Devaraja Market ~ Jasmine
by Canadienne
The flowers sellers in Mysore are particularly proud of something they called Mysore mallige ~ a very fragrant jasmine.
The city is also known for its incense, sandalwood and rosewood. . .so, as you can imagine the market smells wonderful (something you aren't always able to say about Indian markets).
Jaggery Production
by Canadienne
The first step in the process is running the sugarcane through a press to wring out the liquid. Then the juice is boiled and stirred until it reaches the desired consistency. We saw (and tasted) the finished blocks of product in the Devaraja market.
The Royal Portrait Gallery
by SirRichard
Inside the Palace you can see a large hall with paintings on the wall. Is quite interesting, as you can see scenes of everyday life in the British Empire says. The paintings are real good, with a lot of details, showing the official parades, the Mahraja’s Court…
Amba Vilas Palace at Night
by Canadienne
If you are lucky (or organized) enough to visit Mysore on a Sunday or during a holiday, the palace is lit up with thousands of lights in the evening. Westerners and Indian alike gather to view the dazzling sight.
It's a family affair, bringing out men, women and children ~ I rarely saw Indian women out after dark in most cities (especially if unaccompanied by a relative), so this was quite unsual.
Mysore Palace
by Willettsworld
The Kingdom of Mysore was ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty from 1399 until the independence of India in 1947. The Wodeyar kings first built a palace in Mysore in the 14th century, but this palace was partially damaged by a lightning strike in 1638. It was repaired and expanded, but fell into neglect by the late 18th century. It was demolished in 1793, and a new palace was built in its place in 1803. This palace was destroyed in a fire in 1897 during the wedding of Princess Jayalakshmanni.
The regent of Mysore at the time, commissioned a British architect, Henry Irwin, to build yet another palace in its place. The result is the current building that was completed in year 1912. Its architectural style is commonly described as Indo-Saracenic, and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles. It is a three-storeyed stone structure, with marble domes and a 145 ft five-storeyed tower. The interior features elaborate stained glass and mirrors and is quite over the top. The palace is surrounded by a large garden which features 12 Hindu temples, the oldest of which dates back to the 14th century.
You have to deposit your shoes and cameras before entering inside and photography isn't allowed, which is a real shame.
Open: 10am-5.30pm. Admission: Rs20.