Manchanbele is a hidden gem located in Ramanagara District, 40 km away from Bengaluru. This pristine location is a paradise for all nature lovers, offering a welcome respite from the city’s chaos. There are many places to visit in Karnataka, but Manchanbele is a little-known place.

The most famous attraction of this place is the Manchanbele Reservoir, built across the Arkavati River to irrigate the nearby farmlands. From this magnificent dam, one can get a view of the pristine greenery and crystal-clear waters of the reservoir.

Tip: Do not try to take a dip in the water as the water level is deep with steep boulders. Tourists were initially allowed to visit the dam but are now restricted due to unfortunate accidents in the area.

The above tip is not to ruin your expectation but to create a sense of caution to let nothing spoil your getaway to this serene place. You can get a great view of the dam from the nearby hilltops and take some amazing pictures of its breathtaking views.

Now let us learn more about this place and the surprises it has to offer.

Activities you can do in and around Manchanbele

Picnic

This place is the perfect picnic destination with its lush green surroundings and tranquil water. You can enjoy a delicious meal and relax while soaking in the picturesque beauty of the area. Spending time here will allow you to have some quiet, peaceful moments with your loved ones.

Birdwatching

Karnataka has some exclusive bird gazing places and sanctuaries. Likewise, Manchanabele Dam is home to a large number of birds. It is a haven for bird watchers.

You can spot birds like- Brahminy Kites, Little Egrets, Cattle Egrets, Black Drongo, Little Cormorants, Green Bee-eaters, Black Kites, Red-headed Munia, Indian Roller, Red Whiskered Bulbul, Marsh Harrier, Blue Kingfisher, Purple Heron, etc. are to name but a few.

Kayaking

Kayaking through the tranquil and serene waters of the reservoir will be a delightful experience, and you’ll be able to relax and take in the natural surroundings. This experience will definitely rejuvenate your body and soul.

Trekking

The paths that wind around this place are perfect for trekking. Witnessing the lush green trees and their picturesque beauty is sure to leave you awestruck.

Camping

There are several Karnataka places for camping that you might have dreamed of. But this location, with its stunning beauty and unspoiled atmosphere, would be great for camping too. You can set up camp amidst verdant trees and beautiful green fields to enjoy some calmness.

How to reach Manchanbele?

By Air- Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is the nearest airport to Manchanabele. You can fly to Bengaluru and then go by road to Manchanabele. The community is around 70 km from the airport, a 2 and a half hour journey.

By Train- Hejjala Railway Station is the nearest railway station. About 18 trains stop here regularly. Manchanabele is a half an hour’s drive from where you get off the train.

By Road- The village is around 40 km from Bengaluru. Take a direct bus from Bengaluru’s K. R. Market (City Market). If you are traveling down from Bengaluru, you can use the Mysore road to get here. Those traveling from Mysuru should allow 2 and a half hours to reach Manchanabele via NH275.

The dam is best visited between October and March. That is ideal because the dam will be full of water and the weather will be pleasant.