Gumbaz, Srirangapatna – Timings, History, Entry Fee & Travel Guide

Gumbaz - Srirangapatna
Gumbaz - Srirangapatna

If you are exploring the historic town of Srirangapatna, one place that quietly commands respect, emotion, and history is the Gumbaz. This serene mausoleum is the final resting place of Tipu Sultan, known as the Tiger of Mysore, along with his father, Haider Ali, and his mother, Fakhr-Un-Nisa.

Surrounded by lush gardens and a calm spiritual atmosphere, the Gumbaz is not just a monument—it is a place where history feels alive. Whether you are a history lover, visiting Srirangapatna for the first time, or simply seeking a peaceful experience, the Gumbaz is absolutely worth your time.

History and Background of Gumbaz, Srirangapatna

The Gumbaz was built between 1782 and 1784 by Tipu Sultan as a mausoleum for his father Haider Ali and his mother. After Tipu Sultan’s death during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War in 1799, he was also laid to rest here.

Gumbaz Srirangapatna Karnataka
Gumbaz, Srirangapatna, Karnataka

One of the most fascinating moments in history associated with the Gumbaz is Tipu Sultan’s burial. After the fall of Srirangapatna, the British allowed him to be buried beside his parents with full military honours. His funeral procession included European soldiers, and his son Abdul Khaliq acted as the chief mourner.

Historical records also mention a severe thunderstorm during the burial, adding a dramatic layer to this already emotional event.

It is fascinating to note that the Gumbaz was originally surrounded by an elegant cypress garden, filled with flowering plants and trees personally collected by Tipu Sultan from regions such as Persia, Ottoman Turkey, Kabul, and Mauritius.

In 1792, towards the end of the Third Anglo-Mysore War, the grounds of the Gumbaz were briefly occupied by British Indian forces. The area was converted into a military camp, and many of the cypress trees surrounding the tomb of Haider Ali were cut down and used as tent poles and fascines.

The once-beautiful flower beds around the mausoleum were disturbed to bury soldiers who fell in battle. The landscaped lawns were repurposed for exercising horses, while the walkways were used for target practice. Even the choultry, originally meant to shelter Muslim fakirs, was converted into a makeshift hospital to treat wounded soldiers.

Another lesser-known fact about the Gumbaz is that its original carved wooden doors are now preserved at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The present doors, made of ebony and decorated with ivory, were later gifted by Lord Dalhousie.

Location and How to Reach Gumbaz

The Gumbaz itself is a major landmark in Srirangapatna, located in Mandya district, Karnataka.

How to Reach Gumbaz, Srirangapatna

  • By Bus: KSRTC buses regularly connect Mysuru and Srirangapatna. From the bus stand, autos are easily available.
  • By Auto / Cab: Autos and cabs are the most convenient way to reach the Gumbaz from anywhere in Srirangapatna or Mysuru.
  • By Personal Vehicle: The easiest option. Simply follow Google Maps for accurate directions.
✅ Parking is available near the entrance.

Gumbaz Timings, Entry Fee & Rules

Gumbaz Timings

  • Opening Time: 08:00 AM
  • Closing Time: 06:30 PM
  • Open on: All days, including weekends and public holidays

Gumbaz Entry Fee

  • Adults: Free
  • Children: Free
  • Foreign Tourists: Free
There is no entry fee for Gumbaz. However, there is a fee to deposit your footwear. 

Rules, Dress Code & Photography

  • Dress Code: No strict dress code
  • Footwear: Must be removed before entering (footwear stand available)
  • Photography & Videography: Allowed
  • Food & Water: Allowed

Highlights and Things to See Inside Gumbaz Srirangapatna

The architectural and historical richness inside the Gumbaz is remarkable.

Main Graves Inside the Mausoleum

  • Centre: Haider Ali
  • East: Fakhr-Un-Niza (Tipu Sultan’s mother)
  • West: Tipu Sultan
Graves of Tipu Sultan, Haider Ali and Fakhr-Un-Niza
Graves of Tipu Sultan, Haider Ali and Fakhr-Un-Niza

Other Important Graves

On the veranda and surrounding areas, you’ll find the graves of:
  • Sultan Begum (Tipu’s sister)
  • Fatima Begum and Shazadi Begum (Tipu’s daughters)
  • Syed Shahbaz (Tipu’s son-in-law)
  • Several generals, relatives, and royal associates
There are multiple rows of graves, some marked and some unmarked, reflecting the complex royal and military history of the Mysore Kingdom.

Prince Nizamuddin Shahzadae Sultan Tipu
Prince Nizamuddin Shahzadae Sultan Tipu

Don’t Miss

  • The graves of Tipu Sultan, Haider Ali and Fakhr-Un-Nisa inside the Gumbaz
  • The beautiful black stone architecture
  • The peaceful gardens
  • The Masjid-e-Aqsa, a functioning mosque within the complex

How Much Time to Spend & Best Time to Visit Gumbaz

  • Time Required: Around 1 hour
  • Best Time of Day: Any time during visiting hours
  • Best Season: Can be visited throughout the year
⚠️ Weekends and holidays tend to be crowded. For a calmer experience, visit on a weekday morning.

Visitor Experience and Reviews Gumbaz

Visitors often describe the Gumbaz as serene, spiritual, and underrated.

Many appreciate:
  • The peaceful atmosphere
  • The well-maintained gardens
  • The absence of an entry fee
  • The freedom to take photographs
Some visitors note that weekends can be crowded. 

Personal Experience

I visited the Gumbaz in January 2026, and the place felt calm and beautifully maintained. The gardens were green, the monument was clean, and the fact that it is free for everyone makes it even more special. Photography is allowed, which is great for all kinds of travellers. 

Unmarked graves at Gumbaz
Unmarked graves at Gumbaz Complex

Nearby Attractions & Food Options

You can easily combine the Gumbaz with other attractions in one day.

Places to Visit Near Gumbaz

Food Options

Good restaurants and eateries are available along the Srirangapatna–Mysuru highway, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Spend time walking through the gardens—they’re part of the experience
  • Observe the interior design and centuries-old wall details
  • Shop for souvenirs near the main gate (bargain politely)
  • Horse rides are available nearby—kids usually love them
  • Carry water and wear a cap during the summer
  • Help preserve the monument by avoiding littering
Horse riding opportunities outside Gumbaz
Horse riding opportunities outside Gumbaz

Is Srirangapatna Gumbaz Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, yes.

The Gumbaz is a must-visit for:

  • History lovers
  • First-time visitors to Srirangapatna
  • Families, kids, and senior citizens
  • Photography enthusiasts
There’s truly no reason to skip this place if you’re in or around Srirangapatna.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gumbaz

What is Gumbaz famous for?

Gumbaz is famous for being the burial place of Tipu Sultan, Haider Ali, and Fakhr-Un-Niza.

What are the Gumbaz timings?

The Gumbaz is open daily from 08:00 AM to 06:30 PM.

What is the entry fee for Gumbaz?

Entry is completely free for all visitors.

How to reach Gumbaz, Srirangapatna?

You can reach by bus, auto, cab, or personal vehicle using Google Maps.

How much time is needed to visit Gumbaz?

Around 1 hour is sufficient.

Is Gumbaz suitable for families?

Yes, it’s suitable for families, kids, and senior citizens.

Conclusion

The Gumbaz of Srirangapatna is more than a historical monument—it’s a place of remembrance, pride, and peace. If you want to truly understand the legacy of Tipu Sultan and the Mysore Kingdom, this is a place you should not miss.

🙏 Thank you for reading till the end.

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