Mysuru (Mysore) in southern Karnataka is known as the City of Palaces and the cultural capital of the state. Once the seat of the Wodeyar kings of the Kingdom of Mysore, it combines heritage architecture, green avenues and a calm pace of life with a long tradition of education — home to the University of Mysore (1916) and to engineering institutions such as SJCE.
- State: Karnataka, India · roughly 140 km south-west of Bengaluru
- Signature festival: Mysuru Dasara (September–October)
- Landmarks: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, Devaraja Market, Kukkarahalli Lake
- Known for: silk, sandalwood, Mysore pak, yoga and classical music
Mysore Palace
The Amba Vilas Palace in the heart of the city is one of India’s most visited monuments. On Sunday evenings and during Dasara it is illuminated by tens of thousands of bulbs — a sight every new student should see at least once.
Chamundi Hills
The hill to the south-east of the city is crowned by the Chamundeshwari Temple and offers panoramic views over Mysuru. The climb of about a thousand steps, passing the monolithic Nandi statue, is a popular weekend activity.
Mysuru Dasara
The ten-day state festival culminates in the Jamboo Savari procession of decorated elephants from the palace. Expect exhibitions, cultural programmes and big crowds — and plan travel early.
Lakes and gardens
Kukkarahalli Lake, next to the University of Mysore’s Manasagangotri campus and close to the SJCE area, is a favourite walking spot. The Brindavan Gardens below the Krishna Raja Sagara dam, about 20 km away, are famous for their musical fountain.
Markets and food
Devaraja Market, beside the Dufferin clock tower, is a century-old market of flowers, fruits, spices and incense. Try Mysore masala dosa, Mysore pak and filter coffee.
Getting around
Mysuru Junction railway station has frequent trains to Bengaluru; KSRTC buses connect the city to the rest of Karnataka; city buses, autos and app cabs cover local trips. Read the full student life in Mysuru guide or join our heritage walking tour.
Photo gallery
See Mysuru in pictures in the image gallery.