Srirangapatna is a historic city 13 kms from Mysore with huge cultural, religious and historic heritage. Srirangapatna looking like an island surrounded by Cauvery river - was the capital of the warrior kings Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan – The tiger of Mysore.
Srirangapatna was the former capital of Mysore State when it was ruled by Hyder Ali, and later his son Tipu Sultan. Situated 13 kms from Mysore, Srirangapatna has great religious, cultural and historic importance. It was founded in 894 AD by chieftain Thirumalain.
Locate on an island carved out by the Cauvery River, Srirangapatna is sprinkled with temples, palaces and mosques all of which have a tale to tell. The sacred Paschima Vahini section of the Cauvery also flows through the town.
The town is was named after Sri Ranganatha (a form of Lord Vishnu), whose temple is amongst the primary attractions in Srirangapatna and is flocked with pilgrims all around the year.
Located at about 140 kilometers from Bangalore and 15 kilometers from Mysore, Srirangapatnam is the biggest of the three islands in the river Kaveri. The island, five kilometers long and two kilometers wide, derives its name from the deity of the temple located on its western side.
The island has something for everyone. For those who are turned on by history, there are many monuments here spanning a thousand years. All the major dynasties of the South have left their relics and monuments here-the Hoysalas of the 11th century, the Vijayanagar kings of Chandragiri in the 17th century, the Hyder Ali-Tipu Sultan clan that came after them, and finally, the French and the British.
For the naturalist and those contemplative ones who seek quiet spots, this island is a delight. And for the devotees, there are temples, mosques, a church, and a Jain basdi. You could hire an auto-rickshaw and go around, and if you have the time, walk around.
Srirangapatna is an island town encircled by river Cauvery. The temple of Lord Sriranganatha is said to have been built by the Chieftain Thirumalaiah in 894 AD. This was once the capital of Hyder Ali & his son Tipu Sultan, "The Tiger of Mysore". In the 18th century, Marathas attacked Srirangapatna & forced heavy payments. Hyder drew back the Marathas & saved the Kingdom. In 1799 Tippu fought a fierce Battle (Battle of Mysore) against the British & fell bravely defending his capital. Srirangapatna remains in a ruined state recalling the Battles fought & the past glory.
Srirangapatna has a history dating back to the Vijayanagar Empire when it was the seat of power for an important viceroyalty and from where Mysore, Talakad and other provinces were controlled. With the decline of the Vijayanagar empire, Srirangapatna came under the control of Raja Wodeyar. As Mysore didn't have a fort of its own, the fort at Srirangapatna became the defacto last line of defence for the Mysore State during times of war.
When Tipu Sultan ("The Tiger of Mysore") took control of Mysore, Srirangpatna became his capital. In 1799, Tipu Sultan died in his fort in battle against British forces. Much of the town and the royal treasures were plundered by the British. Following their victory, the capital of Mysore State was shifted to Mysore.
Air: Mysore domestic airport is the nearest air terminal, which is nearly 14 km away from Srirangapatnam. Taxi facilities are available in the airport and taxi fare is about Rs 300 from Mysore to Srinrangapatna. Bangalore is the nearest international airport which is at a distance of 140 km away from Mysore. There are regular flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in India. Bangalore is connected to many international cities as well. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna which costs about Rs 3000.
Rail: Mysore railway station is the nearest railhead to Srirangapatna. Mysore is connected to Bangalore, which is 140 km away. Bangalore is well connected to all the other cities in India. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna which costs about Rs 3000.
Road: There are excellent bus services provided by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation connecting Srirangapatna to other nearby cities. Vanities of tourist buses, A/C, super fast and Deluxe Volvo buses, are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna and fare is about Rs 4 to 5 per km.
The Karnataka State Tourist Development runs a hotel, which is located on the riverbank. There is also a traveler's bungalow operated by the Public Works Department.