Are you looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bangalore? Do you want to experience the serene beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure? If yes, then you should definitely visit Manchanabele Dam, a hidden gem of Karnataka that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for all kinds of travellers.
Manchanabele Dam is a man-made reservoir that was built across the Arkavathi River in the 1980s. It is located about 40 km from Bangalore, in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka. The dam is surrounded by lush green hills, rocky outcrops, and dense forests, making it a scenic and tranquil spot for relaxation and recreation.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Manchanabele Dam, covering everything you need to know before you plan your trip. We will tell you how to reach Manchanabele Dam, when to visit Manchanabele Dam, what to do and see at Manchanabele Dam, where to stay near Manchanabele Dam, and some tips and suggestions for visiting Manchanabele Dam. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
How to Reach Manchanabele Dam
Manchanabele Dam is easily accessible from Bangalore by various modes of transport, such as air, rail, road, and bus. Here is a detailed guide on how to reach Manchanabele Dam from different modes of transport:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Manchanabele Dam is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is about 70 km away. You can take a flight to Bangalore from any major city in India or abroad, and then hire a cab or a taxi to reach Manchanabele Dam. The cab fare may vary depending on the traffic and the time of the day, but it usually ranges from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2000. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from the airport to Manchanabele Dam, which may cost you around Rs. 300 to Rs. 400.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Manchanabele Dam is the Kengeri Railway Station in Bangalore, which is about 25 km away. You can take a train to Kengeri from any major city in India, and then hire a cab or a taxi to reach Manchanabele Dam. The cab fare may vary depending on the traffic and the time of the day, but it usually ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 700. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from the railway station to Manchanabele Dam, which may cost you around Rs. 100 to Rs. 200.
By Road:
The most convenient and economical way to reach Manchanabele Dam from Bangalore is by road. You can either drive your own vehicle or rent a car or a bike to reach Manchanabele Dam. The distance from Bangalore to Manchanabele Dam is about 40 km, and it takes about an hour to reach by road. The route is well-marked and scenic, passing through the Bangalore-Mysore Highway and the Magadi Road. You can also stop by some of the attractions along the way, such as the Big Banyan Tree, the Savandurga Hill, and the Dodda Alada Mara.
By Bus:
Another option to reach Manchanabele Dam from Bangalore is by bus. You can take a bus from the Majestic Bus Stand or the Kengeri Bus Stand in Bangalore to Manchanabele Dam. The bus fare may vary depending on the type and the frequency of the bus, but it usually ranges from Rs. 50 to Rs. 100. The bus journey may take about an hour and a half to reach Manchanabele Dam, depending on the traffic and the stops. The bus will drop you at the Manchanabele Dam Bus Stop, from where you can walk or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the dam.
Best Time to Visit Manchanabele Dam
The best time to visit Manchanabele Dam is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level of the dam is high. During this time, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the dam and its surroundings, as well as indulge in various activities and attractions that the dam offers.
The temperature at Manchanabele Dam ranges from 15°C to 30°C during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The rainfall is minimal, and the humidity is low, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Activities and Attractions at Manchanabele Dam
Manchanabele Dam is not just a reservoir, but a destination that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for all kinds of travellers. Whether you are looking for some adventure, some relaxation, some learning, or some fun, you will find something to suit your taste and preference at Manchanabele Dam. Here is a list of some of the activities and attractions that you can enjoy at Manchanabele Dam:
Boating:
One of the most popular and enjoyable activities at Manchanabele Dam is boating. You can rent a boat or a kayak and explore the calm and clear waters of the dam, while admiring the scenic views of the hills and the forests. You can also spot some of the birds and animals that inhabit the area, such as kingfishers, egrets, herons, ducks, crocodiles, etc. Boating at Manchanabele Dam is a relaxing and refreshing experience that you should not miss.
