of priceless articles like, a golden howdah (elephant seat), fine paintings and a 200kg. gold throne encrusted with precious stones. About 97,000 electric builbs light up th3e palace in the evenings on Sundary, Public Holidays and during the Dassara celebrations.
Lalitha Mahal Palace (9 km)
The snow-white Lalitha Mahal was built in the 1930s for the guests of the Wodeyars. The main attraction of the palace is a staircase of Italian marble branching off from a landing to reach the first floor hall. Surrounded by velvety green lawns and stately trees, the Lalitha Mahal is now a prestigious hotel of the India Tourism Development Corporation.The charming white coloured double storeyed palace was built by Maharaja Krishnaraja wodeyar in 1931, to accommodate the royal guests from overseas and has now been converted into a luxurious heritage hotel.
The Jaganmohan Palace
This is a converted art gallery which houses paintings that date back to the late 19th century. Paintings of Raja Ravi Verma of Travancore and the Russian painter, Svetoslav Roerich are on display. Paintings in the traditional Mysore Golden leaf style can also be seen here.One of Mysore's most beautiful buildings, the Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar in a predominantly Hindu style, as an alternative retreat for the royal family. This three storied palace with stained glass shutters and ventilators, in a lovely garden setting, has since 1915, housed the Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery. This museum displays paintings, sculptures and musical instruments. This gallery has a collection of exquisite paintings dating back to 1875. The collection includes paintings by Travancore Ruler, Raja Ravi Varma, the Russian Svetoslav Roerich and the traditional Mysore gold leaf style of painting.
St Philomena's Cathedral
Undoubtedly one of South India's largest churches, its design is typically gothic marked by beautiful stained glass windows. At a remarkable height of 175 ft, it has two spires and photography inside requires the permission of the parish priest.Open from: 5:00 am 8:00 pm This beautiful cathedral was built in 1956 and is one of the largest churches in the country. It has been built in the Gothic style with beautiful stain glass windows and lofty towers. The illuminated church in the evening is a wonderful site not to be missed.
The imposing twin towered Gothic structure with beautiful stained glass windows.
This is a beautiful gothic structure with twin spires, 175ft. in height, is modelled on the gothic Cathedral at Cologne. Designed by French architects, the foundation stone was laid by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar-IV in 1933. The stained glass windows made in France, overlooking the apse, showing the Birth of Christ, Baptism of Christ by St. John the Baptist, the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Christ are works of art. The altar bears the statue of St. Philomena, a third century saint from Greece.
Belur
One of the three major Hoysala temples still in daily use today is the Channekeshava Temple of Belur. The construction of the temple, which took almost a century, was started in 1116 to commemorate the Hoysalas' victory over the Cholas. Enclosed in a paved compound, the temple complex includes a well and a bathing tank. It is believed that every major deity of the Hindu pantheon is represented in the temple.Halebid
The Hoysaleswara temple at Halebid has a history dating back to around AD 1121. Though its construction spanned 80 years, it was never completed. The temple is set in a well-tendered garden. A small museum adjacent to it houses a collection of sculptures. The Kedareswara temple and three small Jain temples are also located at Halebid. BandipurBandipur National Park (80 km)
On the way to Ooty, about 80 km off Mysore, is situated the Bandipur National Park. The park, spread over an area of 875 km, is a famous tiger reserve. Besides tiger, the other animals you can see here are the barking deer, tuskers, and bison.Bandipur combine with the contiguous Mudumalai and Wynaad (Kerala) to form a reserve of almost 3000 Sq km. Bandipur is one of the project Tiger reserves, if you are lucky, you may sight a tiger.
Information. Forest Department, Aranya Bhavan, 18th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore or Project Tiger Office, Ashokpuram, Mysore.
Arrival and departure
The Reception Centre is on the main road from Mysore (3 hrs) to Ooty (2 hrs); there is a regular bus serive.Accommodation The only low-cost accommodation is the Forest Department's bungalows, and these must be booked in advance.
It sprawls in the foothills of the Nilgiris and is one of the finest wildlife centres in the country. The park was set-up in 1931, by the Mysore Maharajas and was brought under the ‘Project tiger' in 1974. It covers an area of 874.20 sq.kms, adjoining the famous Mudumalai sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and Wayanad sanctuary in Kerala. The lush forest full of teak, rosewood, honne, mathi, bamboo and sandal trees teems with elephant, tiger, leopard, panther, dhole (wild dog), bison, spotted deer, sambar, crocodile, cobra and python etc. Birds like peafowl, partridge, quali, hornbill, ibis, eagle, etc. can be viewed here. Visitors can take a safari on an elephant back or hire a vehicle to go round the park. Well plannted motorable roads close to the perennial and seasonal water points and adequate open spaces in the forest enable a better viewing. Beat season - May to June and Sept to Nov.
