The Points South Point of View – The manageable city of Mysore offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities, The ornate Maharaja’s Palace built in 1897 is illuminated on a Sunday evenings. The Deveraja Market is fascinating, with stalls selling spices, fruit, perfumes and homemade joss sticks. The government silk factory can be visited also the small railway museum. A drive to the top of Chamundi Hill in the evening is worthwhile, half way is the giant Nandi bull, at the top the Hindu Temple with a superb view of the city below. Close by is Sriringapatnam, with the remains of a 15th-century fort. Tipu Sultan’s Summer palace built in 1784, contains superb frescoes of battle scenes with the French, British and Mysore armies, nearby The Gumbaz is the family mauseoleum and burial place of Tipu Sultan. The beautifully preserved Kasava Hoysala temple (1268) at Somnathapur is about an hour’s drive. The Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is 5ks from Srirangapatnam, here you can explore by boat and watch the crocodiles basking in the sun.
| Mysore | |
 | The Royal Orchid Metropole Hotel - This impressive building was built in the 1920's by the Maharaja of Mysore to accommodate his British guests. The building retains an atmosphere of grandeur, with lovely spacious rooms around a central courtyard. The garden has a small pool. There is a restaurant, and in the evening a tandoori restaurant in the courtyard. The Metropole is located conveniently in the town, just a short walk from the railway station and local markets. |
 | Gitanjali Farm - Located in a peaceful spot at the foot of Chamundi Hill, ten minutes' drive from the town. This charming home stay has four good sized bedrooms all leading off a verandah. The rooms are simply furnished with en-suite bathrooms, and there is a peaceful garden. The food is excellent, with home-made pickles and jams. Yamuna and her family are terrific hosts. |
| Bangalore City | |
 | Taj West End, Bangalore - The Taj was originally opened in 1912 by the Spencer family. This lovely Heritage building has the atmosphere of a country club and is now part of the Taj group. Adjacent to the racecourse and golf club, the Taj offers a peaceful sanctuary in this busy city. With 90 rooms, a pool, a spa and tennis courts. |
 | The Taj, Bangalore - The Taj is a stylish newly opened hotel located opposite the main terminal. |
