Yoga in Mysore, India

Mysore’s rich heritage draws two types of crowds to itself: one that wants to marvel at the arches of the Mysore Palace and the other that wants to arch on the instructions of their Ashtanga-yoga guru. Of course, there are other forms also taught here, but being the birthplace of Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga or Mysore yoga (as it is popularly known), most practitioners prefer this style over the others. This style was developed by Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois, a disciple of Sri T. Krishnamacharya一revered as one of the most influential yoga teachers of the 20th century. The city一officially known as Mysuru一has also earned the moniker: Astangana yoga capital of India. An unwritten rule followed by seekers who plan to come here is that a minimum one-month of relentless dedication and stay is needed if you truly want to learn something. Drop-in classes and week-long courses are slowly gaining popularity but for the purists, it still remains a strict no-no. Since many classes start as early as 4:30 am, it would be a good idea to search for locations close to your centre.

Mysore has a pleasant climate most of the months, making it a year-round destination. March ー May is warm with cool nights while June ー September is when the rains grace the city. Most seekers, however, commence their learning from November and some even extend their stay till March when the summer starts. Do make it a point to register much in advance to avoid the last-moment rush; especially if you plan to learn at the prominent centres here.

The most popular style of yoga taught here is Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga or Mysore yoga as it is also known popularly. You will find a lot of teachers of this form, though B. N. S. Iyengar deserves a special mention for his teaching. Other forms like Hatha yoga, Ashtanga yoga, Iyengar yoga, and Aerial yoga are also available but the number of classes are few. Prana Vashya yoga is another form that has also attracted a lot of interest in the region. Most seekers throng Gokulam where the Sri K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute is located. That has pushed up the price of accomodation here. Lakshmipuram comes next in the list.

Mysore offers you plenty of places to tune into the divine energies. What’s wonderful is that many of them are located in such serene locations that the entire experience of one’s visit is magnified. Even though they may not specify, all places of worship here require you to cover yourself appropriately. Some places also have visiting hours, so do make it a point to confirm this beforehand.

The cultural capital of Karnataka, Mysore, has more to offer than just the grand palaces that grace it. The heritage, culture, paintings, and art forms of this little city take you back to the days when the kings ruled it. The “ivory city” (as it is also called) has beautiful nature parks and water bodies that take the tranquility level a notch higher. Want to indulge your senses into a medley of experiences? Head to the gullies selling authentic Mysore silk, sample the pure sandalwood oil, and sink your teeth into the deliciously sweet Mysuru Pak. The joy will sure reflect in your next class.

To be included in the list are Mysore masala-dosa, bondas, sunday-special pineapple kesari baath, and bisi bele baath.

A heritage site, this vibrant market dates back to the reigns of Tipu Sutan and is a great spot to either pick local flowers, fruits, vegetables, etc. or train your camera for some awesome shots.

Make way to the Karanji Lake Nature Park to see a wide range of amazing bird species that will leave you longing for more.

Head to the Government silk weaving factory and get a first-hand experience of how authentic silk is woven.

Discover the best spots that Mysore has with walks tailored to your areas of interest.

Test your pranayama’s efficiency by trekking 1008 steps of the Chamdunda hills; home to the Chamundeshwari temple.