Pack A Picnic And Set Out On A Day Trip To Manchanabele Dam, 1 Hour From Bangalore!

Need a place for a short day trip from the city? Plan an outing to Manchanabele Dam where you can explore the surroundings, take in the striking views and escape into nature, all within an hour’s drive from Bangalore!

manchanabele dam bangalorePicture Credit: Wikimedia Commons

With fancy getaways and international destinations being skipped in favour of staycations and nearby places for short trips, there has been a renewed interest in spots that are closer to the city. Located in the village of Manchanabele, Manchanabele Dam and Reservoir is one such destination that you can bookmark for your next short trip or long drive from Bangalore. Just an hour’s drive away, the dam is built across the Arkavathi river and surrounded by nature’s bounty – plenty of greenery, birds and some water bodies, making it quite a sight for anyone looking to escape the city.
manchanabele damPicture Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Best planned for an early morning, the drive to the place is scenic in itself. Entry to the dam is not allowed anymore but you can try your luck and request for permission. Don’t let that bother you though, because there’s much more to this lovely place. If you’re up for some simple hiking, go on and explore the area. The pathways on the hillock here lead to beautiful spots, some near ponds, where you can sit back for a picnic and enjoy the surroundings. You can even go on a short trek up a nearby hill from where you get a clear view of the reservoir! Make sure to carry food and water along as there are no shops in the area.
manchanabele damPicture Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Combine your Manchanabele trip with a stop at Dodda Alada Mara aka the Big Banyan Tree, just 10 km from the dam. Adventure-lovers can also check out Savandurga, one of the largest monoliths in Asia, located not too far from the spot (in fact, you can see the hill from the reservoir!). There, you’ve got yourself an exciting day trip for the weekend! 

Distance from Bangalore: 37.5 km 

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