Krishna Raja Sagara

Krishna Raja Sagara Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam, near Mysore in Karnataka, India, is a remarkable blend of engineering excellence, historical significance, and scenic beauty. Conceived in the early 20th century under the reign of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and engineered by Sir M. Visvesvaraya, KRS was instrumental in transforming the region’s agriculture, water supply, and power generation. Today, KRS and the adjacent Brindavan Gardens serve as major attractions for tourists, offering a unique combination of history, technology, and leisure. This guide provides detailed information on KRS visiting hours, ticketing, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a well-planned and enriching visit. For more in-depth resources, consult Indian Panorama, Mysore Tourism, and Karnataka Tourism.

Introduction
Historical Background and Engineering Feats
Socio-Economic and Environmental Impact
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips
Major Attractions and Activities
Accommodation and Dining
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Background and Engineering Feats

Visionary Origins

The KRS Dam’s inception was driven by the need to combat severe droughts and water scarcity in the Mysore region. Under Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV’s leadership and the expertise of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the foundation was laid in 1911. Despite the era’s financial and technical constraints, the project was completed in the 1920s, representing a milestone in Indian engineering (Wikipedia; Indian Panorama).

Engineering Highlights

Design: Gravity dam constructed using surki mortar (lime, brick powder, jaggery), chosen due to cement scarcity at the time.
Dimensions: Approximately 2,620 meters long and nearly 40 meters high, with a storage capacity of over 49 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet).
Technological Innovations: Introduction of automated crest gates for controlled water release, and provisions for hydroelectric power generation supplying the Shivanasamudra station (Holidify; TravelTriangle).
Construction Challenges: Mobilization of thousands of workers, overcoming logistical hurdles, and securing funds during economic hardship.

Socio-Economic and Environmental Impact

Irrigation and Agriculture

KRS enabled large-scale irrigation across Mandya and Mysore districts, turning the region into a fertile agricultural belt for crops like sugarcane and paddy (Indian Panorama).

Urban Water Supply

It remains the primary source of drinking water for Mysore, Mandya, and Bengaluru, while also supporting water needs downstream in Tamil Nadu (Wikipedia).

Hydroelectric Power

The dam supports the Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Station, contributing to early electrification and industrialization in southern Karnataka (Holidify).

Environmental and Aesthetic Value

KRS reservoir and its surroundings, including Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, support rich biodiversity. The adjoining Brindavan Gardens, designed by Gustav Hermann Krumbiegel and planned by Diwan Sir Mirza Ismail, offer a lush, ornamental landscape (Wikipedia).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips

Visiting Hours

KRS Dam Promenade: Generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Brindavan Gardens: 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily. The musical fountain show runs in the evenings, typically from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM (timings may vary seasonally) (Holidify; Brindavan Gardens).

Tickets and Entry Fees

Brindavan Gardens:
- Adults: ₹50
- Children (5–10 years): ₹10
- Camera/video: Extra charges may apply.
KRS Dam: Entry is usually free, though special sections or events may require a nominal fee (Indian Panorama).
Ticket Purchase: Tickets are primarily sold onsite; check Karnataka Tourism for online booking updates.

Getting There

By Road: 18 km from Mysuru via Mysuru-KRS Road; 143 km from Bengaluru via NH 275. Ample parking is available.
By Rail: Mysuru Junction is the nearest major station. Srirangapatna station is closer but less frequently served.
By Air: Mysuru Airport is 30 km away; Bengaluru International Airport is about 180 km away.

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Pleasant weather, gardens in bloom, and optimal water levels for dam and fountain shows.
Monsoon & Post-Monsoon (July–February): Reservoir is full, and gardens are lush. Peak summer (March–May) is less ideal due to low water and heat (Travel Earth).

Major Attractions and Activities

Brindavan Gardens

Highlights: Symmetrical lawns, terraced architecture, vibrant flowerbeds, and the renowned musical fountain show in the evenings (Wildlife Zones).
Boating: Rowboats and motorboats available on the central lake.
Photography: Stunning backdrops, especially after sunset with illuminated fountains.

KRS Dam

Engineering Marvel: Observe the massive structure and water release during monsoon.
Viewpoints: Designated areas offer panoramic vistas of the reservoir and gardens.

Accommodation and Dining

Onsite: Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace & Spa provides luxury stays with garden views.
Nearby: Mysuru and Srirangapatna offer budget to upscale hotels; Hotel Mayura Cauveri (KSTDC) is close to the gardens (Karnataka Tourism).
Food: Garden eateries and hotel restaurants serve regional and multi-cuisine fare.

Nearby Attractions

Srirangapatna: Historic sites such as Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and Gumbaz (Chalo Ghumane).
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: 15–20 km away, famous for birdwatching and boat rides.
Venugopala Swamy Temple: Relocated Hoysala temple on KRS backwaters (Star of Mysore).
Mysuru City: Attractions include Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and the zoo (Indian Visit; Trip Planners India).
Shivanasamudra Falls: Spectacular twin falls and historic hydroelectric site, about 70 km from KRS.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Available at the main entrance and within gardens.
Shops: Souvenirs and regional crafts are sold at various kiosks.
Accessibility: Main pathways are paved; some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Battery Carts: Available for elderly or differently-abled visitors for a nominal fee.
First Aid: Provided at the main entrance; major hospitals are in Mysuru.

Safety and Visitor Guidelines

Dam Access: Restricted during high inflow or maintenance for safety.
Swimming/Fishing: Prohibited in the reservoir and canals.
Littering: Fines imposed for littering; use designated bins.
Crowds: Weekends and festivals are crowded; arrive early for better parking and views.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam visiting hours?
A: Dam promenade: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; Brindavan Gardens: 6:30 AM–9:00 PM.

Q: How much are tickets for Brindavan Gardens?
A: ₹50 for adults, ₹10 for children; camera/video charges extra.

Q: Can I book tickets online?
A: Most tickets are sold at the entrance. Check Karnataka Tourism for updates.

Q: Is the site accessible for people with mobility challenges?
A: Main pathways are accessible; some areas have steps or uneven terrain.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: October to March for pleasant weather and vibrant gardens.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Srirangapatna, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Mysuru Palace, and Shivanasamudra Falls.

Visuals and Media

Alt: Illuminated musical fountain show at Brindavan Gardens during evening hours. Alt: Panoramic view of Krishna Raja Sagara Dam with water flowing through sluice gates.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Krishna Raja Sagara Dam exemplifies visionary leadership, innovative engineering, and sustainable development. Alongside the Brindavan Gardens and nearby historical sites, it offers visitors a multifaceted journey through Karnataka’s heritage and natural beauty. Plan your visit by considering hours, ticketing, and the best season for travel. For real-time updates, ticketing options, and insider tips, download the Audiala app and explore further guides on Mysore’s historical wonders.