Hello, bikers !!!
Searching for a unique and adventurous destination for a road trip, give a shot at the captivating Male Mahadeshwara Hills in Karnataka. Hey, Manoj this side, living in Bangalore’s Whitefield area with my college friends. One fine day we decided to experience the freedom of open road destinations like Kerala or Wayanad, but we settled in Male Mahadeshwara Hills in Karnataka for a spontaneous college friends’ reunion as our weekend destination.
So, Get ready to taste the delicious South Indian cuisine, witness breathtaking waterfalls, and seek the blessings of Lord Mahadeshwara with us through this blog !!!
Oops don’t forget to follow my Instagram page : leo_rider__
Our plan was to leave Bangalore early but was delayed by the monsoon, so we started our journey at 8 AM. The first consideration when planning a trip is the route as it was the month of July.
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Route from Odyssey to Male Mahadeshwara Hills
We opted for the Kanakapura-Kollegal Road, covering approximately 226 km one way.
Place covered in Weekend Trip :
1. Gaganachukki and Barachukki Waterfalls.
2. Male Mahadeshwara Temple.
3. Hogenakkal Falls
4. Kaveri River.
Day 1 : Venturing on the Open Road
The journey began with a feeling of freedom, the promise of adventure, and the thrill of discovery as we left the bustling streets of Bangalore behind. As I rode through quaint villages and lush green fields, I couldn’t help but marvel at the scenic landscapes that unfolded around me. The wind in my hair and the roar of the engine were music to my ears.
Along the way, we made several pit stops. The aroma of South Indian cuisine from local tea shops and roadside eateries filled the air, tantalizing our taste buds and beckoning us to savor dosas and filter coffee. Our first stop came just after Kengeri, around 10 AM, where we indulged in a hearty breakfast. The rainy weather encouraged multiple tea and snack breaks along the way.
Our ultimate goal was to visit the magnificent Gaganachukki and Barachukki waterfalls, and the journey took us through the winding roads of the Western Ghats. The forested slopes of the Western Ghats welcomed us with peace, and as the road led us uphill, the air grew cooler. The ride became more challenging, with hairpin bends and winding paths. But the view that greeted us at the end of each bend was worth every effort.
By evening, after several stops and enduring the rainy weather, we reached the temple town of Male Mahadeshwara at around 6:30 PM. The Male Mahadeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Mahadeshwara, stood amidst dense forests, its architecture a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Devotees from across the country gathered here, seeking the blessings of Lord Mahadeshwara.
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Day 2 : Hogenakkal Falls, the “Niagara Falls of India”
The next morning, after seeking the blessings of Lord Mahadeshwara and enjoying a lavish breakfast at a local hotel. The locals unveiled a remarkable marvel just a mere 40 km away – none other than the mesmerizing Hogenakkal Falls! Our hearts were set, our souls were aflame, as we geared up to embrace the glorious waterfall that awaited us.
Venturing on an exciting journey, we packed our bags and fueled up at a nearby petrol station, ready to beat the majestic Hogenakkal Falls. The road ahead promised a thrilling adventure, with a touch of off-roading for that extra adrenaline rush. We arrived at our destination at noon, around 12 PM. But here’s the twist – to reach the falls, we had to hop on a boat that would take us on a mesmerizing ride across the Kaveri River. And let me tell you, it was worth every penny of the 1200 rupees we paid! Feeling the mighty rush of water, we couldn’t resist the temptation to grab some snacks in the middle of the river – how cool is that? Oh, and wait for it, my friends – imagine getting an oil massage and fishing on the top of the falls. Oh, what a once-in-a-lifetime experience that was!
It is a stunning waterfall located on the Kaveri River in the state of Tamil Nadu, a natural wonder known for its breathtaking beauty, and is a popular tourist destination in South India. The name “Hogenakkal” translates to “Smoking Rock” in the local language, which aptly illustrates the appearance of the water as it waterfalls down the rocks, creating a misty spray.
As it grew late, we turned to the locals for a shortcut back to Bangalore. Their tip: a 5-kilometer detour leading us to a riverbank where boat operators transport bikes across the river to reach the Tamil Nadu side. There, we’d embark on a unique 150-kilometer journey with a twist—ferrying our bikes across the river using small manual boats, powered by sheer human determination.
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Hidden Gem of the trip from Odyssey to Male Mahadeshwara Hills :
The boat that transports bikes across to the opposite river bank to the Tamil Nadu side. Thanks to boat human operators.
Expense & Total Budget of 2 days trip to Male Mahadeshwara Hills :
Considering that my bike gets 40 km per liter on average, I spent Rs. 2000 for petrol. I also paid an extra Rs. 1500 for lodging, food, and other expenses.
Necessary things to pack :
- Vehicle necessities (spare tire, jack, tire iron, etc.).
- Roadside emergency kit (flares, jumper cables, flashlight, etc.).
- Vehicle documents (proof of insurance, registration).
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Tips for Travelers in Road Trip to Male Mahadeshwara Hills:
- Carry some cash due to network issues, and some shop owners may not accept online payments.
- Check the weather forecast for your route and pack accordingly.
- Carry a basic first aid kit and emergency tools.
- Follow traffic rules and obey speed limits. Be mindful of other vehicles.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Be open to meeting and chatting with locals. They can offer valuable insights and recommendations.
My thrilling motorcycle journey to Male Mahadeshwara Hills was a life-changing adventure. It was a blend of self-discovery, connecting with nature, and finding spiritual enlightenment. Even after returning to the life of Bangalore, I held on to the calm and peace I discovered in the hills. It will be a constant reminder that answering the call of adventure is truly worthwhile.
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