Colonel Bailey's Dungeon Srirangapatna
A chilling historical prison where British captives were tortured and held by Tipu Sultan, named after a prisoner who died here.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Colonel Bailey's Dungeon Srirangapatna
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A chilling historical prison where British captives were tortured and held by Tipu Sultan, named after a prisoner who died here.
"A must-see for history enthusiasts, offering a chilling glimpse into the past."
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a passionate guide who shares detailed historical insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
Ask for 'Tipu's Jail'
Locals know it by this name, making it easier to find. :round_pushpin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dungeon Chambers
Below ground level
Descend into the chilling chambers where British prisoners were held and tortured by Tipu Sultan.
Col. Bailey's Stone Slab
Inside the dungeon
See the very slab where Colonel Bailey was tied, a poignant reminder of his fate and the dungeon's namesake.
The Well-Maintained Gardens
Outside the dungeon
Enjoy the peaceful, maintained gardens surrounding the dungeon, offering a stark contrast to its dark history.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a passionate guide who shares detailed historical insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
Ask for 'Tipu's Jail'
Locals know it by this name, making it easier to find. :round_pushpin:
Visit Before 5 PM
The dungeon closes promptly at 5:00 PM, so plan your exploration accordingly. :clock1:
No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this historical site without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Hire a Local Guide
Enhance your visit with a passionate guide who shares detailed historical insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
Ask for 'Tipu's Jail'
Locals know it by this name, making it easier to find. :round_pushpin:
Visit Before 5 PM
The dungeon closes promptly at 5:00 PM, so plan your exploration accordingly. :clock1:
No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this historical site without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
Photography Inside
Limited photography is allowed inside the dungeon itself. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colonel Bailey's Dungeon is a well-maintained historical site offering a glimpse into a dark chapter of the past. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the opportunity to learn about Tipu Sultan's era. While the site itself is small, many recommend hiring a local guide to fully appreciate its stories.
"It's fairly well-maintained. We went during the afternoon time so it was pretty warm. Nothing much to see here, but there's a lot of history here. It's better to get a guide here.
We got Mr. Neelkantha ji, who described everything in detail. He seemed really passionate about the history of Srirangapatnam and has immense knowledge. He didn't set any price for his service and was happy with whatever we provided him.
We didn't take much pictures inside. This was on the top."
Ambika Bhandari
"Good historic place of British days."
Vipin Parashar
"Good preservation! Gives a peek into the confinement of British by Tippu for which it was built.
It was in this dungeon that Col. Bailey died and hence the name.
Garden with lawn is maintained outside.. and is located just beside Ranganatha Temple behind Railway station. A 15min visit is worth!"
Pranav M
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colonel Bailey's Dungeon is located in Srirangapatna, about 19 km from Mysore. You can reach it by car or taxi. Locals often refer to it as 'Tipu's Jail,' which can be helpful when asking for directions. It's situated near the Ranganatha Temple, behind the railway station.
While there isn't a dedicated parking lot, cars can usually be parked nearby. It's advisable to check with your driver or local contacts upon arrival.
The most convenient way to travel from Mysore to Srirangapatna is by hiring a taxi or a private car. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Colonel Bailey's Dungeon. It's a historical site that is freely accessible to visitors.
Colonel Bailey's Dungeon is open to visitors and typically closes at 5:00 PM. It's best to plan your visit to ensure you have enough time to explore before closing.
Since there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required for Colonel Bailey's Dungeon. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the dungeon itself, a below-ground prison where British prisoners were held and tortured. You can also see the stone slab where Colonel Bailey was tied. The surrounding gardens are also well-maintained and offer a pleasant area to walk.
Many visitors highly recommend hiring a local guide. They can provide detailed historical context and stories that significantly enrich the experience, making the visit much more insightful.
A visit to Colonel Bailey's Dungeon can be quite brief, often around 15 minutes to half an hour, especially if you're not taking extensive photos or hiring a guide. However, with a guide, you might spend a bit longer absorbing the history.
While it's a historical site, the dark nature of the dungeon and its history of torture might be unsettling for very young children. Parents should use their discretion. The gardens offer a more neutral space for younger visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside the dungeon itself might be restricted or limited. Visitors are generally encouraged to take photos of the exterior and the surrounding gardens.
The exterior architecture of the dungeon and the well-maintained gardens offer good photographic opportunities. Capturing the contrast between the historical structure and the natural surroundings can be visually appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing this visit with the more visually engaging Daria Daulat Bagh or the expansive grounds of the Ranganathaswamy Temple can create a more balanced itinerary for families. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as afternoons can be quite warm.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the dungeon, Srirangapatna itself is a treasure trove of history. Explore the Srirangapatna Fort, the Ranganathaswamy Temple, and the Daria Daulat Bagh to gain a comprehensive understanding of Tipu Sultan's reign and the historical significance of this former capital.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dark History of Colonel Bailey's Dungeon
The very name of the place comes from Colonel Bailey, a British officer who was imprisoned and died within its confines, making it a site of significant historical memory for the British era in India. Visitors often describe the experience as chilling, offering a stark reminder of the conflicts and power struggles of the past. While the site is now well-maintained, the atmosphere within the dungeon can still evoke a sense of its grim history. Many recommend engaging a local guide to fully grasp the narratives and historical context associated with the dungeon and its inhabitants.
The dungeon is located near the Ranganatha Temple, behind the railway station, and is a relatively quick visit, often completed within 15-30 minutes. Despite its dark history, it's considered a must-see for history enthusiasts interested in the Mysore Wars and Tipu Sultan's reign.
Visiting Srirangapatna: Beyond the Dungeon
Visitors can also explore the Srirangapatna Fort, which played a crucial role in the Anglo-Mysore Wars. Though much of the fort has been reduced to ruins, its historical significance is palpable. Nearby, the Daria Daulat Bagh (Garden of Wealth) is a beautiful summer palace built by Tipu Sultan, known for its Indo-Islamic architecture and intricate frescoes.
When planning your trip to Srirangapatna, consider combining a visit to Colonel Bailey's Dungeon with these other historical sites. The town offers a comprehensive historical experience, allowing you to delve deeper into the era of Tipu Sultan and the British East India Company's influence in the region.
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