Stand at the exact spot where British forces found Srirangapatna Tipu Sultan’s body on May 4, 1799, and you’ll understand why this river island was called the “Gibraltar of the East.” The 18-kilometer drive from Mysore takes you through Tipu’s former capital where his summer palace, mausoleum, and fort ruins tell the story of South India’s most formidable ruler who introduced rocket warfare and silk production.
Quick Srirangapatna Tour Information
Distance from Mysore: 18 km (25 minutes drive)
Major Attractions: 6 historical sites
Total Entry Fees: 150 per person
Recommended Duration: 5-6 hours
Best Route: Circuit covering all Tipu sites
Parking: Free at most locations
Guide Cost: 500-800 for full tour
Daria Daulat Bagh – Tipu’s Summer Palace
Built entirely from teakwood in 1784, Tipu Sultan’s summer palace showcases Indo-Islamic architecture with intricate mural paintings and floral patterns. The palace name means “Garden of the Wealth of the Sea” and served as Tipu’s retreat from Srirangapatna fort’s military activities.
Entry Fee: 30 per adult, 15 children
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Photography: 25 additional for cameras
Highlights: Royal artifacts, Persian-influenced paintings
Gumbaz Mausoleum – Tipu’s Final Resting Place
The dome-shaped mausoleum houses Tipu Sultan’s grave alongside his parents Hyder Ali and Fatima Begum. Built by Tipu himself for his parents, the Persian-style architecture features imported plants and trees from France and Turkey in surrounding gardens.
The black stone graves lie beneath the central dome with Tipu’s grave marked by tiger stripes – his personal symbol. Free entry allows visitors to pay respects to the “Tiger of Mysore” who died defending his capital.
- Entry: Free for all visitors
- Parking: 5 for vehicles
- Footwear: Must be removed inside
- Photography: Allowed without charge
Srirangapatna Fort and Bailey’s Dungeon
Originally built during Vijayanagara Empire, the fort was strengthened by Tipu Sultan to withstand British sieges. The thick walls protected the island capital, though British forces breached them in the final 1799 assault that killed Tipu.
Bailey’s Dungeon near Ranganathaswamy Temple showcases where Tipu imprisoned British officers during Anglo-Mysore wars. The underground chambers demonstrate harsh conditions endured by prisoners of war. Entry remains free with guided explanations available for 100.
How to Reach Srirangapatna from Mysore
By Car: NH275 Bangalore-Mysore Highway, 25 minutes drive
By Bus: KSRTC buses every 30 minutes, 30 per person
By Train: Mysore-Bangalore line, limited service
By Auto: 800-1,200 for round trip including waiting
Ranganathaswamy Temple – 9th Century Marvel
Predating Tipu’s rule by centuries, this Hoysala-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu features intricate stone carvings and beautiful gopuram. The temple sits on Kaveri riverbank where devotees take holy dips believing wishes get fulfilled within one minute of genuine prayer.
Entry: Free for all devotees
Special Darshan: 50 for shorter queue
Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Festivals: Laksha Deepotsava, Brahmotsavam major celebrations
Tipu Sultan’s Death Place Memorial
A small memorial marks the exact spot where British forces discovered Tipu Sultan’s body among fallen soldiers. The location near the fort’s north gate provides context for the final battle’s intensity and Tipu’s determination to die fighting rather than surrender.
Suggested Tour Route and Timing
Start 8 AM: Gumbaz Mausoleum (45 minutes) ? Daria Daulat Palace (90 minutes) ? Ranganathaswamy Temple (60 minutes) ? Fort and Bailey’s Dungeon (60 minutes) ? Death Place Memorial (20 minutes) ? Lunch break ? Return by 3 PM.
- Morning: Historical sites when weather is cooler
- Midday: Temple visit during less crowded hours
- Afternoon: Fort exploration and memorial visit
- Lunch: Local restaurants serving traditional meals
Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon Experience
The underground prison where British Colonel Bailey and other European prisoners suffered during Tipu’s wars demonstrates 18th-century military justice. The chambers’ cramped conditions and limited ventilation show the harsh reality of war prisoners’ treatment.
Local Dining Options
Thotada Mane and Halli Mane restaurants serve authentic Karnataka thalis (180-280) with local specialties. Both establishments offer traditional ambiance and regional cuisine. Street food near temple includes dosa, idli, and local sweets at 50-120 per item.
Photography and Videography Guidelines
Palace museum charges 25 camera fee for interior photography. Mausoleum and temple allow free photography. Fort ruins have no restrictions. Drone photography requires prior permission from Archaeological Survey of India.
Historical Context and Educational Value
Srirangapatna served as Mysore kingdom’s capital during Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan’s reigns (1761-1799). The island’s strategic location surrounded by Kaveri river provided natural defense. Tipu’s innovations in rocket warfare, silk production, and administrative reforms originated from this capital.
Nearby Attractions to Combine
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (3 km) offers boat rides among birds and crocodiles. Brindavan Gardens (16 km) features musical fountain shows. Combine all three for complete day trip covering history, nature, and entertainment.
Souvenir Shopping
Local handicrafts include miniature palace replicas (200-800), Tipu Sultan portraits (150-500), and traditional Karnataka items. Government-approved shops near major attractions ensure authentic products with fixed pricing.
Monsoon and Weather Considerations
Best visiting months: October-March with pleasant weather. Monsoon season (June-September) brings lush greenery but potential flooding near river areas. Summer months (April-May) require early morning starts to avoid afternoon heat.
Accessibility and Facilities
Most attractions offer wheelchair access with ramps and paved pathways. Restroom facilities available at palace and temple complexes. Drinking water stations present at major sites. First aid available at temple and palace locations.
Educational Programs and Guided Tours
Archaeological Survey of India organizes educational programs for school groups. Professional guides available for 500-800 providing detailed historical context. Audio guides in multiple languages offered at palace museum for 50 rental.
Budget Planning for Srirangapatna Tour
Solo traveler: 800-1,200 including transportation, entry fees, food, and guide. Family of 4: 2,500-3,500 for complete experience. Budget breakdown: fuel 300, entries 600, food 800, guide 800.
Local’s Verdict on Srirangapatna
Essential for understanding South Indian history and Tipu Sultan’s legacy. The combination of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural setting makes it worthwhile. Single day suffices for casual visitors, though history enthusiasts may need longer. Best value historical destination near Mysore.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time needed to cover all Tipu Sultan sites in Srirangapatna?
5-6 hours allows comfortable coverage of all major sites including Daria Daulat Palace, Gumbaz, fort, and temple.
What are the total entry fees for Srirangapatna attractions?
150 per person covers all paid attractions. Gumbaz mausoleum and temple visits are free.
Is guided tour necessary for Srirangapatna historical sites?
While not mandatory, guides provide valuable historical context and stories for 500-800 for complete tour.
Can Srirangapatna be combined with other day trip destinations?
Yes, easily combined with Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (3km) and Brindavan Gardens (16km) for full day trip.
What’s the best time to visit Tipu Sultan’s summer palace?
Early morning 9-11 AM offers cooler weather and fewer crowds for better photography and exploration.
Last Updated: August 2025
Next Update: Winter season travel guide 2025