Mysore — City of Palaces

Mysore (officially Mysuru) is South India's most elegant city — a former Maharaja residence that has preserved its royal charm. Clean boulevards, parks, markets full of sandalwood and jasmine, and one of India's most magnificent palaces make Mysore a pleasant, relaxed stop.

The Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas Palace) is the highlight: An Indo-Saracenic masterpiece, built in 1912 after a fire destroyed its predecessor. Impressive from the outside, overwhelming from the inside — halls with stained glass windows, gold pillars, painted ceilings, royal wedding thrones, and a floor of Scottish cast iron. On Sundays and holidays, the palace is illuminated by 97,000 light bulbs — a magical sight that attracts tens of thousands of visitors (19:00–19:45).

Mysore is also the center of the Ashtanga Yoga tradition. The legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois taught here for decades, and his Shala (studio) attracts yoga practitioners from around the world. Numerous yoga schools offer intensive courses from one week to three months.

The Devaraja Market in the city center is one of South India's most colorful markets: mountains of flower garlands (especially jasmine — Mysore's signature scent), fresh fruits, sandalwood products (Mysore is famous for sandalwood soap and oil), and spices. The Chamundi Hill (13 km, 1,008 steps or drive) offers a panoramic view and the Chamundeshwari Temple at the top. Halfway up stands the Nandi Bull — a 5-meter-high granite sculpture from the 17th century.