Formerly known as the Mysore state, this is the princely province of India. The northern part of the state has a string of medieval walled towns, studded with domed mausoleums and minarets, dating back to the era when this part of the Deccan was a Muslim stronghold. The coastal and hill areas of the Southern part of the state are quintessential Hindu regions profuse with soaring temple Gopuras. The area has lush tropical vegetation. Between the two are scattered some of the peninsula's most extraordinary historic sites, notably the ruined Vijaynagara city at Hampi, The expansive Western Ghats draped in dense deciduous forests and the Mysore plateau which is considerably drier, present varied species of flora and fauna.

Mysore appeals more for its old fashioned ambience, with its gigantic palaces, well laid gardens and romantic incense markets. Srirangapatnam - the fortified island near Mysore was the seat of governance of the Muslim military genius Tipu Sultan, who defied the British. Parts of the fort, mausoleum and the summer palace still survive.

Cochin.Hassan is famous as the grand dynastic capital belt of the Hoysala kings at Belur and Halebid. You can also witness superbly crafted temples that survive intact. More impressive still, is the eighteen meter Jain Mahavir's colossus at Sravanabelgola. Most enticing are the lush green coffee and spice growing region - Coorg (Kodagu). Jog falls - India's highest waterfall - is set amidst most spectacular scenery. Towards the northern part of the state Bijapur - capital of the Brahmani Muslim dynasty, harbours south India's finest collection of Islamic architecture, including the world's second largest free standing dome at Golgumbaz. The most cosmopolitan southern city of Bangalore is the state capital, with glittering malls, fast food outlets and pubs.

Must sees: Mysore Palace, Chamundi Devi temple, Brindaban gardens, Srirangapatnam, Tipu's capital. Along the Western Ghats, at the foothills is the Bandipur National Park most well known for wildlife viewing. Hassan - Belur & Halebid and Sravanabelgola. Depending on the availability of time, a visit to Coorg and the coastal town of Mangalore is rewarding. Jog falls, the highest in India. Hampi, the splendorous remains of the most well known dynastic civilization.

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