Sravanabelagola
Sravanabelagola, meaning the Monk of the White Pond, is the oldest and the most important pilgrimage centre for the Jains in the country. The town is also the home to the world's tallest monolithic statue, the 17-metre-high naked statue of Bahubali. Besides the statue, the town also has several interesting Jain temples and monasteries.Brindavan Gardens & Jkrishnajasagar Dam (19 km)
Located at the KR Sagar Dam, these gardens are spectacular with terraced lawns and a range of fountains. Especially notable are the musical fountains that burst into different colours.A half-hour's drive from the
city takes you to the Brindavan Gardens. The well-manicured steps of these world famous terrace gardens are bordered by watercourses. Musical fountains with soft coloured lights add to the visitor's delight. The view of the gardens during the nights is a thing to be seen.9 km north-west of Mysore is the famous KRS dam. Built by the famous engineer, Sir. M. Vishvesvariah, this was oe of the first multi-purpose dams built in India. Adjacent to the dam is the beautiful Brindavan Garden. With lighting and musical fountains, this place transforms itself into a fairyland in the evenings.
The massive dam near the confluence of kaveri, Hemavathi and Lakshamanatirtha rivers was designed and constructed by the famous architect. M. Visheswaraya in 1932, during the reign of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. The dam is about 2621 metres long and 39 metres high, while the reservoir covers an area of 130 Sq.km The beautiful terraced Bridavan Gardens, buiolt at the foot of the dam is famous for its illumination and musical water fountains. The well-lit gardens in the evenings look like a fairyland.
19 km North of Mysore is the famous reservoir Krishnarajasagara. This Dam is built across the river Cauvery. Just below the Dam, the beautiful Brindavan Gardens are laid out. There are varieties of fountains, illuminated at night by colourful lights. The Musical fountain is of special interest which has spectacular harmony of water, colours and music.
Sri Jayachamarajendra Zoo
Spare at least two hours to explore this zoo, which boasts of some of the rarest collection of animals, including tapir, chimpanzee, giraffe, zebra and white tiger.Open from: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm, (Tuesdays closed) Entry fee - Adults Rs 15, Children Rs 5 Photography - Still camera Rs 10, Video camera Rs 150 One of the country's best zoo, this is famous for rare animals bred in captivity, and is housed in lush green surroundings.
It was set up in 1892, during the rule of Chamrajendra Wodeyar.
Sri Jayachamarajendra Zoological Gardens, popularly known as the Mysore Zoo was established in 1892 under the reign of Chamarajendra Wodeyar. Large collections of animals, including exotic species, are housed in lush green surroundings. This zoo is famous for breeding some rare animals in captivity.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu, 18 kms from Mysore, is a Bird Sanctuary that houses exotic birds. It is a group of small islands in the Kaveri River. It is home to a variety of waterbirds, including comorants, herons, egrets and spoonbills, many of whom migrate here annually from Siberia and North America, to nest and breed. Crocodiles basking in the sun are also a familiar sight. Best season to visit this place is May-Sept/Oct.Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Mudumalai is notable for being the major home of wild elephants in India. The dense jungle also houses a variety of deer, bison, and a few tigers and panthers.Theppakadu, where the Reception Centre is situated, is the main centre. Tours into the park on elephant run from here, and there is also a camp for working elephants. A circus act, called the Elephant Puja, takes place each evening. Heavy rain can close the park during the October to December monsoon period, and it may be closed because of fire risk in the dry season (February and March). Both Bandipur and Mudumalai should be avoided at weekends.
Information
The Wildlife Warden has an office on Coonoor Road in Ooty; book accommodation and elephant rides here to avoid taking pot luck at the sanctuary.Arrival and departure
Theppakadu, about 10 km from the Bandipur Reception Centre, is served by regular buses on the main road between Mysore (3 hrs) and Ooty (2 hrs). Taxi and jeep services to Masinagudi. The minibus service from Ooty to Masinagudi takes only an hour and follows a wild hilly road.Accommodation. Inexpensive dormitory and lodge accommodation at Theppakadu, best booked in advance in Ooty. Cheap and basic accommodation is also available in Masinagudi. Private resort also exist.
