
Manchanabele Dam
A tranquil reservoir framed by forested hills, offering serene views, birdwatching, and stunning sunset vistas near Bangalore.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene and less crowded

Manchanabele Dam
Best Time
Serene and less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil reservoir framed by forested hills, offering serene views, birdwatching, and stunning sunset vistas near Bangalore.
"A hidden gem for nature, peace, and scenic views, perfect for a weekend getaway from city chaos."

🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead
Enjoy the drive to Manchanabele Dam; roads are mostly good, but watch for rough patches near Mysore Highway. :car:
🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks
Limited food options available. Bring your own food and water to ensure a comfortable visit. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Reservoir Views
Dam overlook
A tranquil reservoir framed by lush, forested hills offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Sunset Spectacle
Dam overlook
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors over the calm waters.

Nature Photography Spot
Surrounding hills and water
Ideal location for capturing stunning landscapes, birdlife, and the serene natural environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for a Peaceful Visit
Pack Smart for Your Trip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The view at Manchanabele dam
🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead
Enjoy the drive to Manchanabele Dam; roads are mostly good, but watch for rough patches near Mysore Highway. :car:
🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks
Limited food options available. Bring your own food and water to ensure a comfortable visit. :sandwich:
Is Swimming in Manchanabele Dam a Good Idea? Seeking Experiences!
Day trip to Savandurga betta and Manchanbele Dam
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming in the dam is not permitted. Enjoy the views and peaceful atmosphere instead. :noentrysign:
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep this natural spot clean by taking all your litter with you. :recycle:
How is Manchanbele dam like now?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Ahead
Enjoy the drive to Manchanabele Dam; roads are mostly good, but watch for rough patches near Mysore Highway. :car:
🧺 Pack Your Own Snacks
Limited food options available. Bring your own food and water to ensure a comfortable visit. :sandwich:
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming in the dam is not permitted. Enjoy the views and peaceful atmosphere instead. :noentrysign:
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep this natural spot clean by taking all your litter with you. :recycle:
🚽 No Public Toilets
Plan your restroom breaks before arriving, as there are no facilities on-site. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Manchanabele Dam is praised as a peaceful getaway with scenic views, ideal for drives and photography, especially at sunset. However, visitors note the lack of facilities like toilets and limited food options, advising to pack essentials and be mindful of litter.
"Decent place to go for a peaceful drive.
However, the exact location or the dam area is not that great. I didn't experience a clean place, but still went near the stream to see the view. You can check the picture.
You can still visit the place for a drive. Doesn't have many things to explore."
Rubina chettri
"Manchanabele Dam is a hidden gem for anyone who loves nature, peace, and scenic views. Located just a short drive from Bangalore, it offers a perfect weekend getaway from the city's chaos. The drive itself is quite scenic, and once you arrive, the calm waters surrounded by lush hills create a truly serene atmosphere.
Great spot for photography, picnics, or just relaxing by the water. If you arrive early in the morning or around sunset, the views are especially magical. There are a few trails around the area for those who enjoy light trekking or exploring.
Just a heads-up: swimming is not allowed, and it’s best to pack your own snacks or water, as there are limited facilities nearby. Respect the environment—please don’t litter!
Overall, Manchanabele Dam is a peaceful and beautiful place that’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in or around Bangalore."
PRASANNA KUMAR K M
"relaxed outing ,
Surrounded by trees, natural elements, and open space, the setting immediately calms the senses. The layout is thoughtfully designed to preserve the natural charm while offering comfort and accessibility. The gentle sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional breeze create a soothing, almost meditative atmosphere."
Taniya Kundu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manchanabele Dam is located about 40-50 km from Bangalore. You can drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi. The roads are generally good, though some patches can be rough, especially near the Mysore Highway. The drive itself is scenic and offers a pleasant escape from the city.
Public transportation options are limited. It's best to travel by private vehicle (car or bike) for convenience and flexibility. Buses might go to nearby villages, but you would likely need to arrange local transport from there.
The most common route involves heading towards the Mysore Road and then taking diversions towards Manchanabele. Using GPS navigation is highly recommended as some internal roads can be less marked.
There are no designated parking lots. You can usually park your vehicle on the roadside near the dam area, but ensure it's done safely and doesn't obstruct traffic or the environment.
The travel time is typically around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point in Bangalore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no entry fee to visit Manchanabele Dam. It's a natural spot accessible to the public for free.
