I live in Mysore. The palace (Tipu Sultan’s) that you mentioned is open for visitors. It is situated at Srirangpatna very close to Mysore (about 15 km.) Besides that there are other palaces right in the heart of the city. One of them houses a museum and another one has been converted to a 4 star hotel. There are other attractions such as a temple above a hill and the famous Vrindavan garden which has the Krishnarajsagar dam on the river Kaveri. One can also visit the silk factory and showrooms. The nearest airport is at Bangalore. There are many trains connections from north and south India direct to Mysore or passing through Bangalore. There are direct buss from Belgaum to Mysore. One day tourist bus trip can take you to all the above mentioned places. There is also a fantasy park- a water park near Mysore. If you are thinking of visiting it is worth it! and not because I live here.