Srirangapatnam (16 km)
Srirangapatnam About 16 km from the royal city of Mysore lies the town of Srirangapatnam. There are many interesting places here of which the summer palace of Tipu Sultan is a must visit. Built in 1784 in the Indo-Saracenic style, the palace also has a small museum where Tipu's trivia, including a gold-embroidered tunic, old paintings and a coin collection, are displayed. A little away from the palace is the Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali. Another famous place to visit is Jami Masjid. The slender minarets of this mosque are visible from several kilometres.This holy town is situated in an island formed by the waters of Cauvery. Puranas speak of this place as Gautama Kshetra. The sage, who had his ashram on the banks of Cauvery, is believed to have founded the shrine of Lord Ranganatha. Historical evidence dates back to the reign of Ganga king Thirumalaiya (897 AD). Srirangapatnam is also revered as Adi Rangam like Srirangam near Tiruchi in Tamil Nadu is known as Andhya Rangam and Sivasamudram in Karnataka as Madhya rangam.
It is renowned for its impregnable fort, where Tipu Sultan fought the British. However, he was killed within the fort, and the spot where he fell is marked by a memorial and his tomb.
Srirangapatam, as the British called it, has a long history as a religious centre, and was the early capital of the Hindu rulers of Mysore. Their throne was usurped in 1761 by one of their generals, the Muslim Haidar Ali. He and his son Tippu Sultan carved out a substabtial empire and, taking advantage of its island location based a strong fort on Srirangapatnam. Until the final capture of the fort in 1799, they caused the British more trouble than all the other princes put together.
The ramparts of Srirrangapatnam are mostly intact, and one can see the beach made by the British, hthe spot near the Water Gate where Tippu Sultan died, and who large temples. The most unusual viewpoint is the ship's crow's nest on a watchtower, but everything is very spread out and of limited interest.
Outside the fort is the attractive Daria Daulat (Tippu's summer palace, open 9am-5pm). Murals done fro Tippu by a local artist depict his forces (with many French in blue jackets) defeating the British redcoats at Pollilore in 1780. There is a good collection of prints and a model of the fortress of Srirangapatnam, much easier to comprehend like this than on the ground.
In the Lalbagh the tomb of Tippu Sultan and Haidar Ali (open 8:00 am-6:30 pm) is something of a throwback architecturally, resembling the Bijapur style of a couple of hundred years earlier. The most notable features are the superb polished stone arcade and the lacquered tiger-stipe (Tippu's motif) interior. The third stond inside is of Haidar Ali's wife (Tippu's mother). The stones.now concealed under coloured cloths, are supposed to be beautifully inlaid. Best visited early or late in the day, especially at 5pm when prayers are sung in the tomb, and the light is best, too. Like the Summer Palace, the tomb is surrounded but quiet, well kept gardens, in this case with many interesting monuments.
The 18th century island capital of Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan is flanked by two branches of river kaveri. The battle scarred ramparts of the fort reflects the heroics of Tipu, who valiantly fought the British and delayed their hegemony over Mysore. Within the fort is a mosque and the magnificent Ranganatha-swamy temple, dating back to 9th century, an evidence of secular and tolerant nature o Tipu. Tipu sultan's summer palace, Daria Daulastbagh and his mausoleum are located outside the fort. The palace is noted for its gilded wall panels, ornate arches and 18th century frescoes.
Arrival and departure
Frequent buses from Mysore or take a taxi.Accomodation. Hotel Mayura River View, 3 km from bus-stand. Tel 08227 52144. Quiet and well located by the River Cauvery. Several lodges near the bus-stand.
Somnathpur (35 km)
Thirty-five kilometres east of Mysore lies Somnathpur, a town famous for the temple built by the Hoysala kings. The beautiful building of the Keshava temple built in 1268 is the major attraction here. The walls of this star-shaped temple are covered with sculptures in stone depicting various scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita and the life and times of the Hoysala Kings.A tiny village, Somanathapur is known for its Keshava Temple. Built on a star-shaped platform, the temple is covered with intricate sculpture. The temple has three shrines and three sanctums, which house images of Janardhana, Venugopala and Keshava (idol now missing). Check the beautiful sculpted pillars and ceiling panels of the main hall.
Open from: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Entry fee - Adults Rs 10, foreigners $ 2.
