Mysuru, previously known as Mysore, is the cultural capital of Southern India and Karnataka's second-largest city. Known for its efficiency, fantastic structure, and cleanliness, it is a pleasure to visit; at the same time, it has retained its historic atmosphere. Filled with enthralling Hindu palaces and hosting vibrant festivals regularly, the city is an excellent place to begin an exploration of Indian heritage. The grand Mysore Palace or Amba Vilas is a must-see, especially during the Dasara Festival when lit up by 100 000 bulbs. A browse of the legendary sandalwood and silk products made locally should also be an activity high on visitors’ itineraries. Animal lovers should make sure to visit the Bandipur Sanctuary, part of the Venugopal Wildlife Park, to see ‘guar’ (Indian bison), and spotted deer.
Also known as Mercara, the pretty hill station town of Madikeri is the bustling capital of Coorg in India’s Karnataka state. The town is typically used as a base by nature lovers for outdoor adventure, as it is surrounded by lush mountains, steep valleys, beautiful terraced paddy fields, and vast grasslands. The area is also known for its lovely orange orchards and vast coffee plantations, one of which is home to the breathtaking Abbey Falls. A hanging bridge has now been built across the gorge near the falls, providing a spectacular view of the Kaveri river. Other notable attractions in the area include the stunning Kerala-style Bhagamandala Temple (set at the confluence of three rivers); the Madikeri Fort, which dates back to the 17th Century; and the Kushal Nagar, the largest Tibetan Settlement and monastery in Southern India, known locally as the Golden Temple.
Resting in an amphitheatre amid the Nilgiri mountain range, in India’s Tamil Nadu state, Udhagamandalam, also called Ooty is a beautiful hill station surrounded by terraced rolling hills dotted with 19th-century tea plantations. Perched at an altitude of 2240 metres above sea level, this misty mountain town once served as a summer retreat for the British elite who enjoyed its crisp cool climate. Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, the combination of scenic natural surrounds, Hindu temples and the Indian bustle make this a popular destination for visitors. Must-see attractions include: the Botanical Gardens, featuring ferns, orchids and a prehistoric fossilized tree; the Government Museum, showcasing the history of the Tamil Nadu region; and the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, recently declared a tiger reserve and a World Heritage Site.
