Avarekai Mela Bangalore 2024 (Avarebele Mela): Date, Timings, Nearest Metro and Parking

If you are a food lover and a resident of Bangalore, you must have heard of the Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela), a popular food festival that celebrates the seasonal delicacy of hyacinth beans or avarekai in Kannada. The Avarekai Mela is an annual event that showcases more than 100 varieties of dishes prepared using avarekai, ranging from traditional south Indian cuisine to fusion and innovative recipes.

This blog post will give you an overview of the Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela), its location and address, timings, and parking facilities. I will also share some of the highlights and attractions of the mela that you should not miss.

Consider reading: Best Things to Do in Bangalore

Avarekai Mela 2024 Dates and Timings (Avarebele Mela)

Discover the Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela) at the National College grounds in Basavanagudi, running from January 5 to 9. This exciting annual event, hosted by Shree Vasavi Condiments, is a celebration of Avarebele (also known as Avarekai) and is accessible to visitors from 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Consider reading: Bangalore to Lakshadweep Trip: Distance, Flight, Cruise, Train, Price, Entry Permit and Best Places to Visit

Avarekai Mela Location and Nearest Metro

The mela was initially held at the food street in VV Puram, near Sajjan Rao Circle and Thindi Street. However, due to the increasing popularity and crowd, the Avarekai mela (Avarebele Mela) was shifted to a new and bigger venue in 2023, at the National College grounds in Basavanagudi. The new venue has more space and better facilities for the visitors and the vendors.

The address of the National College grounds: National College Grounds Pampa Mahakavi Road Basavanagudi Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004. Check out Google Map Location

The nearest metro station is the National College Metro Station, which is about 500 meters away from the venue.

Consider reading: Bangalore Metro Timings

What to Expect at Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela)

Attracting thousands of visitors daily, including celebrities, politicians, and food bloggers, Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela) is more than just a food festival. It’s an immersive experience into Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage and a celebration of the seasonal avarekai bean.

Focus and Significance

• Central Theme: Celebrates avarekai (hyacinth bean), emphasizing its versatility and nutritional value.
• Health Benefits: Avarekai is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties, aiding digestion, and boosting immunity.
• Support for Local Farmers: Helps farmers from areas like Magadi and Kolar by enabling direct sales, eliminating middlemen.

Festival Attractions

• Culinary Delights: Offers an extensive range of avarekai-based dishes, blending traditional and innovative recipes.
• Menu Highlights: Includes classics like dosa, idli, vada, upma, and fusion dishes like avarekai manchurian, ice cream, and more.
• Special Dishes: Features unique items annually, such as the ‘Appu Special’, honoring the late Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar.

Community Impact

• Farmer Empowerment: Direct involvement of over 200 farmers, providing them a platform for better income.
• Employment Opportunities: Generates employment, especially for women in dish preparation and service roles.

Cultural Significance

• Visitor Demographics: Attracts thousands, including celebrities, politicians, and food enthusiasts.
• Cultural Importance: Acts as a gateway to Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing the seasonal avarekai bean.

Avarekai Mela is more than a food festival; it’s a cultural event that offers a taste of Karnataka’s rich culinary traditions, supports local agriculture, and fosters community engagement. The festival serves as a platform for culinary exploration and local empowerment, making it a significant event in Bangalore’s cultural calendar.

Avarekai Mela Parking

At the Avarekai Mela in Bangalore, parking is an important consideration due to the large influx of visitors, especially during peak times and weekends. Here are the key details about the parking facilities at the event:

• Location for Parking: Parking facilities are available at the National College grounds, where the event is held.
• Capacity: The designated parking area can accommodate approximately 500 cars and 1,000 two-wheelers.
• Parking Fees: The charge for parking is Rs. 20 for cars and Rs. 10 for two-wheelers.

Note for Visitors: Due to the popularity of the Avarekai Mela, it’s advisable for visitors to plan their visit, considering the potential for congestion. Following the guidelines set by the organizers, particularly regarding parking and waste disposal, contributes to a better experience for all attendees.

Why Should You Visit Avarekai Mela? (Avarebele Mela)

Visiting the Avarekai Mela in Bangalore offers a range of unique experiences and benefits:

1. Culinary Diversity: The festival is an excellent opportunity to savor a wide array of dishes made from avarekai, a versatile and nutritious local bean. From traditional preparations like dosa and idli to innovative fusion dishes like avarekai manchurian and ice cream, the mela showcases the culinary versatility of this ingredient.
2. Cultural Experience: Avarekai Mela is more than just a food festival; it’s a celebration of Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage. This event provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions, making it a great learning experience.
3. Support for Local Farmers and Artisans: By participating in the mela, visitors contribute directly to supporting local farmers who cultivate avarekai. The event also creates employment opportunities, especially for women engaged in preparing and serving the dishes.
4. Community and Social Interaction: The mela is a social event that draws people from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and providing a platform for interaction and enjoyment.
5. Seasonal Celebration: Held in winter, the festival is timed perfectly for the harvest of avarekai, allowing visitors to enjoy this produce at its freshest.
6. Unique Food Experience: For food enthusiasts and explorers, the mela offers a chance to try out unique and rarely found dishes, expanding one’s culinary palate.
7. Economic Boost: The festival boosts the local economy by facilitating direct sales from farmers to consumers and by creating a vibrant market atmosphere.
8. Fun and Festivity: With its festive atmosphere, the Avarekai Mela is an enjoyable outing for individuals and families alike, offering fun, food, and festivities all in one place.

In summary, the Avarekai Mela (Avarebele Mela) is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the flavors of Karnataka, supporting local agriculture, and participating in a culturally rich and enjoyable community event.