If you're looking for an adventurous escape from Bangalore, Kanakapura is an ideal destination. Located just 55 kilometers from the city, this serene spot offers exciting kayaking experiences amid lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about making the most out of a day trip from Bangalore to Kanakapura, including the route, itinerary, best time to visit, places to see along the way, and tips for a smooth kayaking experience.
Route from Bangalore to Kanakapura
The journey from Bangalore to Kanakapura is around 55 kilometers and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Here’s a breakdown of the route:
- Starting Point: Begin your trip in Bangalore, preferably early in the morning around 6:00 a.m., to beat the city traffic and make the most of your day.
- Route: The best route is to take the Kanakapura Road (NH948) which goes directly from Bangalore to Kanakapura.
- Landmarks: Pass through areas like Art of Living International Center on Kanakapura Road, Harohalli, and Sangam, which you can stop by if you have extra time.
The road to Kanakapura is smooth and scenic, with green stretches, rolling hills, and glimpses of rural Karnataka life. Driving along Kanakapura Road, especially in the early hours, is refreshing and calm, making the trip even more enjoyable.
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Itinerary Summary
Here’s a rough itinerary to help you plan your day trip:
- 6:00 a.m.: Start from Bangalore.
- 7:00 a.m.: Quick stop at the Art of Living International Center or Pyramid Valley.
- 8:30 a.m.: Arrive in Kanakapura.
- 9:00 a.m.: Begin kayaking and enjoy water activities.
- 12:00 p.m.: Break for lunch (you can carry packed food or enjoy a meal at the camp/resort).
- 1:00 p.m.: Additional adventure activities (zip-lining, swimming, etc.) or rest.
- 3:00 p.m.: Depart from Kanakapura.
- 4:00 p.m.: Stop at Chunchi Falls or Sangam on your way back.
- 6:00 p.m.: Return to Bangalore.
This schedule allows you to maximize your time for both adventure and relaxation, while also including some scenic spots on the way back.
What to Expect
Once you arrive in Kanakapura, head to one of the adventure resorts or water sport centers that offer kayaking. The town is nestled along the banks of the Arkavathi River, and several resorts provide kayaking equipment, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.
- Kayaking Experience:
- The Arkavathi River offers calm waters, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced kayakers.
- The surrounding greenery, cool breeze, and occasional bird sightings make the experience peaceful and refreshing.
- Safety is paramount, so always wear a life jacket and listen to instructions provided by the guides.
- Other Activities:
- In addition to kayaking, these camps often offer other adventure activities like zip-lining, rope climbing, and swimming.
- You can easily make a full day out of your visit by combining several activities.
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On the Way: Places to Visit
The road to Kanakapura has some beautiful spots and attractions that you can explore along the way:
- Art of Living International Center (Vishalakshi Mantap):
- Located on Kanakapura Road, about 20 km from Bangalore, this ashram is known for its spiritual ambiance and stunning architecture.
- You can take a quick stop here for meditation or to explore the tranquil surroundings.
- Pyramid Valley:
- Just a short detour from Kanakapura Road, Pyramid Valley is a unique meditation center with a giant pyramid-shaped structure where visitors can meditate and relax.
- This place is peaceful and offers scenic views of the valley.
- Chunchi Falls:
- Around 15 km from Kanakapura, Chunchi Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by rocky hills.
- It’s a great spot for photography and a quick visit before heading to the kayaking spot.
- Mekedatu and Sangam:
- A popular picnic and scenic spot where the Arkavathi River meets the Kaveri River.
- It’s about 30 km from Kanakapura and is a nice place to visit if you have extra time.
- The view is stunning, and you can dip your feet in the cool waters here.
- Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta:
- This hill is a popular trekking spot with a small temple at the top.
- If you're in for some trekking, you can plan a hike here either before or after your kayaking trip.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kanakapura for kayaking is during the post-monsoon and winter months, between October and March. During this period, the water levels in the river are optimal, and the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for water sports.
Summer (March to June) can be quite hot in Kanakapura, and kayaking may not be as enjoyable due to the high temperatures. Monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rains, which can make kayaking challenging and even dangerous due to strong currents and high water levels.
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Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Book Kayaking in Advance: During peak season, it’s advisable to book your kayaking slot in advance as these activities can get fully booked.
- Carry Essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a change of clothes, as you’ll likely get wet during kayaking.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for quick-dry or waterproof clothing suitable for water sports.
- Carry Cash: Some small eateries and rural spots along the way might not accept digital payments, so carry some cash just in case.
- Plan for a Picnic: You can bring your own snacks or packed lunch if you prefer a picnic-style meal by the river.
Kanakapura is a fantastic option for a quick day trip from Bangalore, especially if you’re seeking a mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. With a scenic drive, interesting stops along the way, and the thrill of kayaking on the Arkavathi River, it’s a complete package for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, the serene waters of Kanakapura and the picturesque surroundings make it a memorable experience. So, pack your essentials, gather your adventurous spirit, and head out to Kanakapura for a rejuvenating escape from city life.
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