Mysore and Srirangapatna

​Just outside of Mysore is Srirangapatna, or Seringapatam, depending on whom you ask. It’s an important town rich in military history and has a natural beauty due to the Kaveri River that flanks it on either side.  I had no intention of stopping at this town and, in fact, I had just planned to go to Mysore itself where I thought I’d relax after visiting the Mysore Palace but after looking back on all the pictures I’ve realized it is probably one of the highlights of my trip so far.  The town itself is quite small and if you’re staying in Mysore, it would be a perfect day-trip from there since it’s only about 30 minutes away. 

Instead of describing everything in detail, I’ve put two maps above. Everything is pretty much in the same area with the exception of Thomas Inman’s dungeon and the Jumma Masjid mosque. These are located on the same road and are near to one another. Also, Daria Daulat Bagh, which sits a little outside the village.

I found Mysore to be adorable.  There is no shortage of beautiful (but dilapidated, mostly) architecture from the British Raj era, a few good food spots, temples, a monastery, and one of the most beautiful palaces I’ve seen in India so far.  I highly suggest you visit the Mysore Palace twice. Once during the day time to take the tours, and once in the evenings on Sunday evening when it turns into a lit up wonderland.

The place where I stayed, Park Lane Hotel, is a great budget-friendly option at about Rs. 1300 per night, and is only a ten-minute walk to the Mysore Palace.  They rooms are simple but clean, and the hotel provides its guests with a nifty kit of toiletries, including the famous Mysore Sandalwood Soap. You can get a rickshaw just outside of the hotel, or download Uber or Ola to hail a cab through your mobile phone if you have a SIM card or WiFi.
 
For great food, try the restaurant at the Park Lane Hotel or The Old House, a trendy place that serves excellent coffee and wood-fired pizzas (they open early for breakfast as well).