Camping:
Another exciting and adventurous activity at Manchanabele Dam is camping. You can pitch a tent near the dam and spend a night under the stars, while enjoying the cool breeze and the soothing sound of the water. You can also light a bonfire and roast some marshmallows, while sharing stories and songs with your friends and family. Camping at Manchanabele Dam is a perfect way to escape the city life and reconnect with nature.
Trekking:
If you are looking for some challenge and thrill, then you should try trekking at Manchanabele Dam. You can hike up the nearby hills, such as the Savandurga Hill, the Manchanabele Hill, or the Thippagondanahalli Hill, and witness the panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings. You can also explore the rocky terrain and the caves that dot the area, and discover some of the ancient temples and forts that are hidden in the hills. Trekking at Manchanabele Dam is a rewarding and exhilarating experience that you should not miss.
Birdwatching:
If you are a nature lover and a wildlife enthusiast, then you should try birdwatching at Manchanabele Dam. You can spot some of the rare and exotic birds that flock to the dam and its surroundings, such as the painted stork, the spot-billed pelican, the black-headed ibis, the brahminy kite, the white-throated kingfisher, the red-whiskered bulbul, etc. You can also observe their behaviour and habits, and learn more about their ecology and conservation. Birdwatching at Manchanabele Dam is a learning and fascinating experience that you should not miss.
Flora and Fauna of Manchanabele Dam
Manchanabele Dam is not just a reservoir, but a haven for the flora and fauna of the region. The dam and its surroundings are home to a variety of trees, flowers, plants, birds, animals, insects, etc., that add to the natural beauty and the biodiversity of the place. Here is a rich and vivid description of the flora and fauna of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings:
Flora:
The flora of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings consists of a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, such as the banyan, the neem, the tamarind, the mango, the eucalyptus, the acacia, the bamboo, etc. These trees provide shade and shelter to the wildlife and the visitors, as well as produce fruits and flowers that attract birds and insects.
The flowers of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings include the hibiscus, the jasmine, the lotus, the lily, the sunflower, etc. These flowers add colour and fragrance to the landscape, and also have medicinal and cultural significance. The plants of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings include the cactus, the aloe vera, the tulsi, the mint, the curry leaf, etc. These plants are adapted to the dry and rocky conditions of the area, and also have culinary and health benefits.
Fauna:
The fauna of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings consists of a variety of birds, animals, insects, etc., that coexist in the ecosystem. The birds of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings include the painted stork, the spot-billed pelican, the black-headed ibis, the brahminy kite, the white-throated kingfisher, the red-whiskered bulbul, the parakeet, the myna, the sparrow, etc. These birds are migratory and resident, and can be seen flying, perching, nesting, and feeding around the dam and its surroundings.
The animals of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings include the blackbuck, the sloth bear, the jackal, the mongoose, the hare, the porcupine, the monitor lizard, the crocodile, etc. These animals are nocturnal and diurnal, and can be spotted roaming, hiding, hunting, and resting in the hills and the forests. The insects of Manchanabele Dam and its surroundings include the butterfly, the dragonfly, the bee, the ant, the grasshopper, the cricket, etc. These insects are pollinators and decomposers, and can be seen buzzing, crawling, hopping, and flying in the flowers and the plants.
