Everything that you need to know about Srirangpatna

History of Srirangapatna:

Srirangapatna has been an important temple town since the 9th century, ruled by various dynasties like the Gangas. The Wodeyars used its strategic location by building a mud fort to defend their kingdom. Over time, Hyder Ali took control of the fort, and later his son Tipu Sultan further fortified it. In 1799, after Tipu Sultan’s defeat in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, Srirangapatna fell under British control.

How to reach Srirangapatna:

By Train: The nearest railway station to Srirangapatna is Srirangapatna Railway Station. Train travel takes about 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival at Srirangapatna, you can use auto-rickshaws or taxis to explore the town and its attractions.

By Road: You can catch a bus to Srirangapatna from Bangalore. Several state-run and private buses operate on this route. Srirangapatna is about 130 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you reach the town you can also opt for local buses or auto-rickshaws.

By Air: There is no airport in Srirangapatna itself. The nearest airport is Mysore Airport (MYQ), which is about 15 kilometers from Srirangapatna. Upon arrival at Mysore Airport, you can hire cab to Srirangapatna. It’s a short 20-30 minute drive.

Best time to visit Srirangapatna:

Summer Season: Summer in Srirangapatna is generally hot and dry from March to May. Temperatures can range from warm to quite hot, often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

Monsoon Season: The monsoon season in Srirangapatna brings significant rainfall from June to September. This season is characterized by frequent rains, sometimes heavy, which are crucial for agriculture in the region.

Winter Season: Winter in Srirangapatna is mild and pleasant from October. Temperatures are cooler compared to summer, ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). It is generally dry with clear skies, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Things to do at Srirangapatna:

Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a form of Lord Vishnu) is one of the most important religious sites in Srirangapatna. It has a rich history and beautiful architecture worth exploring.

Explore Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace: Known as the Daria Daulat Bagh, this palace was the summer residence of Tipu Sultan. It showcases beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture and houses a museum with exhibits related to Tipu Sultan’s reign.

Visit Gumbaz: This mausoleum houses the tombs of Tipu Sultan, his father Hyder Ali, and his mother Fathima Begum. It’s an important historical site with impressive architecture and serene surroundings.

See the Fort of Srirangapatna: Built by Tipu Sultan, the fort played a significant role in the region’s history. While much of it is in ruins, parts of the fort and its strategic importance can still be explored.

Explore the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: Located near Srirangapatna, this bird sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can take a boat ride on the Kaveri River and spot various species of birds including migratory birds.

Visit the Nimishambha Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Nimishambha, this temple is located near the banks of the Kaveri River and attracts devotees seeking blessings and tranquility.

Walk along the Kaveri River: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Kaveri River, which flows near Srirangapatna. It offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Shopping for Local Handicrafts: Explore local markets or shops for handicrafts, silk sarees, and other traditional items that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship.

Other Places to Visit Near Srirangapatna:

Mysore Palace: Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and is one of the most famous landmarks in India. It is located in the heart of Mysore city, about 15 km from Srirangapatna. The palace was originally built in the 14th century but underwent significant expansions and reconstructions in later centuries. It is known for its intricate craftsmanship, vibrant paintings, sprawling gardens, and grand Durbar Hall.

Melukote: Melukote is a picturesque town located around 50 km from Srirangapatna. It is a prominent pilgrimage center for Vaishnavites and is known for its ancient temples and serene surroundings. The main attractions in Melukote include the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, and the scenic views from the hilltop where these temples are situated.

Balmuri Falls: Balmuri Falls is a man-made cascade located about 15 km from Srirangapatna. It is not a natural waterfall but rather a check dam on the Kaveri River, creating a small but scenic stretch of flowing water. It is a favorite spot for picnics and outings, especially during the monsoon season when the flow of water is more pronounced.

Chamundi Hills: Chamundi Hills are a prominent landmark overlooking Mysore city, about 28 km from Srirangapatna. Atop the hills is the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysore. The temple is known for its intricate Dravidian architecture and the large statue of the demon Mahishasura near the entrance. Climbing up the hills offers panoramic views of Mysore city and the surrounding countryside. The Nandi statue, a colossal monolithic sculpture of the sacred bull, is another notable attraction on Chamundi Hills.

Talakadu: Talakadu is an ancient town situated approximately 45 km from Srirangapatna. It is known for its historical significance and the presence of submerged temples under layers of sand. Legend has it that a curse caused the town to be buried under sand dunes, preserving several temples beneath. The Vaidyanatheshwara Temple, Pathaleshwara Temple, and Maruleshwara Temple are some of the prominent structures that have been excavated and partially restored.

Karanjikere Lake:  Karanjikere Lake is a serene water body which is located 16 km from Srirangapatna, known for its natural beauty and birdlife. It is situated amidst lush greenery and is a peaceful spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lake attracts various migratory birds during certain seasons, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Boating facilities are available on the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy its tranquility up close.