In The Footsteps Of Shiva: Exploring Revanasiddeshwara Betta

Revanasiddeshwara Betta is a Shaiva temple in Karnataka, India. It is situated 3,066 feet (935 m) above sea level and in Avverahalli, 15km from the city of Ramanagara. This site is 60km from Bengaluru.

This place is commonly called SRS Betta ( SRS Hills). The site has three temples – at the top is Revanasiddeshwara Betta, midway is Bheemeshwari and at the base is Renukamba temple. 

HISTORY: 

Sri Revana Siddeshwara is considered a renewal of the great Jagadguru Shri Renukacharya, who Shiva ordered to take rebirth on earth to spread Bhakti among the people. Revenasiddeshwara Betta is believed to have been a sacred site during the  Western Ganga dynasty. Revanasiddeshwara Betta Temple is mentioned in ancient texts like Skanda Purana and Karnataka Mahatmya.

Veerashaiva Siddantha " (Shaiva Dharma ) with the slogan "sarve janaha sukhino bhavanthu" performed sacrifice over a century at  Sri Revanna Siddeshwara Betta. Lord Revana Siddeshwara travelled across the country, left many miracles in helping distressed, poor, and backward people, and established socialism and secularism long ago.

HOW TO REACH SRI REVANNA SIDDESHWARA BETTA?

Road Travel :

• From Bangalore, 65km, 1.5 – 2 hours via NH 48 (Bangalore- Mysuru Highway)

• From Ramanagara : 10km, 30 minutes via Ramanagara-Bidadi Road

• From Mysuru: 120 km, 3-4 hours via NH 212 ( Mysuru – Bangalore Highway )

Bus Travel :

• Bangalore: Take a bus from Bangalore's Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) to Ramanagara Bus Station.

• Ramanagara: Take a local bus or auto-rickshaw from Ramanagara to Revanna Siddeshwara Betta.

Train Travel :

• Nearest Railway Station: Ramanagara Railway Station (10 km)

• Take a train from Bangalore's City Railway Station or Yesvantpur Junction to Ramanagara.

Air Travel : 

• Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport (Bengaluru) (70 km)

• Take a taxi or bus from the airport to Ramanagara or Revanna Siddeshwara Betta.

Local Transportation:

• Auto-rickshaw: Available from Ramanagara to Revanna Siddeshwara Betta.

• Taxi: Available from Bangalore, Ramanagara, or Mysore.

• Private Vehicles: Parking is available near the temple

TIPS TO FOLLOW DURING THE VISIT :

1. Check road conditions and weather before travelling.

2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

3. Carry water, snacks, and sun protection.

4. Respect temple rules and traditions.

5. Be cautious while trekking, especially during monsoon season.

THINGS TO DO IN REVANA SIDDESHWARA BETTA :

• Visit the Revana Siddeshwara Temple: Explore the ancient temple, its architecture, and its spiritual significance.

• Puja and Darshan: Offer prayers and receive blessings from the deity.

• Experience the partnership of Medication, Yoga and Mindfulness in Nature’s serene surroundings. 

• Plan Trekking and hiking up the hill for breathtaking views and scenic landscapes.

• Climb Rock and Scale the granite rocks for adventure and thrill.

• Walk through the surrounding forests and hills and capture memories with Nature.

• Click stunning photos of the surrounding landscape.

• Spot and capture images of local flora and fauna.

• Photograph the intricate carvings and temple design.

• Visit nearby villages, Interact with locals, and experience rural life.

• Explore Ramanagara town: Discover its history, culture, and shopping.

• Visit the Janapada Loka folk art and culture centre.

• Try Paragliding and Soar through the skies for a thrilling experience.

• Descend the rocks by rope climbing for an adrenaline rush.

• Spend a night under the stars with a campfire.

• Spot various bird species in the surrounding forests.

• Plan for a Picnic and relax with family and friends amidst Nature.

ATTRACTIVE SPOTS NEAR REVANA SIDDESHWARA BETTA :

WONDERLA  AMUSEMENT  PARK :

Wonderla is one of India's premier amusement parks, known for its thrilling rides, water attractions, and fun-filled experiences. 

SPLASH INTO FUN WITH WATER RIDES:

With wave pools, lazy rivers, and high-speed water slides, the park ensures you stay cool and entertained all day.

KID FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS:

It is an excellent destination for families and children. The park features several kid-friendly attractions, including Mini Pirate Ship, Flying Jumbo, and Merry Ghost.

DINING OPTIONS FOR ALL THE TASTE BUDS:

Exploring the park can build up quite an appetite, and Wonderla ensures you have plenty of dining options. You can find everything from fast food, like burgers and pizzas, to Indian cuisine and snacks like ice creams and chats. There are also vegetarian and non-vegetarian restaurants within the park.

Tickets can be booked online, which saves time and sometimes discounts. During off-peak seasons, Wonderla offers special offers. If you plan to dive into a world of thrill and excitement, you visit WONDERLA.

JANAPADA LOKA:

It is situated 6km away from Revana Siddeshwara Betta. One of the best places to explore and appreciate the heritage is Janapada loka or the World of Folk. It is located near Ramanagara on the Bangalore-Mysore highway. This living museum offers visitors a glimpse into Karnataka’s vibrant folk culture, arts and lifestyle.

The museum is not limited to indoor exhibits. You can also find open-air sections representing village life, such as Doddamane ( Big House), Chitra Kuteera, and Ayagaramala.

Entry tickets are reasonably priced, with separate charges for camera use. Janapada Loka offers a rich and immersive experience that lets you connect with the cultural roots of Karnataka.

SAVANADURGA HILL:

20km from Revana Siddeshwara Betta, Savandurga Hill should be on your list of must-visit places if you're a nature enthusiast or adventure seeker. It is one of Asia's most enormous monolith hills, rising to an altitude of 1,226 meters above sea level.

Savanagurga Hill consists of two peaks :

• Karigudda ( Black Hill )

• Biligudda ( White Hill )

Biligudda is the most popular trekking route, with a trail that’s challenging but accessible for beginners, while Karigudda is steeper and less explored, attracting seasoned trekkers.  The trek to Savanadurga is about 4-5km and usually takes 2-3 hours to reach the summit. 

It is the home to the Savandi Veerabhadraswamy Temple and the Narasimha Swamy Temple, which attract pilgrims and devotees. Savandurga Hill is more than just a trek; it's an adventure that offers stunning views, a taste of history, and a chance to connect with Nature. 

As you descend from Revana Siddeshwara Betta, carry with you the serenity of Nature, the thrill of adventure,  and the blessing of the divine. May this hidden gem remain etched in your memory, inspiring you to explore, discover and seek PEACE.

Visit once and get some unforgettable memories. Don’t miss it.