Introduction

Mekedatu, about 93 kilometer (58.12 miles) from Bangalore, literally means ‘goat’s leap’. This is because here, the river Cauvery, which is more than 150-meter wide at the Sangama (confluence), peters down to a 10-metre wide gorge. Legend has it that a goat being chased by a tiger leapt across the gorge in a desperate attempt to escape death. And it did because the tiger gave up the chase. The point where the goat leapt is now much wider due to erosion. There’s a mythological twist to the tale too. The goat (meke) is said to have been Lord Shiva in disguise since there are huge holes, resembling a giant goat’s hooves on the rocks. And only a divine goat could have left such marks.

There are buses to take you to the Sangama where the rivers Cauvery and Arkavathy meet. Here, you will have to cross the river in coracles (circular boats) or walk across if the water level is low. From here, Mekedatu is 4 kilometer (2.5 miles) downstream and you can get there by bus.

Here, you are greeted with a pretty picture of gushing waters and the gorge.

Special Attributes

River Cauvery reaches its narrowest point at a gorge here.

Nuisance

There are crocodiles in the water at one point, so take care.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Tour operators in Bangalore provide transport to Sangama. A 4-km pathway leads from the Sangama to Mekedatu. You could hire a private vehicle from here but be preapared for bad roads.

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

You will be outdoors, so take your sunscreen lotion and a light jacket/shawl.

Avoidable Season

Avoid the summer when there is not too much water.

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Do pack lunch and carry plenty of water.

Type of site

Nature