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Australia, often referred to as the Land Down Under, is globally known for its diverse wildlife and rare treats. From kangaroos to koalas, from saltwater crocodiles to exotic reptiles, the continent is home to some of the most exotic species in the world. Australia is also home to some medically significant spiders, such as the Sydney Funnel-Web and Redback Spider, which are among the most venomous spiders in Australia and globally. While most spider encounters are rare and fatalities are extremely uncommon today, there are a few venomous spider species that are best avoided if encountered in Australia. Top 10 Dangerous And Venomous Spiders In Australia Here’s a carefully curated list of venomous spiders In Australia you should be aware of when travelling or living in Australia. Please note, some of the below listed spiders are venomous but pose a low medical risk to humans. Bites usually occur only when spiders are accidentally disturbed. 1. Sydney Funnel-Web Spider: Australia’s Most Venomous Spider Sydney Funnel-Web Spider is considered as one of the most dangerous in Australia. Scientific Name: Atrax Robustus Widely regarded as one of the world’s most medically dangerous spiders, the Sydney Funnel-Web Spider is found both in back gardens and bushlands. It’s known for its mighty large, powerful fangs capable of penetrating soft tissue and fingernails Size: A body length ranging from 1 to 5 cm (0.4 to 2 in). Found In: 100 km (62 mi) radius of Sydney in New South Wales, western and eastern parts of Australia. Feeds On: insects, frogs and lizards. Impact On Humans: Funnel-web spider bites contain highly potent neurotoxic venom that can severely affect the human nervous system if left untreated. It begins with tingling around the mouth, twitching of the tongue, profuse salivating, watery eyes, sweating, and muscle spasms. Thanks to the development of antivenom in 1981, no confirmed human deaths have been recorded since. 2. Redback Spider: Australian Black Widow Notable red stripe Redback Spider. Scientific Name: Latrodectus Hasselti A Redback spider with a distinctive notable red stripe on its body is known to be highly venomous. It is closely related to the Black Widow spider, hence the name. The Redback spiders received media attention in 2016 following the death of a young Sydneysider. However, it was later confirmed that the death was a result of a secondary bacterial infection rather than the effects of the spider's venom. Size: Female - about 1 centimetre (0.39 in); Males are only 3–4 mm (0.12–0.16 in) long. Found In: Australia, Southeast Asia, and New Zealand. Feeds On: Insects, male trapdoor spiders, king crickets, and small lizards. Impact On Humans: A redback spider injects the venom directly into the nerves, resulting in the release and subsequent depletion of neurotransmitters. The symptoms include pain (which can become severe), sweating (always including local sweating at the bite site), muscular weakness, nausea, and vomiting. Fatalities from redback spider bites are extremely rare today due to effective medical treatment and the availability of antivenom. 3. Mouse Spider: Close Relative Of Funnel-Web Eight species of the mouse spider is spread out across Australia. Scientific Name: Missulena Species The mouse spider is considered one of Australia’s more venomous spider species, although serious outcomes in humans are rare. A total of eight species of the mouse spider is spread out across the expanse of the country. The females enjoy the peace and quiet of their burrows, while the male of the species is found wandering around in search of them. Size: Its size varies from 10 mm – 35 mm. Found In: Across mainland Australia’s open forest to semi-arid shrubland. Feeds On: Insects, spiders, and small vertebrates Impact On Humans: In most cases, bites by this species cause only minor or moderate effects. Their venom is like that of the funnel-web, but there have been no fatalities linked to their bites. Some mouse spiders have a very toxic venom which is potentially as dangerous as that of the Sydney Funnel-web Spider and should be treated as medically significant. Also Read: 10 Most Venomous Snakes In The World 4. Trapdoor Spider: Long-Living Burrow Dwellers Trapdoor spider species are known to live for many years. Scientific Name: Ctenizidae Trapdoor spiders are named after their clever strategy to trick their prey. They hide at the entrance of their burrows to lure their prey into the false security of their lair. They are often confused with funnel-web spiders. Some trapdoor spider species are known to live for many years, particularly females that remain within their burrows. Size: Approximately 2.5 cm (one inch) or more in length. Found In: Australia, Japan, Africa, South America and North America Feeds On: Insects, beetles, grasshoppers, and occasionally on small animals. Impact On Humans: Trapdoor spider bites are generally considered low medical risk to humans. Minor symptoms with local pain and swelling may occur if bitten. The males are known to bite more than the females. 