Are you looking for a refreshing and exhilarating escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to experience the beauty and diversity of nature, culture, and adventure in one place? If yes, then you should definitely visit Kanakapura, a charming city in Karnataka, India, that offers a plethora of things to do and places to visit for all kinds of travelers.
Kanakapura is located about 60 km from Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. It has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It has a rich and varied history, dating back to the Hoysala and Vijayanagara empires, and is home to many temples, forts, and monuments. It is also blessed with abundant natural resources, such as rivers, waterfalls, hills, forests, and wildlife, making it a paradise for nature and adventure lovers.
In this article, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, best time to visit, how to reach, and travel tips for Kanakapura. Whether you are traveling solo, with your family, with your partner, or with your friends, you will find something that suits your interests and preferences in Kanakapura. So, let’s get started and discover why Kanakapura is a hidden gem in Karnataka for nature and adventure lovers.
Things to Do in Kanakapura
One of the main reasons why Kanakapura is a popular destination for travelers is the variety of activities that it offers. Whether you are looking for some thrill, fun, relaxation, or learning, you will find it in Kanakapura. Here are some of the top 10 activities that you can enjoy in Kanakapura:
Cave exploration at Chunchi Falls:
If you are feeling adventurous, you can explore the caves near the Chunchi Falls, a picturesque waterfall formed by the Arkavathi River. The caves are dark and mysterious, and you will need a torch and a guide to navigate them. You will also get to see some amazing rock formations and stalactites inside the caves. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 10 years of age, and costs Rs. 500 per person.
Kayaking and rafting at Mekedatu:
If you love water sports, you can try kayaking and rafting at Mekedatu, a narrow gorge where the Kaveri and Arkavathi rivers meet. The rapids are moderate to high, and you will need to wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the instructor. You will also get to enjoy the scenic views of the river and the surrounding hills. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 12 years of age, and costs Rs. 1000 per person.
Rappelling and zip-lining at Kabbaladurga:
If you are looking for some adrenaline rush, you can try rappelling and zip-lining at Kabbaladurga, a monolithic hill with a fort and a temple on top. You will need to climb up the hill, which is about 250 meters high, and then rappel down from a height of 100 meters. You will also get to zip-line across a valley, which is about 150 meters long. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 14 years of age, and costs Rs. 1500 per person.
Hiking and camping at Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta:
If you are looking for some peace and tranquility, you can try hiking and camping at Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, a forested hill with a white statue of Lord Ranganatha on top. You will need to trek for about 3 hours to reach the summit, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. You can also camp overnight at the hill, and enjoy the starry sky and the cool breeze. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 10 years of age, and costs Rs. 2000 per person.
Birdwatching and wildlife spotting at Bannerghatta National Park:
If you are a nature and wildlife lover, you can try birdwatching and wildlife spotting at Bannerghatta National Park, a wildlife sanctuary with a zoo, a safari, and a butterfly park. You can see a variety of birds, such as peacocks, parrots, eagles, and hornbills, and animals, such as lions, tigers, elephants, bears, and deer, in their natural habitat. You can also take a safari ride, which takes you close to the animals, and visit the butterfly park, which has hundreds of colorful butterflies. This activity is suitable for all ages, and costs Rs. 300 per person.
Cycling and trekking at Sangama:
If you are a fitness and adventure enthusiast, you can try cycling and trekking at Sangama, a confluence of the Kaveri and Arkavathi rivers with a temple and a picnic spot. You can rent a cycle and ride along the river bank, which is about 10 km long, and enjoy the fresh air and the greenery. You can also trek to the nearby hills, which offer a splendid view of the river and the valley. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 10 years of age, and costs Rs. 500 per person.
Rock climbing and bouldering at Ramnagaram:
If you are a rock climbing and bouldering fan, you can try rock climbing and bouldering at Ramnagaram, a rocky terrain famous for its silk industry and the shooting location of the movie Sholay. You can choose from different levels of difficulty, ranging from easy to hard, and challenge yourself to climb the rocks and boulders. You will need to wear a helmet, gloves, and shoes, and follow the safety measures. This activity is suitable for adults and children above 12 years of age, and costs Rs. 1000 per person.
Yoga and meditation at Pyramid Valley:
If you are looking for some spiritual and mental wellness, you can try yoga and meditation at Pyramid Valley, a spiritual center with a large pyramid-shaped meditation hall. You can join the yoga and meditation sessions, which are conducted by trained instructors, and learn the techniques and benefits of these practices. You can also visit the museum, which displays the history and science of pyramids, and the park, which has a lake and a garden. This activity is suitable for all ages, and costs Rs. 200 per person.
