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Best Places to Visit in Mysore in One Day

The Mysore Palace stands as the most iconic of all places to visit in Mysore in one day, visited for its scale and artistic depth. Built in the Indo-Saracenic style, its domes, arches, and sculpted doors reveal influences from Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic traditions. The interiors highlight the power and taste of the Wadiyar dynasty, with stained glass ceilings, expansive durbar halls, and murals narrating royal life.

On Sunday evenings and festivals, the palace is illuminated by over 90,000 bulbs, turning its outer structure into a spectacle that draws crowds from across India and is one of the best places to visit in Mysore . Walking through its halls gives travellers direct access to Mysore’s royal legacy, where political history and aesthetic grandeur remain inseparable.

Location: Agrahara, Chamrajpura, Mysuru, Karnataka 570001

Timings: 10:00 am to 05:30 pm

Founded in 1892, the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens  is among the most popular places to visit in Mysore in one day, attracting families, students, and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across 150 acres, it is home to over 160 species, including tigers, elephants, giraffes, chimpanzees, and rare birds. Enclosures replicate natural habitats, promoting education on conservation while providing a safe space for observation.

Shaded pathways and clear signage make exploration accessible, while small rides and interactive corners engage younger visitors. A day here introduces travellers to India’s diverse wildlife in a structured and informative setting, balancing Mysore’s historical attractions with experiences rooted in nature.

Location: Zoo Rd, Indira Nagar, Ittige Gudu, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010

Timings: 08:30 am to 05:30 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

The Brindavan Gardens beside the Krishnarajasagar Dam rank among the most visited Mysore tourist places, admired for their symmetrical design and wide spaces. Built in the 1930s, the Brindavan gardens stretch over 60 acres and feature terraced lawns, water channels, and ornamental trees that make them ideal for long evening walks.

As daylight fades, the highlight begins with the musical fountain show, where coordinated water jets rise and fall to the rhythm of lights and music. Families, couples, and photographers gather to watch the display , and a Mysore family trip becomes even more memorable with boating facilities during the day providing a quieter experience. The gardens remain one of Mysore’s most atmospheric evening attractions.

Covering over 90 acres, Karanji Lake is a peaceful retreat included in many Mysore one day trips for its wildlife and open spaces. The park surrounding the Karanji lake features one of the largest walk-through aviaries in India, giving visitors a chance to observe peacocks, herons, and pelicans at close range. A butterfly park adds to its ecological richness, attracting travellers of all ages.

Boating facilities provide a slow-paced way to explore the waters, while shaded walking paths encourage leisurely exploration. For birdwatchers and families, Karanji Lake offers a refreshing break from urban sightseeing, balancing Mysore’s historic palaces with nature-focused experiences.

 Location: 7MXC+7X6, Karanji Kere Trail Rd, Jockey Quarters, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010

Timings: 08:30 am to 05:30 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

For those seeking variety on a Mysore one day trip, the Railway Museum offers an engaging view into the history of Indian rail travel. The open-air exhibits include vintage locomotives, carriages, and equipment that document the technological advances of the railway system. A highlight is the royal saloon once used by the Maharani of Mysore, decorated with rich upholstery and wood panelling.

Families often find the museum accessible, with a mini train ride for children adding a playful element to the visit. Informative displays and historical photographs provide context for the exhibits, making the museum both educational and enjoyable.

Location: 8J8V+G8P, KRS Rd, opp. CFTRI, Medar Block, Yadavagiri, Mysuru, Karnataka 570005

Timings: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

Chamundi Hills rise about 3,500 feet above the city and remain one of the most visited places to see in Mysore. The drive to the top or the climb up the 1,000 steps is a journey in itself, culminating at the Chamundeshwari Temple. This centuries-old shrine is dedicated to the city’s guardian deity and showcases intricate Dravidian architecture.

Halfway up the Chamundi hills, a massive Nandi statue carved from a single piece of granite stands as a landmark for pilgrims and travellers. From the summit, sweeping views of Mysore Palace and the cityscape unfold, making Chamundi Hills an essential stop that ties together devotion, heritage, and scenic beauty.

Location: Chamundi Hill, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010

Timings: 07:30 am to 02:00 pm, 03:30 pm to 06:00 pm, 07:30 pm to 09:00 pm

Checkout: Hill Stations Near Mysore