Tonnuru Kere (Tonnuru Lake): Travel Guide

Tonnuru Kere is a scenic lake situated in the district of Mandya. It is also known as Moti Talab.

Distance From Bengaluru: Approximately 130 kms.
What's Special: A very scenic lake surrounded with interesting landscapes like hills which are associated with legends from Pandavas. It is said that Pandavas stayed in Pandavapura(the village near which Tonnur Lake is situated) for a short period of time during their 14 years exile. A hill has been named after Kunti(mother of Pandavas) as Kunti Betta because she was very found of this place.

Mode of Transport: Buses, Trains and any private mode of transport by road.
Near By Places: Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Krishna Raja Sagara Dam (KRS), Kunti Betta, Mysore Zoo, Srirangapatna, Ranganthittu, Mysore, Mysore Exhibition, Cauvery River etc...

    Tonnuru Kere is a beautiful lake located in the Mandya district of the state of Karnataka, India. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the country, especially during the monsoon season when the lake is at its fullest. In this blog post, we will explore the history, geography, and tourism potential of Tonnuru Kere.

History:

    Tonnuru Kere, also known as Tonnur Kere, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. It is believed to have been built during the reign of the Hoysala dynasty, which ruled over the region from the 10th to the 14th centuries. The lake was originally built as a reservoir to supply water to the nearby town of Tonnur, which was an important trading center during that time.

    Over the centuries, Tonnuru Kere has been renovated and expanded several times by various rulers, including the Wodeyars of Mysore and the British colonial government. Today, the lake is one of the largest and most important water bodies in the region, providing irrigation water for thousands of acres of farmland.

Geography:

    Tonnuru Kere is situated at an altitude of 685 meters above sea level and covers an area of approximately 1,000 acres. It is fed by several small streams and drains into the Shimsha River, a major tributary of the Kaveri River. The lake has a maximum depth of around 18 meters and is surrounded by hills on all sides, giving it a picturesque and tranquil setting.

Tourism:

    Tonnuru Kere is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including boating, fishing, and bird-watching. The lake is home to several species of fish, including the famous Murrel fish, which is a delicacy in the local cuisine.

    One of the most popular attractions at Tonnuru Kere is the Chunchanakatte Falls, which is located about 5 kilometers from the lake. The waterfall is a popular picnic spot and is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain.

    Another popular attraction in the area is the Tonnur Kere Anjaneya Swamy Temple, which is located on the banks of the lake. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from all over the country.

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    In conclusion, Tonnuru Kere is a beautiful and historically significant lake that offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. Whether you are interested in fishing, boating, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Tonnuru Kere has something to offer everyone. If you are planning a trip to the Mandya district of Karnataka, be sure to include a visit to Tonnuru Kere in your itinerary!