Run Around Bangalore

There are a number of tourist attractions to visit in and around the city of Bangalore. Of historical, religious and contemporary interests, these tourists spots are easily accessible and worth a visit. The Vidhan Soudha makes the major attraction in Bangalore. The building is a massive neo-Dravidian architecture presently functioning as the state legislative assembly. The Cubbon Park in the heart of the city, Lal Bagh (famous for the blooming red roses), and the Bangalore Palace are some of the other must see attractions of this garden city. The Venkatappa Art Gallery houses about 600 paintings on display. The Tipu's Palace and the adjoining fort are fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture that also offer a glimpse into the Mughal lifestyle of the day. Among the religious places, the ISKCON Temple, Shiva Statue, and the Bull Temple are worth visiting. Besides, one can also visit the Aquarium, which is the second largest in the country, as well as the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium.

Lal Bagh Gardens

Lal Bagh is a must see while visiting Bangalore. The name Lal Bagh has been given to it for the wonderfully bloomed red roses that remain blooming all through the year in this garden. The garden has also a collection of famous Botanical species. Though the flow of visitors to the park is a regular affair, the garden gets a festive look during the Republic Day and on the days of flower shows that are held here.

Vidhan Soudha

Vidhan Soudha, built in the year 1954 is one of the major centres of attraction in Bangalore. The architecture of the building is based on the neo Dravidian style and it presently houses the Legislative Assembly of the state of Karnataka. The building also houses a part of the Karnataka secretariat.

Cubbon Park

Situated in the heart of the Bangalore city, the Cubbon Park is an interesting tourist spot which one should not miss out. The park was laid by Lord Cubbon in the year 1864. It is spread over an area of about 300 acres and the layout is absolutely exquisite.

Bangalore Palace

Built in the year 1887, Bangalore palace is a must see tourist spot in the garden city. The architecture of the palace is based on the Tudor style. The palace is situated in the middle of the Bangalore city making it easily accessible for the tourists. Covering an area of about 800 acres, the palace gives a look of the Windsor Palace of England.

Venkatappa Art Gallery

Venkatappa art gallery is a pleasant treat for the art lovers. It has about 600 paintings on display that you can see all through the year. The art gallery also has some of the exclusive collections of scenic displays.

Tipu's Palace

The palace and the fort of Tipu Sultan are the must see spot in Bangalore. The architecture, the layout and the overall look of the palace gives you the idea of the ethnic Mughal lifestyle. The fort and its remains present the history of the era in which it was built. The construction of the Tipu palace was started by Haider Ali and completed by Tipu Sultan himself.

ISKCON

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON Temple Complex of Bangalore is a marvellous building structure that has blended the Dravidian and modern architecture in its construction. The building has some of the modern facilities like the multi-vision cinema theatre, computer aided presentation theatres along with vedic library and a preaching library. The temple also has good accommodation facility for its members and non-members.

Shiva Statue

The statue is a 65 feet high depiction of Lord Shiva in a position of Padmashan or Lotus position. The statue is complete with Mount Kailash, the Lord's heavenly abode and the river Ganga flowing from his matted locks in the background. The entire area gives you a clear picture of the mythological legend related to it.


Bull temple

The Bull Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva's Vahana (vehicle), Nandi the bull. Here you can find a huge monolithic statue of the sitting bull that draws a large number of people to this place every day. The statue is 4.5 meters tall and 6 meters long and has been at this place long before the present temple was built.



Aquarium

The sight of the Aquarium, which is the second largest in the country, is quite fascinating. Built in a well-planned manner, the Aquarium has a good collection of a variety of aquatic life. The Aquarium remains closed on Mondays.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

Among the other places to visit, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a must see. Visiting any of the shows here gives you a good view as well as factual knowledge on astronomy. Easily accessible from any corner of the city, the planetarium hosts daily shows of astronomy. It is a fascinating experience for the children.

