KRS Dam Mysore: Timings, Entry Fee, and Must-Visit Attractions

The Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam in Mysore is not just a dam—it’s a place full of beauty and history. Built on the Cauvery River, this amazing dam gives water for farming, drinking, and making electricity. But it’s also a popular spot for visitors because of its pretty views and fun attractions like the Brindavan Gardens.

If you love history, you’ll enjoy learning about Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the smart engineer behind this dam. Nature lovers will love the peaceful water and green gardens around it. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

In this guide, we’ll tell you about the timings, ticket costs, and the best places to visit near the KRS Dam. Whether you want a quick trip from Mysore or a relaxing weekend outing, this guide will help you have a great time!

About KRS Dam

The Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam is near Mysore in Karnataka. It is a famous spot in South India. Built on the Cauvery River, the dam is very important for farming and water supply in the area.

History of KRS Dam

The dam was finished in 1931 with the help of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, one of India’s best engineers. It was built when Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the Maharaja of Mysore, was ruling. The dam is named after him. At the time, it was one of the biggest reservoirs in Asia.

The main goal of building the dam was to solve water problems in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The dam was made using surkhi, a mix of lime and brick powder, instead of cement. This was a smart and eco-friendly idea back then.

Why is KRS Dam Important?

The KRS Dam stores water to help farmers grow crops, provide drinking water, and make electricity. It helps irrigate over 1.2 million acres of farmland in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The dam also supplies water to Mysore and helps create power for factories and homes.

Beautiful and Strong

The dam is 3 kilometers long and about 40 meters tall. It looks stunning with its big size, calm water, and green surroundings. At the bottom of the dam, you’ll find the Brindavan Gardens, which have lovely flowers, fountains, and a musical water show.

The KRS Dam is not just useful but also a great place to visit and enjoy nature!

KRS Dam Timings

Knowing the timings of the KRS Dam helps you plan a great trip. The dam and Brindavan Gardens are open every day. You can enjoy the peaceful views in the morning or the colorful fountain show in the evening.

Visiting Hours

Here are the usual timings for visitors:

• Morning: 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM
• Evening: 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM

In the morning, you can enjoy the quiet beauty of the dam and gardens. In the evening, the fountains light up, and there’s a musical water show.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning: Perfect for a calm and quiet trip. It’s less crowded, and you can enjoy the beauty of the place in peace.
• Evening: Great for families. The cool breeze, lights, and the fountain show make it magical.

Special Timings

On festivals, weekends, or holidays, the timings may be extended to allow more visitors. The monsoon season (June to December) is the best time to visit, as the dam is full, and the gardens look extra green.

Tips for Visitors

• Come early in the morning or evening to avoid long lines.
• Check the fountain show timing (usually between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM).
• Wear comfy shoes and carry water since the area is big.
• Stay after sunset to see the fountains and gardens lit up beautifully.

Why Timings Matter

The timings help keep the dam clean and safe for everyone. By planning your visit around these hours, you can enjoy the beauty of the dam and gardens without missing anything!

Entry Fee Details for KRS Dam

Visiting the KRS Dam and Brindavan Gardens is affordable. The small entry fee helps keep the place clean and beautiful. Knowing the costs before you go can help you plan better.

Entry Fees

Here are the latest charges:

• General Entry: ₹20 per person
• Children (Below 10 Years): ₹10 per child
• Musical Fountain Show: Extra ₹50 per person
• Parking: ₹30-50 for two-wheelers and ₹80-100 for cars, based on the vehicle.

Fees may change during festivals or holidays.

Extra Costs

• Camera Charges:
  • Still Camera: ₹50
  • Handycam/Professional Camera: ₹100
• Boating (if available): ₹50-100 per person

Discounts for Groups

Schools, colleges, or big groups can sometimes get discounts. You can ask the dam’s office for special group rates or guided tours.

How to Buy Tickets

• Get tickets at the entry gates.
• During busy times, there might be long lines, so try to come early.
• Some websites or apps might have online ticket booking options.

Why the Fee is Worth It

The entry fee gives you access to:

• The huge KRS Dam and its stunning views.
• The Brindavan Gardens, full of colorful flowers and greenery.
• The amazing Musical Fountain Show, where water, lights, and music come together.

Helpful Tips

• Bring small cash, as online payments might not work everywhere.
• Come early if you want to watch the evening show—it’s popular and tickets sell fast.
• Keep your ticket safe, as you may need it at other gates.

With these details, you’re all set for a smooth and fun visit to KRS Dam and its beautiful surroundings!

Must-Visit Attractions Near KRS Dam

The KRS Dam is not just a dam—it’s surrounded by fun and beautiful places to explore. From lovely gardens to exciting boat rides, there’s something for everyone.

