Mysuru is known as the Cultural Capital of Karnataka, Mysuru is a perfect blend of royal history and spiritual depth. Beyond its palaces and markets, the region is dotted with ancient temples and heritage museums that tell stories of faith and grandeur.
Here’s my experience to visit near Mysuru — a mix of devotion, culture, and timeless charm.
🕉️ Chamundeshwari Temple – The Goddess of the Hills
Towering above Mysuru city, the Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hills is dedicated to Goddess Durga, the presiding deity of Mysuru. The temple’s sacred aura and hilltop view attract both devotees and tourists alike.
Travel Tips:
- Visit early morning or at sunset for the best views.
- Stop halfway to see the enormous Nandi statue, one of India’s largest.
- While taking darshana beware of people who can lure you to get direct Darshana and ask for a good amount of money.
- Instead of paying big money to such people it is better you can see the list of Sevas and buy a Seva ticket and have direct Darshana of Goddess Chamundeshwari Devi
- Have a sugarcane juice and delicious fruit balls to keep rehydrate yourself
🌊 Nimishamba Temple – Serenity by the River
Situated near Srirangapatna, the Nimishamba Temple is devoted to Goddess Parvathi, known here as the one who grants wishes in a minute (nimisha). Located on the banks of River Cauvery, the temple’s riverside setting adds to its divine charm.
Tip: Visit during evening aarti for a peaceful spiritual experience.
🚗 Vintage Car Museum Payana, Mysuru – A Royal Collection of card
Car lovers will enjoy the Vintage Car Museum Payana,showcasing the royal family’s personal collection of classic vehicles. Each car — from Rolls-Royce to Maruti 800 — reflects the luxury of the bygone Mysuru monarchy. ‘Payana’ means journey in Kannada regional language of Karnataka state.
In the cultural nexus of Mysuru, Payana stands as a sanctum of vintage automobile history.
Founded by Shree D. Veerendra Heggade, a fervent patron of classic motoring and cultural preservation, Payana is more than a museum—it’s a living archive dedicated to the epoch of automotive excellence.
Tips:
- Ideal for photography and short family visits. Check opening hours before visiting. Usually the visiting hour is from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m
- You need to pay entry fee to see the museum
🛕 Nanjundeshwara Temple, Nanjangudu – The Varanasi of the South (Dakshina Kashi)
Located on the banks of River Kabini, Nanjundeshwara Temple (or Srikanteshwara Temple) is one of the largest Shiva temples in South India. Known as Dakshina Kashi, it’s believed that Lord Shiva here has healing powers.
Nanjangud is situated on the right bank of the river Kapila or Kabini, one of the tributaries of the Cauvery River. Nanjangud , also known as Garalapuri, is famous because of the huge Nanjundeswara or Srikanteswara temple. The name Nanjunda is explained as Shiva who had taken Halahala or poison and it is this Nanjunda who became Vishakanta or Shrikanta by digesting it. Thus the deity is called Nanjundeswara and Srikanteshwara. He is also described as one who cures diseases of his devotees.
The Muslim ruler Hyder Ali Khan had strong faith in God Nanjunda and called him as ‘Hakim Nanjunda’ as his beloved elephant’s eye ailment was cured by administering the holy water (theertha) from the temple. This place is called the Dakskina Kashi or Varanasi of the South. Both Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan had close associations with this temple.
According to the Mythology, Sage Gauthama installed a Linga, the idol form of Shiva. Nearby the town is the Sangam, where the Kapila and the Gundlu rivers join, there is a spot is called “Parashurama Kshetra” where Parashurama is said to have had himself expiated for the sin of beheading his mother in a stream called Churnavati joining Gundlu or Kaundinya River. Parashurama temple, shrines of Maruthi and a newly built Basaveshvara temple are some important places to visit.
The huge Nanjundeswara or Srikanteswara temple was built by the Gangas in the 19th century. The temple has many minor shrines like the Narayana with consorts, Chandikeswara, Parvathi, Natya Ganapathi and others. There are many more lingas, mantapa, vahanas (carriages) Uthsava Murthis (idols used during procession) here.
The nine-storied tall Gopura or tower is ascribed to the queen of the Mysore kings, Devarajammanni, wife of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III (1849). The 120ft tower boasts of stucco images, decorations, 7 gold kalashas, each 3 meters tall exhibiting the Dravidian architecture.
Another important centre in Nanjangud is the Raghavendra Math, situated on the road to the right of the Nanjundeswara temple. It was founded by the close of the 15th century and great gurus or heads like Sudheendra Thirtha and RaghavendraThirtha headed this institution. It has a fine collection of Sanskrit manuscripts and copper plates.
A popular variety of banana locally known as Nanjangud Rasabaley has also made Nanjangud famous all over the region.
Travel Tips:
- Attend the Dodda Jathre fair for a cultural and spiritual treat.
- A dip in the river is considered purifying before entering the temple.
🌿 My Thoughts
From the divine presence of Chamundeshwari to the tranquil banks of Nimishamba, and from Mysuru’s royal heritage to Nanjangud’s ancient temple traditions — every destination near Mysuru offers a glimpse into Karnataka’s timeless beauty.
Whether you’re seeking spirituality, history, or quiet exploration, Mysuru’s surroundings promise something memorable for every traveller.
You can also check: Exploring the Best of Coorg – Near and Around Madikeri
