Srirangapatna Fort
As a state, Mysore holds a lot of historical relevance. This region has seen so many rules and rulers, making it an essential site for historical events. And if there can be anything that stands as the most vital form of historical evidence, it is the ancient historical structures and formations. Mysore also is no exception. Around the city, many beautiful structures still stand tall in their glory. These constructions have already passed the test of time, and now, they are popular and famous sites among tourists. One such location is the Srirangapatna Fort in Mysore.
Moreover, the Srirangapatna Fort Mysore holds a lot of history, and it has been a witness to many historical events as well. Forts are ideal places when it comes to knowing the history of a particular land. And nothing can give you a view of days gone back than a fort. The Srirangapatna Fort does precisely that, as it reflects the life and deeds of the rulers who ruled back then. Srirangapatna Fort Tipu Sultan comes hand in hand, and I will explain it all here. I will mention all kinds of Srirangapatna Fort information you might need in this article. So keep reading this article to get an idea about this location and plan a trip later.
Srirangapatna Fort Address
Srirangapatna Fort, Sriranagapatna, Mandya, Mysore, Karnataka
Srirangapatna Fort Timings
The hours of operation of Srirangapatna Fort are from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Sunday. The last entry is 5:45 pm.
Srirangapatna Fort entry fee
No entry fee
Overview of Srirangapatna Fort
The Srirangapatna Fort is a must-visit place in Mysore. As a town, Srirangapatna holds a lot of importance as once upon a time, this location was the capital of Tipu Sultan. For obvious reasons, a lot of historical relevance is also attached to this location. It is one of the most popular sightseeing places in Mysore, and you should visit this spot. What is most attractive about this particular fort is the fact that this fort is one of the strongest forts in India. It has double walls and four massive gates, making it a more robust construction. She was also known as the Tipu Sultan Fort; Tipu Sultan’s residence is inside this fort.
How to reach Srirangapatna Fort
- By air
If you are willing to travel by flight from any nearby city, then the nearest airport is the Mysore Airport. From there, the fort is 32 km away, and you can easily reach it in about 44 minutes. However, Bangalore Airport is the nearest international airport. This airport is around 169 km away, and it would take a little more than 3 hours to reach the fort from there.
- By train
The Srirangapatna railway station is only a km away from the Srirangapatna fort. Also, the Mysore railway station is the nearest railway station, which is only 16 km away. You can easily reach the Srirangapatna fort in about 30 minutes.
- By road
The fort is located only 23 km away from the main city centre of Mysore. You can quickly get frequent buses from Mysore and Bangalore. Srirangapatna Fort’s distance from Bangalore is 129 km, and you can reach it in about 2 hours and 31 minutes. You can also hire taxis or get a car to come here via the Bangalore-Mysore highway. Local transport, like auto rickshaws, is also available here.
History of Srirangapatna Fort
From its construction in 1454, the Srirangapatna Fort has witnessed many changes and renovations. However, the primary purpose behind establishing this fort was to create a defence centre for the state. Therefore, everything that followed was because of that sole reason. At first, however, the construction of this fort took place using mud. It happened during the rule of the Vijayanagara chieftain Timmanna Hebbar.
Later, when the Vijayanagara rule ended, this region was under the control of the Mysore king Kanthirava Narasaraja Wodeyer. In 1654, there was a fortification here. During his reign, this fort was a prime location for a strong military force. General Hyder Ali was the commander. However, in 1757, Hyder Ali lost this fort to the Marathas at a cost of 32 lakh rupees. But soon, he could regain it as well.
Later, in 1782, during the rule of Tipu Sultan, the son of Hyder Ali, the fort saw new fortifications. Many times, the British had tried to invade Tipu Sultan’s territory. Tipu Sultan, however, had an alliance with the French and appealed to Napoleon for some assistance. With the French aid, his fort was modified. The French architects fortified the fort to suit the growing need for defence against the invaders and attackers. But after many unsuccessful attempts, finally, in 1799, the British army defeated Tipu Sultan, and he was killed inside the fort itself.
Architecture of Srirangapatna Fort
This fort followed a very distinct Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The style of architecture is something that visitors here find very alluring. At the gateway of the fort, you can find a Persian inscription. This inscription mentions the exact date when this fort was constructed. It has 4 massive gates: the Delhi Gate, Mysore Gate, Bangalore Gate and Elephant Gate. Along with that, what is extremely attractive here is the double wall system. As the primary purpose of this fort was to maintain utmost security, everything you see here reflects the same idea of defence.
On three sides of the fort, there are double walls that are almost 40 feet high, which definitely makes it one of the strongest forts in India. Inside the fort, there is a specific area, Rocket Court. It is the same area where Tipu Sultan and his army used to launch missiles at enemies. Also, the fort is protected by a river on three sides. The river Kaveri surrounded the fort from the west and northern sides.
The Lal Mahal is another major attraction of the Srirangapatna Fort. This is the residence of Tipu Sultan. However, the palace is in ruins at present. But here is a board that marks and describes everything about the palace well. Additionally, the architecture of the Lal Mahal is striking in appearance. It is undoubtedly an example of the finest artistic architecture. This palace consists of a quarter for the women, Zenara. Along with that, there is a library and an audience hall.
This fort was well-equipped and spread across 240 acres. It could easily house around 1500 houses and 6000 people inside. There were 2 chambers inside the fort for keeping the prisoners. These were the dungeons. There is a mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple here. You can also spot various paintings on the walls. Some of these paintings depict the glorious victory of Tipu Sultan as well. Another major attraction is the Chatur Vimsati pillar, which has 24 forms of Lord Vishnu.
Light and Sound Show
Every day at 7:20 pm, there is a light and sound show in the fort, which is also a major attraction here. The ticket price is Rs. 50 per person, and children below 12 years of age are free. This show lasts 40 minutes, and the language is Kannada. Unfortunately, the show is not available in any other language. This show narrates the stories from history using the sound and lights. It is a captivating watch explaining how the power capital shifted from Mysore to Srirangapatna. There are snippets of the Dasara festival and a sneak peek into the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Furthermore, it shows various military conquests and the achievements of the rulers.
Other than that, there are structures such as Jumma Masjid, Summer Palace, Cannons, Dungeons, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, etc. It can be a pleasant experience, so if possible, try to attend this show.
Other places to visit near Srirangapatna Fort
- Daria Daulat Bagh
- Jumma Masjid/ Masjid-a-Ala
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Gumbaz
Wrapping Up!
To know about a chunk of Mysore and the importance of the location of Srirangapatna in history, a visit to this fort is a must. With a visit here, you will get a clear insight into the achievements and conquests of Tipu Sultan. Also, you will have a fair share of the history of the animal world. Moreouctures like this fort are examples of architectural mastery. And you would certainly be in awe after looking at this massive structure. A lot of thought went into the construction of this fort. And it indeed reflects a lot about the days that are long gone.
For a history buff, visiting a fort like this can be one of the most amazing experiences. Additionally, the Srirangapatna Fort will provide insight into the rules of Vijayanagar, Maratha, and British rule. Seeing the formation with your own eyes is an enriching experience. So, if you are visiting there, ensure you include Srirangapatna Fort Mysore in your itinerary. You will be happy staying here. Let me know if this article is helpful for you.
