Weekend Treks From Bangalore

1. Savandurga Trek

Preparing in a nutshell with `Trek` in the name, shows the sheer magnitude of Savandurga, which is one of the monolith hills of Asia. It lies pretty much 60 km on the western side of Bangalore in the state of Karnataka. It is a treasure of adventure activities and a magnet for nature-loving visitors because of huge rock formations and scenic beauty, with medium difficulty in trekking. Both hills are popular: Karigudda (Black Hill) and Biligudda (White Hill). The trek is a bit different from the rest. At the top, great vistas of the nearby forests, villages, and the Manchanabele dam can be witnessed.

History of Savandurga

Historically, Savandurga dates back to the 14th century. The word 'Savandurga' is made up of the Kannada words “Savana”, which means snake, and “Durga”, which means fort. There is an old story concerning the fort and the snakes. These hills were, in bygone days, fortified and used as a stronghold during the time of the ruling Mysore Kingdom. The fort on top of the hill was a key player during battles between local kingdoms and invading armies. These days, you can still spot some remnants of ancient fort walls and some temples near the base and on the hill itself, speaking of the tales of glory.

Nearby places to visit: Savandurga Trek

• Manchanabele Dam: This dam, next to Savandurga, is a fine picnic site with still waters and kayaking treats.

• Ramadevara Betta: A short distance from here lies another trekking spot with some religious aura and a temple where worship of Lord Rama is officiated.

• Kabbaladurga: Yet another little-known trekking destination with enticing trails and an old fort's ruins.

• Anthargange: Known for caves and volcanic rock formations, the place offers marvellous cave exploration experiences accompanied by trekking.

• Muthyala Maduvu (Pearl Valley): An aesthetic waterfall location, an ideal day outing from Bangalore.

Best Time to Visit Savandurga Trek

• The best time to plan a Savandurga trek is during the cooler months from October to February.

• The weather is pleasant and comfortable for undertaking a relaxed trekking activity.

• In monsoon between June and September, showers in a region make everything greener, but the trails prove quite slippery, and that can be a hazard.

• The summers, basically from March until May, constitute a period of high temperature and humidity that turns any climb into a Herculean task any climb.

How to reach Savandurga

• By Road: You can either drive or take a cab from Bangalore to Savandurga. The drive will last about 1.5 or 2 hours before arriving at the trek the starting point. The closest town is Magadi, which is 20 km away.

• By Bus: You can also take a bus to either Magadi or Doddaballapur and grab a cab or auto to take you to the base of the trek.

• By Rail: Doddaballapur is the closest Railway Station to Savandurga, it is about 30km away. You can call a taxi or ask for an auto at Doddaballapur railway station for a ride to Savandurga.

2. Skandagiri (Kalavara Durga)

Skandagiri (Kalavara Durga) is located about seventy kilometres away from Bangalore in Karnataka. It is a hill fort known for night trekking and stunning sunrises at the top of a hill. On the whole, Skandagiri will provide an entertaining experience for trekkers and nature lovers. You start with a South Indian jungle trek with lots of wooded cover until you come into rocky land that takes you to the ruins of a fort long forgotten ages before, and then finally you summit the top of the hill.

History of Skandagiri

Skandagiri has a historical reference back to the 17th century. It was a military fort established by the rulers of Mysore, and being a fort at a high elevation, it was a great defensive place during military conflicts. The name "Kalavara Durga" means "fort of Kalavara" after the village name, not too far from the location. Skandagiri is not being used actively as a fort, but is very popular for trekking and accounts for some historical significance.

Nearby Places of Skandagiri

• Nandi Hills: A nearby hill station to Skandagiri that is well known for good weather, fresh air, and beautiful views.

• Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: An ancient temple complex near Nandi Hills with Dravidian architecture.

• Grover Vineyard: An identifiable vineyard tourism company in town and a great location for vineyard tours and tastings.

• Manchinbele reservoir: The reservoir is becoming known as a place for adventure activities like kayaking and rappelling.

• Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta: A trekking destination only a short drive from Bangalore, which is a nature area.

Best time to visit Skandagiri

• The best time of year to trek Skandagiri is often considered to be from October to February, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable.

• The monsoon(June-September) trek brings the sight of waterfalls and greenery.

How to Reach Skandagiri

• By Road: Skandagiri, located in the North of Bangalore, is quite easily accessible by road and will take you roughly around 2 hours if you are travelling by your private car or taxi.

• By Public Transport: You can easily get to Chikballapur and then get a taxi or auto rickshaw to what is known as Skandagiri village/ the start of the trek.

• Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Chikballapur Railway Station, which is fifteen kilometres from Skandagiri.

