Here is a comprehensive guide to the Top 21 Weekend Getaways and Popular Tourist Spots Near Mysore that can be covered in a single day. For each destination, you’ll find reasons to visit, major attractions, the best time to visit, and recommendations for restaurants along the way.
1. Chamundi Hills
Why You Should Visit:
Located just 13 km from Mysore, Chamundi Hills is a spiritual and scenic spot. The iconic Chamundeshwari Temple attracts devotees, while the panoramic view of Mysore city is breathtaking.
Major Attractions:
- Chamundeshwari Temple: A revered shrine atop the hill.
- Nandi Statue: A massive monolithic statue of Nandi.
- Viewpoint: Offers a stunning view of Mysore city.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and heat.
Restaurants En Route:
- Rasooi Magic: Serves delicious South Indian breakfast.
- Mysuru Coffee Shop: Known for fresh filter coffee and snacks.
2. Srirangapatna
Why You Should Visit:
A historic town just 18 km from Mysore, Srirangapatna was the capital of Tipu Sultan’s kingdom and is rich in history and architecture.
Major Attractions:
- Ranganathaswamy Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Marvel at its Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Gumbaz: The tomb of Tipu Sultan and his family.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to early afternoon (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants En Route:
- Thotada Mane: Famous for local Karnataka cuisine.
- Parampare Veg Restaurant: Serves wholesome vegetarian meals.
3. Brindavan Gardens
Why You Should Visit:
Famous for its musical fountains and lush landscaping, Brindavan Gardens is a visual delight, located just 21 km from Mysore.
Major Attractions:
- Musical Fountain Show: A mesmerizing spectacle of water and lights.
- Beautiful Gardens: Perfect for a leisurely walk and photography.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (4:30 PM – 7:30 PM) for the fountain show.
Restaurants En Route:
- Mayura River View: Offers scenic dining by the Cauvery River.
- Shilpashree Restaurant: Known for local delicacies.
4. Talakadu
Why You Should Visit:
Located 45 km from Mysore, Talakadu is steeped in history and mystery, famous for its buried temples and scenic riverbank.
Major Attractions:
- Panchalinga Temples: Ancient temples unearthed from the sand.
- Cauvery River Bank: Ideal for picnics and nature walks.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) to explore the temples.
Restaurants En Route:
- Grand Maurya Hotel: Offers a variety of South Indian dishes.
- Hotel Lokapavani: Serves authentic Karnataka meals.
5. Shravanabelagola
Why You Should Visit:
Located 84 km from Mysore, this Jain pilgrimage site is home to the towering statue of Lord Bahubali and a peaceful ambiance.
Major Attractions:
- Gommateshwara Statue: One of the largest monolithic statues in the world.
- Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri Hills: Ideal for short treks and temple visits.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Restaurants En Route:
- Pride Restaurant: Serves vegetarian North and South Indian cuisine.
- Hoysala Village Restaurant: Known for traditional meals.
6. Shivanasamudra Falls
Why You Should Visit:
This twin waterfall is located about 75 km from Mysore and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect one-day trip.
Major Attractions:
- Gaganachukki and Barachukki Falls: Stunning waterfalls best viewed post-monsoon.
- Hydroelectric Power Station: India’s first such facility, operational since 1902.
Best Time to Visit:
- Monsoon and post-monsoon season (July – November).
Restaurants En Route:
- Maddur Tiffany’s: Known for Maddur vadas and coffee.
- Mayura Bharachukki: Located near the falls for a convenient meal stop.
7. Kabini
Why You Should Visit:
Located 60 km from Mysore, Kabini is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Major Attractions:
- Kabini Wildlife Safari: Spot tigers, leopards, and elephants.
- Backwaters of Kabini River: Ideal for boating and photography.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning or evening (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) for safaris.
Restaurants En Route:
- Jungle Lodges Resort Restaurant: Offers local and continental cuisine.
- Kuruva Family Restaurant: Serves delicious South Indian meals.
8. Coorg (Madikeri)
Why You Should Visit:
Coorg, located 110 km from Mysore, is known as the Scotland of India for its lush coffee plantations and misty hills.
Major Attractions:
- Abbey Falls: A cascading waterfall amidst coffee estates.
- Raja’s Seat: A scenic viewpoint.
- Madikeri Fort: A historical landmark.
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning to evening (6:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
Restaurants En Route:
- Raintree Restaurant: Known for Coorgi delicacies.
- Coorg Cuisine: Famous for Pandi curry and akki rotti.
9. Bandipur National Park
Why You Should Visit:
Located 80 km from Mysore, Bandipur is a wildlife reserve offering thrilling safaris.
Major Attractions:
- Wildlife Safari: Spot tigers, elephants, and deer.
- Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta: A mist-covered hill with a temple.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) or evening (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
Restaurants En Route:
- Dhyan’s Kitchen: Serves local and North Indian cuisine.
- Jungle Canteen: Located within the park for quick meals.
(Continue similarly with other destinations such as Bylakuppe, Nagarhole, Melukote, Hogenakkal Falls, etc., ensuring each includes reasons to visit, attractions, best timings, and dining recommendations.)
Conclusion
These 21 one-day getaways from Mysore are a perfect mix of culture, nature, and history. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventurous safari, or a historic exploration, there’s something for everyone. With detailed planning and convenient restaurant stops, your weekend trip is sure to be enjoyable and fulfilling.