- Chamundi Hills – A Sacred Peak with a Legendary Past
Your journey begins with a scenic 25-minute drive from Mysore city to Chamundi Hills, one of the most revered and picturesque destinations in the region. Located around 10 km from the city center and rising 1,000 meters above sea level, this hill holds spiritual and mythical significance for locals and visitors alike.
Myth, Majesty & Mesmerizing Views
Chamundi Hill appears like a sleeping demon when viewed from any direction—a form believed by locals to be Mahishasura, the legendary demon defeated by Goddess Chamundeshwari. Midway up the hill, you can spot Rajendra Vilas Palace, located at the “abdomen” of this sleeping demon shape. Though the palace—owned by the Wodeyar royal family—is not open to the public, it adds a regal charm to the landscape.
En route, we’ll pause at the Mysore Viewpoint, a popular stop to take in sweeping panoramic views of the city. On weekends and public holidays, don’t miss the illuminated Mysore Palace from this vantage point—a spectacular sight after sunset.
Temple Visit & Photo Opportunities
Our vehicle will drop you near the Chamundeshwari Temple parking area, where a giant statue of Mahishasura, holding a sword and cobra, greets you—a favorite selfie spot for tourists. From here, a short walk takes you to the temple entrance with its magnificent Gopuram (tower), showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture. Built around 1659 B.C., the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the fierce deity who protects the city.
After darshan, you’ll visit the Nandi statue, a massive monolith carved out of a single stone. It is one of the largest of its kind in India and is believed by some to be slowly growing over the years.
Before heading back, refresh yourself with a glass of sugarcane juice mixed with a hint of lemon—a simple but refreshing treat popular at this altitude.
2. Sand Museum
After your visit to the Chamundi Hills, your next stop is the Sand Museum, one of Mysore’s most unique and creative attractions. This privately owned museum welcomes you with a 15-foot-tall sand sculpture of Lord Ganesha at the entrance—an impressive start to an artistic journey.
Inside, you’ll find over 150 intricate sand sculptures, thoughtfully arranged across 16 fascinating themes, including:
- Goddess Chamundeshwari
- Mysore Dasara
- Bhagavad Gita
- Wildlife, culture, and more
Every sculpture is handcrafted using only sand and a natural adhesive, showcasing the talent and patience of the artists behind this masterpiece.
🕒 Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹40 for adults | ₹20 for children
🚗 Parking: Free
📍Ideal Visit Duration: 20–30 minutes
3. Visit the Wax Museum
Looking to explore Mysore in comfort? Our cabs in Mysore for sightseeing include a stop at one of the city’s unique attractions — the Wax Museum, located right next to the Sand Museum on Chamundi Hill Road.
Set inside a charming 90-year-old heritage building, the Wax Museum features Karnataka’s largest collection of musical instruments. This privately owned museum showcases instruments from across India, spanning various regions and time periods. It’s a fascinating cultural stop that adds rhythm to your Mysore journey.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹30 per person | ₹10 for children
🚗 Parking: Free
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~30 minutes
4. Karanji Lake – A Serene Nature Escape
Our next stop on the Mysore One Day Trip is the peaceful and picturesque Karanji Lake. This eco-friendly attraction offers a perfect mix of relaxation and recreation. Nestled amidst greenery, it features a boating area, cycling paths, a children’s park, and even a butterfly garden.
Don’t miss the aviary, one of the largest walk-through bird enclosures in India, where you can spot a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The lake area also shelters several endangered plant species, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
🚗 Parking Charges: ₹30
🕚 Estimated Visit Time: Until around 11:00 AM
5. Mysore Zoo – A Walk Among the Wild
Mysore Zoo – A Walk Among the Wild
Our next stop on the Mysore One Day Trip is the iconic Mysore Zoo, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Established in 1892, it is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, spread across a sprawling 150-acre area.
Home to over 160 species from around the world, the zoo offers a rich experience for wildlife lovers. The lush greenery, peaceful ambiance, and well-laid paths make it a favorite among both children and adults.
Plan to spend about 2 hours here soaking in the sights and learning about the diverse animal kingdom.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹60 per person | ₹30 for kids
🚗 Parking Charges: ₹30
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~2 hours
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6. Lokaranjan Aqua World – Dive into an Underwater Adventure
If you’re planning a one-day trip from Mysore, don’t miss a visit to Lokaranjan Aqua World Underwater Zoo, located right next to the Mysore Zoo. This is South India’s first underground aquarium that offers an immersive aquatic experience for visitors of all ages.
The attraction features tunnel aquariums, marine life tanks, and freshwater exhibits showcasing a variety of colourful fish, stingrays, turtles, and other aquatic creatures. It’s an ideal stop for families, kids, and anyone fascinated by marine biodiversity.
With fun zones, educational displays, and beautifully designed exhibits, Lokaranjan Aqua World adds a fresh dimension to your Mysore sightseeing experience.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
🚗 Parking Charges: Free (shared with Mysore Zoo parking)
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~45 minutes
7. Mysore Palace – The Royal Heart of the City
No Mysore One Day Trip is complete without a visit to its crown jewel – the Amba Vilas Palace, popularly known as the Mysore Palace. It is the second most visited tourist attraction in India, after the Taj Mahal, and rightly so for its grand architecture and royal legacy.
The palace features six majestic gates:
Jayamarthanda (main gate)
Varaha (public entry gate)
Balarama and Jayarama (the most spectacular)
Brahmapuri
Karikaltotti
While the general public enters through the Varaha Gate, Jayamarthanda Gate serves as the main ceremonial entrance. The palace interiors, with their intricate carvings, stained glass, and royal halls, reflect the grandeur of the Wadiyar dynasty.
