Despite being the second largest city in Karnataka, Mysore is still relatively small, easygoing and is famous for its silks and sandalwood. It is also a city of fine gardens, tree-lined boulevards, art galleries and an intriguing palace which, built between 1911-1912 harmoniously synthesizes the Hindu and the Saracenic styles of architecture with archways, domes, turrets, colonnades and sculptures, which are truly magnificent. Other sights include the 1062 m high Chamundi Hill to see the Chamundeshwari Temple from which there is a panoramic view of Mysore and also a 5 m high Nandi Bull carved out of solid rock. The Devaraja fruit & vegetable market is a great place to get a sense of the local colourful, noisy and vibrant culture as well as the food! Mysore’s ten day Dasara festival in September-October is still celebrated with medieval pageantry and is a fun addition to a visit at that time.