Mysore is located at a distance of about 140 kilometers from Bangalore that served as the yesteryears capitals of the Wodeyars who ruled Mysore for a very long span of time. The Wodeyars ruled Mysore from the 14th century except for some 40 years when the Muslim rulers Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan took over the empire. Mysore has always mesmerized its tourists with the rich heritage, quaint charm, beautiful laid gardens, magnificent palaces, broad and shady avenues, imposing buildings and holy temples that it possesses. The charm of the city leaves no person untouched. The history of Mysore can be traced from mythological books referring to Mahishasura, the demon who was buffalo –headed. It is believed that Mahishasura used to live in Mysore and he was killed by Goddess Chamundi of the Chamundi Hills. It is in this regard that the festival of Dussehra is celebrated which represents the conquest of excellence over evil. At present, Mysore is a major city in Karnataka and it has also been successful in emerging as a market for incense and sandalwood, sculptures that are stone carved and silk sarees.