Bannerghatta National Park

For a walk on the wild side, look no further than the southern outskirts of Bangalore city, where you can find everything from avifauna to panthers in the Bannerghatta National Park. The 25,000 acre park is home to panthers, lions, tigers and a large variety of birds. Indulge your sense of adventure with a lion and tiger safari. You could also wander through the Zoological Garden, with its canopy of shady and sturdy trees, find a quiet resting beside a pond and watch waterfowl frolic. The zoo boasts an amazing reptile collection; a snake park lets you get up close and personal with the scaly, slithery creatures. A children’s corner provides an added attraction. Trekking enthusiasts will enjoy Uddigebande (3.5 kms.) a natural rock formation called Hajjamana Kallu (3 kms.) and Mirza Hill (1.5 kms.)

Location and Area (Bannerghatta National Park)
22 kms. south of Bangalore; 104.27 sq. kms.

Flora and Fauna in Bannerghatta National Park
Dry deciduous forests and thorny scrub, with patches of moist deciduous forests along the streams.

Mammals in Bannerghatta National Park
They include the elephant, gaur, leopard, jackal, fox, wild pig, sloth bear, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, common langur, bonnet macaque, porcupine and the hare. The tourist area in the north of the Park has a lion and tiger safari, a herbivore safari, a mini zoo, a reptile park, a mini aviary and a museum.

NANDI HILLS

60 kms north of Bangalore the summer resort called Nandi Hills. Also known as Nandidurga, it was one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan.
Nandi Hills was popular with the British too who built bungalows and laid out gardens here.
Today of course, it's a hot favourite among Bangaloreans who find this an ideal get-away for weekends. The 1478-m high Nandi Hills is the originating point of many rivers.
And the forests surrounding the hills, abound with wild animals. Around the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills, which can be visited on foot.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Tipu's Drop
A 600 m high cliff face where according to legend, condemned prisoners were pushed to their death.
On misty days when the wind wails in the trees, you can almost hear the blood-curdling screams of the prisoners as they met their gruesome end. But look down on a clear day and the view is inspiring.

Yoga Nandishvara Temple:
This beautiful Chola temple has an inscription of Sambhaji, Shivaji's son. The Dwarapalakas, the splendid metallic figures are not-to-be-missed.

Run Around Tirupati

Tirupati is famed for the shrine on the Seven Hills of Tirumala dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. The town of Tirupati is one of the most ancient and sacred pilgrimage spots in India. The hill near the temple is called 'Tirumala' or the "sacred
hill." The temple is said to be the busiest in the world and the Brahmotsavam is undoubtedly celebrated for its oriental pomp and pageantry in September every year. Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirumala is located 860 metes above sea level atop a hill named Venkatadri. It is the last of the seven hills one has to traverse through from Tirupati, a transit point for Tirumala. This temple's importance in Indian religious milieu cannot be undermined.

Getting There:

Air: Tirupati airport is about 15 kms. from the city. There are direct flights from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Bangalore and Chennai.
Rail: Tirupati is the nearest railway station. The city is well connected to all the cities of India.
Road: Luxury coaches connects Tirupathi to major Indian cities
Weather and Best season to Visit: Summers record a maximum of 43C and a minimum of 22C. Winters record a maximum of 32C and a minimum of 14C.
The best season to visit would be from September to February.

Places in Tirupati

Sri Padmavati Samovar Temple, Tiruchanoor
Tiruchanoor, also known as Alamelumangapuram, is about 5 km from Tirupati. The temple of Sri Padmavati Devi, the consort of Lord Sri Venkateshwara is situated here. It is said that a visit to Tirumala is fruitful only after visiting the Sri Padmavati Devi temple. You may wonder why Sri Padmavati Devi's temple is away from Lord Sri Venkateshwara's. Legend has it that the Lord (Sri Maha Vishnu, who later took on the incarnation of Sri