Hotels and Resorts near Manchanabele Dam
If you are planning to stay near Manchanabele Dam, you will be glad to know that there are some of the best hotels and resorts near Manchanabele Dam, that offer comfortable and luxurious accommodation options for all kinds of travellers. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly or a premium stay, you will find something to suit your taste and preference near Manchanabele Dam. Here is a list of some of the best hotels and resorts near Manchanabele Dam, along with their ratings, prices, and distances from the dam:
Wonderla Resort:
This is a 4-star resort that is located about 15 km from Manchanabele Dam. It is a part of the famous Wonderla Amusement Park, and offers a fun-filled and relaxing stay for the guests. The resort has 84 rooms and suites, that are equipped with modern amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, minibar, tea/coffee maker, etc. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, a conference hall, a banquet hall, etc. The resort also provides complimentary access to the amusement park, which has over 60 rides and attractions for all ages. The price of the resort ranges from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 8000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Ramanashree California Resort:
This is a 3-star resort that is located about 20 km from Manchanabele Dam. It is a serene and spacious resort that offers a peaceful and pleasant stay for the guests. The resort has 40 rooms and cottages, that are equipped with modern amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, minibar, tea/coffee maker, etc. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, a tennis court, a badminton court, a children’s play area, etc. The resort also provides various activities and events for the guests, such as yoga, meditation, karaoke, bonfire, etc. The price of the resort ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Shilhaandara Resort:
This is a 3-star resort that is located about 25 km from Manchanabele Dam. It is a heritage and adventure resort that offers a unique and memorable stay for the guests. The resort has 18 rooms and cottages, that are designed in a rustic and ethnic style, with modern amenities and facilities, such as air-conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, minibar, tea/coffee maker, etc. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, a conference hall, a banquet hall, etc. The resort also provides various activities and attractions for the guests, such as zip-lining, rappelling, paintball, archery, quad biking, etc. The price of the resort ranges from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 6000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Manchanabele Dam
Before you pack your bags and head to Manchanabele Dam, here are some useful and practical tips and suggestions for visiting Manchanabele Dam, that will help you make the most of your trip:
What to carry: You should carry some essentials for your trip to Manchanabele Dam, such as a water bottle, a sunscreen, a hat, a sunglasses, a camera, a binoculars, a torch, a first-aid kit, etc. You should also carry some snacks and drinks, as there are not many shops or restaurants near the dam. You should also carry some warm clothes, as it can get chilly at night near the dam.
What to avoid: You should avoid some things for your trip to Manchanabele Dam, such as littering, smoking, drinking, playing loud music, etc. You should also avoid swimming or fishing in the dam, as it is prohibited and dangerous. You should also avoid venturing into the forest or the hills without a guide, as it can be risky and illegal.
What to do: You should do some things for your trip to Manchanabele Dam, such as exploring the dam and its surroundings, enjoying the activities and attractions, admiring the flora and fauna, taking photos and videos, etc. You should also do some research and planning before your trip, such as checking the weather, booking the accommodation, arranging the transport, etc. You should also do some respect and appreciation for the local culture and the environment, such as following the rules and regulations, interacting with the locals, supporting the local businesses, etc.
What to expect: You should expect some things for your trip to Manchanabele Dam, such as a scenic and tranquil spot, a plethora of activities and attractions, a variety of flora and fauna, a comfortable and luxurious stay, etc. You should also expect some challenges and difficulties, such as the traffic and the road conditions, the lack of facilities and amenities, the safety and security issues, the wildlife and the weather hazards, etc.
I visited Manchanabele Dam with my friends last weekend, and it was one of the best trips I ever had. The dam is a beautiful and peaceful place, where you can relax and enjoy the nature. We did boating, camping, trekking, and birdwatching, and it was so much fun and adventure. We also stayed at the Wonderla Resort, which was amazing and comfortable. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the food was delicious. We also got to enjoy the amusement park, which was a bonus. I would highly recommend Manchanabele Dam to anyone who is looking for a perfect getaway from Bangalore.
Manchanabele Dam is a hidden gem of Karnataka that offers a perfect getaway from Bangalore. It is a destination that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for all kinds of travellers, such as boating, camping, trekking, birdwatching, etc. It is also a haven for the flora and fauna of the region, such as the trees, flowers, plants, birds, animals, insects, etc. It is also a place that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation options for all kinds of travellers, such as the hotels and resorts near the dam.
If you are looking for a scenic and tranquil spot, where you can experience the serene beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure, then you should definitely visit Manchanabele Dam. It is a place that will leave you spellbound and satisfied, and make you want to come back again and again.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Manchanabele Dam today, and share your experience with us. We would love to hear from you and see your photos and videos of this amazing place.
You can also check out our other articles and guides on Tripoto, where we provide you with the best travel tips and suggestions for various destinations across India and the world. Happy travelling!