5. White-Tailed Spider: Nocturnal Spider Hunters White-Tailed spiders are named so after their white color on the tail. Scientific Name: Lampona cylindrata & Lampona murina White-Tailed spiders are named after the distinctive white stripe on its body. These nomadic critters wander by night in search of food. They are not known to bite humans that frequently. Size: 18 mm, with legs spanning of 28 mm Found In: Southern and Eastern Australia Feeds On: Other spiders, particularly the black house spider. Impact On Humans: The venom from the white-tailed spider is listed as non-lethal. In most cases, being bitten by a white-tailed spider cause a mild reaction, including itching and skin discoloration, which usually resolves after a few weeks. 6. Black House Spider: Common Indoor Spider Black House Spider is found to live mostly indoors. Scientific Name: Badumna Insignis As its name suggests, the Black House Spider is found to live mostly indoors. They build tangled webs (that can often become quite messy and extensive) with a funnel-like retreat and wait for their prey to arrive. Size: Females grow up to 18mm, while the males are smaller (10mm) Found In: Australia and New Zealand Feeds On: Flies, beetles, butterflies, bees, and ants. Impact On Humans: Black house spiders are venomous but proven to be medically low risky. Death from the venom of Black house spiders is extremely rare. The bite may be excruciatingly painful and can cause local swelling. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and giddiness are occasionally recorded. 7. Australian Tarantulas: Whistling Or Barking Spiders The largest spiders on the Australian continent. Scientific Name: Selenocosmia The Australian tarantulas are the largest spiders on the Australian continent. They are also the longest-living of the Australian spiders; some females reach the age of 30 (the males, however, last only 8 years). Size: Body length ~6 cm; leg span up to 22 cm Found In: Australian continent and North Queensland Feeds On: large insects, small reptiles, frogs, and occasionally small birds Impact On Humans: Their bites aren’t fatal to humans; however severe reactions have been documented in veterinary cases. Despite being non-fatal, their bites can cause vomiting and fever. 8. Garden Wolf Spider: Backyard Buddies Garden wolf spider are generally brown hairy spiders. Scientific Name: Lycosidae Family The garden wolf spider is a brown hairy spider most commonly found in gardens. They are known for their excellent eyesight, carrying egg sacs and young ones on their back.  Size: Up to 3 cm Found In: Australia Feeds On: Insects Impact On Humans: Bites are uncommon and usually cause mild pain or swelling only. 9. Common Garden Orb Weaver Spider: Third Largest Family Of Spiders Bright colors of the Orb Weaver spider makes it look very attractive. Scientific Name: Argiope Aurantia As the name suggests, common garden orb weave spiders are a very common species of spider with many variants in size, shape, and colour. Its tremendous colour-range from off-white through tan, brown to almost black is quite attractive. Size: 20 mm to 30 mm Found In: Eastern and Southern coastal areas of Australia Feeds On: Flying insects Impact On Humans: The venom of Orb-Weaving Spiders is of low risk (not toxic) to humans. The venom usually causes negligible or mild local pain, numbness, and swelling. Occasionally nausea and dizziness can occur after being bitten. 10. Huntsman Spiders: Giant Crab Spider Huntsman spiders are large fast-moving spiders. Scientific Name: Sparassidae Huntsman spiders are large, fast-moving spiders often found inside homes. These large, long-legged spiders are mostly grey to brown, sometimes with banded legs. While they may look scary, in reality, they are reluctant to bite and are more likely to run away when approached. Size: Body ~2.5 cm; leg span up to 30 cm in large species. Found In: Australia Feeds On: Insects and other invertebrates Impact On Humans: The venom of Huntsman spiders isn’t dangerous for humans but can cause prolonged pain, inflammation, and mild systemic symptoms such as headache or nausea in some individuals. Also Read: 10 unique wildlife experiences to try in Australia Final Words These venomous spiders in Australia are really something. They usually live in sheltered places or garden sheds but that doesn’t mean they can’t sneak up on you. Most bites generally occur when spiders are accidentally disturbed. Hence the best way to handle these deadly spider species is by keeping far away from them. A little bit of awareness, caution, and timely medical attention are all that’s needed for one to stay safe. FAQs What will you do if you encounter one of these Australian spiders? If you encounter any of these dangerous spiders in Australia, avoid direct contact. Most bites occur when spiders are accidentally disturbed. What should you do if bitten by a spider in Australia? After spider bite first aid is done, seek medical attention immediately if bitten, especially by funnel-web or redback spiders. Which is the deadliest Spider in Australia? Sydney’s Funnel-Web spider is widely regarded as Australia’s most medically dangerous spider due to the potency of its venom. Can spiders in Australia kill you? Fatalities from the bite of venomous spiders in Australia are extremely rare, particularly since the introduction of effective antivenoms and modern medical care. What is the largest spider in Australia? The Australian Tarantula (Selenocosmia crassipes) is the largest spider.

