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Mari Kanive Dam

Mari Kanive Dam is the oldest dam in Karnataka, India. It is about 20 km away from Hiriyur, 40 km from Chitradurga and 160 km from north of Bangalore on the NH-4 highway. Mysore Maharajas constructed the dam during pre-independence period across the Vedavathi River. The construction order was given by his Highness, the Maharaja of Mysore, Sri Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Thereafter, Tara Chand Dalal, an Engineer by profession, led the project. It must be said about the dam that it is an engineering marvel and an exquisite architectural piece considering the time when it was built. It provides water to various cities, dry villages and towns surrounding the place.
Mari Kanive Dam is also the source of domestic water for Chitradurga and Hiriyur. Moreover, it irrigates 100 sq km of land in Challakere and Hiriyur taluks through left and right bank canals. Though the dam has never been a major tourist destination but has attracted many visitors over the years. It has almost become a ritual for tourists visiting Hosdurga and Chitradurga to visit Mari Kanive Dam along the way.

Attractions

There are a few places of interest around Mari Kanive Dam. The Panchavati gardens and Maarikaamba are the most popular attractions here.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

While on the way to Mari Kanive Dam, one would find the following places worth visiting:

  • Shivgange (trek)
  • Devarayanadurga
  • Heseghatta lake
  • Tumkur
  • Siddarabetta (trek)
  • Chitradurga fort

Things to Do

Mari Kanive Dam is a great place to do photography. One can also get down in the water but has to be careful enough. Knowing swimming is always an added advantage. This is also a great picnic spot. Thus, people going for weekend picnic are a common sight here.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mari Kanive Dam is between October and January. It is worth mentioning that every November, this place hosts an annual Kanive Maramma fest with extreme devotion. A huge crowd gathers every year at the Vani Vilasa Sagara to observe the fair.

How to Reach

Mari Kanive Dam is well connected with roadways. There are regular buses from major surrounding cities like Bangalore to Hiriyur. Private cars, bikes, cab hire can also be used to reach this destination.

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