Experience Travel Differently

Krishna Raja Sagar Dam (KRS Dam) is a historic gravity dam built across the River Kaveri near Mysuru, Karnataka, to solve drought and irrigation challenges in southern Karnataka. This remarkable engineering achievement by the eminent Indian civil engineer, Sir M Visvesvaraya is one of India’s most important irrigation and drinking water projects. Even today the dam continues to support agriculture and supply drinking water for people in Mandya, Mysore, and Bangalore. The KRS Dam and the adjoining Brindavan Gardens together form one of the most visited heritage sites and tourist landmarks in Karnataka. KRS Dam At A Glance Location: Mandya District, near Mysuru, Karnataka River: Kaveri (with Hemavathi & Lakshmana Theertha nearby) Commissioned By: Maharaja Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV Chief Engineer: Sir M Visvesvaraya Construction Began: 1911 Completed: 1932 Type: Gravity dam with automatic crest gates Primary Purposes: Drinking water, irrigation, flood regulation, hydroelectric power generation Massive gates of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam, Karnataka. Why KRS Dam Was Built The kingdom of Mysore was reeling from a severe drought in 1875-76. The region of Mandya and Mysore had always been dry and the summers were brutal. The people of the region mass migrated during the summers to escape the heat. The lack of water meant no irrigation, no crops and the drought wiped out almost one-fifth of the kingdom’s population. It was Sir M Visveswaraya, the then Chief Engineer of Mysore who planned to build a dam across the river Kaveri. Building a dam was seen as a potential solution to the region’s water crisis. Vision And Approving The Plan Sir M Visvesvaraya wanted to construct a massive dam across the river Kaveri for the below reasons: Provide drinking water to towns and cities. To enable year-round irrigation. Reduce dependence on erratic monsoons. Provide support for long-term economic growth. When Sir M Visvesvaraya presented the blueprint of the dam, it was met with heavy opposition. The finance ministry felt that the project would serve no purpose. They further added that a lack of demand for the electricity produced would mean that it wouldn’t be of complete use. The Madras Presidency opposed to the project too and appealed to the imperial government not to approve it. However, Sir M Visvesvaraya wasn’t deterred and he approached the Maharaja of Mysore and the Diwan, T Ananda Rao. The king consented and commissioned the construction of Krishna Raja Sagar Dam on 11th October 1911 with a massive budget of INR 81 lakhs. Building Krishna Raja Sagar Dam Krishnaraja Sagara Dam, Mysore India The construction of the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam, which would provide drinking water and be a source of irrigation, started in November 1911. Key features of the construction: It has a storage capacity of 1,368,847,000 m3 of water. Over 10,000 workers were employed for the construction of the KRS dam in the Kannambadi village. Traditional stone masonry and a lime-pozzolan mortar called surki was used in the construction. The dam has 48 gates (six sets of eight gates), which open and close automatically with the rise and fall of water in the reservoir. Visveswaraya installed these gates instead of spillways to prevent the dam from flooding. Each of the cast-iron gates has a sill, lintel, side grooves, and plates. The eight gates are connected to a deadweight through pulleys and chains. The deadweight is in turn connected to afloat. The structure that stands today is 131 feet high. Coming Out Of A Major Setback Six months before the completion of the project, it ran into a dead-end. The funds had all been used, and there was no more money to finish the construction. The king had already sold his jewellery for the project, but the mounting costs of labour and construction meant that money too ran out. Faced with a dead-end, Sir M Visvesvaraya summoned village headmen from across Mandya. To his surprise, over 500 people arrived. Standing beside the Maharaja, Visvesvaraya openly admitted the project had no money left and asked whether villagers would work without pay to complete the project. The next morning, to his surprise, thousands of people; Men, women, and elders gathered at the Mysore Palace to complete the construction of the dam. Thanks to the efforts of a brilliant engineer, a humble king, and the people who worked to make their dream a reality. The dam that stands today is a testament to the perseverance and hard work of all those people and the genius that was Sir M Visvesvaraya. Brindavan Gardens, Mandya District, India Sir M Visveswaraya: The Man Behind The Construction Born to a poor family in Muddenahalli, Visvesvaraya, or Sir MV, as he is affectionately remembered, went on to become one of the greatest engineers and statesmen in India. The genius engineer is considered to be the maker of modern Mysore. Long before India got independence or the advent of modern technology, Sir M Visvesvaraya