There are no official visiting hours. You can visit anytime, but it's advisable to go during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the views. Early mornings and late afternoons are popular.
No, tickets are not required as there is no entry fee. You can visit spontaneously.
While there are no formal entry restrictions, visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and avoid littering. Swimming is also prohibited.
It is not recommended to visit Manchanabele Dam at night due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for a better experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Manchanabele Dam is perfect for peaceful drives, enjoying scenic views, photography, and picnics. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here.
No, swimming in Manchanabele Dam is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Unfortunately, there are no public toilets or restrooms available at Manchanabele Dam. Visitors are advised to use facilities before arriving or in nearby towns.
Yes, the dam and its surrounding forested hills are a haven for various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
You can expect serene reservoir views framed by lush green hills. Sunrises and sunsets offer particularly beautiful and photographic moments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options directly at the dam. Some small shops and basic eateries are available nearby, but it's best to pack your own snacks and water.
Yes, Manchanabele Dam is an excellent spot for picnics. Remember to bring your own food and dispose of any waste responsibly.
The nearby eateries typically offer local South Indian snacks and meals. Quality can vary, so packing your own food is often preferred.
While some local food is available, it's advisable to exercise caution. Packing your own food ensures you have safe and familiar options.
Yes, there are resorts near Manchanabele Dam that offer dining. Keywords like 'resort near Manchanabele Dam' or 'Manchanabele Dam resort' can help you find these options.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam overlook offers panoramic views of the reservoir and hills. The surrounding natural landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset, provides excellent opportunities for landscape and nature photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons, particularly around sunset, offer the best light for photography. The golden hour provides a warm, soft glow that enhances the scenic beauty.
Capture the reflections in the water, the silhouette of the hills against the sky during sunset, and the diverse flora and fauna. Wide-angle lenses are great for landscapes, while telephoto lenses can be useful for birdwatching.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary and may be subject to local authorities. It's advisable to check current rules before flying a drone in the area.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (e.g., 18-55mm or 24-70mm) is ideal for landscapes. A telephoto lens is beneficial for wildlife, and a tripod can help with low-light photography during sunrise/sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for safety and better visibility. The natural surroundings offer a good opportunity to introduce children to nature. However, due to the limited amenities and the prohibition of swimming, it might be more suitable for a short visit rather than an all-day affair, unless you come well-prepared for a picnic.
🚗 Solo Travelers & Couples
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a romantic or contemplative meal by the water. The lack of crowds during weekdays makes it ideal for quality time. Remember to bring your own provisions and be prepared for the minimal facilities. The tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
🌿 Nature & Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your best camera gear, including wide-angle lenses for landscapes and telephoto lenses for wildlife. A tripod will be beneficial for low-light photography. Remember to respect the environment and practice responsible photography, leaving no trace behind. The peaceful ambiance allows for unhurried exploration and creative capture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Manchanabele Dam: A Nature Lover's Guide
Visitors often praise the natural beauty and the sense of peace it provides. It's an ideal location for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the light creates a magical ambiance. While swimming is not allowed, the area offers opportunities for light trekking and exploring the trails around the dam. Birdwatching is also a significant draw, with the area being home to various avian species.
It's important to note that facilities are minimal. There are no public toilets, and food options are scarce. Therefore, it's highly recommended to pack your own snacks, water, and essentials before heading out. Respecting the environment by not littering is also crucial to preserve the pristine beauty of this hidden gem.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips for Manchanabele Dam
Essential items to pack include plenty of water, snacks, and any personal necessities. Since there are no restrooms, plan your visits accordingly. The dam area is known for its natural beauty, making it a great spot for picnics. However, visitors are urged to maintain cleanliness and carry back all their waste to help preserve the environment.
While the dam itself is the main attraction, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for light exploration and photography. The calm waters and forested hills provide a beautiful backdrop. Remember that swimming is prohibited for safety reasons, so focus on enjoying the scenic views and the peaceful atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit