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Time of India
21-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Ex-mayor urges govt to restore heritage buildings in Mysuru
Mysuru: Former mayor Shivakumar Monday urged chief minister Siddaramaiah to give special attention to the protection of over 234 heritage buildings, as many of them are poorly maintained. The deteriorating heritage structures not only raise concern but also pose a danger to public safety and the city's rich cultural legacy. Speaking to reporters, he said among the 129 officially-declared heritage structures, except for a few heritage buildings, mainly Devaraja Market, Maharani's College, and Lansdowne Building, most of them are in a dilapidated condition. Incessant rain and lack of funding for their upkeep have further exacerbated the problem. As tourism in Mysuru is heavily dependent on its heritage quotient, the lack of focus on the upkeep of heritage structures is negatively impacting tourism. The state govt must initiate urgent measures for the restoration of these structures. He said the state govt has also announced plans to convert the Old DC office building into a museum at the cost of Rs 78 crore, but the works were not started in this regard. He mentioned that a non-political delegation, including MLAs and MPs, will be taken to meet the chief minister to prevail upon him to initiate measures for the protection of the heritage buildings.


India.com
17-06-2025
- India.com
Discover Budget Travel Hacks For An Unforgettable Mysuru Experience
Known as the cultural heart of Karnataka, Mysuru is a city which represents a perfect blend of history, culture and local life. The city is famous for its grand palaces, beautiful gardens, and delicious food. As a result, it attracts tourists around the world, and is a charm for budget travels who seek enriching experiences without spending too much. Whether you are a solo traveler or a family person trying to explore the city on a budget, these tips and tricks will help you explore Mysuru without spending a fortune. So what are you waiting for? Let's look at some great options which can help save a lot of money during your traveling. Smart – Get Around for Less Mysuru is a small city, and due to its size, it is easy to move around without any hassle. The city has an efficient public transport system which makes it easier for tourists to travel around, while keeping the expenditures low. Use Public Buses: Mysuru has an effective city bus service. The town is well connected with all the major tourist attractions, so most of them can be visited through a KSRTC bus. And the best part, ticket prices start as low as ₹10. Rent a Bicycle or Scooter: Local Cyclery shops rent bicycles for ₹50 per day, and scooters for 250 – 300 per day. Walk Whenever Possible: Many popular tourism sites like Mysore Palace, Devaraja Market and Chamundi Hill can be accessed through short walks to the north of the city. Avoid Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws:Settle on the price before getting on, or use ride-hailing services like Rapido for cheaper auto rides. Auto fares can be quite expensive. Quick Facts: KSRTC bus fare: ₹10-₹50 per ride Scooter rental: ₹250-₹300 per day Bicycle rental: ₹50 per day Stays – Where to Sleep Cheap Accommodation in Mysuru caters to all budgets, and you don't need to spend a fortune to get a comfortable stay. Budget Hotels & Lodges: Areas like Gandhi Square and Lashkar Mohalla have budget hotels with rooms as low as ₹500 per night. Hostels for Backpackers: Popular hostels like Zostel and The Mansion 1907 offer dorm beds starting at ₹300 per night. Dharamshalas & Guesthouses: If you're looking for even cheaper options, dharamshalas (like the Jain Dharamshala) provide rooms for under ₹300. Book in Advance: Online platforms like or Agoda often have discounts for early bookings. Quick Facts: Budget hotel rooms: ₹500-₹1000 per night Hostel dorm beds: ₹300-₹500 per night Dharamshala stays: ₹200-₹300 per night & Tasty Food – Eat Like a Local Mysuru is famous for its South Indian cuisine, and you don't need to splurge to enjoy delicious meals. Eat at Local Darshinis: Darshinis (small vegetarian eateries) like Vinayaka Mylari and Hotel RRR serve idli, dosa, and meals for under ₹100. Try the Mysore Masala Dosa: A must-have, available at most local restaurants for ₹50-₹70. Thalis Are the Best: Many budget restaurants offer unlimited South Indian thalis for ₹100-₹150. Drink Filter Coffee Instead of Fancy Beverages: A cup of strong South Indian filter coffee costs just ₹15-₹30 at traditional cafes. Quick Facts: Mysore Masala Dosa: ₹50-₹70 South Indian thali: ₹100-₹150 Filter coffee: ₹15-₹30 & Low-Cost Attractions – Explore Without Spending Much Mysuru has plenty of free and low-cost attractions that showcase its rich heritage and natural beauty. Mysore Palace: Entry is just ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children. Chamundi Hill: Free to visit, just hike up the 1,000 steps for a breathtaking sunrise view. Devaraja Market: Walk through this 100-year-old market, take in the colors and aromas, and shop for souvenirs at bargain prices. Karanji Lake & Kukkarahalli Lake: Entry fees are ₹10, and you can enjoy a peaceful walk or birdwatching. St. Philomena's Church & Rail Museum: Entry fees range from ₹10 to ₹50. Quick Facts: Mysore Palace entry: ₹100 (Adults), ₹50 (Children) Chamundi Hill hike: Free Karanji Lake entry: ₹10 Devaraja Market visit: Free Shopping – Get the Best Deals Mysuru is well-known for its silk textile industry, sandalwood, and other handicraft products. Here's how to shop wise: Buy from Government Emporiums: Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium offers authentic Mysore silk and sandalwood at fixed, reasonable rates. Devaraja Market: Fresh spices, flower garlands, and handmade incense sticks can be bought here. Avoid Tourist Shops: Shops at tourist spots tend to have much higher prices. Street Shopping: Visit roadside stores for wooden toys and other handcrafted items at cheaper rates compared to big stores. Quick Facts: Mysore Silk Saree: Starts from ₹2000 (govt emporiums) Sandalwood souvenirs: ₹100-₹500 Handmade incense sticks: ₹50-₹200 per pack Extra Tips to Save More Visit on Weekdays: Unlike weekends and holidays, hotels and other modes of transport are relatively cheaper during weekdays. Use Local Apps: Save money through local apps like Rapido for bike taxi and Paytm for bus tickets. Carry a Water Bottle: Instead of purchasing bottled water, refill your canteen at clean water stations. Look for Free Walking Tours: Different travel groups and locals sometimes offer free walking tours in the city. Use Student Discounts:Museums and other attractions often reduce entrance fees for people with a student ID. Final Thoughts Because of its rich cultural heritage, Mysuru is one of the most economical sites to visit in India. Besides the budget-friendliness, the city has so much more to offer, like heritage sites, palaces, delicious food, beautiful views, and so much more that does not make visiting this city hard on the pocket. Not to mention, it makes site-seeing superbly enjoyable, considering the options are plenty.


