Mysore

Mysore is known as the City of Palaces, and with good reason. The city boasts seven in all, chief among which is the magnificent Mysore Palace, a lavish construction sitting proudly in the very centre of the city. There is more to Mysore however - this former royal capital is a thriving trading hub, specialising in silks and sandalwood, and it's daily markets and among the liveliest in South India. Those with time to spare should also pay a visit to Chamundi Hill, rising sharply on the city's southeastern edge, for fantastic views across the city and beyond.