Also known as ‘Amba Vilas Palace’, Mysore Palace is located in the heart of Mysore and is the official residence of the Wodeyars (erstwhile royal family of Mysore). This remarkable palace is one of the most famous tourist attractions in India, second only to the enchanting Taj Mahal (Agra). The architecture of the palace is an amalgamation of Muslim, Rajput, Hindu and Gothic styles of architecture. This three-storeyed stone structure is surrounded by a vast expanse of well-manicured and lush gardens. The beautiful building was designed by Henry Irwin, using fine gray granite and deep pink marble (for domes). The Mysore Palace houses many exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world, and thus, has been converted into a museum for public viewing.