Mysore: The Royal City of Palaces and Heritage

• Helloಹಲೋ
  [halo]
• Goodbyeಬೈ ಬೈ
  [bai bai]
• Yesಹೌದು
  [haudu]
• Noಇಲ್ಲ
  [illa]
• Please/You're welcomeದಯವಿಟ್ಟು
  [dayavittu]
• Thank youಧನ್ಯವಾದಗಳು
  [dhanyavadagalu]
• Excuse me/Sorryಕ್ಷಮಿಸಿ
  [kshamisi]
• How are you?ನೀವು ಹೇಗಿದ್ದೀರಿ?
  [neevu hegiddiri?]
• Fine. And you?ಚೆನ್ನಾಗಿದೆ. ನೀವು?
  [chennagide. neevu?]
• Do you speak English?ನೀವು ಇಂಗ್ಲಿಷ್ ಮಾತಾಡುತ್ತೀರಾ?
  [neevu English maadatauttira?]
• I don't understandನನಗೆ ಅರ್ಥವಾಗುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ
  [nanage arthavaaguttilla]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseಮೆನು ನೋಡಲು ಬೇಕಾಗಿದೆ
  [menu nodalu bekaagide]
• I don't eat meatನಾನು ಮಾಂಸವನ್ನು ತಿನ್ನುವುದಿಲ್ಲ
  [naanu maamsavannu tinnuvudilla]
• Cheers!ಚೀರ್ಸ್!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseದಯವಿಟ್ಟು ಪಾವತಿ ಮಾಡಲು ಬೇಕಾಗಿದೆ
  [dayavittu paavati maadalu bekaagide]

• Help!ಸಹಾಯ!
  [sahaya!]
• Go away!ದೂರ ಹೋಗು!
  [doora hogu!]
• Call the Police!ಪೊಲೀಸ್ ಗೆ ಕರೆ!
  [police ge kare!]
• Call a doctor!ಡಾಕ್ಟರ್ ಗೆ ಕರೆ!
  [doctor ge kare!]
• I'm lostನಾನು ಹಿಂತಿರುಗಿದ್ದೇನೆ
  [naanu hintirugiddene]
• I'm illನನಗೆ ಅಸ್ವಸ್ಥತೆ ಇದೆ
  [nanage aswasthate ide]

• I'd like to buy...ನಾನು ಖರೀದಿಸಲು ಬೇಕಾಗಿದೆ...
  [naanu khareedisalu bekaagide...]
• I'm just lookingನಾನು ನೋಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದೇನೆ
  [naanu noduttiddene]
• How much is it?ಇದು ಎಷ್ಟು ಖರೀದಿಸಬೇಕು?
  [idu eshtu khareedisabeeku?]
• That's too expensiveಅದು ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಖರೀದಿಸಬೇಕು
  [adu hecchu khareedisabeeku]
• Can you lower the price?ಬೆಲೆಯನ್ನು ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡಬಹುದುಗಳು?
  [beleyannu kadmey maadabahudugalu?]

• What time is it?ಏಕೆನ್ಟಿ ಸಮಯ ಏನು?
  [ekenti samaya enu?]
• It's one o'clockಒಂದು ಗಂಟೆ
  [ondu gante]
• Half past (10)ಹಾಫ್ ಪಾಸ್ಟ್ (10)
  [haaf paast (10)]
• Morningಬೆಳಗ್ಗೆ
  [belagge]
• Afternoonಅಪರಾಹ್ನ
  [aparaahna]
• Eveningಸಂಜೆ
  [sanje]
• Yesterdayನಿನ್ನೆ
  [ninne]
• Todayಇಂದು
  [indu]
• Tomorrowನಾಳೆ
  [naale]
• 1ಒಂದು
  [ondu]
• 2ಎರಡು
  [eradu]
• 3ಮೂರು
  [mooru]
• 4ನಾಲ್ಕು
  [naalku]
• 5ಐದು
  [aidu]
• 6ಆರು
  [aaru]
• 7ಏಳು
  [elu]
• 8ಎಂಟು
  [entu]
• 9ಒಂಬತ್ತು
  [ombattu]
• 10ಹತ್ತು
  [hattu]

