Dodda Aalada Mara and Manchanabele Dam

Date: 21-Sep-13
I had never visited either the Big Banyan Tree or Manchanabele Dam before, although Thilak had been to both places once earlier. This was a suddenly planned trip, and we decided to head out after lunch.

After having lunch at Jayanagar, we started our journey at around 1:30 PM. We took Mysore Road to reach Dodda Alada Mara, popularly known as the Big Banyan Tree. As the name suggests, the tree was truly massive and impressive to look at. It is believed to be around 400 years old. Beneath the giant canopy, there were several benches where visitors could sit and relax.

Dodda Alada Mara (Big Banyan Tree)

We spent nearly an hour there, simply talking and enjoying each other’s company. The weather was cloudy, and the cool breeze beneath the huge tree made the atmosphere even more pleasant and refreshing.

At around 3:45 PM, we started towards Manchanabele Dam, which is located roughly 10 km from the Big Banyan Tree. On the way, it began raining heavily. Both of us thoroughly enjoyed the rainy drive and reached Manchanabele at around 4:00 PM.

Manchanabele

Entry to the dam area was restricted, so we instead went near the Manchanabele Lake. The lake looked calm and beautiful, with clear water and a peaceful atmosphere all around. Neither of us was interested in stepping into the water, so we simply sat on a rock, chatted for a long time, and enjoyed the beauty and silence of nature.

We started our return journey at around 5:30 PM. Although there were no major attractions to see and the road conditions were not particularly good, we still felt genuinely happy and content spending time there.

Travel snapshot

• Route travelled: HSR Layout > Jayanagar > Mysore Road > Dodda Aalada Mara > Manchanabele
• Total distance travelled (To & Fro): 100 km
• Mileage (Car): 21 km/l
• Fuel expense: 395 Rs
• Total expense: 500 Rs
• Challenges: No good hotels nearby.

Route map