Srirangpatnam Island

About Srirangpatnam Island

Srirangapatnam is the largest of the three islands in the Kaveri River and is about 2 miles long and a little more than a mile wide. By road it is about 140 kilometers or 87 miles from Bangalore and 15 kilometers or 9 miles from Mysore. It derives its name from the deity of the temple located on its western side. The Kaveri River splits to form this island and the western side of the island is revered by local people. They hold special Puja (prayer ceremonies) in this area regularly. While the British forces had plundered the city after the final battle and destroyed the palace of Tipu Sultan and his Fort, they left the religious structures intact. The temple of Shri Ranganatha is constructed in a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagar architecture. The temple is very popular among local people. The Jain Basdi, dedicated to principally to Adinath, houses images of all the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. The Jama Masjid nearby was built by Tipu Sultan and has two minarets that dominate the landscape.

History

All the major dynasties of the Southern India have left their relics and monuments on this island. The Hoysalas of the 11th century, the Vijayanagar kings of Chandragiri in the 17th century, the Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan clan that came after them, and finally, the French and the British have all left their mark on this island. Srirangapatnam was the main scene of battles that took place in the second half of the 18th century between the French and the British to get the hold over southern India. By 1787, much of the Carnatic region was ruled by Tipu Sultan until the British defeated him with the help from the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Marathas. The defeat of the Egyptian expedition of Napolean also dealt a death blow on French ambitions in India. Unfortunately Tippu Sultan sided with the French in the hope of defeating the British and taking control of most of southern India. The Srirangapatnam Fort, defended by a double wall, is the center of attraction here. It was built in 1454 by Thimmanna, a local chief and it was later renovated by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The river Kaveri skirts one side of the fort forming a natural moat, which is fed by water from the river. The original bridge that was the only link with the fort is still in use. Near the bridge one can still see the breach on the fort wall made by the British forces. The fort has four gates. Along the battlements, there are two dungeons in which prisoners of war were kept. Lalmahal, the residence of Tipu Sultan within the fort, was razed to the ground and is now just a mound marked by a notice board. It is interesting to take a walk along the fort walls to view its military architecture.

The Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan is in the center of a garden outside the fort and across the main road. The garden is called Darya Daulat Bagh (the garden of wealth of the sea). The most interesting feature of this palace is the series of murals that depict scenes from the military career of Tipu Sultan, particularly the battle of Pollilur (near Kanchipuram) in which he crushed the British forces under Colonel Bailey. The kings who owed allegiance to Tipu are also featured in these paintings. This lavishly ornamented building now houses a museum of Tipu memorabilia. Near this palace is a church distinctly European in style that was built by Abbe Dubois, a French missionary. The tomb of Tipu Sultan lies next to his father at Gumad-e-Ala near the fort. The mausoleum is adorned with intricate stuccowork. The three doors made of ebony and inlaid with ivory were gifted by Lord Dalhousie. Ironically he earned the respect of his enemies, the British after his death. On either side of the road leading to the river there are two Islamic domed buildings that were built to house pigeons. Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were both enthusiastic about pigeon racing. Monuments of the British are spread all over the island. On a high point opposite the summer palace is a tall pillar put up to honor the memory of British officers who died during the siege of Srirangapatnam. The garrison cemetery close by contains many interesting epitaphs to the British who died between 1800 and 1872. Near the tomb of Tipu Sultan, by the roadside is the grave of Colonel Bailey constructed in a blend of Saracenic and colonial architecture.

Interesting things to Visit

Nearby is Daria Daulat Bagh, an exquisite garden within which sits Tipu’s summer palace. Beautiful murals depicting scenes from Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan’s various battles cover this highly ornate building; a small museum showcasing memorabilia belonging to the great rulers is also located here.

A short walk from the palace is a European-style church, which was built by a French missionary. The fort is also home to the Jumma Masjid, which was constructed by Tipu and has two soaring minarets, as well as the Sri Ranganatha Temple, a 10th century structure constructed in the Hoysala and Vijayanagar style of architecture. This massive shrine houses a giant image of Lord Vishnu, and has pillared halls and an open courtyard. Just outside the fort is Gumbaz, a beautiful tomb, with striking ebony doors inlaid with ivory, which houses the mortal remains of Hyder Ali, his wife and Tipu Sultan.

Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary on a group of island in the Kaveri River is about two miles upstream and eleven miles from Mysore. From May to November it is a breeding ground for waterfowls. Many migrating birds from as far as Siberia and North America migrate to this sanctuary to nest and breed in winter. One can view Cormorants, Herons, Egrets and Spoonbills in this bird sanctuary. Crocodiles lazing in the winter sun can also be seen in the sanctuary. This wetland attracts several species of birds from all over the world, even as far as Siberia, and is a virtual paradise for bird watchers.

