Two Days from Bagalore

To Mysore and Srvanabelagoa

Day 1 – Drive to Mysore

It’s about a 4 hour drive to Mysore, one of the gems of South India. The City Palace here was built in 1912 and is one of the most beautiful in India. The maharaja spent his life amassing treasures from India as well as the rest of the world, and it is all on display. Well, some of it, I imagine. Take some time to go through it before heading out to Chamundi Hill. “Chumundi” is another name for the goddess Durga and a temple to her sits at the top. It’s usually full of pilgrims, most of whom walk up the 1000 steps. You can take your car to the top and walk down – exercise enough. Along the way, you’ll pass a huge Nandi bull statue.

Hotel: The Lalitha Palace Hotel is outstanding. Meticulously restored, down to the color of the original paint, it is one of the best heritage hotels in India. The chance to stay here, alone, is worth the drive

Day 2 – Drive to Srivanabelagola and back to Bangalore

It’s about a 2 hour drive to Srivanabelagola, to see the statue of the Jain tirthankara, Gomateshvara, the world’s largest monolithic statue. There are 617 steps up to the top of the hill, but there is a hand railing to help you. Really – it’s worth it if you possibly can. There are beautiful views, nice temples at the top and plenty of pilgrims. The stature of Gomateshvara is occasionally covered in scaffolding – check at the ticket booth before climbing up if this is going to upset you. There are only casual places in town to eat lunch, but take your time – it will be about a 2 hour drive back to Bangalore.