Nestled along the banks of the river Cauvery (Kaveri), Bheemeshwari is a small town in the Mandya district of Karnataka. The Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp is one of Bheemeshwari’s resorts or jungle lodges and is accessible to tourists around the year. It’s visited by all adventure seekers for activities like rafting, kayaking, trekking, camping, angling, wildlife safaris, fishing etc. which are mostly conducted around the confluence of the river Cauvery.
The weather in Bheemeshwari is pleasant most of the time. The ideal time to travel to Bheemeshwari is between August and February, just after the monsoons when Cauvery’s waters are alive and the forest is thick and verdant. This is the best time to get away from the daily grind. It’s also the ideal time for bird watching in Bheemeshwari—river terns, fishing eagles, woodpeckers, kingfishers and other water birds flock here. The water recedes and reveals the wide sandy banks of the river during the other months, which are great for idling away. The summer months between March and June can be very warm, especially in the afternoon.
The Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp travel guide is the best option to plan your perfect getaway.
Also read: 8 incredible one-day trips to take from Bangalore
How To Reach Bheemeshwari?
The most common way to reach Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp directly is via road. The nearest airport and railway station are in Bangalore. From Bangalore, regular buses ply to Bheemeshwari.
By Flight
The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), which is 110 km away from Bheemeshwari. You can take a cab or bus to Bheemeshwari.
By Road
Bus services are available from most nearby cities and towns in South India to Bheemeshwari. If you’re travelling from Bangalore, you can take the route via Kanakapura and Sathanur.
By Train
The closest railway connection to Bheemeshwari is from Bangalore. The railway station in Bangalore is located at a distance of 100 km from Bheemeshwari. Once you arrive, you can take a cab or bus to Bheemeshwari.
Local Transport
KSRTC buses are available for local transport to and from Bheemeshwari. Taxis from in and around Mandya district or Bangalore can also be hired for private tours.
Natural Places To Experience In Bheemeshwari
Flowing at a calm pace in Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, the course of river Cauvery includes waterfalls, dense forests, gorges, and more. There are unique tree species with aerial roots that form a contiguous vegetative belt along the bed of the majestic river. Fringed by the dense Kollegal and Muthathi forests, Bheemeshwari is one of the most picturesque and verdant places in Karnataka, especially when drenched by the rains.
1. Shivanasamudra Falls
Situated at a distance of 140 km from Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, is the majestic Shivanasamudra Falls. It literally translates to ‘Shiva’s Sea’, and is one of the most popular tourist hotspots of Bheemeswari and of Karnataka. This magnificent waterfall must be visited between August to October, the peak season. Flowing from a height of 90 metres, river Kaveri gets divided into two segments, Gangachukki and Bharachukki, which are collectively called as Shivanasamudra Falls. Gaganachukki, dropping from a height of 90 metres, is a horsetail-shaped waterfall and has two large parallel streams that cascade down from a height of over 320 feet through a rocky bed. Bharachukki, cascades over a height of 70 metres, forming several streams through the wide rocky formations. It’s situated at a distance of approximately one km from Gaganachukki.
Also Read: Top 12 most beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka
2. Shimshapura Falls
Shimsha River is one of the tributaries of the river Cauvery. The watercourse flows through the Mandya district where the watercourse forms a waterfall at Shimshapura. On its way, the watercourse is joined by other small rivers, namely Mullahalla, Kanva, Hebbahalla, Chikkahole, Veeravaishnavi, and Kanihalla. With a distance of 106 km from Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, the Shimshapura Falls is situated in the Shimsha village of the Malavalli Taluk. The waterfall is also the site for the Shimsha Hydroelectric Project.
Also read: 25 famous waterfalls you absolutely have to see
3. Mekedatu Gorge Viewpoint
With a distance of 109 km from Bheemeshwari via Mysore Road and Kanakapura-Sangam Road, Mekedatu is a stretch of narrow, deep gorges along the Kaveri in Kanakapura Taluk. Mekedatu literally translates to ‘goat’s leap’ in Kannada and has rather interesting mythology behind it. Witnessed by herdsmen in that area a long time ago, it is said that a goat made a desperate attempt to save its life from being chased by a tiger by leaping from one side of the gorge and crossing over the river below. Since then, the point where the goat leapt has widened from erosion caused by the river Cauvery.