India.com
27-05-2025
- India.com
Spending 24 Hours Without A Map In Mysuru City – Where Will You End Up
Mysuru, which is also known as the 'City of Palaces', is a beautiful amalgamation of history, culture, and modernity. With its majestic buildings, sprawling gardens, and rich history, it is a city that carries a portfolio of tourism. But, what if I told you that one day you had to spend in Mysore without Google Maps and do not have any guide, just your gut and thirst for wanderlust to take the reins? Where do you think you would end up? For us, the answer is the allure of the city, its hospitable people, and the excitement of getting lost in unfamiliar places. The Morning: Relaxation At Chamundi Hills If you're in a new area without a map, you might start your journey by the first attraction that catches your eye or by talking to the locals. Most people living in Mysuru will always start their day by visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple located in the Chamundi hills. If you are fortunate, a sympathetic auto-rickshaw driver or a bystander may guide you in this direction. As you climb the hill, there is a sweeping view of Mysore below you. The temple of goddess chamundeshwari serves as a zenith for religious devotees. Another one of the breathtaking views is the gigantic Nandi cow statue located half up the hill. For those who navigate the city without a guide, these patterns can help with the region's spiritual feeling. Mid-Morning: The Heart of Mysore Never Disappoints Once you finish your hike up Chamundi hill, you will most likely make your way to the city center. The scrambles of streets that strewn throughout Mysuru are rather intriguing, and with no guidebook, you are sure to come across something of interest. Devaraja Market is unlike anything you will ever see – it's filled with flowers, spices, and the lively atmosphere of locals in each and every stall. You may find yourself buying sandalwood souvenirs or even trying out Mysore Pak for the first time, all while appreciating the energy of the city. Afternoon: The Palace of Mysore Will Restore Your Faith in Royals As the clock ticks further into the day, you may want to take a look at the stunning Mysore Palace. The grandeur and shine of the palace can easily be seen from a distance, even if you aren't using any navigational aids. The locals are always more than willing to help you make your way to the palace. It displays majestic Indo-Saracenic architecture which speaks of Mysuru's royal past. As you meander through its richly decorated rooms and endless designs, you will surely be left in amazement at the riches that the Wadiyar dynasty possessed. Lunch: A Culinary Adventure It would not be abnormal for your stomach to be growling at this point, and especially without any sort of plan, it seems you are left to your sense of smell. It is possible that the scent of Mysore's traditional food might guide you to some local place to eat. From simple dosa booths to elegant restaurants, Mysore's culinary landscape has much to offer. Do not be astonished if you somehow find yourself in a restaurant called Vinayaka Mylari, known for their famous dosas which melt in the mouth. Listening to the locals will most definitely get you the best culinary satisfaction. Evening: Strolling Through Brindavan Gardens Progressively as you go on, your spontaneous exploration of the city could bring you to the outskirts. These gardens are located beside the Krishnarajasagar Dam, making them a favorite for evening walkers. If you do not have a map at your disposal, you might have to depend on a bus or the goodwill of a stranger to find your way there. These gardens are beautified with musical fountains with surrounding greenery making it such an awesome place to relax. As night beckons, the gardens which are open for public viewing are indeed stunning boasting a site which makes it perfect for the concluding photo, and with it the end of your day. Night: Discovering the Cultural Heart of Mysore Mysore during the night feels like a city that is full of lights and culture. Most people who choose to stroll aimlessly without a map are most likely to witness local street performances or encounter some artist showcasing their skills. One may catch a glimpse of Mysore's love for art in the form of local music and dance performances that take over the city's evenings. No matter what you stumble upon, you are sure to experience the city's essence. Thoughts on the Journey Finding yourself in Mysore for an entire day truly sounds amazing, but spending 24 hours in the city without a plan sounds like a full-blown adventure. A stroll about the city with no limits to immerse yourself in the culture sounds like the perfect break. The sheer beauty of Mysore lies in the fact that no matter how many times you may visit the city, it never fails to surprise you. Be it a conversation with a local, a beautiful hidden temple or a quaint cafe, the city takes you on a ride full of unexpected and unforgettable experiences. Ultimately, it doesn't matter where you end up because the journey is what matters. Mysuru, rich in culture, ensures that every stop is a new discovery and every moment is worth remembering. So next time you are in this fantastic city, throw the map away and let the city guide you. You'd be surprised at looking at what you will find!