Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna (Srirangapatnam) is an island in the middle of the sacred Cauvery River. This is a place of great historical, cultural and religious significance. This was once a capital of the Kingdom of Mysore during the rule of Tipu Sultan and the site of many important historical buildings.

Once a fortified city, the remains of Tipu’s Fort can still be seen today. The fort is a complex housing several important monuments and buildings. It is from here that Tipu Sultan launched an assault against the British and an obelisk marks the place where he died in battle. Near one of the gates of the Fort is the Jama Masjid, the mosque built by Tipu Sultan in 1787 when he ascended to the throne of Mysore.

Just outside the fort set in lush gardens, the Gumbaz was built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century as a mausoleum where his father Hyder Ali, the former sultan and ruler, and mother Fatima Begum were laid to rest, and later Tipu Sultan himself. Another popular attraction is Daria Daulat Bagh, Tipu Sultan's summer palace.

The majestic Sri Ranganathaswamy temple dominates the town and is an important pilgrimage center for Vaishnavites, Hindu worshipers of lord Vishnu. This important temple was built during the 9th century and is dedicated to lord Vishnu in his form as Ranganatha, Vishnu reclining on the serpent.

Practical Info:

Srirangapatna is located 80 miles southwest of Bangalore and 12 miles north of Mysore, on the Bangalore-Mysore road. It is easily accessible by bus or train from either city. s or train from either city.