Explore the Top 6 Scenic Dams Near Bangalore - Distance, Routes & Attractions

Discover the best dams near Bangalore including KRS Dam, T.G. Halli Dam, Manchanabele Dam, and more. Find distances, routes, key features, and nearby attractions for a perfect day trip.

Bangalore, being centrally located in the state of Karnataka, has several dams within a few hours' drive. Here are some notable ones:

1. Krishnaraja Sagara Dam (KRS Dam)

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 143 km
   • Location: Near Mysore, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Built across the Kaveri River, it's a major source of irrigation and drinking water. The Brindavan Gardens adjacent to the dam is a major tourist attraction.

2. T.G. Halli Dam (Thippagondanahalli Reservoir)

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 35 km
   • Location: Near Magadi Road, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Provides drinking water to Bangalore. Located in a picturesque setting, it's also known for bird watching.

3. Manchanabele Dam

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 40 km
   • Location: Near Dodda Alada Mara, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Built on the Arkavathi River, it's a popular spot for picnics and water sports.

4. Kanva Dam

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 69 km
   • Location: Near Ramanagara, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Built on the Kanva River, it's known for its serene surroundings and is a popular spot for bird watching.

5. Hesaraghatta Lake

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 30 km
   • Location: Near Hesaraghatta, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Although not a traditional dam, it's a man-made reservoir created for drinking water supply. The area is popular for its scenic beauty and bird watching.

6. Makalidurga Dam

   • Distance from Bangalore: Approximately 58 km
   • Location: Near Makalidurga, Karnataka
   • Key Features: Located near the Makalidurga Fort, it's a lesser-known spot but offers stunning views and a peaceful environment.

Route Map

To plan a visit to these dams, you can follow these routes from Bangalore:

1. Krishnaraja Sagara Dam (KRS Dam):

   • Route: Bangalore → Mysore Road (NH275) → Srirangapatna → KRS Road → KRS Dam
   • Approximate Travel Time: 3 hours

2. T.G. Halli Dam (Thippagondanahalli Reservoir):

   • Route: Bangalore → Magadi Road (SH85) → T.G. Halli Dam
   • Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour

3. Manchanabele Dam:

   • Route: Bangalore → Mysore Road (NH275) → Dodda Alada Mara Road → Manchanabele Dam
   • Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour

4. Kanva Dam:

   • Route: Bangalore → Mysore Road (NH275) → Channapatna → Kanva Dam
   • Approximate Travel Time: 1.5 hours

5. Hesaraghatta Lake:

   • Route: Bangalore → Yelahanka → Hesaraghatta Road → Hesaraghatta Lake
   • Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour

6. Makalidurga Dam:

   • Route: Bangalore → Doddaballapur Road → Makalidurga
   • Approximate Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Know For: 

• KRS Dam: Known for the beautiful Brindavan Gardens with musical fountain shows.
• T.G. Halli Dam: Popular for bird watching and its serene environment.
• Manchanabele Dam: Great for water sports and picnics.
• Kanva Dam: Ideal for bird watching and nature lovers.
• Hesaraghatta Lake: Offers a peaceful retreat and bird watching opportunities.
• Makalidurga Dam: Provides stunning views and is perfect for a quiet getaway.

For the most accurate and updated route maps, consider using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps.