Mysore, located in Karnataka, is widely called the ‘City of Palaces’ owing to the number of splendorous palaces. One of the most visited monuments in India – Mysore Palace is the centre of the Dasara festivities. The 10-day Dasara festival is worth witnessing with other attractions like the Mysore Zoo and several museums. The city also attracts visitors interested in yoga and health, with places of worship that grant the traveller a holistic experience.

A 5 hour drive from Mysore we travel south to Ooty, a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is situated in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. From the largest rose Garden in India (Government Rose Garden) to museums, lakes, dams and forests to historical buildings and a World Heritage site (Nilgiri Mountain Railway), Ooty has much to explore.