1. Brindavan Gardens

At the base of the dam, these gardens are famous for their beauty.

• Overview:
  The garden is 60 acres big, with green lawns, colorful flowers, and neat hedges. It is peaceful and perfect for taking photos.
• Highlights:
  • The Musical Fountain Show is the top attraction. Lights, music, and water create a magical show between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
  • Other features include pretty fountains, water channels, and arches.

2. Boating at KRS Dam

For some fun on the water, you can try boating in the dam’s reservoir.

• Types of Boats:
  • Pedal Boats: Great for families or small groups.
  • Motorboats: Faster and thrilling.
• Scenic Views:
  Enjoy the calm water, green surroundings, and faraway hills while boating.

3. Panoramic Viewpoints

The dam has spots where you can enjoy stunning views.

• Dam Top View:
  See the huge reservoir and green land from special viewpoints.
• Sunset Point:
  Watch the sun go down over the water. It’s a great spot for photos!

4. Cauvery Statue and Gardens

Near the dam, this statue honors the Cauvery River, which is very important for the region.

• Highlights:
  • A small garden surrounds the statue, making it a nice place to relax and click pictures.
  • The statue also reflects the local culture of Karnataka.

5. Nearby Temples and Heritage Sites

If you have extra time, explore these nearby spots:

• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (20 km): Perfect for bird lovers and nature fans.
• Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple: An old temple near the backwaters with great views.

Food and Shopping

• Food Options:
  Enjoy South Indian snacks and fresh juices at stalls near the dam and gardens.
• Shopping:
  Buy local crafts, souvenirs, fruits, and coconuts to take home a bit of Karnataka.

Tips for Exploring

• Take enough time to enjoy each place, especially the Brindavan Gardens and the fountain show.
• Wear comfy shoes, as you’ll walk a lot.
• Visit in the evening to see the gardens and fountains lit up.

These attractions near KRS Dam mix nature, culture, and fun activities. It’s a perfect trip for families, couples, or even solo travelers!

Read Also: KRS Dam Light Show Timings: A Complete Guide

Tips for Visitors to KRS Dam

Planning a visit to KRS Dam? These easy tips will help you have a great time!

1. Best Time to Visit

• Best Season:
  Visit during the rainy and post-rainy months (June to December) to see the dam full and greenery all around.
  Avoid summer (March to May) as it can be very hot.
• Best Time of Day:
  • Morning: Peaceful and less crowded.
  • Evening: Perfect for the Musical Fountain Show and glowing Brindavan Gardens.

2. What to Wear and Carry

• Clothes:
  Wear light clothes in summer. Take a jacket for cool winter evenings.
• Shoes:
  Comfortable shoes are best because you’ll walk a lot.
• Essentials:
  Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottles, and a camera or phone for pictures.

3. Entry and Tickets

• Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid long lines.
• Keep small cash ready for tickets, parking, and snacks since card payments may not work everywhere.

4. Food and Snacks

• There are few food stalls near the dam, so carry some snacks and water with you.
• Try local foods like dosa, idli, and fresh coconut water at nearby eateries.

5. Getting There and Parking

• Travel Options:
  • Public buses from Mysore are cheap but fixed in timing.
  • Taxis or self-driving are better for groups or families.
• Parking:
  Plenty of parking is available near the entrance. It gets crowded on weekends, so arrive early.

6. Tips for Families

• Keep children close, as the dam and gardens are big and can get crowded.
• Kids love the Musical Fountain Show, so plan your visit to include it.

7. Photography Tips

• Bring a good camera or phone to capture the pretty views.
• The evening lights during the fountain show make great pictures!

8. Weather Precautions

• Rainy Season: Bring an umbrella or raincoat for sudden showers.
• Summer: Explore early in the morning or late evening to avoid the heat.

9. Follow Rules

• Read and follow all safety instructions at the dam and gardens.
• Use bins to keep the area clean and tidy.

10. Check for Updates

Before visiting, check the latest timings, fees, and events on official websites or local news.

By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth and fun trip to KRS Dam and its amazing surroundings!

How to Reach KRS Dam

KRS Dam is about 18 km from Mysore city and easy to reach. Here’s a simple guide to help you get there!

1. By Road

• By Car or Taxi:
  • The easiest way is by car or taxi.
  • It takes about 30–40 minutes from Mysore.
  • The road is smooth, and you’ll enjoy the pretty views along the way.
• By Bus:
  • Buses run by KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport) are a cheap option.
  • Tickets cost around ₹20–₹40 per person.
  • Buses take a bit longer than cars but are reliable.
• By Auto-Rickshaw:
  • You can take an auto-rickshaw from Mysore.
  • It’s more expensive than a bus and not very comfy for long rides.
  • Always agree on the fare before you start!

