English: This image is the summer palace of Tipu Sultan, one of the most famous rulers of Mysore. The construction of this palace was started by Tipu Sultan's predecessor, Hyder Ali, in 1778 and completed by Tipu himself in 1784. The amazing architecture is one of a kind and is said to be an exquisite blend of ancient Indian and Islamic architecture.

The magnificent 'resort' is situated in Srirangapatna district of the Indian state of Karnataka, where the king resided there as a second home, to escape the hot summer season. Another traditional name is Daria Daulat Bagh and it is not to be confused with the Bangalore summer palace (although both are very similar). There is a lush green garden and plenty of open space around the building to relax oneself. The interior of the building has been converted into a museum, which houses various artifacts belonging to the Sultan and many antique paintings which are a feast for the eyes. When one goes there, it would be foolhardy to miss the replica of Tipu’s Tiger; the original in Victoria Albert Museum. The crown and clothes worn by the sultan are aesthetically placed in silver and gold platforms as well some utensils gifted to Hyder Ali.

Each and almost every wall of the palace is adorned with inscriptions of verses of the Quran, written in Farsi, which provides a history of the epigraphy of the Persian (and Muslim) culture. The structure itself is built from teak wood, with common features such as pillars, arches, and balconies. Yet, in terms of originality, the entire complex is a sight to behold.

Visiting this place gave me further insight into the history of the Mysore rulers and India as a whole. I could now visualize the grandeur of this dynasty and brought me further understanding about what I had read in textbooks. After visiting, the lifestyles of the kings of those times became evident to me. This place is a must-visit irrespective of your age group or nationality, so go and indulge yourself on a journey into the past of Mysore!