Sunday, May 26, 2019

#TravelDiaries : One Day Trip to Mysuru - Chamundi Hills....Yet another getaway from Bangalore in a day!

When my friend from Argentina.  Val visited Bangalore, we both took the opportunity to have a quick trip to Mysuru and SriRangapathna and finally to the calling of Chamundeswari....a divine experience.

A Day Trip to Mysore from Bangalore...a quick weekend getaway!

Srirangapatna Fort: Known for its historical significance and architectural brilliance, this fort was originally built in 1454 AD. Initially a mud fort, its present structure was built during reign of Tipu Sultan. Its majestic gates and impassable defense system are worth exploring.



Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple: A mesmerizing example of Hoysala and Vijayanagar architectural style, this temple was first built in 894 AD. Since then it has seen many changes under various reigns. This temple is also known for idol of Lord Vishnu where He is shown resting on Aadi Sesha.



Tippu's Summer Palace: Summer retreat of Tipu Sultan was often called as the ‘Abode of Happiness’ and ‘Envy of Heaven’ by the constructor himself. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace has been captivating visitors since long.   Dariya Daulat Bagh!




Gumbuz: Built in Persian style of architecture, Gumbaz captivates everyone. Surrounded by beautiful garden named as Lalbagh Garden, the imposing structure of Gumbaz is seen in the middle on an elevated platform.   Gumbaz is basically the burial chamber of Haider Ali, the father of Tipu Sultan, his mother Fatima Begum, and Tipu Sultan himself.




Jama Masjid in Srirangapatna attracts 1000's of Muslims even today for the Friday Prayers and this was the place for security tower of Tipu Sultan.   




Chamundi Hills: Located at the top of Chamundi Hills, Chamundeshwari temple is one of most prominent temples in Mysore. Dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari (Chamundi), deity of the Mysore Royal Family.  This year I had the great privilege of visiting several Goddesses temples including Smiling devi at Samayapuram....heart filling divinity at Kollur Moogambigai and now at the Mahishasuramardini Chamundeswari.....feeling so happy for these experiences. 




Statue of Mahishasura and NandiGigantic and colourful statue of demon Mahishasura, located at the summit of the Chamundi hills is impossible to miss. Another statue that allures every tourist is the massive statue of Nandi Bull with a height of 16 feet and length of 25 feet. This statue is said to be more than 350 years old.




Mysore Zoo: Famed to be one of the oldest and the largest zoos in India had record number of housing various avian species, which are more than 40 other countries in the world.  ( We skipped this place as it was over crowded with summer vacation kids and Val and I were not particular about this place)

Mysore Maharaja Palace: A living exemplary of Mysore kingdom and undying spirit of its people, Mysore Maharaja Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace still stands majestically, captivating every visitor with its incomparable beauty.    The beauty of the temples around and the Old Wooden Palace still housing the household things of the Kings is a sight to see.  We also cherished the hundreds of years old paintings on the walls.     But the Palace was heavily crowded and made us really wanting to get out asap probably because it was so hot on a summer afternoon and with vacations still on - last weekend before schools begins in June!









Jaganmohan Palace : A magnificent palace, an apt example of architectural brilliance, this palace used to be a retreat home for the Royal family and holds immense historical prominence as well.



St. Philomena's Church: With the fame of being one of the largest churches in India, this majestic church captivates everyone with its architectural excellence. It also boasts of being the second largest church in Asia.



Brindavan Gardens: Brindavan Gardens of Mysore is undeniably one of the best terrace gardens in the world, especially famous for its symmetric design and illuminate terrace gardens. Once upon a  must sightseeing place of a Mysore, Brindavan Garden mesmerizes everyone even today with its colorful musical foundations starting after 7 Pm every night.. Be aware of the over crowding of the place and parking of more than 1000 cars and we took almost an hour to get our car from parking lot. 


After a day of running around, crowds and queues, walking barefoot on a sunny day, we cant ask for more...we cherished spending time together and also going around the most cherished places of Mysore.    Plan well and Enjoy your day!      Travel Diary Date 25 May 2019 with Valeria from Argentina...my best friend in CSC...