Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam Mysore
Iconic dam with stunning Brindavan Gardens, musical fountains, a botanical park, and a relocated 12th-century temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam Mysore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic dam with stunning Brindavan Gardens, musical fountains, a botanical park, and a relocated 12th-century temple.
"A must-visit for its blend of engineering marvel, natural beauty, and captivating evening light shows."
🎯 Arrive Early for Gardens
Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brindavan Gardens' tranquility before the peak hours. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and dam area. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brindavan Gardens
Adjacent to KRS Dam
Iconic terraced gardens with vibrant fountains, especially mesmerizing during the musical fountain show.
Venugopala Swamy Temple
Hosa Kannambadi
A stunning 12th-century Hoysala temple, once submerged, now beautifully restored near the dam.
KRS Dam Lake & Boat Rides
KRS Dam
Enjoy serene boat rides on the expansive lake, offering unique perspectives of the dam and surrounding landscape.
Botanical Gardens
KRS Dam
A peaceful retreat with diverse flora, perfect for a leisurely stroll and appreciating nature's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to KRS Dam
What to Expect at KRS Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Gardens
Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brindavan Gardens' tranquility before the peak hours. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and dam area. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Don't Miss the Fountain Show
The musical fountain show in Brindavan Gardens is a must-see spectacle. Check timings! :musical_score:
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
While there are vendors, carrying your own can save time and money. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Gardens
Beat the crowds and enjoy the Brindavan Gardens' tranquility before the peak hours. :camerawithflash:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and dam area. :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Don't Miss the Fountain Show
The musical fountain show in Brindavan Gardens is a must-see spectacle. Check timings! :musical_score:
💧 Carry Water & Snacks
While there are vendors, carrying your own can save time and money. :water_wave:
📸 Capture Drone Shots
If you have a drone, the aerial views of the dam and gardens are breathtaking. :drone:
🏛️ Explore the Temple
The Venugopala Swamy Temple is a historical marvel worth visiting. :temple_building:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the enchanting Brindavan Gardens, especially the mesmerizing musical fountain show, and the serene beauty of the KRS Dam lake. The restored Venugopala Swamy Temple is a highlight for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Some find the food options basic and crowds can be overwhelming on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
KRS Dam is conveniently located about 15 km from Mysore city. You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Mysore. Local buses also ply regularly to the dam. Many visitors opt for a day trip from Mysore, combining it with other local attractions.
For flexibility and comfort, hiring a private taxi or using ride-sharing apps is recommended. This allows you to explore the surrounding areas like the Venugopala Swamy Temple and Yedamuri Falls at your own pace.
Yes, local buses from Mysore to Srirangapatna or directly to KRS Dam are available, though they might be less frequent and comfortable than private options.
KRS Dam is approximately 140-150 km from Bangalore, making it a feasible but longer day trip or an overnight stay destination.
Yes, ample parking is available at KRS Dam and Brindavan Gardens, though it can get busy during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is usually a nominal entry fee for Brindavan Gardens, especially for the musical fountain show. The dam itself is generally accessible without a separate ticket, but specific areas might have charges. It's best to check current rates upon arrival.
Brindavan Gardens typically opens in the morning and closes in the evening. The musical fountain show has specific timings, usually in the evening, which vary by season.
The Venugopala Swamy Temple is a place of worship and generally has free entry. However, donations are always welcome.
Advance booking for the musical fountain is usually not required, but it's advisable to arrive a bit early to secure good viewing spots, especially on weekends.
General photography is allowed, but commercial photography or drone usage might require special permissions. Check local signage for specific rules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the impressive KRS Dam structure, the beautifully landscaped Brindavan Gardens with its musical fountains, the serene botanical park, and the historic Venugopala Swamy Temple. Boat rides on the KRS lake are also popular.
The musical fountain show is typically held in the evenings. Timings can vary, so it's best to confirm the schedule upon arrival or check local tourism websites.
Yes, Brindavan Gardens offers open spaces for children to play, and the fountains are a major attraction. Boat rides can also be enjoyed by families.