planned and built KRS Dam Karnataka. Visvesvaraya has been instrumental in the construction and setting up of several institutions and industries across the state and the country. The 107-year-old Krishna Raja Sagar dam, which provides a livelihood to millions of people in Mysore and Mandya, is one of his greatest legacies. Visvesvaraya was not only a skilled engineer but also a powerful technocrat in the Mysore kingdom. But his creations also show his humanitarian side and selflessness. Important Facts About KRS Dam - This dam is named after the Maharaja of Mysore, Krishna Raja Wodeyar IV, who commissioned its construction. - KRS Dam is also locally called as Kannambadi Katte or Dam because the town it is built in was formerly known as Kannambadi. - It was built across river Kaveri for the Mysore and Mandya districts in Karnataka. - Three rivers, namely Kaveri, Hemavathi, and Laksmanathirtha meet near the KRS Dam. - The water of the KRS Dam further flows towards Mettur Dam in Tamil Nadu. Best Time To Visit KRS Dam The best time to visit KRS Dam is during or after the monsoon season (June to September). Due to heavy rainfall, the water level of the dam increases, and sometimes the water gushes out of the gates as they automatically open on reaching 124 feet. If you are looking to explore in pleasant and comfortable weather, October to March is a great time. How To Get To KRS Dam Mysore Mysuru To KRS: 24 km (45 minutes by road) Bengaluru To KRS: 143 km by road (3 hrs by road) Chennai To KRS: 480 km (9–10 hrs by road) Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction (18–21 km from KRS Dam) Things To Do In KRS Dam - Explore the excellent architectural work by Sir M Visvesvaraya. - Take a walk and go boating around the dam. - Watch a light and musical show at Brindavan Gardens. - Catch a beautiful sunset over the reservoir. - Taste some local dishes from the street side vendors. Also Read: The Mysore Wodeyars: A guide to the royals of the imperial city of Mysore Final Words Despite the challenges it has faced, the KRS Dam in Mysore stands as a timeless symbol of engineering excellence and a significant landmark in the state of Karnataka. A project which started as a solution for the irrigation and drinking problems is today shaping Karnataka’s economy, ecology, and heritage. It is one of India’s most iconic river valley projects and a perfect example of progress and innovation. FAQs When is the best time to visit KRS Dam and the Brindavan Gardens light show? The best time to visit KRS Dam is between 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm and thereafter proceed for the Brindavan Garden light show that starts from6:30 pm to 7:30 pm on weekdays (Mon-Fri) and 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on weekends and holidays. Is boating available on the KRS reservoir? Yes, boating is available within the Brindavan Gardens complex at the base of the dam. Motorboats and rowboats are available to enjoy the scenic views of the dam and the surrounding areas. What role does KRS Dam play in Bengaluru’s water supply today? The KRS Dam is the main source of supplying drinking water for Bengaluru. It supplies roughly around 1,450 to 2,400 million litres per day.

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 A beautiful temple present in Srirangapatna city of God Ranganath Swamy 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 Famous Nimishambha temple is dedicated to Goddess Nimishambha. 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 Kshanambika Devi temple is dedicated to the powerful goddess Parvati. 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 Karighatta temple is located on the Karighatta hill outside the island town of Srirangapatna. 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 Venugopalaswamy Temple is a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture. 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. FAQs Are temples in Srirangapatna open every day? Yes, most of the major temples are open every day of the week. It is highly recommended to visit these temples early mornings between 6:00 am and 9:00 am or in the evenings after 4:30 pm for a peaceful darshan. Do visitors need special permissions to enter any temple in Srirangapatna? All temples are open for daily worship without any special permissions to enter. Make sure to dress modestly and avoid taking electronic items as they are prohibited inside the inner precincts. What architectural styles are seen in Srirangapatna’s temples? The Dravidian style of architecture is used in construction of the temples. The influence of the Vijayanagara, Hoysala and Wodeyar periods can also be seen here. How can travellers reach Srirangapatna from Bangalore or Mysore? Srirangapatna is easily accessible from Bangalore and Mysore:Bangalore - approx. 125 km, via the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway, taking roughly 2 to 3 hours by road.Mysore - approx. 15 km, via the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway, taking roughly 20 minutes by road.