If you’re on vacation in Mysore, Karnataka, you’ve likely explored iconic attractions such as the Mysore Palace, the Mysore Zoo, the Brindavan Gardens, and more. You must’ve shopped for Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood trinkets to take home as souvenirs. But there’s one more thing left to do done in this beautiful South Indian city, tasting the famous Mysore masala dosa. Its melt-in-the-mouth experience has made it one of the most iconic foods of Mysuru. What Is Mysore Masala Dosa The Mysore masala dosa is a traditional Karnataka dosa variant that originated in the city of Mysore. Also known as the Mysore benne masala dosa, this thin rice crepe is quite different from the regular potato-filled masala dosa. One bite of this buttery, melt-in-your-mouth soft dosa will leave your taste buds spellbound. The most famous version of the dosa is served at Hotel Original Vinayaka Mylari in Mysore. What Is Mysore Masala Dosa Made Of Masala dosa is made with urad dal, chana dal, and rice. This large, thin rice crepe is roasted to crispy brown goodness with lots of ghee or butter and has a mildly spiced yet flavourful green-ish sagu which is seasoned with a tempering of curry leaves and mustard seeds. The dosa is served with a pat of unsalted butter and it comes with a side of sagu (a dish of curried mixed vegetables) and coconut chutney. What Makes The Mysore Masala Dosa Different The regular South Indian masala dosa is a large, thin rice crepe, roasted to crispy brown goodness with lots of ghee. The crispy dosa crumbles as you tear it, and the interior is slightly soft and smeared with spicy red chutney. The dosa is stuffed with the signature spicy potato mixture, folded over, and served with coconut chutney and sambar. The Mysore Masala dosa has a crispy brown exterior much like the regular masala dosa, but it’s smaller. And though the exterior is crisp, the interior of the dosa miraculously is soft and fluffy. Instead of the potato filling, the Mysore masala dosa has a mildly spiced yet flavourful greenish sagu. The dosa is served with a pat of unsalted butter that melts slowly into the warm dosa. It comes with a side of sagu (a dish of curried mixed vegetables) and coconut chutney. Also read: 20 wonderful places to visit when you’re in Mysore Where Did The Mysore Masala Dosa Come From The original Mysore masala dosa, also known as Mylari dosa in Mysore, has very humble origins. The Vinayaka Mylari Hotel, the original creators of this amazing masala dosa still tantalizes the taste buds of all those in search of it. According to the proprietor Chandrashekar Chandra, the restaurant was established by his grandmother, Gowramma. And thanks to this enterprising granny and her secret masala dosa recipe, people have been feasting on Mylari dosa for 88 years now. The original recipe has been preserved by the Mylari family for generations. Little More About Vinayaka Mylari Hotel Tucked in an old lane near the Nazarbad Police Station, not much has changed in the Vinayaka Mylari Hotel. The tiny place has limited seating, which you might have to share with other dosa-loving strangers. And the restaurant still serves the same old basic fare of dosa, idli, and masala dosa, but they’re packed with great flavours. But don’t be fooled, there are several imposter Mylari hotels dotted across Mysore boasting to be the original. However, Vinayaka Mylari Hotel is the original home of the Mysore masala dosa and it has no other branches in the city. The restaurant is open from 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM; it’s closed during the lunch hour and reopens from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Where Is The Original Vinayaka Mylari Hotel Located The quest for the original Mysore masala dosa or the Mylari dosa can be quite confusing and tiring if you’re not a local. All the imposter restaurants with the same name, and fake signs claiming to be the original are enough to confuse Google Maps into giving you misdirection. So, here’s the address to the original restaurant. Hotel Original Vinayaka Mylari Shop No 79, Nazarbad Main Road Near Nazarbad Police Station, Doora Mysore, Karnataka 570010 The restaurant can be identified by the green sign with the words, “The Old Original Vinayaka Mylari” printed in red letters. The restaurant, which sits in the corner of a building is next to a shop called Giri Stationery. Doses made in bulk for customers to consume. Best Time To Visit The Restaurant Visit for breakfast so that you can taste that slightly fluffy and crispy Mysore masala dosa, served with that a dollop of butter. You will have to visit early or wait as the restaurant is humble and small. Most people come just for the dosa and you can’t linger around much as there will be several people waiting to take your place. But don’t worry, you can eat to your heart’s content. Distance Of The Restaurant From Famous Attractions Of Mysore 2.7 km from Mysore Palace 11.0 km from Sri Chamundeshwari