Mysore in Karnataka is geographically inclined for short trips or weekend getaways. You can plan a visit to a historical place, a place with scenic and natural surroundings or a trip to a wildlife sanctuary; with Mysore as the base, you can make the trip in two days. Some such weekend getaways from Mysore are:

Madikeri:

Madikeri in Coorg is the closet hill station to Mysore at a distance of around 120 kilometres. Madikeri is a typical hill station with rambling hills, pockets of forests, valleys, streams and coffee plantations with the quaintness of Kodava culture adding to its charm.

MM Hills:

Around 135 kilometres from Mysore, these lush and green hills mark the boundary between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. MM Hills or Male Mahadeshwara Hills was inhabited by the feared bandit Veerappan and his men. Now tourists can freely enjoy the beauty of the hills and bask in its natural surroundings of sandalwood and bamboo trees and watch the flow of two rivers, Cauvery and Palar. An ancient temple of Shiva set amidst the hills and valleys is a place worth a visit.

Sakleshpur:

A small town in the Malnad region, Sakleshpur is around 150 kilometres from Mysore. Abundant with coffee plantations, the place is a nature lover’s delight with a lush countryside. Sakleshpur is characteristic of thick growth of plants, majestic trees, pepper vines and small streams and waterfalls. Ideal for trekking and camping, tourists can also visit Tipu Sultan’s Manjirabad Fort which offer magnificent views of the Western Ghats from the top.

Belur-Halebidu:

About 15 kilometres apart these two heritage places are archetypal specimens of the intricate Hoysala architecture. The Channakeshava temple at Belur has a unique star shape and exquisite panels on the exterior walls that narrate stories from ancient times. The stone carvings of the celestial dancers stand out for their beauty and stunning art.

Talacauvery:

Near Madikeri in Coorg, Talacauvery is around 165 kilometres from Mysore. Set on the top of Brahmagiri hill at an altitude of around 4200 feet, it is the birth place of Cauvery River. As you climb up you dip into some misty clouds. Brace yourself for some knockout views when you reach the top.

Travel with your family or friends or just set off on your own. You will enjoy these interesting places either way.