Mysore, also known as the City of Palaces, has preserved its quaint charm which entices you to visit it time and again. It offers a vibrant cultural heritage, exquisite temples, pilgrimage centers and scenic picnic spots. The city exudes an aura of royal extravaganza which is reflected in its palaces and temples and is a unique blend of old world charm, with its well-laid out gardens, fine architecture and a salubrious climate. Famous for its produce of silk saris, rosewood, teakwood and sandalwood products, it is also home to some exquisite handicrafts and incense sticks. An interesting mix of the contemporary and tradition, Mysore make an interesting holiday spot all year through.

• Maharajah’s Palace: The highlight of this city, this fabulous domed structure is lavishly designed, complete with teak ceilings, gilded pillars, ivory deities, Italian crystal chandeliers, white marble floors and stained glass ceilings. No matter how hard you look, there is hardly an undecorated section of the wall or ceiling. Spectacular paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, gilt-framed mirrors, family portraits and a wax sculpture of the Maharajah further add to the abundant display of luxury and wealth. The palace grounds come to life during the Dussera Festival, when a terraced pavilion is created complete with frescoed ceiling and chandeliers.

• Chamundi Hills: Named after the Goddess Chamundeshwari, the hills offer the best view of the city. A colorful image of the demon Mahishasura would greet you on the summit. On the hill is the temple of the Goddess Chamundeshwari, and you can reach the top by road or by climbing a thousand steps built during the reign of Dodda Devaraja. Also housed within the temple are several images of Nandi (the bull mount of Shiva). The best known among these is the colossal Nandi on the 800th step of the hill, which measures 15 feet in height and 24 feet in length.

• Saint Philomena Church: One of the largest churches in South India it is designed in a gothic style with beautiful stained glass windows. Gothic beauty and religious fervor blended in perfect proportion makes the church one of the major tourist attractions in Mysore.

• Brindavan Gardens: Located at the KR Sagar Dam, the Brindavan Gardens is one of the best gardens in South India. Spread over 150 acres, the gardens are spectacularly done with terraced lawns and illuminated swirling fountains. This manicured and superbly maintained garden is a must visit and if you are lucky you just might get to hear the famous musical fountains.

• Mysore Zoo: Located at the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, the Mysore Zoo is a popular tourist attraction. This 19th-century zoo is home to some of rare animal species.

• The Fort of Srirangapattana: This is the scene of the last battle fought between Tipu Sultan and the British. However, he was killed within the fort of Srirangapattana and the spot where he ultimately fell is marked by a memorial.

Mysore is well known for its South Indian cuisine, and you will find numerous restaurants and moderately priced eating joints out here. From its various kinds of idlis and dosas, to its variety of thalis, do try out some of the most famous fares available here. Uppittu is a must try which is roasted semolina laced with chilles, coriander leaves, mustard and cumin seeds. Visit the Indra Café located on Sayaji Rao Road that serves an excellent fare of vegetarian, north and south Indian cuisine. Head out to Le Olive Garden situated in a peaceful neighborhood away from central Mysore. It’s a place where you can dine and wine in an outdoor garden setting which is set on landscaped terracing. The dining area is surrounded by water and reached by tiny bridges. The restaurant serves a delectable selection of Indian cuisine and a must try are their specialty which include a wide range of kebabs. The Gardenia Restaurant located on Vinobha Road serves Indian, Continental and even Oriental cuisine. A visit to the Pelican Pub & Grub House, located on 25, Hunsur Road, is a must. Here you can indulge in some delicious mouth watering delights. The Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel Restaurant, which was once the ballroom of the Maharajah's guest house, is a place to dine in. Its immensely high ceiling and live performances at lunch and dinner makes it the perfect dining experience. A wide range of Indian cuisine is served here and do gorge up on some tandoori specialties. Of course, it’s forbidden to leave Mysore without getting a bite of the Mysore Pak, a mouthwatering and delicious sweet, although not for the diet conscious! This unique sweet is made from pure ghee, flour and sugar and the taste is irresistible and tempting.

Shopping in Mysore is an unusual and wonderful experience. There are dozens of bazaars and shopping areas flooded with beautiful silk saris, sandalwood artifacts and innumerable stone carvings with loads of bargaining opportunities. Mysore is popular for its handicrafts made of sandalwood and rosewood and you can head out to Sayyaji Rao Road for the same. Visit the Kaveri Emporium on Sayyaji Rao Road or head out to the little streets and by lanes that offer some exciting bargains. You can get your hands on some intricately designed handicrafts which local craftsmen chisel out of sandalwood. Don’t forget to get home some authentic sandal wood oil that has phenomenal healing qualities and is widely used in Ayurveda. Another popular item which attracts many of the tourists to the shopping areas of Mysore is its hand woven silk garments and saris. Vibrant colors and exquisite motifs adorn the silk saris of Mysore. Silk shops are located along Devaraj Urs Road which is one of the most interesting shopping streets. Visit Krishnaraja Circle which is at the inter-section of Sayyaji Rao Road, Albert Victor Road and Devaraj Urs Road, which are some of the best shopping centers. Do not forget to visit the colorful Mysore City Market, a place that still preserves its original grandeur. During the festive season the market is a colourful array of exhibits. Get your hands on the extremely aromatic Mysore jasmine flowers, also called "Mysooru Mallige" in Kannada, this beautiful flower is aromatic in nature.