Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon Srirangapatna – History & Guide

Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon – An Insightful Perspective on Srirangapatna ’s Historical Significance

Col Bailey's Dungeon
Colonel Bailey's Dungeon, Srirangapatna (Stone marker)

If you are exploring Srirangapatna and its rich layers of history, Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon is one landmark you must not miss. This underground prison once housed British officers captured during the Anglo-Mysore Wars by Tipu Sultan, also known as the Tiger of Mysore.

Located within the Srirangapatna Fort, very close to the famous Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, this dungeon lies beneath an oblong bastion known as Sultan Bateri. Hidden from the eyes of passers-by, this eerie structure still echoes the horrors and heroics of 18th-century warfare.

In this post, you will discover:

✓ Rare and fascinating facts about Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon
✓ Interesting photographs captured during my visit
✓ The best time to visit and helpful travel tips
✓ Other must-visit places in Srirangapatna (just follow the labels at the end!)

Stay with me till the end—you are going to love this deep dive into history.

History of Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon

Colonel Bailey's Dungeon
Towards Colonel Bailey's Dungeon

Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon is an 18th-century underground prison built during the reign of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Mysore Kingdom. The dungeon is white-walled and built entirely using brick and lime mortar. This haunting site once imprisoned British soldiers and officers caught during the Anglo-Mysore conflicts.

One of the most notable prisoners was Colonel William Bailey (Baillie), who was captured at the Battle of Pollilur in 1780 during the Second Anglo-Mysore War. He endured months of imprisonment in these very chambers.

Colonel Baileys Dungeon Prisoners
Chambers were prisoners were tied up - Col Baileys Dungeon

Sadly, Colonel Bailey could not survive the brutal conditions and died in 1782, making him the only British officer to lose his life inside this dungeon. The site was later named in his memory.

Other prominent prisoners included:

  • Captain Baird
  • Colonel Braithwaite
  • Colonel Rulay
  • Colonel Sampson
  • Colonel Frazer
  • Colonel Lindsay
According to historical accounts, the prisoners were chained to stone slabs, stripped naked, and subjected to harsh, inhuman treatment. It is believed that some were immersed in water up to their necks while being tied to fixed iron hooks—an unimaginable punishment that shows the severity of the conflicts of that era.

Architecture & Features of Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon

The architecture of Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon is surprisingly captivating for a prison:

Symmetric Arches Col Baileys Dungeon
Symmetric Arches - Col Baileys Dungeon

Symmetric Arches

One of the dungeon’s most striking features is its series of symmetric arches. These arches, bulbous in shape like the domes of a masjid, meet at the ceiling to form beautiful curves. This design surprisingly allowed prisoners to stand at full height.

Dimensions

The dungeon measures:
• 30.5 metres (100 ft) long
• 12.2 metres (40 ft) wide

It abuts the fort wall and features a raised platform fitted with stone slabs that contain holes for chains and hooks to restrain prisoners.

Cannon That Pierced The Dungeon Roof

Conon pierced the wall - Col Baileys Dungeon
Canon that pierced the wall - Colonel Bailey's Dungeon

During the final battle of 1799, when the British stormed Srirangapatna, a large cannon pierced the dungeon roof. The huge opening still remains visible today, and the cannon used in the attack is displayed nearby—offering an unforgettable visual reminder of the fierce siege.

Steps Leading Underground

Entry to the dungeon is through a set of narrow steps from ground level. As soon as you step inside, the temperature drops, the light dims, and history starts to feel hauntingly real.

Why You Should Visit Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon

Historical Market Col Baileys Dungeon
Historical Marker - Colonel Bailey's Dungeon

If you seek a true “feel the history” moment in Srirangapatna, this dungeon will not disappoint. This site is more than just a structure—it is a powerful reminder of the turbulent past of the Mysore kingdom. Standing within these walls, you can almost sense the intensity of the battles and the resilience of the prisoners.

It makes for an unforgettable historical experience, great photographs, and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, families, students, and travellers exploring Srirangapatna.

Visitor Information

⏱ Visiting Hours:
Open throughout the day. No specific timings.

💵 Entry Fee:
Absolutely free.

🚗 Parking:
Plenty of space is available for cars.

🍴 Food & Water:

Shops and eateries are available within walking distance.

Nearby Attractions

Srirangapatna is filled with historical gems. Once you're done exploring the dungeon, don’t miss:
  • The Obelisk Monument – a tribute to the 1799 Siege
  • Delhi Gate – another neglected yet fascinating heritage point
  • Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – one of the most sacred shrines in Karnataka
  • Lal Mahal Palace – once Tipu Sultan’s magnificent residence
Follow the label “Places to see in Srirangapatna” to explore all attractions in one place.

Nearby Restaurants

There are several decent family restaurants along the highway.

(We’ll soon update a complete list of recommended dining spots!)

Explore More Destinations

Want to extend your trip? Discover more places here:

👉 Mysuru
👉 Srirangapatna
👉 Coorg (Coming Soon)
👉 Mangaluru (Coming Soon)

All available through the internal links on MysoreTravel.com.

I hope you enjoyed this immersive journey into the past of Colonel Bailey’s Dungeon in Srirangapatna. This place truly deserves a spot on your travel itinerary if you're exploring the heritage trail of Mysuru.

Thank you for reading and supporting MysoreTravel.com.

If you know a great eatery or an interesting tourist spot that deserves to be featured on the blog, I’d love to hear from you! Please visit the Contact page for email and WhatsApp details.

If you’d like to support this blog and help us keep exploring and documenting more hidden gems, consider sponsoring us through the Support Us page.

Happy travelling! 🌿

External reference: Wikipedia
Location: Srirangapatna, Karnataka 571438, India

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