Srirangapatna is a small historic town near Mysore known for its deep historical roots, architectural masterpieces, and spiritual significance. It was founded in the 9th century by the Ganga dynasty but came into the limelight during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The UNESCO world heritage site, surrounded by the holy Kaveri River was once the capital of Tipu Sultan.
Are you looking for the best things to do and see in Srirangapatna? Then, this guide of Srirangapatna tourist places has an interesting mix of tourist attractions like temples, palaces, monuments, and forts, making it a place that holds both historical and religious importance. In comparison to Mysuru, Srirangapatna offers a more heritage-focused and quieter experience.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview About Srirangapatna
- Location: Near Mysuru, Karnataka
- Distance: 18 km from Mysuru, 125 km from Bengaluru
- Best Time To Visit: October to March
- Ideal Duration Of Visit: 1 day
- Famous For: Tipu Sultan history, temples, forts, monuments, bird sanctuary
Top Attractions And Best Things To Do In Srirangapatna
1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – Ancient 9th-Century Temple
One of the most important Vaishnavite shrines in South India, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s avatar of Ranganatha. It is one of the largest temples in Karnataka and is located inside the Srirangapatna fort on the banks of the river Kaveri.
Highlights:
- Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring on its tentative list.
- It has a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagara architectures.
- Intricate carvings that make the temple an enthralling architectural marvel.
Timings: 7:30am to 8:00pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: Evenings after 7:00pm, avoid weekends.
Also Read: 10 incredible ancient temples to witness in India.
2. Daria Daulat Bagh – Tipu’s Summer Palace
Daria Daulat Bagh also known as the ‘Envy of Heaven’ was Tipu’s Summer Palace but today it is a museum that houses paintings, artifacts, and war scenes. Its construction was commenced by Hyder Ali in 1778 and completed by his son Tipu Sultan in 1784 CE.
Highlights:
- Tipu Sultan Museum which exhibits many of the ruler’s belongings.
- European and Persian paintings and manuscripts.
- Pillars, arches, canopies, walls, and corridors graced with several murals that depict scenes of warfare.
- 5-foot-tall platform, made with teakwood in Indo-Saracenic style.
Timings: 9:00am to 5:00pm
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indian citizens and INR 250 for foreigners.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
3. Brindavan Gardens – Famous For Its Ethereal Beauty
Brindavan Gardens is a famous and beautiful garden laid out below the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam. Spread over an area of 150 acres, Brindavan Gardens is considered one of the best gardens in India.
Highlights:
- Musical fountain show (6.30pm to 7.30pm on weekdays and 6.30pm to 8:30pm on weekends).
- Cascading water channels, fountains, lush green lawns, and flower beds.
- Mughal style garden based on the design of the Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir.
Timings: 6:30am to 9:00pm
Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
Best Time To Visit: Arrive at 5:00pm and wait until the illuminated musical fountain show.
4. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Home To 170 Bird Species
A visit to Srirangapatna is incomplete without visiting the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, the largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka. The sanctuary comprises of six islets on the banks of the Kaveri River which is the breeding ground for migratory birds from all over the world.
Highlights:
- 170 species of bird reside here, the most notable are the black-headed ibis, painted stork, Asian openbill stork, common spoonbill, and woolly-necked stork.
- Boat rides through the six islets.
- Crocodile spotting.
Timings: 6:00am to 5:30pm
Entry Fee: ₹80 Adults, ₹ 40 Children and Students
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
5. Srirangapatna Fort – Double-Walled Formidable Fort
Srirangapatna Fort is an important historical site in Karnataka and one of the most popular tourist places in Srirangapatna. It has a double wall defence system and four main entrances, which is what makes it one of history’s most impenetrable forts.
Highlights:
- Indo-Islamic architectural style with Double-layered defence system.
- Persian inscription on the gateway that displays the date of its construction.
- Two dungeons in its lower chambers that were used to imprison captured British officers.
Timings: 8:30am to 5:30pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Also Read: 8 of the most stunning forts in India
6. Gumbaz – Resting Place Of Tipu Sultan
Gumbaz is the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan, his father Hyder Ali, and his mother Fakr-Un-Nisa. It was built as the final resting place for his parents by Tipu Sultan in 1782-1784 CE. Tipu was also allowed to be buried here by the British after his death.
Highlights:
- Striking Indo-Islamic design.
- Large rectangular garden and an interior painted in lacquer with tiger stripes.
- Well-shaped large dome with ivory inlaid doors and carved stone windows full of inscriptions.