Sacred somnathpur is one of the three jewels of Hoysala temple architecture, the other two are Belur and Halebid. The Prassana Chennakesava Temple here was built in 1268, during the regin of king Narasimha III, at the instance of his minister somanatha Dandanayaka. Like other Hoysala shrines, it is set on a raised plinth with a star shaped ground plan, but unlike the Belur and Halebid temples, it was actually completed. The temple complex has a trible - shrine (trikutachala) each with its own stunningly beautiful vimana and sukhanasi (vestibule) and a spacious common navaranga mandapa. The outer walls are exquisitely carved narrating episodes from Ramayana, Mahabharta and Bhagvatha.
Somanathapura Temple
The Keshava Temple, located 42 km from Mysore, was built in 1268 as part of an agrahara (scholastic community) founded by the Hoysala General Somanatha Dandanayaka. The temple is famous for its elaborate detail and for the fact that unlike the other Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid, it was actually completed. This beautiful temple is enclosed within a walled courtyard, which is entered through a gate and porch. The temple is built on an elevated star shaped platform. The sides of the raised platform are richly adorned with carved freizes depicting rows of cavalry, elephants and stories from the epics. Above these is a row of large images, mainly of Vishnu in various forms. The triple-shrined (Trikutachala) monument has three sanctums, of which the north sanctum bears the image of Janardhana, the south sanctum that of Venugopala.The main hall has beautifully turned pillars and ceiling panels. Sadly the image of Keshava that was in the main hall is missing.Sri Ranganathaswami temple
It is one of the largest temples with a lofty gopuram. The Lord is reclining on Adi Sesha with the Goddess in His chest. The images of sage Gautama and Goddess Cauvery are enshrined at the holy feet of the Lord. Saints and Alwars are enshiered on the prakarams. Two pillars in front of the inner entrance are called Chathurvimsati. The 24 forms of Vishnu with their names are engraved thereon.In the north-weste corner is the shrine of Ranganayaki Thayar and the sacred feet of the Lord. Pattabhirama with Sita and Anjaneya at His feet and Lord Rajamannar are wonderful sculptures. There is another Krishna shrine, which is very popular among the devotees. The images of Srinivasa and Panchamukha Anjaneya, installed by Guru Vyasaraya, are noteworthy.
Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali, who ruled the region , had great respect for Lord Ranganatha. They donated much to the temple.
Sri Nimishambika shrine
This ancient Siva shrine is dedicted to Moukkikeswara and His consort Nimishambika. Lord Lakshmi Narasimha is also enshrined. The temple, very popular among the pilgrims, is situated on the banks of Cauvery.Melukote (48 km)
Melukote or the ‘High fort' is well known for the panchanayana temples, the five shrines dedicated to lord vishnu and built by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana. The famous cheluvarayaswami temple atop Yadavagiri hill enshrines a fine statue of Lord vishnu, holding the shanku (conch), chakra (a disc like weapon) and a Gadha (mace).The sacred hill shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Narayana is worshipped since Krutha Yuga. Vedadri, Narayanadri, Yadavagiri, Yathisauilam and dakshina Badrikachalam are the Puranic names of Melkote.
The presiding and processional deities were given to Brahma by Lord Vishnu Himself. Brahma gave oneidol to Sanarkumara, who installed it in Bhooloka for the benefit of Mankind. The processional deity, Sampatkmara or Ramapriya, was worshipped by Sri Rama and His son Kusha. This deity later came to Krishna in the Dwapara Yuga, who later installed it in the shrine.
Sri Ramanuja, the Vaishnavite saint of the 11 th century, earned the patronage of Jain king Bittideva, who embraced Vaishnavism and changed his name to Vishnuvardhana. The king built five shrines known as Panchanarayana temples. At that time, Narayanapuram was in ruins, devastated by the invasion of Muslim rulers. Both the idol of Narayana and Ramapriya were lost for some reasons. Ramanuja had a vision in which Lord Vishnu revealed to him the place where the idol of Narayana was hidden. He found the image among Tulasi shrubs in an ant-hill in Yadavagiri and installed the deity again in the temple.
Ramanuja also brought back the processional deity of Ramapriya from the court of a Muslim ruler, whose daughter was keeping the idol in her custody.The princess, an ardent devotee of Ramapriya, also reached Melkote and attained mukti here. She is known as Beebi Nachiyar, whose image is also installed near the Lord. The enchanting idol of Lord Vishnu is holding Shanku, hakra and Gadha. The image of Ramapriya is in the Ranga Mandapam in front of the sanctum. The shrines of Vaikuntanatha, Chakrathu Alwar and Anjaneya are on the prakarams. Goddess Yadugiri Nachiyar and Kalyani Nachiyar jave separate shrines in a sculptured mandapam.
