Mysore is a historical city

Mysore is a historical city, which has seen the rise and fall of many empires in the southern part of India. Two majestic palaces dominate the skyline of Mysore.

Tourist attractions in Mysore lie in its manicured gardens, shady avenues and sacred temples that lie peppered over the cityscape. The royal families of Mysore were great patrons of art and sculpture. The tourist attractions in Mysore speak volumes for the fact.

Travel.mapsofindia here outlines a few tourist attractions in Mysore:

Maharaja's Palace: The palace is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Mysore. The English Architect, Henry Irwin had designed the palace, which is an architectural marvel with its sculpted pillars, Intricately carved doors, the golden howdah.

The Jaganmohan Palace: This is another beautiful building in Mysore. It was an alternative retreat for the royal family of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar. This three-storeyed palace with stained glass shutters and ventilators, in a lovely garden setting has now been converted to an art gallery. This museum displays paintings, sculptures and musical instruments.

Chamundi Hills: Goddess Chamundi was the patron deity of the royal family of Mysore. At the outskirts of the city the temple serves as a prominent landmark. Close to the temple, there is a statue of Mahishasura, the demon slayed by the goddess Chamundeshwari and a tall monolith of Nandi, Lord Shiva's pet.

Brindavan Gardens: A little away from Mysore, the beautiful Brindavan Gardens is located just below the famous reservoir Krishnarajasagaraon on the river Cauvery. The musical fountain in the garden is one of the most notable tourist attractions in Mysore.

Somanathapura Temple: Nearly 42 kms from Mysore, the temple is famous for its elaborate detail and markedly from different the other Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid.

St. Philomena's Church: The Gothic structure is modeled on Cathedral at Cologne. The altar bears the statue of St. Philomena, a third century saint from Greece.

Mysore Zoo: Established in 1892, the zoo displays a large collections of animals, including exotic species, are housed in lush green surroundings.