Venkateshwara) showed his reverence towards the sage, Bhrigu Maharshi, even though the sage had insulted Vishnu by kicking Him on the chest. In anger, Sri Maha Lakshmi (the Lord's consort) reached Patala Loka, where she heard a divine voice stating that a pushkarini was dug on the banks of the river Swarnamukhi, and here She immersed herself in penance for 12 years. In the 13th year (during the month of Kartika, on Panchami day in the last fortnight, highlighted by the nakshathram Uttarashadha), Sri Padmavati emerged from a golden lotus. It is believed that Goddess MahaLakshmi herself emerged as Sri Padmavati. Tirupati yatra is incomplete without a visit to this temple. Sri Padmavati is the divine consort of Lord Venkateshwara. 'Kalyanotsavam' is performed here as in Tirumala between 10.30 a.m. and 12 noon every day. Five members are allowed (Rs. 500/-). Special darshan (Rs. 5/-) is advisable. Darshan starts from 6.30 a.m. on Weekdays and from 8.00 a.m. on Fridays. Tiruchanoor (also known as Alarmelu Mangapuram) is 4 km from Tirupati. Buses ply throughout the day.

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple
Sri Govindarajaswami is the elder brother of Lord Balaji. His temple is the main landmark of Tirupati town. It has an imposing Gopuram that can be seen from a distance. Saint Ramanujacharya consecrated the temple in 1130 AD. The festivals and functions are similar to those conducted in the Sri Govindarajaswami is the elder brother of Lord Balaji. His temple is the main landmark of Tirupati town. It has an imposing Gopuram that can be seen from a distance. Saint Ramanujacharya consecrated the temple in 1130 AD. The festivals and functions are similar to those conducted in the Sri Venkateshwara temple. The annual Brahmotsavam in this temple is celebrated in the month of Vaisakha every year. Pilgrims must visit this temple without fail. This temple complex includes museum and a cluster of shrines like those of Sri Parthasarathy, Godadevi Aandal and Pundarikavalli. The principal deity is an impressive Sayanamurti (the Lord in a sleeping posture). Buy special Darshan tickets (Rs. 5/-) to avoid the long queue. The timings for Sarva Darshan are 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., 1.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. to 8.45 p.m.

Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple
This temple is situated in the heart of Tirupati town. The presiding deities are Sita, Rama and Lakshmana. A Chola king built this temple during the tenth century AD. The temple of Anjaneyaswami, which is directly opposite, is a sub shrine of this temple. According to legend, this temple commemorates the visit of Sri Rama to Tirupati. The festivals of Ugadi and Sri Ramanavami are celebrated in this temple on a grand scale. Every year the temple celebrates the Brahmotsavams to the Lord Sri Rama.

Sri Kapileshwaraswami Temple
Sri Kapileshwaraswami Temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Siva, in the pantheon of Vaishnava temples in Tirupati. It is situated about 3 km to the north of Tirupati, at the foot of the Tirumala Hills. The sacred waterfall called Kapila Teertham (also known as Alwar Teertham) is located here. Annual Brahmotsavams and festivals like vinayaka Chavithi, Maha Shivaratri, Skhanda Shasti and Annabhishekam are performed in a grand manner. This is the only Siva Temple in Tirupati. The temple enshrines Sri Kapileshwaraswami. Waterfalls in this place are an attractive sight (especially in rainy season). One can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, as this place is located a little away from the town. City buses and autos are a means of conveyance to reach the Kapila Teertham.

Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami Temple, Shrinivasa Mangapuram
Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami temple is at Shrinivasa Mangapuram situated 12 km to the west of Tirupati. According to legend, Lord Venkateshwara stayed here after his marriage with Sri Padmavati Devi, before proceeding to Tirumala. Annual Brahmotsavam and Shakshatkara Vaibhavam are celebrated in grand manner. Sevas performed are and the fees mentioned here are per person, unless otherwise specified. Nithya Archana - permanent for Rs 542.00, Nithya Archana - one year for Rs 42.00, Abhishekam for Rs 100.00, Thomala Seva for Rs 10.00, Archana for Rs 10.00, Archana & Aarti for Rs 5.00, Abhisheka Darsanam for Rs 5.00, Vahanam Puja (for a 4-wheeler) for Rs 50.00, (for a 2-wheeler) for Rs 25.00, Kalyana Utsavam for Rs 500.00.

Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami Temple, Narayanavanam:

Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami temple at Narayanavanam is 40 km from Tirupati. Lord Sri Venkateshwaraswami and Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, daughter of Akasa Maharaja were married here. Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami is the main deity here. The four sub-temples are,
1) Sri Padmavati Ammavari temple, 2) Sri Andal Ammavari temple, 3) Sameta Ramulavari temple, 4) Sri Ranganayakula Swami temple, 5) Sri Sita Lakshmana temple,
In addition, there are five other temples attached to Sri Kalyana Venkateshwaraswami temple. They are,
1) Sri Parashareshwara Swami temple, 2) Sri Virabhadra Swami temple, 3) Sri Shakti Vinayaka Swami temple, 4) Sri Agasthishwara Swami temple, 5) Sri Avanakshamma temple,

The annual Brahmotsavams are conducted every year in the main temple, Sri Virabhadraswami temple and Sri Avanakshamma temple. Navaratri festival is also celebrated at the Sri Avanakshamma temple every year. Giri Pradakshina (Konda Chuttu Thirunallu) is one of the important festivals conducted during the end of Sankranti, once a year, with the utsava murthis of Sri Parashareshwara Swami and Sri Champakavalli Ammavaru, and Sri Agastheeshwara Swami and Sri Markathavalli Ammavaru. The other festivals conducted here are Andal Neeratotsavam, Panguni Uttarotsavam, Vara Lakshmi Vratham, and Float festival, Anivara Asthanam, Ratha Sapthami, Ugadi Asthanam, Srirama Navami, Chaitra Pournami, and Periodical Sevas.

Sri Veda Narayanaswami Temple, Nagalapuram:

Sri Veda Narayanaswami temple is located in Nagalapuram, 70 km southeast of Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Sri Maha Vishnu, in the form of Matsya, killed the Rakshash (demon) Somakudu here, and retrieved the Vedas from the latter. The sanctum sanctorium houses an image of the Matsya form of Vishnu, with Shridevi and Bhudevi on either side. A peculiar feature of the idol is that it holds the Sudarshana Chakra in prayoga (ready for release). The temple was constructed by Sri Krishnadeva Raya, the Vijayanagara emperor, and is a fine specimen of the Vijayanagara style of architecture. The most important annual festivals in this temple are Brahmotsavam, and Surya Puja along with the Float festival, conducted on the 12th, 13th and 14th days of the month of Phalguna. During these three days, the sunrays fall on the main deity between 0600 hrs and 0615 hrs. On the first day, they fall on the feet, on the second - on the chest and on the third - on the forehead, depicting worship by Sri Surya Bhagavan (the Sun God) himself. The annual Brahmotsavam is conducted in the month of Jyeshtha.
Sri Venugopalaswami Temple, Karvetinagaram:

Sri Venugopalaswami temple is situated in Karvetinagaram, 58 km from Tirupati.The main deity of the temple is Sri Venugopalaswami with His consorts - Sri Rukmini Ammavaru and Sri Satyabhama Ammavaru. There is a sub-temple with the idol Sri Sita Ramula Pattabhishekam.

Sri Prasanna Venkateshwaraswami Temple, Appalayanagunta:

Sri Prasanna Venkateshwaraswami temple is located in Appalayagunta, 14 km from Tirupati. It is believed that Sri Venkateshwaraswami, after marrying Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, blessed Sri Sidhdheshwara and other sages here. The temple, constructed by the Rajas of Karvetinagar, consists of a shrine for Anjaneyaswami. Devotees for relief from chronic diseases worship the imposing image of the wind-god. There are also idols of Goddess Padmavati and Sri Andal here. Brahmotsavam is celebrated once a year.

Sri Chennakeshavaswami Temple, Tallapaka:

Sri Chennakeshavaswami Temple is located in Tallapaka village at a distance of 100 Kms. from Tirupati, which is the birthplace of Sri Annamacharya, the Sankeertana Acharyulu who was born to Sri Narayanasuri and Lakkamamba. According to legend, the temple was constructed and administered by the Matti Rajahs about 1000 years ago.

Sri Kariyamanikyaswami Temple, Nagiri:

Sri Kariya Manikyaswami temple (also called Sri Perumala Swami temple) is located in Nagiri, 51 km from Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Sri Maha Vishnu killed Makara (a crocodile) and saved Gajendra (an elephant) at this place. This episode is referred to as the Gajendramoksham in the Mahabhagavatam.