The Melkote temple is flanked by mutts belonging to different sects of Vaishnavites Much significance is attached to the idol of Ramanuja in this temple. When Ramanuja wanted to go back to Srirangam, he made an amage of himself and installed it in this temple. The other two images of Ramanuja are in Sriperumpudur (his birthplace) and Srirangam (his Brindavanam).
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (16 km)
It has a rich variety of water birds like cormorant, egrets and spoonbills etc, but the sanctuary is mainly known for herons, who visit the islands for nesting and breeding. Their chicks are generally hatched July and August. Best season-May to Nov.A paradise for ornithologists, Ranganathittu is situated on the banks of River Cauvery. It is an important Asian nesting and breeding ground for migratory birds. In fact, authorities maintaining this sanctuary have made provisions for several more breeding grounds than the original number. The birds frequenting this area are spoonbills, open bill storks, darters, white Ibis, little cormorants, egret, heron, partridge, river tern, stone plougher and snake bird. Hire a boat to take a look at the trees for these species along the river. The oarsmen are also excellent guides and capable of providing you valuable information about these birds.
Open from: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
For bird lovers, Ranganathittu is worth a visit. This bird sanctuary is situated around 18 km from Mysore and offers a close view of the exotic and common birds.
Rail Museum
It exhibits locomotives and coaches of the erstwhile royal family of Mysore. There are also paintings ande photographs describing the story of the railways.Folklore Museum
Located within the Mysore University Campus, the museum is an excellent storehouse of ancient Mysore Art. Stroll up to the Kukkarahalli Lake Bund, which is Mysore's favourite walking track, located near the Folklore Museum.Open from: 10 am - 5 pm, Sundays closed The museum at Jayalakshmui Vilas mansion has rich collection of over 6500 folk articles and is perhaps the biggest of its kind in Asia.
Theerthams
Kalyani Theertham, Narayana Theertham, Padma Theertham, veda Pushkarni and Vaikunta Ganga are held sacred. A shrine dedicated to Lord Yoga Narasimha is on this hill. Prahlada, an ardent Vishnu devotee, is said to have installed the deity here.Nanjangud
Located on the banks of the Kabini River, this town is famous for its Nanjundeshwara or Srikanteshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main deity is believd to have miraculous ailment healing powers. Watch the beautiful emerald necklace gifted to the lord by Hyder Ali, when he treated his favourite elephant of an eye ailment.Open from: 6:30 am 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm Sunday, Monday and government holidays: 6:30 am - 8:30 pm Abhishekh timings: 7:00 am, 9:00 am and 11:00 am, noon, 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm < Note: Photography is allowed only in the outer yard, and the Vasantha Mantap/em> This temple town is situated on the right bank or river kapila. The Siva temple, dedicated to Lord Nanjundeswara or Srikanteswara, is built in Dravidian style. A beautiful Rajagopuram adorns the eastern entrance. According to a legend, when the Devas and Assuras chured the Milky Ocean, there appeared poison before they got the sacred nectar. When no human or Devas stand the poison. Lord siva drank the poison. Realising that the poison would harm the Lord, Devi Parvati held His throat stoping the poison there. Lord Siva,s neck turned blue. This legend earned Him the name Neelakanta. This aspect of the Lord is worshipped in the Nanjangud shrine.
Siva and Parvati have separate sanctums. Lord Vishnu as adi kesava in installed in between these two shrines. Lord Subramanya as Dandayudhapani, Prasana Vinayaka, Durga and Sharada have separate shrines. The 63 Saivite saints are immortalised in life-size images on the southeren prakaram.
The temple is known for its wealth of sculptures. The Siva Leelas are of exquisite craftsmanship.
The Muslim ruler Tipu Sultan was a great patron of this temple. His elephant was cured twice of major ailments with the grace of Nanjundeswara. Hence Tipu Sultan called the Lord Hakim Nanjundeswara and presented to the shrine valuble jewellery and a Maragatha lingam, which is installed by the side of the Goddess, shrine.
Sage Parasurama did penance on this holy soil. There is a shrine for him near the Swarnavati river. An ancient mutt of Sri Raghavendra is situated in the town. The Guru,s image is said to have been found in river Cauvery by a king, who consecrated it in the mutt.
