If you’re planning to visit Banja Luka you’re probably putting together a list of things you would like to see and do while in the city. We are to tell you a short story about the small town, Krupa na Vrbasu, which is one of the real natural beauties of these parts. When you finish reading this post, Krupa na Vrbasu, will definitely find a place on your list.
Krupa na Vrbasu is a small town located 25 km from the center of Banja Luka city towards Jajce. It takes around half an hour of driving through the canyon of the river Vrbas. Right next to the road which leads through this beautiful canyon there is the river Vrbas. The river is famous for the green color, rapids and great rafting trips.
This small place is known for the unique nature ruled by peace and calm. This harmony tends to be broken from time to time by the sounds of the cold Krupa river cascades. The river is about 2 km long and the river spring is by the nearby Strikas cave. The Krupa is actually a subterranean river originating from the Ponor river which springs under the Dimitor mountain. In the small town of Podrasnica, the Ponor river goes underground and comes at the Strikas cave. The Krupa river is famous for its beauty, as well as being very clean, cold and rich with brook trout. Fishing on this river is forbidden by law.
Here you will have the opportunity to see a number of old mills, some of them more than 100 years old. The mills are used even today to produce premium quality flour which is used to make the most delicious fritters and other pastry.
As you go up the river you will see a few more mills and cascades where you can make excellent photos for you collection. In the vicinity there is the monastery of St. Elijah which was built in the 13th century. There is also a small restaurant where you can have a coffee and if you’re feeling hungry we suggest you the try the trout. The Krupa cascades are very popular amongst the locals. During weekends you can see a lot of people from Banja Luka who come here to walk, relax and enjoy beautiful nature and fresh air.
As long as you are here, you ought to visit the old cabin log church. The church was built in the 18th century and dedicated to St. Nicholas.
If you’re planning to come here by car, be aware that it tends to get really crowded on the weekends. Finding a parking place might prove to be difficult. We suggest you leave your car on the small parking lot on the right side of the road (you will see a sign for the parking lot and cascades). From here you have less than five minutes of walk to the cascades.