3. Makalidurga Trek

Makalidurga is a fantastic hill fort, around 60 km to the north of Bangalore, lying near Doddaballapur, Karnataka. The trek includes multiple number of scenic trails involving rocky and rugged terrain, tropical vegetation and a lovely reservoir. On top of the hill are the remains of the fort, including a small area where there is a temple to Lord Hanuman. The trek is moderately difficult, and the view from the top is good all around. What I've heard from the number of trekkers is that they would estimate this trek of the top day treks you can undertake.

History of Makalidurga

Makalidurga originates from the Mysore Kingdom. The hill was fortified (a military outpost), to monitor and control the area. The structure at the top is are remnant of fortifications from this time. It also has a mythological context; Lord Hanuman is said to have taken rest here while travelling (in the Ramayana). The temple at the top is always busy with devotees and trekkers.

Nearby Places of Makalidurga

• Nandi Hills: A popular hill station destination, a decent trekking place, that can be experienced in a day, considering it is not that far from Bangalore.

• Grover Vineyards: Nearby vineyards offering tours through the vineyards and wine tastings.

• Devanahalli Fort: A historic fort near Bangalore for history lovers.

• Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: An ancient temple complex, near Nandi Hills, with interesting architecture.

• Manchinbele Reservoir: Great for experiencing water adventure (Kayaking and Swimming).

Best Time to Visit Makaladugra

• The best time to trek Makalidurga is October to February for comfy, pleasant weather.

• From June to September, the area near Makalidurga is lush, and greenery flourishes in the monsoon season; however, the trail can be slippery and hazardous from June to September.

How to Reach Makalidurga

• By Road: Makalidurga is well connected by road from Bangalore and Doddaballapur. You can cover the distance of 60 to 65 km by car or taxi within 1.5 to 2 hours from Bangalore.

• By Public Transportation: You can take a bus service to Doddaballapur from Bangalore, then hire a local auto or taxi to reach the starting point of the trekking path.

• Nearest railway station: The nearest railway station is Doddaballapur Railway Station, which is about 10 km away from Makalidurga.

4. Anthargange Trek

Anthargange is more than a trekking destination, it is known to have unique volcanic rock formations, ancient temples and beautiful caves. it lies about 70 km from Bangalore in the countryside of Kolar district in Karnataka. The name Anthargange means inner stream in the Kannada language, referring to the continuous stream that flows there and is located at an elevation of about 1,712 ft. Adventure and spirituality blend, making this trek a favoured spot for both adventure lovers and history lovers alike.

History of Antargange

Antargange is religiously and historically significant as the Sri Kashi Vishweshwara Temple is located at the base of the hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is referred to on occasion as "the Kashi in the South". At the base of the temple, there is a pond that is constantly filled from the mouth of a stone bull (Basava), which has an underground water source. Devotees state that drinking water from this pool cures afflictions. There are seven villages in all at the base of the Shathashrunga mountains.

Nearby Places to Visit Antargange

• Kolaramma Temple: A very ancient temple to Goddess Kolaramma, which is a good example of Dravidian architecture

• Kolar Gold Fields (KGF): KGF is a former colonial gold mining location that has some remnants of colonialism

• Markandeya Betta: A hilltop that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, which makes for good photos as well as nature walks

• Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple: Near Nandi Hills, this temple complex is historically and architecturally significant.

Best Time to Visit Anthargange

• Winter (October to February): This is ideal trekking weather - cool, clear

• Monsoon (June to September): The Landscape is beautiful and green, but trails may be a bit muddy and steep

• Summer (March to May): Days may be hot, and hiking may be more tiring than a daytime trek. You can organise night treks if you want to trek during that period.

How to Reach Anthargange

• By Road: You can drive from Bangalore on NH75 towards Kolar, which will take about 1.5 to 2 hours.

• By Train: You could take a train from Bangalore to Kolar Railway Station, which would be followed by a walk of roughly 3 km from Kolar Railway Station to the base of the trek.

• By Bus: You can take a bus from Bangalore to Kolar, and then, once in Kolar, take an auto or taxi to your starting point for the trek.

5. Kunti Betta Trek

Kunti Betta is a notable twin hill located in the Mandya District of Karnataka, not far from Pandavapura. it is 2,882 feet high, and has a nice moderate trek with rocky terrains and grassy areas. It is famous not only for its delightful trek, but also (and mainly) for its mythological connections. It is believed to be the area in which the Pandavas and their mother Kunti spent some time during their exile after the great battle of Kurukshetra. The summit of Kunti Betta offers fantastic views, including Thonnur Lake, and the village of Pandavapura!

