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Mysore is a dream city that never lets down the visitors with its clean, light and easygoing environment. Even with the growth of the city in response to modernization, Mysore has acquired only a mild change of pace.
Unlike the industrialized Bangalore, 140 km away and one of Asia's fastest growing cities today, this former state capital still retains its serenity and old world charm. The city is small enough to be explored on foot and the ancient sites are easily found. There is much to see, though, the sights are not unique to Mysore and can be found in other provinces all over India. But the distinct features of Mysore are definitely its aromas. It is blessed with some of the best smells in the country, which a visitor carries back from here.
Mysore is situated at distance of around 140 km from Bangalore, the present capital of Karnataka. The city extends from latitude 12°18' in the North to longitude 76°42' in the East. Mysore is well connected through road and rail networks with other parts of Karnataka and India.
| Fast Facts |
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| Area: |
6,269 sq. km |
| Population: |
7,42,261 |
| Altitude: |
776 m above sea level |
| Languages : |
Kannada, English, Tamil, Hindi |
| Best time to visit: |
October to March |
| STD Code: |
0821 |
History:
Mysore city was the capital of the old royal Mysore province. The word Mysore expands to 'Mahishasurana Ooru', which means the town of Mahishasura. The story goes that the demon Mahishasura was killed by goddess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi hill near Mysore. Ever since, the Mysore royal family has worshipped Chamundeshwari as the palace deity. Hills dedicated to her stand at the eastern end of Mysore town today.
The Wodeyar family ruled Mysore since 14th century except for a short period of 40 years in later 18th century when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were the rulers. The kingdom again returned back to the Wodeyar family in 1799 when Tipu Sultan surrendered finally in a war against the English. Mysore has always fascinated with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings, broad shady avenues and sacred temples. Mysore still retains much of its carefully built character of a Maharaja's capital. The city's meticulous planning, testify to the benevolent rule of the Wodeyar kings. The Wodeyar dynasty moulded the city's identity as a 'native' princely state. Beyond Mysore's architectural heritage, the city's long-held tradition of music and dance, art and literature, scholarship and time-honoured crafts were nurtured under their patronage.
Best Season, Climate, and Clothing:
The weather in Mysore is pleasant throughout the year. Summers are warm and winters cool. April is the hottest month with the daily temperatures varying between 21°C and 34°C, while in December, the coldest month here, the temperatures ranges from 16°C to 27°C. The average annual rainfall in the district is 667.2 mm. One can visit the city at any time of the year but it is advisable to avoid the rainy season. The best time to visit the city is from October to March.
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