Mysore

Quality of life in Mysore

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

Introduction

Mysore, located in the southern part of India, is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Known as the 'City of Palaces', Mysore is famous for its majestic Mysore Palace, which stands as a testament to the city's royal past. The city is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, offering a unique charm that attracts tourists from all over the world.

In recent years, Mysore has emerged as a hub for education and IT industries, contributing to its growing economy. The city's pleasant climate, coupled with its well-planned infrastructure, makes it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. Mysore's cultural festivals, such as the grand Dasara celebrations, highlight its deep-rooted traditions and community spirit.

Climate
Outstanding
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Healthcare
Fair
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Traffic
High
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Affordability
Reasonable
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Crime
Moderate
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Pollution
Moderate
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History and Culture

Mysore has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century when it was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore. The city played a significant role during the reign of the Wodeyar dynasty, which contributed to its architectural and cultural development. The Mysore Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is a symbol of the city's royal heritage and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Throughout its history, Mysore has been a center for art and culture. The city is known for its classical music and dance forms, particularly the Mysore style of Bharatanatyam. Notable figures such as the legendary musician M. S. Subbulakshmi have roots in Mysore, further cementing its status as a cultural hub.

Mysore's cultural landscape is enriched by its diverse communities, including Kannadigas, Tamilians, and Muslims, each contributing to the city's vibrant tapestry. The city hosts numerous cultural institutions, such as the Mysore University and the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery, which preserve and promote its artistic heritage.

Festivals like Mysore Dasara, a ten-day celebration of music, dance, and processions, showcase the city's cultural vibrancy. The Chamundi Hill, with its ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, is another significant cultural landmark that draws pilgrims and tourists alike.

Things to do in Mysore

Visitors to Mysore can explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, which is illuminated with thousands of lights during special occasions, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The nearby Chamundi Hill offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the revered Chamundeshwari Temple.

For those interested in nature, the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, provides an opportunity to see a wide variety of animals in a lush, green setting. The Brindavan Gardens, with its musical fountain and beautifully landscaped gardens, is another popular attraction.

Mysore is also known for its vibrant markets, such as the Devaraja Market, where visitors can experience the local culture and purchase traditional Mysore silk sarees, sandalwood products, and spices. The city's culinary scene offers a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine, with local delicacies like Mysore Pak and Masala Dosa being must-tries.

Cultural enthusiasts can attend performances at the Rangayana theatre or visit the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery to appreciate traditional and contemporary art. The annual Mysore Dasara festival is a highlight, featuring grand processions, cultural performances, and a royal durbar.

See top attractions and things to do in Mysore

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for India reflect how livable a city in India is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Mysore

Mysore, India experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The city enjoys moderate temperatures throughout the year, with warm summers and mild winters. The average annual precipitation is approximately 31 inches (800 mm), with the monsoon months of June to September being the wettest, averaging around 10 inches (250 mm) of rainfall during this period.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 88°F (31°C) in March to 95°F (35°C) in May. This period is relatively dry, with minimal rainfall, averaging around 1 inch (25 mm) per month.
  • Summer (June to August)The monsoon season brings relief from the heat, with average highs ranging from 82°F (28°C) in June to 84°F (29°C) in August. Rainfall is significant, with July being the wettest month, averaging around 10 inches (250 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 84°F (29°C) in September to 82°F (28°C) in November. Rainfall decreases after the monsoon, averaging around 3 inches (75 mm) per month.
  • Winter (December to February)The coolest period, with average highs ranging from 81°F (27°C) in December to 86°F (30°C) in February. Rainfall is minimal, averaging about 0.5 inches (12 mm) in January.
Notable Weather Events
  • Monsoon rains from June to September can lead to occasional flooding.
  • Heatwaves may occur in May, with temperatures reaching up to 100°F (38°C).
  • Occasional thunderstorms during the monsoon season.

Mysore's Political Climate

Indian National Congress, with growing influence of BJP

Mysore, located in the southern part of India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Politically, Mysore has been a stronghold of the Indian National Congress for many years, although recent trends have shown a growing influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The city's governance is characterized by a municipal corporation that oversees local administration, with a mayor at its helm.

Historically, Mysore has been a center of progressive policies, particularly in education and public health. The city has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving urban infrastructure and promoting sustainable development. Mysore's political climate is also shaped by its emphasis on cultural preservation, which influences its policy decisions regarding tourism and heritage conservation.

In recent years, Mysore has seen a rise in civic activism, with local movements advocating for environmental conservation and improved public services. The city's political landscape is also influenced by state-level politics in Karnataka, where regional parties play a significant role. This dynamic political environment affects Mysore's economic and social policies, as leaders strive to balance development with cultural and environmental considerations.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout68%
  • City GovernanceMunicipal Corporation with a Mayor
  • CompositionMajority Indian National Congress, followed by BJP and regional parties
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased influence of BJP in local elections
  • EngagementHigh civic activism, particularly in environmental and social issues
  • Political ScorecardModerate, with room for improvement in transparency and governance
  • Legislative PrioritiesUrban infrastructure development Sustainable tourism Public health improvement
  • Public OpinionGenerally progressive, with strong support for cultural preservation and sustainable development
Notable Political Figures
  • G.T. DevegowdaA prominent politician from the JD(S) party, known for his influence in regional politics.
  • Pratap SimhaA BJP Member of Parliament representing Mysore, known for his active engagement in local development issues.
  • Tanveer SaitA senior leader from the Indian National Congress, focusing on education and minority welfare.