Places To Visit In Bheemeshwari
Primarily ecological in nature, Bheemeshwari is known for its natural delights and has a variety of wildlife present in the jungles attracting several travellers and nature lovers on a regular basis. Some of the top attractions in Bheemeshwari include:
1. Cauvery Fishing Camp
Popularly known as the Bheemeshwari Nature And Fishing Camp, the Cauvery Fishing Camp is one of the best tourist attractions. The camp offers a range of activities, like rope-walking, zip-lining, kayaking, etc., which are built around the beautiful natural setting on the banks of river Cauvery where the camp is situated. The Cauvery Fishing Camp is very close to Bheemeshwari, just 64 km away via the Kanakapura road.
This camp is essentially a caravan of tents set up by the banks of the river. The camp is also home to more than 200 species of birds like the grey-headed fish eagle, pied crested cuckoo, darter, etc., and mammals like the sambar deer, spotted deer, jackals, leopard, elephants and the almost-extinct grizzled giant squirrel. Angling is mostly practised at the camp during November, December, January and February.
The best time to visit this camp in Bheemeshwari is between September and February since the climate is pleasant and perfect for bird watchers. The entry fee for this camp is INR 6,500 – INR 10,600 for Indians; INR 7,500 – INR 11,500 for Foreigners; 50 per cent of adult tariff for children (5 – 12 years) and free for children below 5 years.
2. Kokrebellur Pelicanry
At a distance of 38 km from Bheemeshwari via the Rudrakshipur-Halaguru road, Kokrebellur is a village home to a large number of local and migratory avian population, famous for its pelicans as well as painted storks. Due to the pelicans that migrate there, it is also referred to as Kokrebellur pelicanry. Multiple water bodies are also featured here with many species of fish, serving as food for the pelicans.
Despite being known as the Kokrebellur pelicanry, tourists can not only see the local birds but also have the privilege of seeing exotic birds that visit this place in flocks during winter. It is an ideal spot for bird watchers, as all birds from the common stork to pelicans can be spotted here. The villagers of Kokrebellur are environment-friendly and live in an ecological manner, allowing the birds to nest and not posing any threat to their natural way of life. There is no entry fee to Kokrebellur pelicanry.
3. Galibore Fishing Camp
Situated in the thick forests of Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, the Galibore Fishing Camp is 121 km away from Bheemeshwari via the Kanakapura-Sangam Road. It is named after a windy hillock, Galibore, which is located right across the camp itself, and is a perfect escape from bustling city life.
You are bound to be occupied doing numerous activities here. Of which, the coracle rides are a must. You can go hiking in the jungle but also laze around in the hammocks, just outside your tent, under the luscious green canopy by the riverbank. The period between September and February is the perfect time to go visit here since the climate is pleasant and perfect for bird watchers. The entry fee for this place is INR 5,575 for Indians, INR 6,459 for Foreigners, 50 per cent discount for children between 5 and 12 years, and free entry for children below 5 years.
4. Doddamakkali Nature Camp
At a distance of 33 km from Bheemeshwari, the Doddamakali Nature Camp is a perfect location for a weekend getaway. The camp has around eight tent cottages with attached baths, but there is no electricity. The river’s flow creates many lagoons for birds like fish eagles, woodpeckers, kingfishers, river terns, and making it ideal for birdwatchers. The camp offers activities such as trekking and fishing and has trails that can be taken to reach Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp. The best time to visit is between the months of February and August. Single occupancy charges are INR 3900 per room for Indians and INR 7250 for foreigners.
5. Sangam
At a distance of 22 km from Bheemeshwari, Sangam is an ideal picnic spot for tourists, known for its richness of flora and fauna. Both locals and tourists throng this place in huge numbers. You will find ornithologists waiting patiently to view migratory and local birds flying in and out. Animals like tigers, deer, and elephants are also spotted here grazing or roaming. There is no entry fee.