Fishing and boating at Hosadoddi Lake:
If you are looking for some leisure and fun, you can try fishing and boating at Hosadoddi Lake, a serene lake ideal for fishing and boating. You can rent a fishing rod and a boat, and spend some quality time with your family or friends. You can also catch some fish, such as carp, catfish, and rohu, and cook them at the nearby stalls. This activity is suitable for all ages, and costs Rs. 500 per person.
Cultural and spiritual immersion at Sri Ramanashrama:
If you are looking for some cultural and spiritual immersion, you can visit Sri Ramanashrama, a peaceful ashram dedicated to the sage Ramana Maharshi. You can learn about the life and teachings of the sage, who advocated self-inquiry and self-realization as the path to enlightenment. You can also participate in the daily rituals, such as puja, bhajan, and aarti, and enjoy the simple and vegetarian food served at the ashram. This activity is suitable for all ages, and costs Rs. 100 per person.
As you can see, Kanakapura has something for everyone, and you will never get bored or disappointed in this city. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Kanakapura.
Places to Visit in Kanakapura
Apart from the activities, Kanakapura also has many places that you can visit and explore. These places reflect the natural and cultural heritage of the city, and will give you a glimpse of its beauty and diversity. Here are some of the top 10 places that you can visit in Kanakapura:
Chunchi Falls:
Chunchi Falls is one of the most popular and scenic attractions in Kanakapura. It is a waterfall formed by the Arkavathi River, which plunges from a height of about 50 meters into a pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by rocks, trees, and shrubs, and creates a soothing and refreshing ambiance. You can reach the waterfall by a short trek from the parking area, which is about 2 km away. You can also enjoy a picnic or a swim at the waterfall, but be careful of the slippery rocks and the strong currents. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season, when the water flow is high and the landscape is green and lush. The waterfall is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person.
Mekedatu:
Mekedatu is another popular and scenic attraction in Kanakapura. It is a narrow gorge where the Kaveri and Arkavathi rivers meet, creating a spectacular sight. The gorge is about 3.5 meters wide, and the water flows through it with great force and speed. You can see the gorge from a viewing platform, which is about 500 meters from the parking area. You can also take a coracle ride, which is a round boat made of bamboo and plastic, and get closer to the gorge. The best time to visit the gorge is during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the landscape is green and lush. The gorge is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 50 per person.
Kabbaladurga:
Kabbaladurga is a monolithic hill with a fort and a temple on top. It is one of the most adventurous and rewarding places to visit in Kanakapura. You will need to trek for about 2 hours to reach the summit, which is about 250 meters high. The trek is challenging and steep, and you will need to be physically fit and mentally prepared. You will also need to carry water, snacks, and torches, as there are no facilities on the way. The view from the top is worth the effort, as you can see the entire valley and the river below. You can also visit the fort, which was built by the Palegaras, the local chieftains, and the temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Kabbalamma. The best time to visit the hill is during the early morning or the evening, when the weather is pleasant and the sunrise or the sunset is stunning. The hill is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta:
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is a forested hill with a white statue of Lord Ranganatha on top. It is one of the most peaceful and serene places to visit in Kanakapura. You will need to trek for about 3 hours to reach the summit, which is about 3780 feet above sea level. The trek is moderate and enjoyable, and you will pass through dense forests, grasslands, and rocky patches. You will also encounter some wildlife, such as monkeys, deer, and birds, on the way. The view from the top is breathtaking, as you can see the surrounding hills and valleys. You can also visit the statue, which is about 12 feet tall and made of granite, and the temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The best time to visit the hill is during the winter season, when the weather is cool and the visibility is clear. The hill is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Bannerghatta National Park:
Bannerghatta National Park is a wildlife sanctuary with a zoo, a safari, and a butterfly park. It is one of the most popular and family-friendly places to visit in Kanakapura. You can see a variety of animals, such as lions, tigers, elephants, bears, and deer, in their natural habitat. You can also take a safari ride, which takes you close to the animals, and visit the butterfly park, which has hundreds of colorful butterflies. You can also visit the zoo, which has more animals, such as crocodiles, snakes, monkeys, and birds, and the museum, which has exhibits and information on wildlife conservation. The best time to visit the park is during the weekdays, when the crowd is less and the animals are more active. The park is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 260 per person.
