Srirangapatna

The town’s popular attraction in town is Tipu's Summer Palace, erected in 1784 in honor of Tipu's victory over the British. Its main draw is its intricate Indo-Saracenic architecture and beautiful interiors. The old fort is also a highlight, as is the Jama Masjid mosque and the tombs of Tipu and his parents. Most visitors to Srirangapatna come as part of a guided tour from Mysore or Bangalore.

• Srirangapatna is a must-visit for history buffs.
• Photography is not allowed inside the summer palace.
• Remember to wear comfortable shoes as getting around the sights here requires a good deal of walking.

Srirangapatna is located 80 miles (129 kilometers) southwest of Bangalore and 12 miles (19 kilometers) north of Mysore, on the Bangalore-Mysore road. There's a small railway station right in the town and a slightly larger one in the adjacent town of Palahalli, a 10-minute drive away, but it’s generally easier to visit as part of a guided tour or with a private taxi.

Attractions at Srirangapatna are open daily, but it’s a good idea to arrive earlier in the day, when crowds are fewest. If you’re visiting during the rainy monsoon season (roughly June through September), set out extra early, as there will be more traffic.

While many visitors come to see Tipu sites, it’s worth sticking around to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. This beautiful, Dravidian-style 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, depicted reclining on a serpent.