Srirangapatna

About Srirangapatna

Ranganathaswamy TempleRanganathaswamy Temple : The temples is one of the most important Vaishnavite shrines in South India. It is built by the Gangas in 9th century, later improved by the Hoysala and Vijayanagar kings. The temple is a tribute to Lord Ranganatha(Vishnu ) has been dedicated at three pilgrimages

Adi Ranga at Srirangapattana
Madhya Ranga at Shivanasamudra
Antya Ranga at Srirangam
The Paschima Vaahini section of the Kaveri at Srirangapattana is considered especially sacred; the pious come from far and wide to immerse the ashes of the departed and perform obsequies to their ancestors in these waters.

Climate/Weather

The months of January and February are slightly cold while summers begin from March and continues till May. Post monsoon begins from October and remains till December. The best season to visit Karnataka is definitely the winter (between October to February) where the travelers can enjoy the most of Karnataka.

History

Tipu Sultan, the eldest son of Haider Ali, was born on December 10, 1750 at Devanhalli. On his father’s death in 1782, Tipu Sultan assumed power in Mysore. He continued fighting the British and defeated them in 1783. Tipu Sultan was a far-sighted person who could foresee East India Company’s design to get entrenched in India. He negotiated with the French for help and also sought assistance from the Amir of Afghanistan and the Sultan of Turkey. However, in the Third Anglo-Mysore war, he was defeated in his capital, Srirangapatna, and was forced to sign a humiliating treaty on March 22, 1792 as per which he had to concede half of his kingdom and pay an indemnity of 33 million rupees to the British. He died fighting during the storming of Srirangapatna on 4th May 1799 in the fourth Anglo-Mysore war

Interesting things to Visit

There are Col. Bailey’s dungeons near the temple. These dungeons were used as prisons for the English prisoners, who were captured in the second Anglo-Mysore war by Tipu Sultan. It is also a worth visiting sight for having a date with history.

Nearest Visiting places

Paintings : Records reveal that the palace is built by Moghul Governor Dilavar Khan, inspired Tipu to built this palace. The painting “The storming of Seringapattam” has been painted by Sir Robert Ker Porter in 1800 depicts the capture of capital on May 4th , 1799. It shows English officers, including General Baird, Sergeant Graham and Colonel Dunlop. Some of the paintings show the walls of Tipu’s fort , minarets of the mosque and gopuram of the Ranganatha Swamy temple in the background.

It is sad to see the detoriation of this precious pieces of art, due to shoddy maintainance, utter neglect. The paintings emphasize the glorious victory achieved by Haidar and Tippu over the English contingent led by Col. Bailee in the battle at Pollilur near Kanchipuram in 1780. Both Government and tourists need to share responsibility in restoring the monuments.

Museum showcases painting with Tipu wearing a turban, a striped shirt, a necklace and a belt adornedwith precious stones with a sword attached. In 1792, G F Cherry painted the portrait. One more portrait was made by Jony Zoffany in 1780. There are pencil sketches of the Tipus sons, minister of the Nizam, his son, Krishna Raja Wodeyar III his maternal uncle, Nandi Raja all drawn by Thomas Hickey, an English artist between 1799 and 1801. The museum boast of collection of coins of various denominations of those times and medals made of bronze, silver and copper issued by the English to commemorate their victory over Tipu.

**Masjid-E-Ala or JamiaMasjidMasjid-E-Ala or Jamia Masjid :**The mosque situated near the Bangalore Gate of the fort buit by Tippu Sultan It is said that he performed the first imamath himself. standing on a high basement with an open court in the open court in the front and a covered verandah with a spacious prayer hall with the “Mihrab” on the west. There is an inscription mentioning the ninety-nine names of Allah and another records the date of its construction by Tippu in 1787 A.D.

There are 2 minarets that are double storied and octagonal in shape with pigeonholes surmounted by domes that adds to the grandeur of the entire structure. There are 200 steps leading to the top of the minarets from where one can get a picturesque view of the Masjid.

**GumbazGumbaz :**Mausoleum of Tippu Sultan, and his father Hyder Ali and mother Fathima Begam. This was built by Tippu Sultan between 1782-84, the Gumbaz, an imposing structure in the midst of the Lalbagh garden, stands on a high and wide platform with an open verandah of polished pillars all round.

The importance of Gumbaz lies in its well-shaped large dome, ivory inlaid doors, carved stone windows of fine workmanship and inscriptions. Tipu’s favourite Tiger stripes cover the walls.Inside are the tombs of Haidar in the center, his wife and his son Tippu on either side. In the verandah and on the platform are the other tombs of Haidar’s family members.

**Colonel Bailey’s DungeonColonel Bailey’s Dungeon :**Named after Colonel Bailey who died here in 1780 A.D., this dungeon was used to imprison Captain Baird, Colonel Brithwite, Captain Rulay, Frazer, Samson and Lindsay by Tipu Sultan. The dungeon measures 30.5 metres width 12.2 metres height and is built of brick and mortar.

Prisoners were chained to stone slabs fixed on its walls. During the seige of Srirangapatnam, one of the cannons rolled back, pierced the ceiling and fell into the dungeon. One can see them still lying there .

**Place of Martyrdom :**The place where Tippu Sultan’s body was found.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Ambelee Hotel Resort Tel : +91-8236-52326
Hotel Mayura River View Srirangapatna Mandya

Tips & Suggestions

The best time to visit Mysore Palace is during the months of October when the annual Dussehra festival when the religious fervency encapsulates every brick of the mansion. During this festival, the royal throne of the Woodeyar kings is also displayed. To celebrate this festival the Palace of Mysore is illuminated with more than 10,000 lights during that month. Leading maestros perform musical performances in the ground of the palace.

Location info

karnataka.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Best time to visit Srirangapatna

October to March offers pleasant weather for exploring historic sites. Early morning (8-10 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) are best for photography with good light and fewer crowds. Avoid midday heat (March-May).

How to reach Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna is accessible by road from nearby towns and cities. KSRTC buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws serve the area. Well-connected to major cities. Karnataka is well-connected by air (Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore, Mangalore International Airport, Hubli Airport), rail (extensive network with major junctions at Bangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Mangalore), and road (NH 44, NH 48, NH 75, NH 66). State buses (KSRTC) and private operators connect all towns regularly.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 10-30 for Indian nationals, INR 100-300 for foreign nationals (at ASI-monument sites). Some sites are free. Camera fee: INR 25-50. Video camera fee: INR 100-200.

Duration needed

1-2 hours for a standard visit. 2-3 hours for thorough exploration with photography. Half a day for sites with extensive complexes.

Safety tips

Sites are generally safe. Watch your step on uneven stone surfaces, staircases, and high platforms. Do not climb on fragile structures. Follow ASI/state archaeology department rules. Beware of monkeys at certain sites — do not carry food openly.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Comfortable walking shoes (essential for exploring large sites). Guidebook or audio guide for historical context. Small change for ticket counters. Umbrella/hat for sun protection.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station connects to major Indian cities. Nearest airport depends on location. KSRTC buses available from district headquarters.

Things to do at Srirangapatna

Exploring the monument/complex, photography, reading information boards, hiring a guide for detailed history, sketching/drawing, attending sound and light shows (where available), and visiting the site museum.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is photography allowed at Srirangapatna? A: Photography is generally permitted. Tripods and flash may require special permission. Q: Are guides available? A: Official guides are available at the site entrance. Q: What is the best time to visit? A: Early morning or late afternoon for good light and comfortable temperatures.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Historical Places
• Timings: of Museum : 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Admission fees : Rs.2/- per head and free on Fridays.