bangalorebeats

Sangam and Mekedatu

Sangam is the confluence of Rivers Cauvery, Arkavathi and another mythical river which is no longer visible. It is a nice picnic spot typically during winter season when the water recedes and one can play on the white sands. Arkavathi will have very less water during this time and can be said to be safe. However, it is advisable not to venture in river Cauvery even during this period because of under current. Sangam located around 90 km from bangalore and a drive of around 2 hours can be reached via Kanakpura road(NH209). Once you reach Kanakpura town ask for direction if you are not sure. Sangam is around 35 km from Kanakpura. Public transportation is scare but it is available. One can try the red buses from Majestic. A few buses go directly to Sangam otherwise you gota change at kanakpura for a bus to Sangam. Well, my first journey to Sangam and Mekedatu was on such a red bus. Buses generally remain crowded with people and their large belongings. If you can adjust this then should not be a problem. However, mind it – after the dark there is no bus. So make sure you do not miss the last bus. One sour point is, the place is mostly littered with plastics and broken alcohol bottles. I think such a beautiful place deserves to be little clean.

Sangam

It can be nice to drive around 10 -15 kms after Kanakpura town on the small hillocks overlooking the country side in the ghat section.

Mekedatu gorge created by river Cauvery

Mekedatu is the place where river Cauvery flows through a zig zag deep gorge. At some places the rocky banks comes so closer that even a goat can cross to the other side. Hence, the name Mekedatu derived from Meke (goat) Datu (leap). This place is around 3 km from Sangam and local bus is available to carry you there. I think it is advisable to be careful while walking on the rock and not to venture too much on the edges. The sound of gushing white water and beautiful uneven granite rocks can be enchanting. One can do little treking around.

Cauvery river at Mekedatu

Make sure to carry water and food which are not readily available and those available may not be of your choice. Also, a few shops located around the Sangam charge a bomb for water and beverages. It is also advisable to leave the place before dark.