Mysore is the second-largest city in Karnataka, and it is among the most-visited tourist destinations in southern India. And although India has countless tourist destinations, Mysore holds an importance of its own.
The city is nicknamed “The City of Palaces”, but it even has ancient temples, expansive gardens and informative museums. It is also popular because of its art, culture and colourful Dussehra celebrations. And Mysore is among the cleanest cities in India, too.
The city has a lovely landscape and plenty of heritage places to see. It has the grand Mysore Palace too. And in Mysore, you can also take part in various outdoor adventures. It has pleasant weather for most parts of the year.
But when is the best time to visit Mysore? Let’s explore.
Mysore in Summer (April – June)
Mysore summer season starts around April and lasts till June. Although it’s sizzling hot during those months, you can still visit Mysore and enjoy it. While the days are sunny and humid, the evenings are comparatively pleasant and appealing for a stroll around the city. The average maximum temperature is around 35°C, and the average minimum is about 25°C.
Places to visit in Mysore during Summer Season
Summer might not be the season to explore Mysore. Still, you can visit a few places around to experience the natural beauty of Mysore. Lingabudi Lake and Karanji Lake are two water bodies you can visit in Mysore. Chamundeshwari Temple, on the top of Chamundi Hills, too, is a place in Mysore which attracts nature lovers.
Another attraction worth your time would be Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam. And you must also visit the palace of Mysore Maharaja in the evening. The palace is known for its lavish gardens and the architectural beauty which combines Muslim, Gothic, Hindu and Rajput style.
And you can also spend your evening in the colourful markets of Mysore.
Summer Travel Tips for Mysore
- Pack light cotton clothing.
- Wear comfortable footwear.
- Carry a hat and sunglasses.
- Take SPF 30+ sunscreen.
- Drink plenty of water.
Mysore in Monsoon (July – September)
Mysore monsoon season starts in July, and the city witnesses heavy rains till September. And to see the glory of lush green Mysore, visit it during the monsoon. Safaris and adventure sports won't be available though. But you can still visit many tourist spots. The average maximum temperature is around 30°C and the minimum averages around 20°C.
Places to visit in Mysore during Monsoon Season
You can't go out for adventures during the monsoon. But you can venture out to visit the palaces like Mysore Palace, Jayalakshmi Vilas Palace and Lalitha Mahal Palace. Rains won't disturb your visit to museums and historical monuments, too. Then, you can also check the ancient temples in the region. The five panchalinga temples near Talakadu are popular among many locals and tourists.
And if intermittent rains and drizzles affect your plans, unwind at a restaurant for some masala dosa or a traditional lunch of Mysore. If it’s evening, order a hot cup of coffee and some Mysore bonda to enjoy.
Monsoon Travel Tips for Mysore
- Pack light cotton clothing.
- Have light winter garments.
- Wear comfortable footwear.
- Carry a hat and sunglasses.
- Have an umbrella/raincoat.
- Carry plastic bags for gadgets.
- Keep extra clothes.
Mysore in Winter (November – February)
Mysore winter season onsets in late October, and the pleasant weather remains until early February. And it gets old during the early mornings and late nights. However, during the day, it’s comfortable enough to visit all the tourist destinations in the city. The average maximum temperature goes up to 25°C, and the average minimum temperature hovers around 15°C.
Places to visit in Mysore during Winter Season
Winter provides for a perfect time to explore the architectural marvels of Mysore. You can take a trip around various forts, palaces and temples.
Then, you can also check out Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo and other sightseeing places. The entire landscape gets a green cover after the recent rains. And it offers unhindered photoshoots, adventure treks and birdwatching.
October-November is also the time for celebrations in Mysore. And you can witness the culture and cuisine of the city. Tourists come from all over the world to enjoy the splendour of Mysore’s Dussehra festival. Also, the festival of Diwali falls in winter. The entire city is adorned with colourful decorations and lights.
Winter Travel Tips for Mysore
- Book tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Pack warm winter garments.
- Wear comfortable footwear.
- Carry an umbrella.
What is the best time to visit Mysore?
You can visit Mysore at any time of the year. It is hot and humid in the summers, but for the rest of the year, it has pleasant weather.
However, winter (from November to February) is the best season to visit Mysore. You will be able to visit the majestic palaces and other heritage monuments in the city. Winter is also the perfect time to spend time around the beautiful hill stations and waterfalls near Mysore. And you can visit all the tourist destinations in and around Mysore.
In winter, you can also take part in all the adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and skydiving.
Visiting Mysore around early winter also provides you with the opportunity to enjoy Dussehra processions and its colourful celebrations. And you will also be on time to enjoy Diwali, and its decorations and fireworks.
When is the peak tourist season in Mysore?
While winter is the best time to visit Mysore, the peak tourist season comes multiple times over the year.
Of course, post-monsoon (or early winter), in October-November, is the busiest time of the year for Mysore tourism. The vibrant festivals during those months, including Dussehra and Diwali, attract many tourists.
Also, as Mysore temperature drops, and the New Year approaches, many people come to celebrate their free time with family. Thus, Mysore and other honeymoon destinations near Mysore become temporary residences for tourists in December-January.
Then, many people also come to Mysore in May-June. The area surrounding Mysore is known for many hill stations like Coorg, Munnar and Ooty. And while visiting those, tourists plan a trip to Mysore too.
How many days are enough for Mysore?
Mysore boasts of many palaces and temples around. Then, you also have a few gardens and museums to visit. So, if you want to enjoy a leisure holiday in Mysore, plan to stay for at least 3-4 days. And if you also want to visit other tourist places and wildlife sanctuaries near the city, book an accommodation for 5-7 days.
What are the best places to visit in Mysore?
The top 10 places to visit in Mysore are –
- Mysore Palace
- Brindavan Gardens
- Chamundeshwari Temple
- Lalitha Mahal Palace
- St. Philomena's Cathedral
- Jaganmohan Palace
- Mysore Zoo
- Railway Museum
- Panchalinga Temples
- Chennakesava Temple
How to reach Mysore?
Mysore is an important tourist spot, and you can reach it easily from other cities in the country. It is close to Bangalore (150 km), Coimbatore (200) and many other places. And here are the different ways to reach Mysore –
By Rail – Mysore has excellent rail connectivity with most major cities like Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. The Golden Chariot Luxury Train also has Mysore as one of its stops.
By Road – Many state-owned and private buses connect Mysore to other cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune. You can also book a cab from the major cities around and have a comfortable trip to Mysore. This way, you will also be able to visit all the important places in your itinerary.
By Air – Mysore Mandakalli airport is a domestic airport connecting Mysore to nearby places like Bangalore, Chennai and Goa. The nearest major airport is the Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore. It has flights from all the major destinations in India and other parts of the world.
How to get around Mysore?
As easy as it is to reach Mysore, so easy it is to get around the city. You can use the local buses to go from one place to another in Mysore and the suburbs. Then, auto-rickshaws and taxis also are available for getting around. You also have bicycle renting services to travel around. And while you're there, also get on the decorated horse-drawn tongas for an exciting experience.
However, the best way to visit the tourist places of Mysore would be to book a cab from top car rental companies in Mysore. You can book them for as many days as you want. And then, see all the spots in Mysore and other destinations at your convenience.
