Mysore stands out as a prime spot for full-day tours because of its stunning palaces, temples, and markets, all packed into a compact city with a big personality. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply curious about Indian royal culture, Mysore’s rich tapestry of sights makes a full-day tour the perfect way to soak it all in without rushing. We particularly enjoy tours that combine cultural highlights with local flavors, like a horse cart ride around the Mysore Palace or tasting regional delicacies near Sapa Cafe. Plus, options that include visits to Tippu Sultan’s summer palace or the colorful arts & crafts market make for memorable experiences worth the time and money.
If you’re planning your trip, this list of the five best full-day tours covers a range of experiences—from private guides to small group adventures—so you can find something that fits your interests and budget. Let’s explore each one to see what makes them special.
1. From Bangalore : Mysore Sightseeing full day tour
Starting your Mysore journey from Bangalore is a solid choice, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights. This full-day tour offers a horse cart ride around Mysore Palace, a chance to taste local food near Sapa Cafe, and visits to Tipu Sultan’s summer palace and the grand Mysore Palace. The tour begins early from Bangalore Palace and includes a guided tour of the palace’s royal courts, giving you a glimpse into the city’s regal past. The horse-drawn carriage ride is a charming way to see the palace grounds up close, while exploring the arts & crafts market adds a lively, local touch.
This tour’s value lies in its convenience: all transportation, guides in multiple languages, and a small group limited to 15 people create an intimate experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want all the major sights with minimal hassle, plus the flexibility to be picked up from your hotel or nearby. The itinerary is well-paced, and the inclusion of food tasting offers a taste of Mysore’s culinary scene. The only downside is it’s a one-day commitment from Bangalore, but that’s the trade-off for seeing Mysore’s highlights efficiently.
Bottom Line: Efficient and charming, this tour suits first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Mysore without staying overnight.
$179 per person
2. Full Day Private Guided Tour of Mysore
Starting with a private vehicle and customized itinerary, this tour offers a flexible, personalized experience of Mysore. This is particularly appealing if you prefer your travel style to be intimate and tailored. The day kicks off with a pick-up from your Bangalore hotel or airport, then heads straight to iconic sights like the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna—a stunning example of religious architecture and historic significance. This visit is included, with a guide explaining the stories behind the temple and fort.
Next, you’ll explore the Mysore Palace, renowned for its ornate design and historical importance. The tour also includes a visit to the Brindavan Gardens, famed for their symmetry and evening light displays. The guide, who has 25 years of experience, shares insights and local tips, enriching your understanding of Mysore’s culture. This tour is ideal for those who want a deep dive into the city’s landmarks, with plenty of time for photos and questions.
At around 10 hours, this private experience offers excellent value for money, especially with the flexibility to revise the plan based on your interests. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate comfort and customization but might not suit those on a tight budget or seeking a group setting.
Bottom Line: For an in-depth, flexible tour with a knowledgeable guide, this private option makes for a memorable, tailored experience in Mysore.
$107.55 per person
3. Best of Mysore (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)
The “Best of Mysore” guided tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, all-in-one experience with fewer logistical worries. For about $123, this private tour covers the city’s most beloved sights, including the Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and St. Philomena’s Cathedral. It’s a great choice if you prefer a full day of sightseeing in comfort, with your own guide explaining the significance of each stop.
What makes this tour stand out is the fully customizable itinerary and the fact it includes tips on where to eat and shop, helping you get the most out of your visit. The guide’s commentary enhances your experience, revealing stories behind the architecture and local traditions. Plus, the inclusion of snacks and bottled water keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
Guests have commented positively, noting that the guide is well-informed and that the tour provides a well-rounded overview of Mysore’s landmarks. The main limitation is the slightly shorter duration than some other options—about 8 hours—but it’s enough time to enjoy the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This private tour suits those who want a flexible, educational, and relaxed day exploring Mysore’s key sights.
$123.36 per group (up to 3)
4. Mysore: Private Full-Day Sightseeing Tour of the City
Offering a private, in-depth exploration, this tour shines for travelers who want an intimate, customizable experience. The main focus is on visiting historical palaces, temples, and museums, with a special emphasis on Mysore’s architectural marvels.
The tour includes the Mysore Palace, public markets, and scenic spots, allowing you to wander at your own pace. The guide provides tailored insights and suggestions, ensuring you focus on what interests you most. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, flexible schedule and want to avoid large groups.
While the price point is quite affordable at just $40 per person, the absence of fixed itinerary details means you’ll want to communicate your priorities beforehand. The private setting offers more personalized attention and the chance to discover lesser-known sites if desired.
Bottom Line: This tour is best if you prefer a private, highly customizable experience that adapts to your personal interests.
$40 per person
5. Hire a Guide for Full day Mysore sightseeing with own transport
This option is perfect for travelers who already have their own transport and just need a licensed guide to make sense of Mysore’s attractions. The guide will customize your day, visiting sites like Srirangapatna Fort and Somanathapura, based on your interests.
The main advantage is flexibility—you decide where to go and when, while the guide provides historical context, shopping tips, and suggestions for lunch. This setup is ideal for travelers with a rental car or who prefer private transport but still want expert guidance. The guide also suggests good shopping spots for Mysore’s famous silk and wooden handicrafts, adding local flavor to your trip.
At around $38 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to combine independence with expert insight. The main drawback is the lack of a fixed itinerary, so it’s best for those who know what they want to see or are comfortable planning on the fly.
Bottom Line: For travelers with their own transport who want a flexible, guided experience, this is a cost-effective and personalized choice.
$38.42 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Mysore Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a comprehensive, all-inclusive day with minimal planning, the From Bangalore tour is ideal. For those seeking customization and privacy, the Private Guided Tour or Guided City Tour fits well. Budget travelers or those with their own transport should look at the Hire a Guide option, which offers flexibility without sacrificing expert insights.
Think about whether you prefer guided commentary, or if you’re happy to explore independently with a guide’s assistance. Also, consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or riding, so check for accessibility if needed.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours, and consider the best time to visit is during cooler months (October to March), when weather is comfortable for sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Mysore offers a diverse array of full-day tours, from private, tailored experiences to charming group adventures. If you want an authentic, comprehensive look at Mysore’s palaces, temples, and markets, options like the Full Day Private Guided Tour or Best of Mysore Guided Tour are excellent choices. For budget-conscious travelers or those with their own transport, hiring a guide provides flexibility at a lower price.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on exploring this beautiful city. Mysore’s regal architecture, vibrant markets, and sacred sites promise a memorable day—so pick the adventure that fits your style and enjoy every moment of it.