Sri Annapurna Sameta Kashi Vishweshwaraswami Temple, Bugga Agraharam:

Sri Annapurna Sameta Kashi Vishweshwaraswami Temple is located in the Bugga Agraharam village, 56 km from Tirupati. The temple is on the banks of Kushasthali River. The main deities are Sri Kashi Vishweshwara Swami, Sri Annapurna Ammavaru, Sri Kamakshi Ammavaru, and Sri Devi Bhudevi Sameta Sri Prayaga Madhava Swami. The important annual festivals in the temple are Maha Shivaratri and Kartika Somavaramu.

Run Around Mysore

Mysore Palace & Residetial Musuem The Maharaja Palace built in Indo-Saracenic style with domes, turrets, arches, housing intricate sculptures of the Hoysala Dynasty. The Palace is treasure for exquisit carvings, works of art from all over the world.the Majestic Darbar Hall & Kalyana Mantap has colorful representation of Dasara Celebrations, has ornate ceilings & many sculptured pillars. The mangificant jewel studded Golden Throne also known as " Golden Howdha " is housed in the Palace. This Palace e\was burned down in the year 1911.Even to this day Public areallowed through the eastern side entrance called Varaha Entrance. to the Mysore Palace.During the dasara Celebrations the public can get to see the Golden Howdha.the World famous Palace is illuminated by over a million of usually on Sundays & Public Holidays.It is open for public from 10.30 a.m to 5.30 p.m.Admission by tickets. The residential museum is a part of Mysore Palace. Situated in the grouns of Palace, the musuem offers beforeb you a magnificent assortment of the belongings of thr Royal family. It's open from morning to evening with an entry fee attached.

Mysore Zoological Gardens Also called as " Jayachamarajendara Zoological Gardens " was set up in 19th Century by the royal patronage. This zoo houses some of the rare and exotic species, in lush green surroundings close to natural habitat for animals and birds. Mysore Zoological Gardens is also famous for breeding rare animals in captivity. The zoo is on the way to Chamundi Hills and the gates are open for Public from 10 a.m to 5 p.m. everyday except on Tuesday. Its adviceable to refrain from feeding or teasing animals. Safety precaution is " not to put hand inside the cages". A must for people visiting Mysore Zoo is a ride on the Elephants. The authorities at the zoological gardens have set about a model way of creating awareness among the general public to sponsor the expenses for a period of one year.

The Jaganmohan Palace This palace was built in the year 1861 for the wedding ceremony of His Highness The Maharaja of Mysore Sri Krishnaraja Wodeyar & later converted into an art gallery in 1875. It exhibits painting dating back to that period. The Gallery has the collection of paintings, where the artists have used natural vegetables and mineral dyes for their work.You get to see some exclusive traditional Mysore style painting along with some of the oil painting from contemporary artists like Ravi Varma and Svetoslav Roerich. This gallery also exhibits some of the objects used by the Royal Family. Visiting hours is between 8.00a.m to5.00 p.m on all the days.

Chamundi Hills A well- known high landmark, Chamundi Hills can be viewed from all corners of the Mysore City. Chamundi Hills canbr reached by road(13 Kms from the city) or by 17th Century 1000 and odd steps from the foot of Chamundi Hills. Atop the hill is theAdobe of Goddess Chamundedshwari, an incranation of Godess Durga, which is 12th Century Temple.Halfway upthe Chamundi Hills is the Nandi, Big Bull, a majestic 4.8 meters monolith sculpture. Near the temple you get to see gigantic statue of Demon Mahishasura. If you are driving by yourself, you could pullover the viewpoints provided by the Forest Department to see the panoramic view of Mysore City.This Temple is open from 6a.m to 9 p.m.

Railway Museum Situated near the Mysore City Railway Station has exhibits of luxury coach used by Mysore Royal Family, locomotive steam engines dating back to 19th Century.This Museum is first of its kind in India & was built in the year 1979. The Maharani's Saloon carriage that boasts of a kitchen , dining car unit and a royal toilet dating back to 1899 is worth seeing. One of the first steam engines built, it is indeed remarkably well kept. there is also a battery operated mini-train which takes one for tha fancy ride along the grounds.