Sangama:
Sangama is a confluence of the Kaveri and Arkavathi rivers with a temple and a picnic spot. It is one of the most relaxing and scenic places to visit in Kanakapura. You can enjoy the beauty and the calmness of the river, which forms a delta-like shape at the confluence. You can also swim, fish, or boat in the river, but be careful of the depth and the current. You can also visit the temple, which is dedicated to Lord Sangameshwara, a form of Lord Shiva, and offer your prayers. You can also enjoy a picnic or a barbecue at the spot, which has some facilities, such as benches, tables, and washrooms. The best time to visit the spot is during the winter season, when the weather is pleasant and the water is clean. The spot is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Ramnagaram:
Ramnagaram is a rocky terrain famous for its silk industry and the shooting location of the movie Sholay. It is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in Kanakapura. You can see the rocks and boulders, which have different shapes and sizes, and some of them have names, such as Gabbar’s Rock, Samba’s Rock, and Jai-Veeru’s Rock, based on the characters of the movie. You can also visit the Ramnagaram Silk Cocoon Market, which is the largest silk cocoon market in Asia, and see how the silk is produced and sold. You can also visit the Ramnagaram Museum, which has exhibits and memorabilia related to the movie and the silk industry. The best time to visit the terrain is during the morning or the evening, when the temperature is moderate and the light is good. The terrain is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Pyramid Valley:
Pyramid Valley is a spiritual center with a large pyramid-shaped meditation hall. It is one of the most peaceful and serene places to visit in Kanakapura. You can join the yoga and meditation sessions, which are conducted by trained instructors, and learn the techniques and benefits of these practices. You can also visit the museum, which displays the history and science of pyramids, and the park, which has a lake and a garden. You can also enjoy the vegetarian food served at the cafeteria, which is organic and healthy. The best time to visit the valley is during the morning or the evening, when the atmosphere is calm and quiet. The valley is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Hosadoddi Lake:
Hosadoddi Lake is a serene lake ideal for fishing and boating. It is one of the most leisurely and fun places to visit in Kanakapura. You can rent a fishing rod and a boat, and spend some quality time with your family or friends. You can also catch some fish, such as carp, catfish, and rohu, and cook them at the nearby stalls. You can also enjoy the view of the lake and the surrounding hills, and watch the birds and the sunset. The best time to visit the lake is during the afternoon or the evening, when the weather is cool and the crowd is less. The lake is open from 9 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 50 per person.
Sri Ramanashrama:
Sri Ramanashrama is a peaceful ashram dedicated to the sage Ramana Maharshi. It is one of the most cultural and spiritual places to visit in Kanakapura. You can learn about the life and teachings of the sage, who advocated self-inquiry and self-realization as the path to enlightenment. You can also participate in the daily rituals, such as puja, bhajan, and aarti, and enjoy the simple and vegetarian food served at the ashram. You can also meditate in the hall, which has a portrait of the sage, and feel his presence and grace. The best time to visit the ashram is during the morning or the evening, when the ashram is active and lively. The ashram is open from 6 am to 8 pm, and there is no entry fee.
These are some of the places that you can visit in Kanakapura, and each of them has something unique and special to offer. You will be amazed by the natural and cultural diversity of the city, and you will have a memorable and enriching experience in Kanakapura.
Best Time to Visit Kanakapura
The best time to visit Kanakapura depends on your preference and purpose of travel. Kanakapura has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 20°C to 35°C. However, there are some factors that can affect your travel experience, such as the weather, the events, and the crowd. Here is some information on the best season and month to visit Kanakapura, based on these factors:
Temperature:
The temperature in Kanakapura varies slightly across the seasons, but it is generally warm and comfortable. The hottest months are April and May, when the temperature can reach up to 38°C, and the coolest months are December and January, when the temperature can drop to 15°C. If you want to avoid the heat and enjoy the cool breeze, you can visit Kanakapura during the winter season, from November to February. If you don’t mind the heat and want to enjoy the sunny days, you can visit Kanakapura during the summer season, from March to May.
Rainfall:
The rainfall in Kanakapura is moderate to high, with an average of 900 mm per year. The wettest months are June to September, when the monsoon season brings heavy showers and thunderstorms, and the driest months are December to February, when the rainfall is minimal and sporadic. If you want to avoid the rain and enjoy the dry weather, you can visit Kanakapura during the winter season, from November to February. If you don’t mind the rain and want to enjoy the greenery and the waterfalls, you can visit Kanakapura during the monsoon season, from June to September.
Events:
The events in Kanakapura are colorful and festive, and they reflect the culture and traditions of the city and the state. The most popular events and festivals in Kanakapura are:
Makara Sankranti: Makara Sankranti is a harvest festival celebrated in January, on the 14th or 15th of the month. It marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, and the beginning of the auspicious period of Uttarayana. It is celebrated with kite flying, bonfires, and sweets, such as pongal, til ladoo, and payasam. It is a time to thank the sun god, the farmers, and the cattle for their blessings and bounty.
Ugadi: Ugadi is the Kannada New Year celebrated in March or April, on the first day of the month of Chaitra. It marks the arrival of spring and the start of a new cycle of seasons. It is celebrated with prayers, rituals, and delicacies, such as bevu-bella, holige, and obbattu. It is a time to welcome the new year with optimism and joy, and to seek the blessings of the gods and the elders.
