About Kanakapura
Kanakapura, located in the Ramanagara District, is a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Situated approximately 60 kilometers from Bangalore, this town is renowned for its production of cocoon silk and is nestled on the banks of the River Arkavathi. Kanakapura boasts numerous temples, lush forests, and scenic water bodies. For hikers and trekkers, the Turahalli Forest and Kabbaldurga Fort offer challenging trails and panoramic views. Adventurous souls can explore Rangaswamy Betta and Kabbal Durga, while water activities such as boating and fishing can be enjoyed at Mekedatu and Sangama. Kanakapura seamlessly blends natural beauty with adventure, making it a popular weekend getaway.
Historical Significance
Kanakapura’s historical roots extend back to the Vijayanagar and Chola empires, highlighting its importance in ancient trade routes. Notable historical sites include the Bheemeshwari Temple and Kanakapura Fort, which attract many devotees and history enthusiasts.
Distance from Bangalore and Travel Time
Kanakapura is approximately 60 kilometers from Bangalore, with a travel time of around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bike, depending on traffic conditions.
Best Season and Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Kanakapura is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife spotting. While the monsoon season (June to September) enhances the region’s beauty, heavy rainfall can make travel challenging.
Local Attractions
Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta: This popular trekking spot offers stunning viewpoints and a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Rangaswamy at its summit. Surrounded by dense forests, Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta provides a mix of adventure and mysticism.
Chunchi Falls: Known for its picturesque beauty, Chunchi Falls cascades from approximately 50 feet into a natural pool, making it ideal for picnics and relaxation. The surrounding rocky terrain and dense foliage offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during the monsoon season.
Mekedatu: Translating to “goat’s leap” in Kannada, Mekedatu is a dramatic canyon where the Kaveri River flows through a narrow gorge. This location is perfect for picnics, photography, and nature walks, showcasing impressive geological formations and powerful water flow.
Sangama: The confluence of the Arkavathi and Kaveri rivers, Sangama is a scenic spot perfect for boating, fishing, and leisure activities. The area is particularly beautiful after the monsoon season when the water levels rise, enhancing the merging point’s charm.
Key Facts
- Elevation: Approximately 637 meters above sea level
- Location: Ramanagara District, Karnataka
- Trek Difficulty: Easy to difficult, depending on the trail
- Historical Significance: Part of ancient trade routes during the Vijayanagar and Chola reign
Travel Tips
- Preparation: Wear sturdy shoes, carry sufficient water, and bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). A first-aid kit is also recommended.
- Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for trekking, especially if unfamiliar with the terrain.
- Permits: Check if any permits are required for activities like camping or rock climbing.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the area clean and preserve its natural beauty.
Activities
- Trekking- This region offers some of the most fascinating trekking experiences with trails like Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta and Kabbal Durga. They offer you a magnificent view of the Western Ghats and the surrounding thick forests and grasslands. Along the journey, many species of different birds and animals can also be spotted, defining the rich diversity.
- Boating and Fishing- These are popular activities at Mekedatu and Sangama, where families can hold picnics and enjoy the calm waters of the Kaveri river. Tourists and families may gear up for boat rides to explore around while fishing enthusiasts can take pleasure in catching some local freshwater fish.
- Wildlife Watching- The Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary that lies a few kilometers away from Kanakapura is an ideal place for wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is home to many different animals, including elephants, deer as well as numerous bird species among others. People can go for wildlife watching tours or guided nature walks in order to monitor rich biodiversity.
- Photography - Kanakapura’s picturesque landscape is characterised by waterfalls, hills and rivers. In particular, Chunchi Falls and Mekedatu offer breath-taking natural settings while Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is excellent for panoramic landscape shots with reference to the sunrise. Wildlife photography is also available at the Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary with its diverse flora and fauna.
Itinerary
- Morning: Arrive and start with a trek to Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta.
- Mid Morning : Visit the Kabbaldurga fort.
- Afternoon: Visit Chunchi Falls and adore the waterfall
- Evening: Head to Sangama for a sunset view.
- Morning: Visit Mekedatu and engage in boating or fishing.
- Afternoon: Take a tour of the Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary and witness the diverse flora and fauna.
- Evening: Visit the nearest temples and depart for Bangalore.
Location Map
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