• Where's a/the...?ಒಂದು/ಅದು ಎಲ್ಲಿದೆ?
  [ondu/adu ellide?]
• What's the address?ವಿಳಾಸ ಏನು?
  [vilaasa enu?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ನನಗೆ ತೋರಿಸಬಹುದುಗಳು?
  [nanage torisabahudugalu?]
• When's the next (bus)?ಮುಂದಿನ (ಬಸ್) ಏನು?
  [mundina (bas) enu?]
• A ticket (to ....)ಒಂದು ಟಿಕೆಟ್ (.... ಗೆ)
  [ondu ticket (.... ge)]

The Wadiyar dynasty has played a pivotal role in shaping the history of Mysore. Founded in 1399 by Yaduraya Wadiyar, the dynasty ruled the Kingdom of Mysore for over six centuries. The Wadiyars were known for their patronage of art and culture, and they contributed significantly to the architectural and cultural development of the region.

Tipu Sultan, also known as the 'Tiger of Mysore', was one of the most prominent rulers of the Mysore Kingdom. He was known for his fierce resistance against British colonial forces during the late 18th century. Tipu Sultan implemented several administrative and military innovations and is remembered for his efforts to modernize Mysore.

The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a series of four wars fought between the Kingdom of Mysore and the British East India Company during the late 18th century. These wars were crucial in determining the fate of South India. The fourth and final war resulted in the death of Tipu Sultan and the eventual incorporation of Mysore into British India.

The Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Built in 1912 after a fire destroyed the old wooden palace, it is an architectural marvel that combines Indo-Saracenic, Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles. It remains the official residence of the Wadiyar family.

The Dasara Festival is one of the grandest celebrations in Mysore, attracting tourists from all over the world. Celebrated for ten days in September or October, the festival honors the triumph of good over evil. The highlight is the grand procession featuring the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, which is carried on a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant.

Chamundi Hill is a prominent landmark in Mysore, offering panoramic views of the city. The Chamundeshwari Temple, located atop the hill, is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the tutelary deity of the Wadiyar dynasty. The temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture and is a significant pilgrimage site.

St. Philomena's Church is one of the largest and oldest churches in India. Built in 1936, its neo-Gothic architecture was inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The church is dedicated to Saint Philomena and features beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ.

The Mysore Zoo, also known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, was established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X. It is one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, housing a wide variety of species from around the world. The zoo is also involved in several conservation and breeding programs.

The Rangacharlu Memorial Hall, also known as the Town Hall, was built in 1884 in memory of Diwan Sir C. V. Rangacharlu. It is an important landmark in Mysore, known for its classical European-style architecture. The hall has hosted numerous cultural events and public meetings over the years.

The Railway Museum in Mysore, established in 1979, is the second such museum in India after the National Railway Museum in Delhi. It showcases the rich heritage of Indian Railways with a collection of vintage locomotives, carriages, photographs, and other memorabilia. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of rail transport in India.

Mysore is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, about 170 kilometers away. From Bengaluru, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to Mysore. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours. Alternatively, there are regular bus services from Bengaluru and other major cities in Karnataka. Mysore also has a small domestic airport with limited flights.

Mysore offers various modes of transportation, including auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses. Auto-rickshaws are the most common and economical way to get around the city. Taxis can be booked through apps like Ola and Uber. The local bus service, operated by KSRTC, is extensive and connects most parts of the city. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride near Mysore Palace.

The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Mysore. Currency exchange services can be found at airports, major banks, and authorized money changers.

Mysore is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas like Devaraja Market and the bus stand can get crowded, so be vigilant. It is advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation at night.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Mysore has several hospitals, including Apollo BGS Hospitals and JSS Hospital, which offer emergency medical services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For police assistance, visit the nearest police station or contact the tourist police.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Mysore like a local, visit Devaraja Market for fresh produce and traditional items. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the evening light and sound show at Mysore Palace. For a unique experience, take a stroll in the Brindavan Gardens and enjoy the musical fountain show. Try the local sweet delicacy, Mysore Pak, from a reputed sweet shop.