Get away from Bangalore this weekend, stay close to nature at Bheemeshwari

Bheemeshwari is a popular weekend getaway, 100kms from Bangalore. Located on the banks of Cauvery river and habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, Bheemeshwari is visited by adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers for boating, camping, trekking and bird watching. Bheemeshwari is also known for its fishing camps. Let's take you through a weekend at Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp.

A drive from Bangalore to the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp in Bheemeshwari area of Mandya district is refreshing. The stay, adventure activities, and food provided at the camp add merriment to company. It's not only fun to engage in adventure activities like zipper ride, rope walk, coracle ride, kayak and treks, but the scenic beauty of the place makes the trip even more exciting.

Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp is an ecotourism initiative under Jungle lodges, by Karnataka government. As the name indicates, the setting inside is such that nothing comes between you and nature. No mobiles, no net connection, no television. Bheemeshwari fishing camp is the most popular among the 3 Cauvery fishing camps - Bheemeshwari, Galibore, and Doddamakkali.

Best time to visit

Right after monsoons, from August to February

How to reach

Bheemeshwari is just 100km from Bangalore, located on the banks of river Cauvery. The drive is a mix of fast-track driving through NICE Road and normal pacing through Kanakpura-Halagur Road. Alternately, you can reach here via Bangalore-Mysore Road. You may want to use your private vehicles to get here.

The stay

Its a cozy place for a weekend stay. They have different options for stay like log huts, luxury tent cottages, and bamboo huts. The rooms are quite spacious and well maintained. You may enjoy the chirping sound of birds and soothing sound of waters during the stay. There's hammock, swings in the area for you to just sit and relax.

The day starts with a welcome drink and then there are certain activities that you can take part in. The check in time is around 11 am.

The fact that there is no phone signal or internet or wifi is just great way to unwind and be free from technology. You may get signal at the end of a 2 km trek uphill, when you go trekking the next day.

Caution: Beware of crocodiles in the river and do not go swimming in the Cauvery river. Also, there are a lot of monkeys which may snatch your food packets. Don't leave anything outside and lock your door every time you step out.

The activities

There are activities for kids as well as adults. There are guides that will help you through each activity. Of all the activities, zipline is the most adventurous. There's parallel rope walk and other similar activities as well.

The highlight of this place is definitely the coracle ride and kayaking in the evening and the scenic view of birds, hills and forest along both the banks is amazing. Its a magical experience paddling in these waters.

The  morning trek up the hill is also refreshing with the panoramic views of Cauvery river and dense forests in the background.

The food

They provide hygienic and tasty meals with decent mix of south and north Indian delicacies. The barbecue during campfire on the banks of river is not only tasty but a great way to relax, meet people, and enjoy the evening. They do not have any restaurants but a group dining area called Gol Ghar where lunch and dinner is served.

Please check out their website for more details. https://www.bheemeshwarinaturecamp.com/

Nearby attractions

Doddamakkali Nature Camp, Kokrebellur Pelicanry, Galibore Fishing Camps are close by.

Since the location lies between Shivanasamudra falls and Mekedatu falls, they are also worth a try.

While heading back, 'Art of living' centre is on the way, on Kanakpura Road. Meenakshi mall and, Meenakshi temple are also accessible if you are headed towards Bannerghatta Road.

Things to carry

Comfortable clothes for adventure activities

Sun screen/sun glasses

Water bottles

Hats.