Devaraja Market This market is listed in every tourist guide book. This market has vast space where fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and other products are available.There are four entries from all the direction to enter the Market.

Kukkarahalli / Karanji / Lingambudi Lakes These Lakes are the most prominent lakes in the Mysore City. it has always inspired poets, litteraterus, bird watchers, nature lovers and health freaks.Sasonally these lakes attract migratory birds from all over the world. Karanji lake has on the best walk-in aviary built similar to the Jurong Bird Sanctury in Singapore.Karanji Lake also houses one of the first Butterflies Park in India. Boating Facelity is Abvailable in Karanji Lake. kukkarahalli Lake is the most visited place for health conscious public for morniong and evening walk.

Lord Venkateshwara Temple on Najangud Road This temple built recently is a wonderful architectural replica of Lord Venkateshwara in Tirumala Tirupathi. This temple is annexure to Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Nada Mantapa is located inside the Ashrama campus. The pillars of this mantapa have designs of the nusical instruments. These pillars are designed such that they are positioned without obstructing the view of the stage from any angle.

St.Philomena's Church A beautiful cathedral reminiscentof medeival architectural style, is one of the largest churches in the country. In Gothic style, the church is imposing structure with stained glass windows made in France and twin spires, which are 175 feet in height. Every photographers challenge and delight in farming the gigantic towers of the church.

Folklore Museum Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion is a converted folklore museum situated in spawning University Campus at Manasagangothri.This museum is renowned for tis folklore objects. Some objects in this museum have acquired international exposure through catalouges etc., The Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion is a 1,20,000 Sft.mansion and is worth a llok. The main patrons for this are students and foreigners. One can get to see stringed puppets, leather puppets, and various objects of folklore importance at this museum. This museum is open from 10 a.m to 5 p.m on all the days except on Sundaya and Government Holidays.

Lalitha Mahal Palace This palace was built by Sri Krishnadevaraja Wodeyar IV in the year 1921 as a guest house for friends from abroad. Presently this hotel is converted into a Star Hotel which is managed by ITDC. This Palace has a very pleasant surrounding and has the Chamundi Hills by the side. Presently Lalith Mahal Hotel as it is called is the favourite destination for the VVIP's world over. There is a helipad facility in the vicinity of Lalith Mahal Hotel.

Clock Towers There are two clock towers in Mysore.One is situated near Devaraja Market, this is called as Chikka Gadiyara (Small Clock) and the other is located opposite the Town Hall, near Gandhi Square called Dodda Gadiyara (Big Clock) .These were installed during the great administration of the Wodeyar Dynasty.

Anthropological Survey of India Situated in Bogadi, is the Regional Centre for Anthropological studies. They have a museum exhibiting objects that belonged to the various settlements and also have a huge auditorium.

Regional Museum of Natural History Located on bank of Karanji Lake with backdrop of Chamundi Hills, the museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural world, understand the story of life, diversity of plants and animals and the importance of canservation of natural resourses. The exhibits presents a judicious mix of specimens, models, translites, Audio-Vedio aids, presentation of natural habitats in the form of diagrams, thematic exhibits & participatory exhibits etc., there is a temporary exhibition hall and a discovery center where learning can be fun. This museum is 5 kms from the Mysore Railway Station and is open from 10 a.m to 5 p.m all the week, except on Mondays.

Dhvanyaloka-Centre for Indian Studies This centre has been established for promoting study, research and development of Indian Culture , Finearts Literature, Performing and Traditional Arts, Ayurveda, Yoga, Dance & Music in India as well as in the countries overseas which are influenced by this. This centre will collorate with various Universities overseas and will cater to their needs for training and educating their students in the feilds of Indian Culture, Fine Arts, Literature. Perfoming and Traditional Arts, Ayurveda, Yoga Dance and Music in Mysore.

