Just under half the silk made in India is produced in Mysore – an industry that was originally founded by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, then promoted by successive Wadiyar Maharajas. You can visit the famous Karnataka silk plant on the outskirts to see how the thread is made today, tracking the production process from mulberryleaf-munching worms to shimmering brocaded saris woven on rows of noisy, Swiss-made looms – a memorable spectacle.

You can add this experience to any tailor-made itinerary that includes a night in Mysore.