Dasara: Dasara is a 10-day festival celebrated in September or October, on the last day of the month of Ashvina. It commemorates the victory of good over evil, and the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. It is celebrated with processions, dances, and fireworks, and the grand finale is the Vijayadashami, when the idols of the goddess are immersed in the river. It is a time to celebrate the power and grace of the goddess, and to seek her protection and prosperity.
Deepavali: Deepavali is the festival of lights celebrated in October or November, on the 15th day of the month of Kartika. It signifies the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon Ravana, and the victory of light over darkness. It is celebrated with lamps, candles, and crackers, and the exchange of gifts and sweets, such as kaju katli, mysore pak, and chiroti. It is a time to spread happiness and goodwill, and to dispel ignorance and evil.
If you want to experience the culture and the festivities of Kanakapura, you can visit Kanakapura during these events and festivals, and join the celebrations with the locals. However, you should also be prepared for the crowd and the noise, and book your accommodation and transport in advance.
How to Reach Kanakapura
Kanakapura is well-connected and easily accessible by road, rail, and air from Bangalore and other major cities. Here is some information on how to reach Kanakapura by each mode of transport:
Road:
Kanakapura is about 60 km from Bangalore and can be reached by car, bus, or bike in about 1.5 hours. The road is well-maintained and scenic, passing through green fields and hills. The approximate cost of travel is Rs. 500 for a car, Rs. 100 for a bus, and Rs. 200 for a bike. You can take the NH 209, which connects Bangalore and Kanakapura, and follow the signs and directions. You can also use Google Maps or other navigation apps to guide you. You can find many petrol pumps, restaurants, and hotels on the way, where you can stop and refresh yourself.
Rail:
Kanakapura has a railway station that connects to Bangalore and other nearby towns. The train journey takes about 2 hours and costs Rs. 50 for a general ticket and Rs. 150 for a reserved ticket. You can book your tickets online or offline, and check the availability and timings on the IRCTC website or app. You can also use the Trainman app to check the PNR status and the live running status of the trains. The railway station is about 2 km from the city center and can be reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi, which costs about Rs. 50.
Air:
The nearest airport to Kanakapura is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is about 80 km away. The airport has flights to and from all major domestic and international destinations. The flight duration and cost vary depending on the destination and the airline. You can book your tickets online or offline, and check the availability and timings on the respective airline websites or apps. You can also use the Skyscanner app to compare the prices and the deals of the flights. The airport can be reached by taxi, bus, or metro from Kanakapura in about 2.5 hours. The approximate cost of travel is Rs. 2000 for a taxi, Rs. 300 for a bus, and Rs. 150 for a metro.
As you can see, Kanakapura is easily reachable by any mode of transport, and you can choose the one that suits your budget and convenience. However, you should also be aware of the traffic and the weather conditions, and plan your travel accordingly.
Travel Tips for Kanakapura
To make your trip to Kanakapura more enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some useful tips and advice that you should keep in mind:
What to pack:
Pack light and comfortable clothes, shoes, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottles, snacks, medicines, etc. You should also carry a camera, a power bank, a torch, and a map, as they can come in handy. You should also carry some cash, as some places may not accept cards or digital payments.
What to avoid:
Avoid traveling during peak hours, weekends, and holidays, as the traffic and the crowds can be high. Avoid littering, smoking, drinking, and gambling in public places, as they are illegal and disrespectful. Avoid venturing into restricted or unsafe areas, such as forests, caves, or rivers, without proper guidance and permission. Avoid eating street food or drinking tap water, as they may cause health issues. Avoid wearing flashy or revealing clothes, as they may attract unwanted attention or offend the local sensibilities.
What to expect:
Expect a warm and friendly hospitality, a rich and diverse culture, a scenic and serene nature, and a fun and exciting adventure. Expect some language barriers, as the local language is Kannada, but most people can understand and speak Hindi or English. Expect some bargaining, as the prices of goods and services can be negotiable. Expect some surprises, as Kanakapura has many hidden gems and secrets that you can discover.
These are some of the tips and advice that you should follow to make your trip to Kanakapura more enjoyable and hassle-free. However, you should also be flexible and open-minded, and adapt to the situations and circumstances that you may encounter. You should also be respectful and courteous to the locals and the environment, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Kanakapura.
Kanakapura is a hidden gem in Karnataka for nature and adventure lovers. It offers a plethora of things to do and places to visit for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for some thrill, fun, relaxation, or learning, you will find it in Kanakapura. You will also get to experience the culture and the festivities of Kanakapura, and join the celebrations with the locals. You will also get to enjoy the pleasant climate and the scenic landscape of Kanakapura, and feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Kanakapura. You will not regret it, and you will have a memorable and enriching experience in Kanakapura.
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We hope you have a great time in Kanakapura, and we look forward to seeing you again soon. Happy travels!