Vidyanidhi Prasanna Somnathpura was the ancient name of this town. It is situated on the left bank of Cauvery. The Hoysala temple built in the 12th century dedicated to Lord Kesava, is known for its sculptural beauty. It was constructed by one Somnatha, a minister in the court of Hoysala King Veera Narasimha Devarasa. The three main shrines are dedicated to Lord Kesava, Lord Janardhana and Lord Venugopala. A sukanasi for each shrine and a common Navaranga have been constructed. Sixty-four cells around the shrine are now empty. The temple is a perfect example of Hoysala art. A local belief is that Jaganachary, the master sculptor, had to break a few sculptures when the whole shrine started moving heavenward as gods, enamoured of the shrine, wished to take it.
Kabani rive Lodge (80 km)
The jungle resort on the eastern finges of famous Nagarhole sanctuary has emerged as a popular tourist destination. The lush forest along the kabani river teems with wildlife and birds and are a nature lover's paradise.Talakkad (45 km)
Skanda Purana speaks of this place as Siddaranya Kshetra and Gajaranys (as elephants lived here in large number). Once two hunters tala and Kada saw telephants worshipping a Lingam with lotus flowers. When they wre cutting a tree, a blow fell on the Lingam and it started bleeding. However, a heavenly voice bade them to treat the wound with the leaves of the tree itself. They did so and Lord Siva appeared before them and gave mukti to the hunters and the elephants there. The place thus acquired the name Talakkad after the two hunters.There are five Siva shrines on the banks of Cauvery, which flows in all directions here. The Pancha Linga Darshan falls in accordance with a rare astronomical conjunction. Devotees take a holy dip at the Theerthams and worship at the five shrines of Vaidyanadewswara, Arkeshwara, Vasukeeswara, Maraleswara and Mallikarjuna. These five shrines denote the five faces of Lord Siva.Vaidyanadeswara temple is the most important one built by the Vijayanagar rulers. Keerthinarayana temple was built by Vishnuvardhana.
Talakkad had more than 30 temples. An unforturnate feature of Talakkad is that most of the temples lie under sand dunes. It is said that the place was devastated by the curse of queen Allamelamma. She immersed herself in Cauvery for the illtreatment meted out to her by the ruler of Talakkad.
This historic and religious centre on the left bank of kaveri was the capital of Gangas from 5th to 10th century. In 1116, Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana attacked Talakkad, under the cholas and attained victory. To celebrated his victory, vishnuvardhana built five temples dedicated to lord vishnu, one of them is the Kirtinarayan temple.
Talakkad is also known for the five shivalingas or the ‘Panch lingas' enshrined in beautiful temples.
Sivasamudram (80 km)
The island town endowed with exceptional scenic beauty is 44kms from Mandya. It is famous for the two picturesque falls - Gaganachukki and the Bharackki created by the branches of river Kaveri. The Ranganatha and Someshwara shiva temple are two important shrines of the island.Thirumukkudal
It is the holy sangama of rivers Kabini and Cauvery. The shrine of Lord Siva as Agasteeswara, installed by sage Agastya, is on the banks of Cauvery. Water is seen trickling from the head of Lord Siva.Sivasamudram falls Known as Bluff, is a popular tourist spot.
There are two ancient shrines of Someswara and Jaganmohana Ranganatha. The Ranganatha shrine is known as Madhya Ranga.
Narasipur
The Lakshmi Narasimha temple here is popular among the pilgrims. The Lord is seen having a balance and kundumani in His hands. The place is revered as sacred as Kashi.Billigiri Rangana (BR) Hills (90 km)
This Vishnu temple of Puranic fame is situated amid thick forests on top of the Biligiri Ranga Hills at an altitude of 1566 metres. Known as Swetachalam, the hill and the various Theerthams are held as sacred as those of Tirumala. Sage Vasishta and his wife had worshipped Lord Vishnu for being blessed with a progeny. They got Shakti as their son, followed by Parasara, Vyasa and Suga as the illustrious lineage.Sri Rama and sage Parasurama are said to have worshipped Sri Ranganatha. The presiding deity, installed by Vasishta, is worshipped as Srinivasa, Venkateswara and Ranganatha and His consort as Alarmelmanga, Lakshmi and Ranganayaki. There is a separate shrine for Lord Gangadhareswara. The sculptures of Saraswathi, Krishna and Anjaneya on the pillars are note worthy.
BR Hills are a delight for wildlife, trekking and adventure sports enthusiasts. The terrain is dotted with peaks and hill top temples. Billigri Rangana Temple dedicated to Lord Rangaswamy is the most important shrine. He Ratha (chariot) festival is held here in April. Other places worth seeing are – Dodds sampige Mara, the 2,000 year old giant trees and BRT wildlife sanctuary.