Adventure Activities In Bheemeshwari
The Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp is a splendid mix of delightful nature and wild adventure, close enough for easy access, and far away enough to be cut off from the usual hullabaloo. This quaint and picturesque town offers a variety of activities. Being on the riverside, Bheemeshwari poses as an ideal place for trekking, fishing and most importantly some adventurous white water river rafting. Some of the adventure activities in Bheemeshwari that you can indulge in at this camp are as follows:
1. Trekking
The highlight of a trip to Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp is no doubt trekking. In fact, the area is a paradise for all trekkers. The terrain is gentle and strewn with rocks, and trails range from a distance of 4 km to 30 km, classified into three broad categories of easy, medium and tough. The best time to trek at this camp is between August and February when the natural beauty is at its peak and the chances of sighting rare birds or a great wild animal or two are the highest.
2. Fishing
Often referred to as ‘the angler’s paradise’, Bheemeshwari is the natural habitat of one of the best game fish in the world, mahseer. The fishing activity at this camp draws several fishing enthusiasts every year to this serene town. Even though it is now illegal to catch this giant and extremely beautiful fish, you can always witness it in its glory roaming freely in its habitat. The fishing activity at this camp in Bheemeshwari is environment-friendly. The tropical fish are allowed to be taken out of the water in your fishing game but you cannot take them home. The fishing is done merely for sport but then the fish has to be released back into the water. This is done to secure these species from getting extinct and to save wildlife.
3. River Rafting
Bheemeshwari is the place to indulge in river rafting as the flow of the Kaveri River is advantageous to do so. It is ideal for people who want to throw their pulsating adrenaline spirit into the arms of nature! The rapids here rank as ‘medium’ in terms of difficulty, at grade 3. Safety equipment is well-maintained and stringent safety measures are followed by all tour operators at Bheemeshwari. Rafting in Bheemeshwari is best enjoyed between August and February when the river’s waters are at their fullest, and the forest is thick and verdant.
4. Camping
If you are in a larger group, there are a lot of camping activities for you in Bheemeshwari. An exciting campsite near the river is set up amidst the dense forest to give you the complete feeling of being in a jungle. You will find that safety is not an issue as there are able-bodied forest guards on the lookout and it’s well protected. So you can enjoy a wonderful evening by the Kaveri in the midst of the wilderness in Bheemeshwari.
5. Cycling
Cycling is undoubtedly the best way to explore a forest in Bheemeshwari. You can cover longer distances, you don’t pollute the environment, and you also burn some calories. Cycling can be great fun in the company of friends or colleagues. You will surely enjoy cycling expeditions through the woods of Bheemeshwari.
6. Kayaking
Life on a river can be adrenaline-pumping or calm. If you’re one for the latter, try kayaking. On the calmer waters of the river, the gentle sway of the waters will guide you, as you decide the direction of your meandering ride. Kayaking in Bheemeshwari is a good way to enjoy the forest from a distance, gently moving up and down the river, fringing the woods, and getting in a good arm workout along the way.
7. Coracle Ride
A coracle ride in the majestic Kaveri is something that will help you connect with nature. The expanse of the water will leave you in awe. The ride in the pleasant waters is a stark contrast to a white-water adventure! Extremely scenic, riding these unique boats in Bheemeshwari is a surefire memorable experience, full of quaint charm.
8. Rope Activities
If you are not very keen on camping or trekking but still want to have some fun, you will definitely enjoy the rope activities—rock climbing and river crossing on zip lines in Bheemeshwari.
Wildlife Sanctuary And Animal Migration In Bheemeshwari
The best thing to do in Bheemeshwari is to view wildlife spotted around the camp, such as wild pigs, sambar, spotted deer, the highly endangered grizzled giant squirrel, the Malabar giant squirrel and jackals. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see some leopards and elephants. Some of the reptiles that can be sighted are marsh crocodiles, turtles (softshell turtles, an endemic species found in these waters), pythons, chameleons, Russell’s viper, cobra, and the banded krait. However, the mahseer fish is the main attraction in these waters.
