Golden palaces, spice-scented streets, and rooftop sunsets—Mysore has magic that goes far beyond the yoga mat. Sure, yoga might be the first thing that springs to mind—and for good reason. Ashtanga was born here, under the great Krishnamacharya, and later popularized by Pattabhi Jois. Today, yogis from around the globe flock to this soulful little city to study, stretch, and surrender. But here’s the thing—there are tons of ways to enjoy Mysore, India beyond yoga!
Known as the City of Palaces, Mysore was once the glittering seat of the Wodeyar dynasty, a royal family whose love of beauty, architecture, and the arts helped shape this vibrant city into what it is today. Between the stately old-world charm and the colorful local life, it’s a place that practically hums with magic.
I recently had the chance to spend two wonderful weeks in Mysore. When I wasn’t practicing yoga, I was adventuring through town on the back of my friend’s Royal Enfield. Yeah, what an experience! He’s been to Mysore over a dozen times, so I got the insider scoop. We covered a lot of ground, and of course, I want to share my top finds with you. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, these six iconic stops are not to be missed. Each one brought its own unique charm—and left its mark.
1. A Charming Stay: The Green Hotel
If I could recommend only one place to stay in Mysore, it would be The Green Hotel—no contest.
Originally a palace built for Mysore’s princesses, this lovingly restored gem holds the kind of slow, faded grace you can’t conjure. Think—hand-carved wood details, whirring ceiling fans, and wide windows spilling soft, golden light across the room. There’s no air-conditioning. No televisions. Just history and heart.
I stayed here for a stretch, and it felt like slipping into another lifetime. Mornings started with Indian breakfasts on the terrace. Afternoons drifted away with sweet treats and coffee in the café. Long candlelit dinners in the garden, wild frangipani trees, and the faint scent of cardamom hanging in the air. The vibe? Very Out of Africa—but in India.
A soft landing to enjoy Mysore, India beyond yoga. Here, an unconventional kind of luxury awaits.
Pro Tip ~ If you’re craving a little fresh air and exercise between meals, head to nearby Kukkarahalli Lake. Locals love this peaceful reservoir for morning and sunset walks—it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, bird-watch, and breathe in the softer side of Mysore. The lake is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so be sure to time your visit, as the gates close shortly after sunset.
2. Marvel at Majesty: The Mysore Royal Palace
Even if you think you’ve seen your share of palaces, the Mysore Royal Palace will stop you in your tracks. The soaring Indo-Saracenic architecture—a vibrant blend of Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles—is a splurge for the senses. Gilded arches, colorful stained glass, intricate wood carvings. It’s pure, opulent magic.
Here’s the insider tip—don’t miss the light show. Every Sunday and on public holidays, from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM (check online to confirm), the entire palace is illuminated by over 100,000 incandescent bulbs. It honestly feels like someone dropped a real-life Disneyland castle into the middle of Karnataka.
Wander through the royal grounds, and you’ll also find centuries-old temples still open to the public—serene spaces where you can offer flowers, light incense, say a quiet devotion or prayer, and soak up a little ancient peace.
3. Brunch Like Royalty: The Sapphire Restaurant
Yes, another palace—and yes, it’s breathtaking.
The Lalitha Mahal Palace (Mysore’s second-largest palace) is now a heritage hotel, and stepping inside feels like you’ve entered a time capsule of colonial splendor. The ballroom, where The Sapphire Restaurant hosts its famous weekend brunch, is all soaring ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, powder blue walls, and slow-moving fans.
The buffet features a spread of classic Indian favorites, offering a variety of savory, spicy, and sweet options to keep you lingering longer than planned. To walk off brunch, wander the palace grounds and pretend you’re a movie star in an old-school period drama.
Another way to enjoy beyond the mat—one palace at a time.
Foddie Find ~ If you’re craving a more laid-back breakfast in Gokulam, head to Sapa Sourdough & Pastry for delicious coffee, homemade breads, and a globally inspired brunch menu. Think pastries, sandwiches, and plenty of indoor + outdoor charm.
4. Get Lost in Color: Devaraja Grand Market
If you crave a full-on sensory immersion, Devaraja Market will deliver.
Dating back over a century, this sprawling market supports hundreds of local vendors and feels like stepping straight into a technicolor dream. There’s the heady scent of jasmine and marigolds from the flower stalls, the vivid piles of turmeric and kumkum powders, rows of glistening fruits, handwoven baskets, and towering pyramids of handmade incense. Fittingly, in this swirl of color and fragrance, Mysore’s reputation as India’s Sandalwood City lingers. Its royal history and rich forests shape this legacy—a fragrance that still perfumes palace halls and bustling markets today.
Devaraja was one of the most dynamic and interesting markets I’ve ever visited—perfect for picking up souvenirs, gifts, or stocking your room with fruits and nuts. India’s markets can be intense, but this one is a sensory serenade that’ll lure you back more than once.
5. Feast Like a Local: Hotel RRR
No trip to Mysore is complete without getting blissfully, deliciously satiated at Hotel RRR.
This beloved local spot specializes in the South Indian thali. During this traditional banana leaf meal, servers bring you ladle after ladle of curries, dals, vegetables, rasam, and rice until you wave the white flag of surrender. (And even then, they might tempt you with one more spoonful.)
The beauty of the banana leaf meal isn’t just the food—it’s the experience. Eating with your hands. The steady rhythm of service. The casual joy of it all. And if thali isn’t your thing, don’t worry—their menu is packed with other Mysore favorites too.
Located near Gandhi Square, it’s an ideal jumping-off point for street food adventures, window shopping, or lazy people-watching.
Another Local Gem ~ Add SPR Veg Restaurant to your list for memorable dosas, idlis, curries, and tandoori delights. I’ve been dreaming about their extra crispy Rava Masala Dosa ever since my first bite.
6. Cool Off in Style: Southern Star Mysore
Sometimes you just need a pool, air conditioning, and a killer salad bar.
Southern Star Mysore—a comfortable 4-star hotel right in the heart of the city—offers a refreshing escape when the Mysore heat starts to catch up with you. Even if you’re not staying here, for just a few bucks you can head upstairs, take a dip in their pool, and live your best life.
The real highlight? Their lunch and dinner buffets at Zest Restaurant. This was hands-down some of the freshest food I ate in Mysore. Vibrant, flavorful, and to my amazement, a full-on salad bar—a rare find in India—and this one deserves a standing ovation.
When you’re ready to slow down a bit, Southern Star is a sweet way to enjoy Mysore, India beyond yoga—and beyond the heat.
Magic off the Mat
Mysore may be world-famous for yoga, but there’s a whole other side waiting for you to discover—palaces drenched in history, markets bursting with life, meals that feel like a celebration, and quiet corners where time seems to move differently.
So go ahead, plan a trip and enjoy Mysore, India beyond yoga. Trust me, you’ll find just as much magic off the mat—maybe even more.
xoxo,
Bekah
PS ~ If you’re considering visiting Kerala while in Southern India, read our Varkala article here!