This 12th-century Hoysala-era temple was submerged for decades due to the dam's construction and has been meticulously relocated and restored, showcasing exquisite architecture and a unique history.
Swimming in the dam or the main lake is generally not permitted due to safety reasons and strong currents. Stick to designated boating areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several food stalls and small restaurants within Brindavan Gardens and near the dam, offering local snacks and meals.
You can find typical South Indian snacks like chaat, bhel puri, and local delicacies. For a more substantial meal, there are restaurants offering North and South Indian cuisine.
Food quality can vary. While convenient, some visitors prefer to eat at restaurants in Mysore before or after their visit for a wider selection and potentially better quality.
Yes, bringing your own food and water is a good idea, especially if you have specific dietary needs or want to save money. There are designated areas where you can picnic.
Fine dining options are limited directly at the dam. For a more upscale dining experience, it's best to return to Mysore city.
📸 📸 Photography
The Brindavan Gardens, especially during the musical fountain show, offer stunning photo opportunities. The dam itself, the lake, and the Venugopala Swamy Temple are also picturesque.
Drone usage might be restricted or require special permits. It's advisable to check with local authorities or security personnel before flying a drone.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for landscape shots. Evenings are perfect for capturing the illuminated gardens and the vibrant musical fountain show.
Many visitors recommend capturing the panoramic views of the dam from the viewpoints, the symmetry of the Brindavan Gardens, and the intricate carvings of the Venugopala Swamy Temple.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gardens and dam. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the temple. A tripod is essential for low-light photography during the fountain show.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the dam itself is impressive, the real magic for kids lies in the gardens. The botanical park can also be a gentle introduction to nature. Ensure comfortable footwear for everyone, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. The Venugopala Swamy Temple might be less engaging for very young children, but its story can be simplified for older kids interested in history.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Venugopala Swamy Temple presents opportunities for architectural photography, with its intricate Hoysala carvings. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. If you have a drone, the aerial views of the dam and the vast reservoir are spectacular, though ensure you have the necessary permissions. Don't forget to explore the Yedmuri and Balmuri Falls nearby for unique waterfall shots.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider researching the history of the Kaveri River and its importance to Karnataka before your visit. The dam's construction also had social implications, displacing villages, which adds another layer to its historical narrative. Understanding these aspects will enrich your appreciation of the site beyond its visual appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: KRS Dam
The sheer scale of the dam is impressive, creating a vast reservoir that is vital for the region's agricultural and water needs. Visitors can walk along the dam's crest, offering panoramic views of the water body and the surrounding landscape. The dam's strategic importance and historical context make it more than just a tourist spot; it's a testament to early 20th-century engineering prowess.
Experiencing the dam involves appreciating its functional beauty and understanding its impact on the local ecosystem and communities. The water released from the dam also feeds the picturesque Brindavan Gardens, creating a symbiotic relationship between the engineering marvel and its recreational counterpart.
Brindavan Gardens: A Symphony of Water and Light
The highlight for most visitors is the musical fountain show, where water jets dance in sync with music and colorful lights. This enchanting display transforms the gardens into a magical wonderland, drawing crowds every evening. It's a perfect spot for families and couples to enjoy a delightful evening.
Beyond the fountains, the gardens offer pleasant walking paths, boat rides on the KRS lake, and a children's play area. The botanical park within the gardens is also a serene escape, showcasing a diverse collection of plants. Visiting Brindavan Gardens is an essential part of the KRS Dam experience, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic entertainment.
The Resurrected Temple: Venugopala Swamy Temple
For nearly 70 years, the temple lay hidden beneath the water. Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, a massive effort was undertaken to relocate and restore the temple. Stone by stone, the temple was meticulously dismantled, moved to higher ground at Hosa Kannambadi, and reassembled, preserving its intricate carvings and Hoysala architectural elements.
Today, the restored Venugopala Swamy Temple stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship and a unique story of preservation. Its proximity to the KRS Dam makes it a compelling addition to any itinerary, providing a spiritual and historical counterpoint to the dam's engineering marvel.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit