Muthathi

If its time to head out for a tryst with Mother Nature to calm the mind, body and soul, the perfect place close to Bangalore is Muthathi. The winding road which runs along the lush green hills of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary are picture perfect and the River Cauvery meanders through the hills flowing graciously through the course of these hills. It is pretty shallow at places and is excellent to just dip into the water and feel the running water. Just along the road as one enters the Muthathi region, the river runs parallel to the road and there are placards every where warning about whirlpools but t is easy to find a shallow safe place to spend the day.



The place is a haven for birds and wildlife. The grizzled giant squirrel is found here and if lucky one gets to spot it. Birds that are very common here are Wagtails, Red Whiskered Bulbuls, White breasted Kingfishers, Cattle egret, Pond Heron, Swifts, Rose Ringed Parakeets, Kites, Mynas and many more. Locals often spot Jackals here. The deciduous trees along the banks of the river are gorgeous. One can loiter around an entire day by the river watching birds, the trees, the flowing water, the floating leaves and twigs. The place is not very crowded most days except on festival days where the Hanuman temple in the Muthathi region has great village festivities.



The other places around here are the Sangama, the confluence of River Cauvery and Arkavathi and Mekedatu. The Bhimeshwari fishing camp is close by too. The forest department has a camping site at Muthathi and requires prior booking. Trekking in the forest area can be a great experience.



To reach here, from Kanakapura one has to drive to Sathnur and at Sathnur take a left to reach Muthathi. It is advisable to carry plenty of water and food as there are no restaurants or shops.