Krishnaraj Sagar Dam & Brindavan Gardens Situated 18 kms from Mysore city and is one of the best places in South India. The dam was built by Late Sir M Vishveshwaraiah across the river Cauvery during the regime of His Highness The Maharaja of Mysore Sri Chamaraja Wodeyar IV, is capable of holding 44,000 Million cft. Just below the dam is Brindavan Gardens having lush green lawns, concealed lighting, recently renovated and refurbished dancing and musical fountains are the main attraction here. The best time to visit this garden is between 4 pm & 7 pm Monday through Sunday. Please ensure you reach the gardens with your own mode of transportation, though the Government or Private run bus facility is available. Brindavan Gardens provides boating facility for those persons who like to go boating.

Srirangapatna This town is 16 kms from the Mysore city on Bangalore Mysore Highway has many attractions from the past history. The fort built by Sri Kanteerava Ranadheer Wodeyar houses the Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple and a Mosque. This fort is on bank of the River Cauvery. Apart from the fort, you could visit Daria Daulat Bagh built in 1784 also known as Tippu's Summer Palace.The summer palace is made of teak and this structure is Indo Sarcenis Style having ornamental & beautiful freceous. Presently Daria Daulat Bagh is converted to a museum housing the objects used by Tippu Sultan and his losing Battle against the British. Further to Daria Daulat Bagh you can reach Gumbaz, Tippu's Tomb with splendid ebomy doors inlaid with ivory. Further to Gumbaz is Sangam Place very sacred for Hindus. At, Sangam tributaries of river Cauvery converge. While returning from Sangam, a deviation is required to visit the scenic Goshai Ghat. Another sacred place in the vicinity is Godess Nimishamba Devi Temple. Every Tuesday & Friday people throng to get the blessing. This temple is on bank of the River Cauvery providing an atmosphere suitable for picnics.

Balmuri This falls is most visited place for lazing around and relaxing in river water. You will have to ensure you have enough supply of food and beverages. Though drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited, people do sneak in with some beer. This place is frequented by film troupes as this provides a very good backdrop. Swim with extreme caution, as there are lot of whirlpools. Overall this place is a very good picnic spot.

Tonnurkere About 5 kms from Pandavapura.is a big lake with natural beauty attracks lots of people from filmdom for film shooting.

Kokkrebellur Bird Sanctury This Bird sanctury is situated 10 kms from Maddur on Bangalore Mysore Road. Painted stork, pelicans come here during the breeding season, commencing in January till about the end of June.

Rangantittu Bird Sanctury This sanctury ia an island created by River Cauvery near Srirangapatna. This sanctury is the nesting & breeding place for various migratory species from all over the world. This place is very delightful for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers. You could use the boats to see the crocodiles and the birds 5 feet away. Best time to vist this Bird Sanctury is during months of July, August & September. Boating facility ia available on payments.

Melkote Situated in the rocky hills of Yadugiri, Melkote is well known as the birth place of Great Visistadvaitha Philosopher Ramanuja. It is located 50 kms North from Mysore City. This very quite and serene place draws piligrims to the Chellapaillai Temple. The idols here arec Krishna and Narashimha and are constructed on the topmost peak. Viramudi Utsav during March & April attracts piligrims from outside Karnataka. This town is also famous for handlooms.

Somanathpura About 32 kms East from Mysore by road, a village on the left bank of the River Cauvery.Sri Chennakeshwara Temple built here in 1268 A.D with exquisite carvings, is a good example of the Hoysala Style of architecture. Visiting hours is 9 a.m to 5 p.m. Admission by tickets.

Shravanbelagola Situated about 100 kms from Mysore. The place is the Jain Pilgrimage centre and considered as one of the oldest and important Jain Cultural epicentre in India. The mammoth statue of Lord Bahubali is the main attraction of Shravanabelagola. Ganga King constructed in 981 A.D. This is the World's tallest monolithic statue at an imposing 17 metre height on the majestic Indragiri Hill.To reach the Statue of Lord Bahubali atop Indragiri Hill, one has to climb 614 rock cut steps, which is not much of an effort considering the magnanimity and the religious significance of the place. Mahamastakabisheka takes place once in 12 years.