Temple 5.2 km from Shuka Vana 1.7 km from Karanji Lake 2.0 km from St Philomena's Church How To Make Mysore Masala Dosa Spicy red chutney that adds all flavors to the Masala Dosa. As much as you’d like to go to Mysore and bite into the Mysore masala dosa at Vinayaka Mylari Hotel, it might not be possible in some cases. So why drool over photos or wait to go to Vinayaka Mylari Hotel, when you can make it yourself using a great (if not the original) Mysore masala dosa recipe. Vinayaka Mylari Hotel’s masala dosa recipe might be a closely guarded secret, but we do have a recipe that’ll give you equally delicious benne masala dosas in your home. If you have not tried this before, you certainly must do so now when you have the time.Also Read: Restaurants in Mysore no foodie should miss Recipe Of Mysore Masala Dosa If you consider the time taken for the dosa batter to soak and ferment, then the cooking time will be 8+ hours as it will need to soak for a minimum of 5 hours and ferment for at least 8 hours. However, you can soak the dosa batter the previous night. The actual cook time for the rest, i.e. making the dosa and the sagu can be around 40-50 minutes. Ingredients For Mysore Masala Dosa Dosa Batter 1½ cup dosa rice/Sona masuri rice, washed and drained ½ cup urad dal 1 tbsp toor dal 1 tbsp chana dal ¼ tsp methi/fenugreek seeds Water for soaking ½ cup thin poha/flattened rice, washed and drained The Sagu 3 large onions, chopped finely 4-5 green chillies, chopped finely 1 small bunch of coriander leaves 1 cup mint leaves (pudina) 1/2 cup grated coconut 1 teaspoon fried gram 2-inch piece of cinnamon 2-3 cloves 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds 1-inch piece of ginger 5-6 curry leaves ¾ teaspoon mustard seeds Salt to taste ½ cup of water 1 tablespoon vegetable oil How To Make The Dosa Batter Masala Dosa and a glass of filter coffee is a complete South Indian breakfast. - Soak the ingredients for the dosa batter i.e. rice, lentils (urad dal, toor dal, and chana dal), and fenugreek seeds in water, cover, and keep for at least 5 hours. - After 5 hours, drain the water and transfer the mixture to a blender or grinder. - Add the washed poha to the blender jar and blend with enough water and mix well to make a thick dosa batter. Ensure that the dosa batter is not grainy. - Transfer the dosa batter to a large glass bowl, cover and place the bowl in a cool place and allow the dosa batter to ferment for at least 8-9 hours. How To Make The Sagu - Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok. When the oil is hot, add in the cinnamon and clove. Fry the spices till they’re aromatic but don’t let them burn. Remove the spices from the oil and set it aside. - Add in the mustard seeds and when it starts popping add the curry leaves. - Reserve 2 tablespoons of the chopped onions and add the rest to the wok and sauté till translucent. - Add salt to season and then add the water and bring to a boil. - Add 2 tablespoons of the chopped raw onions, coconut, fried cinnamon, cloves, mint and coriander leaves, chillies, ginger, and fried gram into a mixer jar and grind to a smooth paste with very little water. - Add the ground masala to sauteed onions, mix well, and simmer for 2 minutes. Take the wok off the heat and set aside. Making Of Mysore Benne Masala Dosa - Take the bowl of fermented dosa batter and mix it gently. Add ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp sugar to the dosa batter and mix well. - Meanwhile, heat a dosa tawa or griddle. Ladle in a spoonful of the batter and spread it with the back of the ladle into a circle. Don’t make the dosa too thin and large like regular masala dosa. - While the dosa is cooking spread a spoonful of melted ghee on top. Take a spoonful of the onion sagu and spread it on the dosa. - Cook for a few seconds till the bottom is browned and crisp. Fold it over and serve the masala dosa hot with a pat of butter on top with extra sagu and coconut chutney on the side. For more details and a pictorial guide for the South Indian Mysore masala dosa recipe, check the originally published recipe here. And check here for the originally published recipe for the sagu. Also read: 18 delicious Karnataka food items you have to try Conclusion No trip to the imperial city of Mysore is truly complete without tasting the legendary dosa. If you have already tried the Mysore masala dosa, do let us know of your experience in the comments section below. FAQs Which Restaurant serves the best Mysore Masala Dosa? Hotel Original Vinayaka Mylari serves the best Masala Dosa in Mysore. What is the difference between Mysore masala dosa and regular masala dosa? The main difference between Mysore masala dosa and regular masala dosa is the spicy red chutney smeared inside. Another difference is its texture; the regular masala dosa is generally thin and crispy all over, while the Mysore version has a crisp exterior with a softer interior. Is Mysore masala dosa spicy? Yes, Mysore masala dosa is mildly spicy. However, it is milder compared to the regular red-chutney Mysore dosa. Is Mysore masala dosa healthy? Yes, Mysore masala dosa is healthy because its fermentation process improves digestion and nutrient absorption.