Standing at the viewing gallery of KRS Dam during August when water levels reach 124 feet, you witness thousands of cusecs gushing through 12 crest gates creating a thunderous roar. Built across River Kaveri between 1911-1924 under Sir M. Visvesvaraya’s supervision, this gravity dam stretches 2,621 meters using innovative surkhi mortar instead of cement. Located 22 kilometers from Mysore city, the dam opens at 6:30 AM with free entry to the dam top while Brindavan Gardens charges Rs 35 per person.
The dam named after Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV who funded the Rs 9 crore project during severe famine, now irrigates 1.2 lakh hectares across Mandya and Mysore districts. The reservoir capacity of 49.45 TMC feet supplies drinking water to Mysore, Mandya, and parts of Bangalore. When full at 124.80 feet, the dam automatically releases excess water creating a magnificent sight attracting thousands of visitors.
KRS Dam Technical Specifications
The masonry dam rises 39 meters high with a length of 2,621 meters, making it India’s first irrigation dam. Sir M. Visvesvaraya used surkhi (mixture of lime and brick powder) instead of cement, proving more durable over a century. The dam has 177 gates – 12 crest gates and 165 sluice gates controlling water flow.
The reservoir spreads across 130 square kilometers when full, storing 49.45 thousand million cubic feet. Three rivers – Kaveri, Hemavathi, and Lakshmana Tirtha – confluence here. The dam generates 45 MW hydroelectric power at the adjacent power station. Current water level updates are displayed on digital boards at the entrance.
Brindavan Gardens Musical Fountain
Below KRS Dam, Brindavan Gardens spreads across 60 acres in Mughal-style symmetric terraces. Entry costs Rs 35 for adults, Rs 20 for children aged 5-12. The gardens open from 6 AM to 8 PM on weekdays, extending to 9 PM on weekends. The famous musical fountain operates from 6:30-7:30 PM on weekdays and 6:30-8:30 PM on weekends.
The synchronized fountain show features colored lights dancing to Kannada and Hindi songs. Seating for 500 people exists in the amphitheater though arriving 30 minutes early ensures better spots. The north garden houses the main musical fountain while the south garden has smaller fountains. Garden illumination happens from 7-8 PM creating a magical atmosphere.
How to Reach KRS Dam from Mysore
KSRTC buses to KRS depart every hour from Mysore City Bus Stand’s platform 6, charging Rs 25 per person. The journey takes 45 minutes via Hunsur Road. Get down at KRS bus stop and walk 500 meters to the dam entrance. Return buses operate until 8:30 PM.
Hiring a taxi costs Rs 1,200-1,500 for a round trip including 3-hour waiting time. Auto-rickshaws charge Rs 800-1,000 but might refuse return journey after dark. Self-drive via Mysore-KRS road takes 35 minutes covering 22 kilometers. Parking charges Rs 30 for cars at designated lots near Brindavan Gardens.
Best Time to Visit KRS Dam
August to November offers the best experience when monsoon fills the reservoir triggering crest gate openings. The dam reaches full capacity of 124.80 feet usually by August-end. Water release through gates happens when levels exceed 120 feet, creating spectacular views and cooling mist.
Avoid April-May when water levels drop below 80 feet and gardens look parched. Weekday mornings see fewer crowds allowing peaceful dam-top walks. Sunset timing around 6:15-6:45 PM provides stunning photography with golden light reflecting off water. Dasara season brings special illumination but extreme crowds.
Boating at KRS Backwaters
Boat rides in the reservoir operate from the south bank jetty near Brindavan Gardens. Regular boats charge Rs 150 per person for 30-minute rides while speed boats cost Rs 300. Boats run from 9 AM to 5:30 PM depending on water levels. During low water seasons below 85 feet, boating gets suspended.
Coracle rides costing Rs 100 offer a traditional experience for 15 minutes. Private boat bookings for Rs 2,000 accommodate 10 people for one hour. Life jackets are mandatory and provided free. The boat ride offers panoramic views of the dam structure and surrounding hills. Sunset boat rides from 5-6 PM provide the best photographic opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are KRS Dam timings?
The dam top is accessible from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Brindavan Gardens opens 6 AM to 8 PM on weekdays, until 9 PM on weekends.
When does the musical fountain show happen?
Weekdays: 6:30-7:30 PM, Weekends: 6:30-8:30 PM. The show runs for 30 minutes with colored lights and music.
What is the entry fee for Brindavan Gardens?
Adults Rs 35, Children (5-12 years) Rs 20, Children below 5 free. The dam top has no entry fee.
How far is KRS Dam from Mysore city?
22 kilometers via KRS Road, taking 35-45 minutes by road depending on traffic.
Can we see water release from KRS Dam gates?
Yes, when water level exceeds 120 feet during monsoon (August-October). Check current levels before visiting.
Contact: KRS Dam Office: 08236-262244
Brindavan Gardens: 08236-262039
Address: Krishna Raja Sagar Dam, Mandya District – 571607