Shivansamudram 80 kms from Mysore or 27 kms form Somanathpura is the island town Shivansamudram. the twin waterfall (350 feet), Gaganachukki and Barachukki are the most alluring spots near the island. It was here that in Karnataka State first to produce electric power in the year 1902. Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electric generating station- first of its kind is situated here.

Belur Situated 156 kms from Mysore, 40 kms from Hassan this prime attraction is 12th Century Hoysala temple constructed by the Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. Lord Chennakaeshava temple, where Lord Vishnu deity is worshpied daily. It will be long lasting memory if one gets an opportunity to witness the rituals either in the morning 10 a.m or evening 7 p.m. This temple is considered as the finest specimens of Hoysala artistic and ehgineering excellence. It's great works in stones has representations of sages, birds, cultural & social life of that period. There are 650 charging elephants on frieze around the walls outside, which are all different from each other. This temple is open from sunrise and sunset and there is no entrance fee. Non-hindus are not allowed in the inner sanctum of the temple.

Halebid Hoysaleshwara Temple is the major attraction. This incomplete Hoysala temple is the most outstanding specimen of Hoysala Architecture. The temple construction began in 1121. Even after 80 years the temple was not completed and from that time routine rituals started and the temple started to function. its open daily morning till evening and the entrance is free.

Talakad This is ancient town, situated on the left bank of the River Cauvery, 45 kms South East to Mysore or 24 kms from Shivanasamudram. Here are Sri Kirtinarayana, Sri Kartikeya, Sri Vaideeswara, Sri Pataleswara and Sri Maraleswara temples. Many monuments lie buried in the sand. Panchalinga darshanam is held once in 12 years coinciding with existance of some stars.

MM Hills or Malai Mahadeshwara Hills About 133 kms from Mysore, a famous pilgrimage place has a temple dedecated to Sri Mahadeshwara and attracts large number of devotees from all over the country during the festivities. Rathothsava will be held during Karthikamasa and Shivarathri.

Nanjangud This small town situated on the Banks of River Kapila, one of the tributaries of River Cauvery. Temple of Sri Nanjundeshwara is the main attraction here. It is Built in Dravidian style and is supported by 147 columns. The car festival by the end of March is very famous.

Himvad Gopal Swamy Hills This popular hill station is a delight for trekkers, situated in the Western Ghats of Mysore Districts.There is a temple dedicated to Lord Hoysala. Visitors & trekkers should get prior permission from the Forest Department to avail the traveller's bunglow if planning for an overnight stay.

Bandipur National Park Just 80 kms from Mysore City, is one of the wildlife sancturies listed in Project Tiger, a programme conceived by World Wide Fund for nature, intently focused to save Tiger extinction. This park is adjoining the Madhumalai Sanctury of Tamilnadu and is seperated by the River Moyar. The suitable time to visit green extravaganza is during November and February.

Biligiri Rangana Hills Situated about 120kms from Mysore city via Chamarajanagar, the Hills (Highest point is 5091 feet above the sea level) are thickly wooded. Elephants, bison, deer, sambar can be found in the Dravadian style of Architecture. Jungle Lodge Resort is situated in Kyathedevaragudi, which is very close.

Nisargadhama Situated in Kushalnagar on the banks of the River Cauvery, has a hanging bridge across the River and rooms with interiors comprising of wood & bamboo gives a very natural atmosphere.

Tibetian Settlements Bylakuppe & Golden Temple It is exactly located between Hunsur and Madikeri. This settlement with the patronage of the Indian Government flourished a lot and contributes much to the properity of this part of the world.Bylakuppe is one of the main settlement areas with an assemblage of 20 villages. The newly built enormous monastery encapsulates the cultural and religious medley of this region. The Golden Temple is worth a visit.

Nagarahole National Park Situated 93 kms South West of Mysore, this 643 Sq.kms Wildlife Sanctury is the natural habitat of tiger, elephants, leopards,gaur, wild dogs, langur, bisons, panthers, jackals, and hundreds of varieties of magnificantly plumed colorful birds. Ideal time to visit this breathtaking beautiful place, manisfestation of nature is during April May or November- February.