Rakaskop Dam/Reservoir
Overview: Rakaskop is a picturesque village located on the banks of the Markandeya river, just a short drive from the city. The place gets its unique name from a local legend about a "Rakkasa" (Giant) who is said to have lived on a hillock near the village. The primary attraction here is the Rakasko p Dam, which was built to harness the river's water and supply it as the main source of drinking water for the city of Belagavi. The reservoir created by the dam is a vast, serene body of water surrounded by lush green hills and fertile farmland. It has become a favorite weekend getaway for city dwellers looking for a quick nature retreat. The atmosphere is quiet, with the only sounds being the chirping of birds and the gentle lapping of water against the dam walls. The area is particularly beautiful during and after the monsoon when the river is in full flow and the surrounding vegetation is at its most vibrant. Visitors can walk along the dam wall, enjoy the views of the water, and explore the nearby hillock which features a cave said to be the home of the giant. The site is not overly commercialized, offering a raw and authentic nature experience. It is a great place for soul-seeking individuals or families who want to spend quality time together without the distractions of a busy tourist spot. The sunset over the reservoir is a sight to behold, painting the water in hues of gold and crimson.:
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 - 3 HoursPlace Type:
Picnic & NatureEntry Fees:
Entry Policy: There is currently no entry fee for visitors to the dam or the hillock area.
Parking: Visitors usually park their vehicles on the side of the approach road for free, as there is no designated paid parking lot.Entry Policy: There is currently no entry fee for visitors to the dam or the hillock area.
Parking: Visitors usually park their vehicles on the side of the approach road for free, as there is no designated paid parking lot.
Photography: No charges for personal photography; however, stay away from sensitive infrastructure areas. :Timing:
Regular Timings: The area is generally accessible from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Reach the spot around 4:30 PM to avoid the heat and catch the best sunset views.
Safety Note: It is advised to lea...Regular Timings: The area is generally accessible from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Reach the spot around 4:30 PM to avoid the heat and catch the best sunset views.
Safety Note: It is advised to leave the area before it gets dark, as the roads can be lonely and poorly lit. :Special Events:
Annual Fair: A small local fair (Jatre) is held in the village during the winter months, featuring local deities and traditional food stalls.
World Water Day: Local environmental groups sometimes host awareness walks near the dam in March to...Annual Fair: A small local fair (Jatre) is held in the village during the winter months, featuring local deities and traditional food stalls.
World Water Day: Local environmental groups sometimes host awareness walks near the dam in March to emphasize water conservation. :Best Photo Spots:
The Dam Wall: Stand in the center of the walkway to capture the symmetry of the dam with water on one side and the valley on the other.
Inside the Cave: Use the cave entrance as a natural frame to photograph the reservoir below.The Dam Wall: Stand in the center of the walkway to capture the symmetry of the dam with water on one side and the valley on the other.
Inside the Cave: Use the cave entrance as a natural frame to photograph the reservoir below.
Sunset Point: The western bank of the reservoir provides the best angle for golden hour shots. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Picnicking on the Banks: Bring a mat and some food to enjoy a traditional picnic with a view of the calm water.
Short Hike to the Cave: Trek up the small hillock to see the "Giant's Home" and get a better vantage point of the dam.
Photography of the Reservoir: The vast expanse of water with the reflection of the sky is a dream for landscape photographers.
Bird Watching: Look for water birds like Kingfishers, Egrets, and Cormorants that frequent the reservoir for fish.
Watching the Sunset: The horizon over the water is clear, making it one of the best spots near the city to watch the sun go down.
Exploring the Village: Walk through the Rakaskop village to see traditional rural Karnataka life and s...
Information
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Why Famous:
Legend of the Giant: It is famous for the local folklore of the "Rakkasa," with a cave on the hillock that resembles a seated human figure, a major draw for curious travelers.
Drinking Water Source: It is known as the "Lifeline of Belagavi" ...Legend of the Giant: It is famous for the local folklore of the "Rakkasa," with a cave on the hillock that resembles a seated human figure, a major draw for curious travelers.
Drinking Water Source: It is known as the "Lifeline of Belagavi" as it provides most of the city's potable water throughout the year. : -
Architecture:
Dam Structure: The dam is an earthen structure with a masonry spillway, designed to store water for urban consumption.
Reservoir Depth: The water level varies significantly with seasons, reaching its peak depth of approximately 25-30 meters ...Dam Structure: The dam is an earthen structure with a masonry spillway, designed to store water for urban consumption.
Reservoir Depth: The water level varies significantly with seasons, reaching its peak depth of approximately 25-30 meters during the monsoons.
Landscape Design: The surrounding areas are left mostly in their natural state, with local trees like Neem and Banyan providing shade along the banks. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Belagavi Airport (IXG) is only 25 KMS away; a taxi can reach the dam in about 45 minutes.
By Train: Belagavi Railway Station (16 KM) is the nearest rail connection; autos and taxis are easily available from the station. -
Near Tourist Places:
Belagavi Fort (16 KM), Kamal Basti (17 KM), Military Mahadev Temple (18 KM), Fort Lake (16 KM), Rajhansgad Yellur Fort (30 KM), Jamboti Hills (35 KM), Vajrapoha Falls (45 KM), Amboli Ghat (65 KM), Kittur Fort (65 KM), Hidkal Dam (55 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be careful while climbing the hillock as the rocks can be slippery; avoid going near the deep water of the reservoir.
Packing Essentials: Carry your own food and water as there are no major restaurants near the dam site.
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