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Kesare is a village in Mysuru District of Karnataka that is known for its cultural charm. The quaint region is an untouched beauty. The highlight of the place is that it is a serene place and is close to several attractions that are suitable for people of all ages. From historical places steeped in Karnataka’s past to zoos that showcase the best of animals, these places will keep everyone captivated! If you plan on coming to Karnataka, you should take some time to visit all these places. They will awaken the curious traveller in you and will satisfy the feeling of wanderlust.

An Overview Of Kesare Village

Kesare Village is an amazing destination to explore in Mysuru and add a unique experience to your travelling diaries. Here are some wonderful spots to add to your itinerary:

1. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Painted Storks at the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Image Credit: PJeganathan for Wikimedia Commons

A nature enthusiast and birdwatcher’s paradise, the bird sanctuary was declared a sanctuary in 1940. Located on the Cauvery River bank near Kesare, the sanctuary is a haven for those seeking the company of exotic birds, migratory birds, and resident birds that have made their homes in the area. More than 170 bird species can be found here. You can also catch a glimpse of the gigantic marsh crocodiles that are generally found resting with their mouths open, basking in the sun. Boat rides are available to fully discover every corner of the sanctuary amidst the lush greenery.

Distance from Kesare: 10.7 km
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Must Read: Madikeri Fort

2. Payana Museum

Explore the Payana Museum in Karnataka where vintage cars of the past are displayed

Image Credit: Fitindia for Wikimedia Commons

Do you have a love for vintage cars? If so, this museum is a must-visit for you! Located close to Kesare, the Payana Car Museum is the ultimate history lesson for understanding the intriguing evolution of the automobile industry. It is more than just a display of car collection as you can learn details you have never known about. It is as educational as entertaining, taking you back to the glorious past when cars were a pipe dream for many. Get ready for the timeless classics to roam in your mind rent-free.

Distance from Kesare: 7.2 km
Timings: 9 am to 8 pm

3. Mysuru Palace

Mysuru Palace is a grand palace in the heart of Karnataka

Image Credit: Ingo Mehling for Wikimedia Commons

Also called the Amba Vilas Palace, this palace was the brainchild of Henry Irwin. Constructed in an Indo-Saracenic architecture style, the breathtaking palace is a marvel and a sight to behold and is located close to Kesare. Each level of the palace tells a story of the time before and every part of construction was intricately carved and made to stand the test of time. Whether you witness the spectacular treasures such as the golden howdah or the adorning Durbar Hall, you will be mesmerized by the palace’s opulence, luxury, and grandeur. It also features a museum and temples.

Distance from Kesare: 7 km
Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm

Suggested Read: Mandalpatti Peak

4. Brindavan Gardens

The luscious Brindavan Gardens are a must-visit destination

Image Credit: Ezhuttukari for Wikimedia Commons

The gardens are spread across 60 acres near the Krishnaraja Sagara Dam opposite the Cauvery River near the Kesare village. Inspired by Kashmir’s Shalimar Gardens, you will find fountains, flower beds, terraces, topiary, and much more that will keep you hooked. Vibrantly coloured flowers, shrubs, meticulously planted trees, and the overall appeal make the gardens a destination for everyone. It also has a muti-terrace structure, boating facility, children’s park, and more to keep you busy for the whole day. Do not miss the musical fountain show!

Distance from Kesare: 17.9 km
Timings: 8 am to 9 pm

5. Mysuru Zoo

The majestic and gorgeous white tiger in Mysuru Zoo

Image Credit: Gpkp for Wikimedia Commons

Also known as the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, this famous zoo is among the oldest ones in India as it was established in 1892 close to Kesare. You can find more than 168 bird species and 1,450 animal species here. Kids and adults alike will thoroughly enjoy visiting this zoo with white tigers, Bengal tigers, zebras, rhinos, jaguars, hippos, leopards, giraffes, lions, and more. As it is a self-funded zoo, you can also adopt an animal from the Mysuru Zoo to fund the various expenses of a particular animal of your choice.

Distance from Kesare: 6.7 km
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Suggested Read: Anantheshwara Temple In Udupi

6. Karighatta Hill

Karighatta Hill near Kesare has an interesting rock formation

Image Credit: Prashanthns for Wikimedia Commons

The Karighatta hill is situated at more than 2,900 metres above sea level near Kesare. You can see the confluence of the Cauvery and Lokapavani Rivers from the hill. While this place is for peace seekers, it holds immense spiritual value for Hindus as it is immersed in mythology. The scenic beauty of the hills is just enchanting, as you can see from the city here. You will find a range of natural rock formations that charm the region. If you want some solitude and want to trek up the hill, this provides a great opportunity to do so.

Distance from Kesare: 14.5 km
Timings: All day

7. Balmuri Falls

Balmuri Falls are beautiful waterfalls near Kesare village

Image Credit: Ashwin Kumar for Wikimedia Commons

Balmuri Falls is among the towering coconut trees that sway to the wind’s rhythm and the dense forest surrounding it. It is a man-made dam close to Kesare and is an excellent way to marvel at the beauty of nature. The 6-foot cascading waterfall may not be as high as other popular ones, but the force of the crystal-clear water and the cascading effect is enthralling. You can picnic there with your loved ones in nature or just stop on your way to someplace else in Kesare. It is a short, tranquil retreat worth exploring.

Distance from Kesare: 13.6 km
Timings: 6 am to 7 pm

Suggested Read: Forest Resorts In Bandipur

8. Lokaranjan Aqua World Underwater Zoo

Lokaranjan Aqua World Underwater Zoo has many exotic animals including sea turtles

Image Credit: Masaushi for Pixabay

A one-of-a-kind zoo, this zoo will delight kids, adults, and the elderly. It houses a range of rare marine species that you will not find anywhere else, such as sting rays, sharks, exotic fish, and sea turtles, to name a few. The tunnel is the longest in India which lets you have a close encounter with marine life like never before. You can see them living their life in their natural habitats as they swim around and rest. Educational, entertaining, and surprising, the underwater zoo is a destination not to be missed. You can also feed the fish! An immersive experience like no other, you will have the time of your life.

Distance from Kesare: 6.6 km
Timings: 9 am to 8:30 pm

Further Read: Kudremukh Trek

Now that you know what places to visit near Kesare make sure you add them to your itinerary for a trip to Karnataka. Being close to many attractions, Kesare is the ideal travel destination for people who love exploring relatively unexplored places. From temples to zoos and gardens to palaces, there is no dearth of what you can find in the lovely Karnataka. Get planning!

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Cover Image Credit: Chongkian for Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions About Kesare

How far is Kesare from Mysuru?

The village is 9.4 km from Mysuru’s city centre making it close to a range of attractions and amazing places to visit with family.

Can we stay in Kesare?

You can find multiple options in the region. If you want more options, you can stay at Mysuru instead as it has a wide range of accommodation options.

What is the best time to visit Kesare?

You can visit Kesare and its surrounding attractions from October to April, as the monsoons are over by then and the cool weather sets in.

How to travel around locally?

You will find plenty of options to travel around. Autos and public buses enable you to travel to any part of the area.

How many days to visit Kesare?

It depends on which attractions you wish to see. If you want to see all the main attractions in and around Kesare, you need to set aside at least 3 days to explore each fully.

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