2. By Train

• Nearest Station: Mysore Junction
  • Mysore Junction is the closest big train station.
  • It connects to cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
• From the station, take a taxi, auto, or bus to the dam. It’s about 20 km away and takes 40 minutes by road.

3. By Air

• Mysore Airport:
  • The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, 25 km from KRS Dam.
  • It has limited flights, so check the schedule before planning.
• Bangalore Airport:
  • For more flight options, use Bangalore’s airport, about 175 km away.
  • From Bangalore, you can drive or take a train to Mysore.

4. Distance from Nearby Cities

• Mysore to KRS Dam: 18 km (~30–40 minutes)
• Bangalore to KRS Dam: 143 km (~3–4 hours by road)
• Mandya to KRS Dam: 35 km (~1 hour by road)

5. Navigational Tips

• Use Google Maps or another GPS app to find the easiest route.
• Signboards along the road will help you find the dam and gardens.

6. Organized Tours

• Some travel companies in Mysore offer tours to KRS Dam and nearby places.
• These tours include transport, tickets, and a guide, so they’re easy and stress-free.

7. Parking Facilities

• Parking Spots:
  • There’s plenty of parking near the dam for bikes and cars.
  • Charges: ₹30–₹50 for bikes, ₹80–₹100 for cars.
• Tip: Arrive early on weekends to get a good spot.

Pro Tips for Visitors

• Public Transport: KSRTC buses are cheap and good if you’re on a budget.
• Private Transport: Driving or taking a taxi is better for families or groups.
• Timing: Reach in the morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic and enjoy a peaceful trip.

Reaching KRS Dam is simple and enjoyable, no matter how you travel. Plan your trip, and have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About KRS Dam

Here are simple answers to common questions about visiting KRS Dam to help you plan better!

1. What are the visiting hours?

• Brindavan Gardens:
  • Morning: 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM
  • Evening (Musical Fountain Show): 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
• KRS Dam:
  • Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit:

• Go early in the morning for a quiet and cool visit.
• Visit in the evening to watch the Musical Fountain Show and enjoy the colorful lights.

2. Are there any entry rules?

• Entry Fees: You need to pay a small fee to enter Brindavan Gardens.
• Restricted Areas:
  • Some parts of the dam, like near the gates and reservoir, are off-limits for safety.
  • Swimming or bathing in the reservoir is not allowed.
• Timing Rules:
  • The dam closes at 6:00 PM, and everyone must leave by then.
  • The gardens and dam are closed after dark for safety.
• Special Permits: If you want to take professional photos, film, or do research, you may need special permission. Check with local officials first.

3. Can I take photos?

Yes, you can take photos, but follow these rules:

• For Fun: You can take photos of the dam, gardens, and fountain show for personal use. The lights in the evening make great pictures!
• For Work: If you are using a tripod, high-end camera, or want to take professional photos, you may need to pay extra fees.
  • Still Camera Fee: ₹50
  • Professional Camera Fee: ₹100
• Drones: Using drones is not allowed for safety reasons.

4. Are there facilities for differently-abled visitors?

Yes, but here are some tips:

• Wheelchairs: These may not be available on-site, so bring your own if needed.
• Paths: Most garden paths are smooth, but some areas may have uneven ground.
• Parking: Reserved parking spots are near the main entrance for easier access.

5. Can I bring food or pets?

• Food:
  • You can bring food, but avoid large picnic setups.
  • Don’t litter—use the bins provided.
  • Snack stalls are available inside if you want light meals or drinks.
• Pets:
  • Pets are not allowed in the gardens or dam area for safety reasons.

6. What else can I see near KRS Dam?

You can visit these nearby attractions:

• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Great for bird lovers.
• Srirangapatna – A historical place.
• Mysore Palace – A beautiful and famous palace.
• Chamundi Hill – A scenic spot with a temple.

Conclusion

KRS Dam is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Mysore, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, engineering marvel, and historical significance. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning Brindavan Gardens, interested in its fascinating history, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway amidst nature, KRS Dam provides a memorable experience for every visitor.

With its well-maintained gardens, musical fountain show, and proximity to other attractions like Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Srirangapatna, the dam is an essential stop for any traveler exploring the Mysore region. The legacy of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the scenic views, and the tranquil atmosphere make it a place worth visiting for all types of travelers — families, nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and photographers alike.

We encourage you to plan your visit to KRS Dam, whether for a quick day trip or a more leisurely exploration. Take the time to enjoy the serene beauty, learn about its engineering marvel, and share your experiences with others. Don’t forget to capture the mesmerizing views and create lasting memories!

Feel free to leave your comments or share your travel experiences with us — we’d love to hear from you!

Also See: Everything You Need to Know About KRS Musical Fountain Timings