Markonahalli Dam
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About:
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Markonahalli Dam is an irrigation dam built across the Shimsha River, a
tributary of the Cauvery, located in the Tumkur district of Karnataka,
India. The dam was constructed primarily to provide water for irrigation and
drinking purposes to the surrounding agricultural villages. It’s a popular
spot for day-trips, picnics, and nature outings, known for its peaceful
environment and scenic surroundings.
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Location info:
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| Markonahalli Dam is located near the village of Markonahalli in Tumkur district,
Karnataka. It’s about 100 km from Bangalore, making it a popular getaway for
those in the city. The dam lies on the Shimsha River, approximately 20 km from
Kunigal.
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Climate/Weather of Markonahalli Dam:
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| Summer (March-May): Warm with temperatures between 25°C to 35°C.
Monsoon (June-September): Receives moderate to heavy rainfall, filling up the
dam and surrounding landscapes with lush greenery.
Winter (October-February): Pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging between
15°C and 28°C, making it an ideal time for visiting. |
History of Markonahalli Dam:
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| The Markonahalli Dam was built in 1940 by Sir M. Visvesvaraya, one of India’s
most revered engineers and a former Dewan of Mysore. Known for his expertise in
hydraulic engineering, Sir Visvesvaraya designed the dam with a unique siphon
system that doesn’t require sluice gates, allowing water to flow over the dam
automatically when it reaches certain levels. This engineering marvel makes the
dam stand out among other dams in Karnataka.
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Interesting things to do:
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| Enjoy a Picnic: The serene surroundings of the dam make it an ideal location for
picnics. Visitors can relax by the water, surrounded by greenery, and enjoy the
peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the Siphon System: Visitors interested in engineering can explore the
unique siphon system, an interesting feature designed by Sir M. Visvesvaraya.
Bird Watching: The dam area attracts a variety of bird species, making it an
excellent spot for bird watching, especially during winter.
Photography: Capture scenic views of the dam, water channels, and the Shimsha
River, which are especially picturesque during and after the monsoon season.
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Interesting things to Visit:
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- Markonahalli Dam Reservoir
- Kunigal Stud Farm
- Devarayanadurga Hills
- Shivagange Hills
- Age-old temple dedicated to Someshwara and Parvathi at Kunigal.
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Mobile range info:
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| Mobile network coverage is generally good near the dam and surrounding areas,
though some parts may experience weak signals due to the rural setting.
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How to reach Markonahalli Dam?
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| Nearest Railway Station: Kunigal Railway Station is the nearest station,
approximately 20 km away, with connectivity to Bangalore and nearby towns. |
| Nearest Airport:The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport
in Bangalore, around 100 km from Markonahalli Dam. |
| Road Transport: The dam is well-connected by road. It is accessible by
private vehicles and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses
from Bangalore and Tumkur. |
Nearest Visiting places in Markonahalli Dam:
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- Yediyur - 2 KMs
- Kunigal stud farm (Horse breeding farm, owned by Vijay Malya)
- Kunigal lake (famous through the folk song 'Moodal Kunigal kere')
- Deepambhudi lake - 26 KMs from Kunigal
- Huliyurdurga - another picnic & small trek point - 22 KMs from
Kunigal
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Nearest Petrol Pump:
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| Petrol pumps are available in nearby towns such as Kunigal and Tumkur. It’s advisable to refuel in these towns before heading to the dam, as petrol stations may be limited near the dam itself.
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Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Markonahalli Dam:
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| Guesthouses in Tumkur: Various budget and mid-range accommodations are available in Tumkur for those wishing to stay nearby.
KSTDC Mayura Hotels: Karnataka State Tourism offers guesthouses and accommodations at various locations, including Tumkur and Bangalore.
Homestays in Kunigal: Simple, comfortable homestay options are available in nearby Kunigal
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Things to carry:
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| Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and exploring.
Water bottle and snacks, especially if you plan on spending the day at the dam.
Camera or binoculars for scenic views and bird watching.
Sun protection like sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, particularly if visiting during the day.
Personal essentials and any necessary medications. |
Tips & Suggestions for Markonahalli Dam:
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| Visit during the winter or monsoon for the best weather and scenic beauty, as the dam is full and the surroundings are lush green.
Respect the local environment by avoiding littering and preserving the cleanliness of the area.
Take caution around water bodies, as currents may be strong in certain areas, particularly after rainfall.
Check the water levels if visiting in summer, as the dam may have lower water levels during the dry season.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and find the best picnic spots along the reservoir. |
Help Line/Phone Number:
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| Karnataka Tourism Helpline:080-2235-2828 |
| Local Police Station (Kunigal): +91-8132-222-333 |