Sangama, a scenic spot at the junction of two streams stemming from the Cauvery River, is a great place for a family picnic. The Nimishambha and Karighatta Temples close to town are popular pilgrimage spots, attracting many devotees.

Nearest Visiting places

Somnathapur is 32 kilometers or 20 miles from Srirangapatnam. The Hoysala temple dedicated to Lord Kesava and other structures here have elaborate carvings and miniature sculptures.

Talakad is 48 kilometers or 30 miles from Srirangapatnam. It was the capital of the Ganga dynasty. The Vaideshwara Temple is located among the sand dunes on the banks of River Kaveri here.

The temple town of Melkote is 35 kilometers or 22 miles from Srirangapatnam. The town is the center of Shri Vaishnava sect and the headquarters of Shri Ramanuja, a Vaishnava saint. A Sanskrit Academy is located here. The Melkote Wolf Sanctuary is less than a mile away from this town.

The tourist visiting Srirangapatnam mostly stay overnight in nearby Mysore where there many hotels in various categories.

Around 12 km from Srirangapatnam, the enchanting Vrindavan Gardens, with its colourful fountains and illuminated, landscaped lawns, is definitely worth a visit. Farther on are the stunning Sivasamudram Falls, famous as the second largest waterfalls in India, and perfect for a day trip from town.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Fort View Resort :Its quite a horrible place. The \‘resort\’ is not quite a resort… its like a farmhouse in Srirangapatna. If you have no where else to stay, stay here. Else, just give it a skip.

Mayura River View, Hotel Good place for a weekend . Have good number of places to go around too. Food is average as you can have only what is avlbl and rooms are average kstdc room with all facilities Ultimately Calm and peacefull.

Young Island Resorts The location is good, easy to find and quite……..A palce to getaway on a weekend from the maddeing crowd…..can hear the river flwoing……neat roooms and surrondings…..

Help Line/Phone Number

Tourism info: Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation
No. 49, 2nd Floor West Entrance, Khanija Bhavan,
Race Course Road, Bangalore.
Tel: 080-22352901, 22352902, 22352903

Location info

• **Address:**Karnataka

• **District:**Mandya

• **Nearest City:**Mysore

• Best time to visit: September to March. Winter is the best time to visit this place as the humidity during summer makes traveling uncomfortable.

Climate & weather

Srirangapatnam Climate / Weather - Summers 22°- 40°C. Winter 10°- 32°C.

Things to do at Srirangpatnam Island

One can have a panoramic view of the whole island from the Karighatta Hill that is about five kilometers or 3 miles away. On top of the hill is a small temple. The British had placed their cannons during the siege of Srirangapatnam on this hill according to some contemporary chroniclers.

How to reach Srirangpatnam Island

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Srirangapatnam

• **Nearest Airport:**Bangalore Airport

• **Road Transport:**Main Road Highways - NH 4, NH 7 or NH 48

Tips & suggestions

Distance from Srirangapatnam in Kilometers and Miles:
Bangalore: 140 Kilometers or 87 Miles
Mysore: 15 Kilometers or 9 Miles

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.

Nearest petrol pump

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

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Srirangpatnam Island

October to March offers calm seas and pleasant weather for island visits. November-February is the peak season with best conditions. Avoid monsoon (June-September) when seas are rough and boat services often suspended.

Timings & opening hours

Accessible during daylight hours, typically 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Boat services to the island operate on specific schedules. Check departure and return timings locally. Monsoon services may be suspended.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 20-50 per person. Boat/shuttle charges: INR 100-500 per person round trip (varies by island distance). Special permits may be required for certain islands.

Duration needed

Half a day (3-4 hours) including boat travel and island exploration. Full day recommended for island with beaches and extensive walking trails.

Safety tips

Wear life jackets during boat transit. Follow boat captain’s safety instructions. Beware of slippery rocks on the island. Avoid swimming in unknown waters around the island. Check weather conditions before departure — avoid in rough seas. Carry seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness.

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). Carry seasickness medication, waterproof bag for electronics, extra dry clothes, towel, swimwear, and snorkelling gear if interested in underwater exploration.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station on the Konkan Railway line. Nearest airport: Mangalore International Airport or Goa International Airport. Boat access from the nearest coastal town jetty.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How do I reach Srirangpatnam Island? A: The island is accessible by boat from the nearest coastal town. Boat services operate during fair weather. Q: Are there accommodation options on the island? A: Most islands are day-visit destinations. Accommodation is available on the mainland. Q: What is the best time to visit? A: October to March offers calm seas and pleasant weather.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Islands

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Srirangpatnam Island

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Srirangpatnam Island on popular travel photography sites and social media.