History of Kunti Betta

Kunti Betta translates to "Kunti's Hill" (in Kannada) after Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata (the song of Kunti). According to local tradition, this is where the Pandavas ended their exile when they escaped the great battle. It is believed that the name of the town, Pandavapura and the hills Kunti Betta were invented as a result of the Pandavas’ experience here. Additionally, historically, the area was known as the "French Rocks" because the associated French people had been soldiers in Tipu Sultan's militia.

Nearby Places of Kunti Betta

• Tonnur Lake: A quiet lake just about 10 kilometres away from Kunti Betta that can give you the serenity you may desire from your holiday.

• Sri Mallikarjuna Temple: This temple is found at the foot of Kunti Betta and is a place of pilgrimage.

• Kunti Kund: This lake (kund) is at the bottom of the faltering hill and relates to the stories of Kunti.

• Parikrama Point: Has amazing views across the landscape, including Kunti Betta, its twin peaks.

• Basadi Betta: Known for ancient Jain temples and views.

• Janapada Loka: A cultural museum that encapsulates a marvellous representation of Karnataka's worth and heritage.

• Chunchanakatte Falls: A waterfall in the vicinity of Kunti Betta that is shrouded in sustenance.

• Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: A regional attraction for bird lovers near Kunti Betta with over 170 species of birds.

Best Times to Kunti Betta

• Winter (October - February): The best time to be trekking as the weather will leave you cool, and the skies are generally clear.

• Summer (March - June): Nights are still pleasant, and during the days it can get hot, which means the trek will leave you a bit more of a struggle.

• Monsoon (July - September): This trail will become extremely slippery, and once again become a hard trek, because of the amount of rain that comes.

How to reach Kunti Betta

• By Road: From Bengaluru, by taking the Bengaluru-Mysore highway(NH275) to reach Mandya, from Mandya, you can reach Pandavapura, which is around 12 km distance. To reach Kunti Betta from Pandavapura is again around 5 KMS, which is possible by local commute or can be driven.

• By Train: Nearest rail station is Pandavapura (which is about 8Kms to Kunti Betta). You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the railway station to the base of the trek.

• By Airport: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, which is around 39Kms km. Likewise, you can take a taxi from Mysore Airport to Kunti Betta.

6. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is a hill station in demand, located about 70 km south of Bangalore, and don't forget Kanakapura, Karnataka, from here. The hill is at 3780 ft(1152 m), and the moderately challenging trek traverses through shrubs and rocky terrain, all around deep forest. The hill is named after a temple (Ranganatha Swamy Temple) situated on a granite boulder at the top of Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta. Bilikal means 'white rock' (in Kannada); this is in reference to the colour of Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta.

History of Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

The Ranganatha Swamy Temple, located on Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta, is a well-known worship site for devotees who seek spiritual blessings within a scenic environment. The temple itself is unique due to its looming granite boulder located behind the temple site, which adds to the overall site of worship. The hills sit within the Biligirirangan Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, distinguished for both its biodiversity and as a habitat for various rural wildlife found within the hills, including elephants and leopards.

Nearby Attractions of Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

• Chunchi Falls: Chunchi Falls is an amazing waterfall approximately 40 km away from Bilikal Rangswamy Betta, providing an excellent location for relaxation.

• Janapada Loka: Janapada Loka is a folk museum approximately 45 km away detailing the cultural history of Karnataka and numerous folklore artefacts.

• Mekedatu (Goats Leap): Mekedatu (Goats Leap) is a scenic site where the Kaveri river runs through a gorge, approximately 50 km from the hill.

• Ramadevara Betta: Ramadevara Betta is a hillock in Ramnagara about 50km from the Bilikal range of the Ranganatha Swamy temple. The mountain is known for its rock formation and was used as a shooting location for the movie "Sholay."

Best Time to Visit Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

• Winter (October - February): The best time to visit to go for trekking is because of cool weather and clear skies.

• Summer (March to June): The mornings are nice, but midday heat can make the climb laborious.

• Monsoon (July to September): The trail gets wet and difficult to negotiate, and it’s best to avoid trekking at this time.

How to Reach Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta

• By Airport: Fly to Bangalore, take Kanakapura Road (NH948). But from Kanakapura, turn left at Harohalli village and continue to Dodda Maralawadi and again to Koonala Doddi, the base of the trek.

• By Rail: Board a train to Bangalore, then travel 60 km to reach Kanakapura. At Kanakapura, take a local taxi and auto-rickshaw to Koonala Doddi.

• By train: The closest railway station to the hill is at Kanakapura, about 16 km. From the station, hire a taxi.