The wildlife sanctuary in Bheemeshwari is also home to over 200 species of birds, and some of the water-based birds you can spot are the grey-headed fishing eagle, spot-billed duck, white-browed bulbul, green-billed malkoha, the sirkeer cuckoo, the pygmy woodpecker, small pied kingfisher, black-bellied river tern, osprey, and many more. There are also a number of rare land-based birds such as the pied crested cuckoo, tawny eagle, honey buzzard, etc. If you are lucky, you can see peacocks dancing around with the deer. Some owl species like the Indian scops owl can be seen nesting in the hollows of trees. The jungle brims with the melodious calls of birds and the fluttering of butterflies. In the wilderness of Bheemeshwari, instead of waking up to your blaring alarm, you will be waking up to the birds singing.
Spotting birds and animals and watching them live in action in their natural habitat can be a delightful experience. A trip to this place will certainly take you closer to nature.
Food In Bheemeshwari
While the choices might feel limited, you will be able to find typical Kannada cuisine at Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp. You can relish local cuisine consisting of dishes like bisi bele bath, dosa, idli, vada, sambhar, kesari bath, ragi mudde, etc and traditional and local sweets like chiroti, Mysore pak, etc at any of the restaurants in Bheemeshwari.
Also read: 18 Delicious Karnataka food items you have to try
When Should You Visit Bheemeshwari?
Visit Bheemeshwari just after the monsoon (August to February) as during these months the forest and hills are lush green and Cauvery River will be in its full form.
Nearby Resorts
- Mayflower Bluebell
- Silicon Hearth
- Galibore Nature Camp
- Jungle Lodges
- Meraki Suites
- Bheemeshwari Nature Camp
- Oakway Inn
- Thappalu Resort
Best Attractions Near Bheemeshwari
- Dubare, Karnataka
- Coorg, Karnataka
- Srirangapatna, Karnataka
- Kabini, Karnataka
- MM Hills, Karnataka
- Nandi Hills, Karnataka
- Kukke Subramanya, Karnataka
- Ramanagara, Karnataka
- Bandipur, Karnataka
- Belur
- Kokrebellur pelicanry
Best Food Joints In Bheemeshwari
- Soho Cafe
- Bheema’s
- Blend And Brew
- Sofie’s Eatery
- Dasprakash
- Seven Sisters
How To Travel Better In Bheemeshwari?
Being a responsible traveller may or may not come naturally to some. As a responsible traveller, you should always lower your environmental impact while travelling. If you really want a great way to explore an area in Bheemeshwari, you should rent a bicycle. It’s good for the environment, as well as your budget and health.
One of the greatest rewards while travelling is learning about different cultures. We must keep in mind when we travel, how important it is to show respect to local customs and traditions. Many places are conservative with their dress codes, so be mindful of them.
The world and its people are diverse and fascinating, and it is an astonishing feeling to be privileged enough to experience it.
Some tips to follow to ensure a fun-filled and smooth trip to Bheemeshwari:
- You should ensure to pack essentials (including a robust medical kit) and carry appropriate clothes as there are a lot of water activities here.
- Binoculars are a good addition, as there is plenty of wildlife and bird life to be spotted here.
- You should keep in mind that there is low and even mobile network service here.
Savour Moments In Bheemeshwari
Whether it’s an action-packed adventure or just a chance to get closer to nature, Bheemeshwari Nature and Adventure Camp is just the place for it. Offering a slice of nature that is entirely unique, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers to enjoy and have fun. The picturesque beauty of the place compels one to forget their urban struggles and enjoy them to the fullest.
FAQs
Bheemeshwari is popular as a paradise for fishing, nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bheemeshwari is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. Adventure seekers who are interested in for activities like rafting, kayaking, trekking, camping, angling, wildlife safaris, fishing etc. should visit Bheemeshwari.
Visit between August and February to get the best out of Bheemeshwari, just after the monsoons, when the river’s waters are at their fullest and the forest is thick and verdant.
The most common way to reach Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp directly is via road. The nearest airport and railway station are in Bangalore, from where regular buses ply to Bheemeshwari.
One can do rafting, kayaking, trekking, camping, angling, wildlife safaris, fishing etc in Bhemeshwari. You can also visit nearby areas like the Kokrebellur pelicanry to watch migratory birds.
