Mysore, Karnataka is located 140 Kms from Bangalore.
History
"Mysore" derives its name from Mahishasura, a demon from Hindu mythology. Till 1947, Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore. It was mostly ruled by the Wodeyars but for 4 decades in the 18th century it was under Haidar Ali and Tipu Sultan. The Mahishuru Fort was built in 1524. Till 1610, it was the capital of the Wodeyar administration replacing the Vijayanagara rule. The Vijayanagara Empire fell in 1565 and the Kingdom of Mysore slowly became an independent state under Narasaraja Wodeyar in 1637. In 1799, Tipu Sultan's death led to the Kingdom falling into the hands of the British and their allies. In 1831, Bangalore replaced Mysore's position as the administrative centre only to regain it in 1881 and so it remained till 1947. Mysore was recently found to be the 2nd cleanest city in India.
Cuisine
South Indian dishes dominate the local cuisine. But it's easy to find restaurants and cafes dedicated to flavours of the world.
Language
Kannada is the local language but English is very common.
Attractions
One of India's most popular monuments is the Ambavilas Palace/ the Mysore Palace. It is the venue of the Dasara festivities. Other important palaces are the Jaganmohana Palace, the Jayalakshmi Vilas and the Lalitha Mahal. Chamundeshwari Temple, which is perched on the Chamundi Hills is a revered shrine. The 20 year old Mysore Zoo, along with Lake Karanji and Lake Kukkarahalli are popular amongst families. The most important museum here is the Regional Museum of Natural History. Near the city is the Krishnarajasagar Dam and the Brindavan Gardens, which is famous for its musical fountain show. Read more