7. Channagiri Trek

Channagiri Trek is a trekking paradise in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, India. It is a moderately difficult trek and can be done by beginners as well as pro trekkers. It passes through thick forest, rocky paths and picturesque countryside and provides magnificent views of the Western Ghats. "That is worth the climb, and the view from the top is breathtaking. Getting to the top takes around 2- 3 hours, and the view from the top is indeed a feast for the eyes.

The History of Channagiri Trek

Channagiri gains historic relevance from its past as an integral part of the famous Kingdom of Keladi Nayakas, a powerful and significant dynasty that had control over the region during the course of the 16th and 17th centuries. The name 'Channagiri' means 'Beautiful Hill,' and it is indicative of the natural beauty of the place. On this trek route, you can find the remains of old fortifications and ancient temples, which give you a cultural touch to your adventurous journey. The area has been a traditional pilgrimage and trekking spot for locals and has recently gained popularity among trekking communities. The locality was also a dwelling place for wise gurus who chose it for meditation owing to its serene environment. Some of the eminent sages who contributed to India's spiritual culture had their hermitages in these sacred places, such as Swargashram in the Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh, and Manjeshwar (Source: Travel Agents India).

Nearby Places of Channagiri Trek

• Keladi Temple: A distance of fifteen kilometres from the trek base leads to Keladi Temple, which showcases Nayaka architectural wonders dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Jog Falls: The natural wonder Jog Falls rises fifty kilometres beyond Channagiri to become India's highest waterfall, which draws in many tourists.

• Sakrebailu Elephant Camp: The distance of thirty kilometres between the trek starting location and Sakrebailu Elephant Camp allows visitors to learn about elephants in their natural setting.

• Hosanagara: Hosanagara presents traditional markets and serves authentic local dishes to visitors who explore the nearby trek area.

• Sharavati River: Visitors can take relaxing pictures at the nearby riverbanks of the Sharavati River.

Best Time to Visit Channagiri Trek

• Travel through the region becomes hazardous between June and September because the path turns into a slippery surface.

• The trekking experience becomes challenging due to the harsh and uncomfortable weather found between March and May.

How to Reach Channagiri Trek

• By Airport: Channagiri is Mangalore International Airport, with the base village accessible through taxi and bus services.

• By Railway Station: The closest station to the destination is Shimoga, which is 70 km away from the trek starting point. The base village of Channagiri relies on Shimoga transport services, which include buses and taxis.

• By Bus: Channagiri features exceptional road connections to Shimoga and Mangalore through bus services and taxi operations. Regular bus services and taxi operations serve these routes. Driving through the Western Ghats roads in a car provides a pleasurable experience.

8. Bidarakatte Trek

Bidarakatte trekking expedition leads participants to an unspoiled area that exists between 60 and 65 kilometres from Bengaluru inside Karnataka's Tumakuru district. The trek through Bidarakatte provides an unspoiled natural environment, which attracts both nature lovers and adventurous people due to its proximity to the Savandurga hills. Walkers who embark on this journey will encounter rocky terrain and lush scenery that unveils picturesque city views during a day-long journey.

History of Bidarakatte

The trekking area near Bidarakatte holds historical value because travellers can find ancient remnants of fortifications and structures along the path. The trekking experience gains spiritual value through its highest point location, which houses a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The location functioned as an important territory during Kempegowda's reign since visitors could inspect his stone walls and watchpoints to see his boundaries.

Nearby Attractions of Bidarakatte

• Savandurga Hills: This monolithic hill on the Asian continent contains challenging trails and important historical sites.

• Magadi Town: The historic settlement located near Bidarakatte welcomes visitors from all parts of the world.

• Ramanagara: This destination became famous for its silk manufacturing operations and its presence in the legendary movie "Sholay", which was filmed there.

Best Time to Visit Bidarakatte

• The best time to visit for trekking extends from October through February, when temperatures remain favourable.

• The months of July to September present lush landscapes, but experienced trekkers should be the primary participants because of trail slipperiness.

• Summer from March to May brings hot conditions, but early treks during the morning hours help visitors avoid the intense midday temperatures.

How to Reach Bidarakatte

• By Airport: The destination is at a driving distance of 60–65 km from Bengaluru. The trip starts with the NICE Ring Road and continues on Magadi Road before making a right to the Savandurga trek base. The Kempegowda Tree Park serves as the trek starting point, which visitors can locate through the sign directions.

• By Bus: Bengaluru offers bus services to Magadi. Passengers who reach Magadi can use local transport or taxis for their base area transportation.

• By Road: The available train service reaches Magadi, which stands as the closest railway station to Bidarakatte at a distance of 12 km. Taxis and buses from Magadi serve as the transportation options that visitors can use.

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