Manchinabele Dam, a small reservoir, tucked away about 40 km from Bangalore, is a travellers’ delight. To the respite of vehicle owners in the city who complain of no escape from long hours of traffic, Manchinabele Dam peacefully rests on the edge of Bangalore, without one having to travel a long distance. As you spin wheels through the small villages of Ramanagaram district and inch closer to river Arkavathi, serenity surrounds on a ‘loud bass’. The dam, which is built mainly for irrigation purposes also provides water to Magadi town. It is built across Arkavathi River. The land covered for irrigation under this project is called “Thore Saalu” because all the villages lie between the two sides of Arkavathi River. In Kannada, “thore” means river and “saalu” means line. Also, on the way to Manchinabele Dam, one can stop at The Big Banyan Tree in Ramohalli. The historic tree, which is said to be at least 400 years old, is a quick stop by for first-time travellers.
An escape to Manchinabele Dam can be exhilarating and adventurous. The place is also popular for kayaking, a water sport. If you are heading out with a large group of friends to Manchinabele, a lot of adventure sports agencies organise kayaking and trekking. The place proffers exciting opportunities for photographers. Namrata Havaldar, a city-based MNC employee, says, “A weekend trip to Manchinabele Dam is what one needs when looking out for a short-distance hide out without going too far from the city. Since I am very keen on photography, the place is picturesque for early sunrise and sunset photoshoot. I head out to the place with my DSLR and while I am returning, my photos speak for my well spent day. I like coming back to this place often and more often!” The place is popular not only among youths, but even families who pack food and spend their day having fun along the river side. You can wish to be sober, savouring the peace, or get sporty with adventures, the calm composure of the place is surely an adrenaline rush. Although there are rumours that the place is allegedly ‘unsafe’ for couples looking for privacy, the place is a refreshing change for people bored of malls and movies.