Timings: 8:00am to 6:30pm
Entry Fee: ₹20
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
7. Jama Masjid – Blend Of Islamic And Hindu Architecture
Jama Masjid also known as Masjid-e-Ala is situated near the Bangalore Gate of the Srirangapatna Fort. This grand structure with two large octagonal minarets was constructed by Tipu Sultan in 1787.
Highlights:
- Interesting blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture.
- 99 names of Allah are inscribed on the walls of the prayer hall.
- 200 steps leading to the top of the minarets from where you get a splendid view of the place.
- Ceilings and walls of the masjid that are well-decorated with Persian ornamentation and scriptures.
Timings: 9:00am to 5:30pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Also Read: 33 of the most beautiful mosques from around the world
8. Nimishamba Temple – Shrine Of Goddess Parvati
Sri Nimishamba Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati is located on the banks of the river Kaveri. It is believed that the wishes of the devotees are granted within a minute, hence the temple is named Nimishamba, where ‘Nimisha’ means one minute.
Highlights:
- Intricate temple carvings.
- Granting of wish within a second.
Timings: 6:30am to 1:00pm; 4:30pm to 8:30pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: Before 9:00am
9. Balmuri And Edmuri Waterfalls – Popular Picnic Spots
The Balmuri and Edmuri Falls are man-made waterfalls on the way to the KRS dam. The water flow is not heavy during the dry season and it is safe to enjoy and play in the water here. Typically visited in winter, it makes for a good picnic spot too.
Highlights:
- Scenic spot withgreen coconut palms around.
- Safe to have fun under the waterfalls.
Timings: 6:00am to 7:00pm
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Also Read: 25 famous waterfalls from around the world you absolutely have to see.
10. Kunti Betta – Place Of Historical Importance
Kunti Betta is a picturesque hill situated in Pandavapura Taluk of Mandya district in Karnataka. It is said that the mother of five Pandavas, Kunti stayed here during their exile (hence the name, which translates to ‘Kunti’s Hill’).
Highlights:
- Temple with a pond at the foot of the hill.
- Perfect place for rock climbing and rappelling.
- Trekking trails to catch a beautiful sunrise.
Timings: 24/7
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Read More: A complete guide to trekking at Kunti Betta.
How To Reach Srirangapatna
By Road: Most of the visitors prefer to take a road trip from Bangalore to Srirangapatna as it is just 2-3 hours’ drive. The Bangalore-Mysore highway with good roads makes the journey very comfortable. There are also regular buses plying from Majestic and Kengeri in Bangalore.
By Air: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport (MYQ), however, many choose to land in Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), explore Bangalore and then head to Srirangapatna.
By Rail: There are several trains running daily from Bangalore to Srirangapatna and Mysore to Srirangapatna.
One Day Srirangapatna Itinerary
Morning (7:00am to 11:00pm):
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Nimishamba Temple
- Srirangapatna Fort
- Jama Masjid
Midday (11:30am – 3:30pm):
- Daria Daulat Bagh
- Gumbaz
Evening (4:00pm – 6:00pm):
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Night (6:30pm – 9:00pm):
- Brindavan Gardens
Travel Tips To Know Before Going To Srirangapatna
- Start early, this will help reduce travel time and maximise the day.
- There are plenty of eateries on the highway, hence don’t stress and pack more.
- Try covering all the major attractions before the crowd and heat builds up.
- Be a responsible traveller; avoiding littering and reduced plastic usage are the first steps towards it.
- Since it is a religious and historically significant place, make sure to dress modestly.
- Pack comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Conclusion
The historical town of Srirangapatna is a perfect blend of heritage, spirituality, and nature. From forts to Srirangapatna palaces, from sanctuaries to waterfalls, it offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or weekend explorer, the many tourist places in Srirangapatna makes for a great getaway in Karnataka.
FAQs
The distance between Srirangapatna to Mysore is 18 kms, and from Bangalore, it is 124 kms, making it a great weekend getaway or a day trip from either of these places.
Winter months between October to March is the best time to visit Srirangapatna. Weather is quite cool and pleasant during this time and temperature keeps fluctuating between 15°C to 32°C.
One full day is more than enough to visit this historic town. It makes for a great one-day trip from Bangalore.
Yes, guided tours are available to explore the top attractions in Srirangapatna. From full day tours to half day tours, private tours to pilgrimage tours, there are plenty of options to choose from for Srirangapatna sightseeing.
