If you thought Mysore is all about the palaces, silk, sandalwood, yoga and those exquisite cuisine, you are wrong. Add the imposing Chamundi hills , the sprawling Zoo and the Brindavan Gardens to your list... you are still way off the mark!

The facts is Mysore's  popular attractions are quite good enough to satisfy an average tourist. If you are on a couple of days tour to this city, it is more likely that you get exhausted of sightseeing rather than your 'list' is completed.

Mysore city hides a lot more than what it reveals as its attractions. Dig a little deeper, scratch the surface a bit or what ever analogy one can use, you'll get to see a different Mysore. Despite the whole cacophony of 'modernisation' and the spree of construction works, Mysore city still reserves its right to retain that old-world charm and its traditional way of life.

So you get the point, this is not about the typical tourist agenda.
Feel the pulse of this bustling city; eavesdrop for its politics,gossips,hearsay and folklore (in the reverse order, of course!); engage in a casual chat with the local people (they don't mind, really!); go for a walk and get lost in the maze of those narrow alleys;walk into one of those traditional markets, try your bargaining skills (a kg of mango is fit case to start with);
Don't be that typical camera toting passive tourist.When in Mysore, do as the Mysoreans (what a name!) do.

Swap that pineapple print shirt for something less obnoxious. If it is possible get rid of those sunglasses. Just observe, you'll surely find clues on how to prepare yourselves street ready.

You can do this on your own or join one of those like minded explorers. Mysore city has its own version of organised bicycle tours and the heritage walks.

You will sure savor this experience of Mysore for long time to come, as much as the awe you had seeing those 96000 lightbulbs of the palace switched on in one stroke!