⚠️ Note: Footwear and cameras are not allowed inside the palace.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
🚗 Parking Charges: ₹30
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~2 hours
Lunch Break – Recharge & Refuel
After exploring the royal grandeur of Mysore Palace, it’s time to relax and enjoy a well-deserved lunch break. You can choose from some of Mysore’s popular dining options based on your food preference:
🍛 For Pure Vegetarian Cuisine:
Hotel Siddhartha – A trusted name known for its South Indian thalis and clean, family-friendly ambience.
🍗 For Non-Vegetarian Delights:
Mughal Darbar – Famous for its flavorful biryanis, kebabs, and Mughlai-style dishes.
Alternatively, you’re welcome to dine at any restaurant of your choice, depending on your taste and convenience. We’ll resume the trip shortly after lunch, ensuring you’re rested and ready for the next attraction.
⏳ Estimated Break Time: 1 Hour
8. Jaganmohan Palace – Where Royalty Meets Art
Our next destination on the Mysore One Day Trip is the historic Jaganmohan Palace, now home to the Jaganmohan Art Gallery. Once a royal residence, this palace was constructed in 1897 as a temporary administrative centre for the Wodeyar dynasty after the original Mysore Palace was damaged by fire.
Today, it stands as a cultural gem showcasing the artistic legacy of India. The gallery features masterpieces by Raja Ravi Varma, as well as an impressive collection of royal furniture, utensils, and garments used by the Maharajas.
Art lovers and history enthusiasts will find this a rewarding 30-minute stop on the journey.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹75 per person
🚗 Parking: Free
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~30 minutes
9. Rail Museum – A Vintage Stop in Your Mysore City Tour
As part of your Mysore City Tour, the Rail Museum offers a nostalgic journey through India’s railway legacy. Located close to the Mysore Railway Station, this museum features a remarkable display of royal coaches, vintage locomotives, steam engines, and historic railway artifacts.
One of the highlights is a toy train ride, which adds a touch of fun, especially for children. The museum beautifully combines education and entertainment, making it a wonderful stop for families and history lovers.
🕘 Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹20 per person | Toy Train Ride: ₹10
🚗 Parking Charges: Free
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~45 minutes
10. St. Philomena’s Church – A Sacred Gothic Marvel
As part of your Mysore itinerary for 1 day, the next must-visit attraction is the iconic St. Philomena’s Church. Built on 28th October 1933 by King Krishnarajendra Bahadur Wodeyar, this towering cathedral is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture and one of the tallest churches in Asia.
A fascinating highlight here is the underground meditation tunnel, believed to have been used by Saint Philomena for prayer and reflection. With its serene ambience and beautiful stained-glass windows, this church offers both spiritual peace and architectural wonder.
🕘 Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free
🚗 Parking Charges: Free
⏳ Estimated Visit Time: ~30 minutes
10. Brindavan Garden & KRS Dam – The Grand Finale of Your Mysore Darshan
Wrapping up our scenic Mysore one-day trip by car, the final and most iconic stop is the Brindavan Garden, located beside the majestic Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam. This destination is a key highlight in most Mysore Darshan packages, and for good reason.
Famous for its symmetric design, musical fountain show, and peaceful ambience, the garden comes alive after dusk. The illumination starts at 6:30 PM, with water fountains dancing rhythmically to music under colourful lights — a truly magical experience.
Perfect for families, couples, and photography lovers, this garden marks a memorable end to your journey through Mysore.
🕘 Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
🚗 Parking Charges: ₹40
🎶 Musical Fountain Show: Begins at 6:30 PM
⏳ Visit Duration: ~2 hours
* Trip Conclusion: After this, we’ll proceed to drop you at your preferred location, concluding your customised Mysore Darshan package.
Sounds Exciting, Doesn’t It?
This Mysore one-day trip by car is packed with heritage, nature, architecture, and unforgettable moments! From palaces to gardens, wildlife to spirituality — all the best places to visit in Mysore in one day are waiting for you.
And the best part? We’ll take care of everything — from a comfortable car with a local driver to a well-planned, guided tour on the day of your choice.
Let us make your Mysore Darshan not just a trip, but a memory that stays with you forever!
Important Notes – Mysore Sightseeing Taxi
📅 Trip Duration:
9:00 AM to 8:30 PM
💰 Taxes:
5% GST is applicable on the total fare.
🚘 Trip Start & End Point:
Starts and ends in Mysore City – pickup and drop at your home, hotel, or chosen location.
📏 Distance Limit:
The package includes up to 100 km of travel. Extra distance will be charged per kilometer beyond the limit.
🚫 No Discount Policy:
There will be no additional discounts or deductions in fare, even if a location is closed or skipped due to time constraints or guest preferences.
🛠️ Customizable Itinerary:
The list of places provided is suggestive only. The tour plan can be custom-made as per your preferences and time.
🔁 Cancellation Policy:
If the trip or vehicle is canceled by the guest after confirmation, the advance amount is non-refundable.
🛍️ Shopping Tip:
Buy authentic Mysore products like sandalwood items, silk sarees, and handicrafts only from Karnataka State Government-approved outlets such as Kaveri Emporium and KSIC showrooms.
🌄 Other Travel Options Available:
In addition to Mysore sightseeing, we also arrange one-day trips to nearby attractions like:
- Coorg
- Ooty
- Somanathapura
- Shivanasamudra Falls
…and more!
🚖 Additional Services:
- One-way pick-up and drop cab services to/from Mysore
- Local taxi in Mysore for sightseeing and hourly usage
- Outstation taxi services with experienced drivers and clean cars