One-Day Mysore Trip with KSRTC Kerala Budget Tourism

Have you ever thought you could cover the royal city of Mysore in a single day without burning a hole in your pocket? Well, we did just that! Last week, a group of 40 of us from Thamarassery embarked on a memorable journey organized by the KSRTC Kozhikode Budget Tourism Cell.

If you are looking for a quick getaway that combines nature, history, and spirituality, here is a breakdown of our 20-hour adventure.

🚌 The Journey: Early Morning Vibes

The excitement was palpable as we gathered in Thamarassery before dawn. The KSRTC Budget Tourism bus was ready, and we set off promptly at 4:30 AM.

There is something magical about traveling through the Wayanad Ghats as the sun rises. The mist-covered mountains and the cool breeze set the perfect tone for the day. Since this was an official package, the hassle of driving or navigating maps was completely off our shoulders. We could just sit back, chat, and enjoy the views.

🦜 Stop 1: Shuka Vana (Sukhavana) Bird Sanctuary

The Hidden Gem of Avian Lovers

Our first major stop was what many in the itinerary call the Sukhavana Bird Sanctuary. Officially known as Shuka Vana, this isn’t your typical bird sanctuary; it is a magnificent rehabilitation center for birds, located within the Avadhoota Datta Peetham ashram.

Walking into the 50-meter-high aviary felt like entering a different world. It holds a Guinness World Record for housing the most bird species in an aviary!

• What we saw: Hundreds of colorful parrots, macaws, and rare exotic birds flying freely or resting on perches.
• The Experience: Unlike a zoo, where birds are far away, here they were up close. It was heartwarming to know that many of these birds are injured or abandoned and are being cared for here.
• Visitors can enjoy close-up views of birds, photography opportunities, and peaceful corners to relax. For nature enthusiasts, this place feels like a hidden gem inside Mysore.

🐅 Stop 2: Mysore Zoo (Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens)

A Walk on the Wild Side

Next, we headed to one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India—the Mysore Zoo. Since we were a large group of 40, moving together was fun, and the zoo is spacious enough to accommodate crowds comfortably.

We spent a good amount of time marveling at the:

• Majestic Big Cats: The tigers and lions were the main attraction.
• Giraffes & Elephants: Watching the tall giraffes graze was a hit with everyone in our group.
• Plastic-Free Zone: It was impressive to see how clean and plastic-free the premises were kept.

⛪ Stop 3: St. Philomena’s Church

A Touch of Gothic Grandeur

After the zoo, we visited St. Philomena’s Church, one of the tallest churches in Asia. As we stepped out of the bus, the twin spires towering into the sky left us in awe.

The architecture here is Neo-Gothic, inspired by the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Inside, the stained glass windows painted a beautiful picture as the sunlight filtered through them. It was a serene few minutes of peace amidst a busy day of sightseeing. We took plenty of group photos here—the backdrop is simply cinematic!

🏰 Stop 4: The Mysore Palace

The Crown Jewel of Karnataka

No trip to Mysore is complete without visiting the Amba Vilas Palace, commonly known as the Mysore Palace. By the time we reached here, the golden hour was approaching, making the palace look even more resplendent.

Walking through the Durbar Hall with its ornate ceilings and sculpted pillars, we got a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Wadiyar dynasty. The sheer scale of the intricate artwork, the golden throne, and the sprawling grounds is something you have to see to believe.

💰 The Budget Breakdown: Value for Money?

Here is the best part. The entire package cost us just ₹1080 per person.

What this included:

• Comfortable KSRTC Bus travel (Thamarassery ↔ Mysore).
• Entry coordination (ticket charges for attractions are usually extra or collected on the bus, but the base fare covers the heavy lifting of transport).
• The safety and reliability of KSRTC.

For 40 people to travel privately, the fuel and vehicle rent alone would have cost a fortune. This KSRTC initiative is a game-changer for budget travelers in Kerala.

🌙 Returning Home

After a day packed with walking, sightseeing, and making memories, we started our journey back. We reached Thamarassery at 12:30 AM, tired but incredibly happy.

Trip Summary:

• Route: Thamarassery to Mysore (via Wayanad).
• Departure: 4:30 AM.
• Arrival: 12:30 AM (Next Day).
• Group Size: 40 Pax.
• Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

If you are in Kozhikode or Thamarassery and want a hassle-free one-day trip, I highly recommend checking out the KSRTC Budget Tourism Cell packages. It’s safe, affordable, and perfectly timed!

Budget Tourism: KSRTC’s New Move into the Tourism Sector

🔍 FAQ for Travelers

How can I book this KSRTC Mysore trip? You can contact the KSRTC Budget Tourism Cell at the Kozhikode depot or your nearest KSRTC stand (like Thamarassery).

Is food included in the ₹1080 ticket? Usually, the ₹1080 covers the transportation package. Food and entry tickets to monuments are often paid separately or collected by the coordinator during the trip.

Is this trip suitable for families? Absolutely. We traveled as a group of 40, ranging from varied ages, and everyone found it comfortable. The schedule is tight but manageable.

Are there restroom breaks during the journey? Yes, the KSRTC bus stops at designated restaurants and refreshment centers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These stops usually have restroom facilities available for passengers.

Do I need to book tickets in advance? Yes, these budget tourism packages are very popular. It is highly recommended to book your seat at least a week in advance, especially if you are planning to travel on weekends or public holidays.