5 Historic Temples In Srirangapatna Near Mysuru, Karnataka

The historical island town of Srirangapatna near Mysore, Karnataka is a rocky island formed beside the sacred River Kaveri. The Western Ganga Dynasty established the town in the 9th century. Since then, it has served as a base for several empires throughout history. Each of these rulers left their mark on the town, some in the form of palaces and others in the form of temples. From ancient Vishnu temples to powerful Shakti shrines, Srirangapatna is home to some of the most important pilgrimage sites near Mysuru. The historic temples in Srirangapatna are not just pilgrimage centres, they’re architectural marvels from the past. So, here we are with 5 historic temples, each with a unique story, architectural identity, and devotional importance.

A Little Into The Past

The town was ruled by the Ganga dynasty initially until it became a viceroyalty under the Vijayanagar Empire. The decline of the Vijayanagar empire paved the way for the Wadiyars of Mysore. Raja Wadiyar I defeated Rangaraya, the then-viceroy of Srirangapatna, and wrested control of the town. The island fortress stayed a part of the Mysore Kingdom even after Hyder Ali wrested control of the kingdom from the Wadiyars. Srirangapatna served as the capital of the kingdom during Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan’s rule.

After the death of Tipu Sultan in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, the capital of the kingdom was shifted to Mysore. Srirangapatna was once again under the rule of the Wadiyars. Once upon a time, the island served as the capital of the Mysore Kingdom. Today, the old town is part of the Mandya district in Karnataka. The town lies a mere 15 kilometres away from Mysore city on the Bangalore-Mysore highway (NH 275).

Temples In Srirangapatna That You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: Oldest Temple In Town

The Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple in the historic island town of Srirangapatna was built by the Ganga dynasty in the 9th century. This 1,400-year-old temple, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu is the oldest Srirangapatna temple. It is one of the Pancharanga Kshetras (five temples of Ranganatha) situated along the banks of River Kaveri. The temple is also one of the most important pilgrimage centres in India for Vaishnavites.

Location: Near Srirangapatna town

Distance From Mysore: 16 km

Significance: Adi Ranga Status (the first temple of the five Pancharanga Kshetrams)

Best Time To Visit: Brahmotsavam (March-April) or Vaikunta Ekadashi (December-January)

2. Nimishamba Temple: Goddess Who Fulfils Wishes In A Minute

The Sri Nimishambha temple is dedicated to Goddess Nimishambha, an incarnation of goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Shiva. The temple was built 400 years ago by the then Maharaja of Mysore, Mummudi Krishnaraja Wadiyar on the banks of the River Kaveri. People believe that the goddess fulfils the wishes of her devotees in a minute.

Location: Ganjam village, 2 kilometres from the town of Srirangapatna

Distance From Mysore: 20 km

Significance: Grant wishes within a minute (Nimisha)

Best Time To Visit: Navaratri (September–October)

Also Read: 10 fascinating things to see and do in Srirangapatna

3. Kshanambika Temple: Grants Instant Blessings

The temple of Kshanambika Devi is another of the temples in Srirangapatna dedicated to the powerful goddess Parvati. In the Kannada language, kshana means ‘a second’ and locals believe that, the goddess is so powerful, she can fulfil her devotees’ wishes in just a second. The idol of the deity and the Sri Chakra inside the sanctum are carved from stone. The deity is also known as Sri Chakra Vedanayaki Ammanavaru among the locals.

Location: Near the Jumma Masjid

Distance From Mysore: 20 km

Significance: Fulfils wishes in a “Kshana” (second)

Best Time To Visit: October – March

4. Karighatta Temple: Hike For Splendid Views

The Karighatta temple on the Karighatta hill outside the island town of Srirangapatna is another one of the ancient temples in Srirangapatna. The temple on Karighatta Hill is consecrated to Srinivasa, a manifestation of Vishnu. It’s believed that the great sage Brighu performed the prathishthapana (installation ceremony) of the idol. Devotees have to climb about 450 steps carved into the hill from the base to a flat hilltop to reach the temple.

Location: Karighatta Hill (also known as “Black Hill”) in Mandya district    

Distance From Mysore: 20.5 km

Significance: Powerful black stone idol of Vaikunta Srinivasa

Best Time To Visit: Rathotsava (February-March)

5. Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple: Temple Reborn Near KRS Backwaters

The Venugopalaswamy Temple near the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) backwaters isa masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. This 12th century temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his divine flute-playing form. For years, the temple lay hidden under water, but in 2011 the relocated and restoration work was complete by meticulous planning and with the expertise of skilled artisans. With all the scenic surrounding beauty, this temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Srirangapatna Karnataka.

Location: Hosa Kannambadi in the Mandya district near KRS Dam              

Distance From Mysore: 25 km

Significance: Known for its remarkable restoration

Best Time To Visit: Krishna Janmashtami(August-September)

Also Read: How well do you know the interesting history of Srirangapatna?

Final Words

The beautiful temples in Srirangapatna are definitely worth a visit. These ancient sacred places of worship with beautiful architecture are unparalleled in beauty. Besides their spiritual significance, Srirangapatna’s temples are beautiful examples of the patronage of art and architecture of various rulers over centuries. These temples remain an important spiritual and historical site, often included in heritage walks in a Srirangapatna itinerary.

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