Trekking Places Near Bangalore

Despite sore leg cramps and dehydration, if you are willing to go the extra mile on your trekking expeditions, be it the temples atop hills, night trekking to catch a beautiful sunrise or even views of the valley beyond, there are several trekking trails near Bangalore awaiting for the thrill-seeker in you. With trails from easy to difficult, you can opt for the one that suits your fitness level along with accessibility from your location. Pack that bag with litres of water, some healthy and energy-giving snacks, put on your hiking shoes and hit the road because this time the journey will be your destination.

• Savandurga Hills – Home to Asia’s largest monolith

Marked as one of the largest monolithic rocks in Asia, Savandurga is a hill located about 60 km west of Bengaluru off the Magadi road. Savandurga is formed by two hills known locally as “Karigudda”, which in Kannada translates to “black hill” and Biligudda which translates to “white hill”. The short distance makes it a perfect trek for all adventure lovers who have a time crunch. The lush green views will keep you enchanted and the panoramic Magadi forest landscape will blow your mind for sure. The Karigudda trail is steep and well exposed but needs authorities, so trekkers prefer Biligudda which is equally adventurous and challenging. The Arkavathi river flowing into Thippagondanahalli reservoir adds to the wide beautiful view while reaching the fort, as the trek gets slightly steeper, but the winds and cool breeze will compensate for all the hard work you are putting in.

• Ramanagara – A Whimsical Land of Movies

If you remember the classic Sholay scenes then you will be amazed to see the rocky mountains of this town that is situated around 54 KM from Bengaluru city and Sholay was originally shot here. From Silk farming to Mysore-Pak, from leading into the huge Hanuman statue entrance to the Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary; Ramanagara is one of the places to visit in Bangalore to enjoy heaps of activities like camping and trekking, and also an abundance of sightseeing option. The highest elevation is over 3,000 feet and the treks here are of moderate difficulty. It is home to some highly endangered species of birds such as the Long Billed Vulture and Yellow Throated Bulbul.

• Nandi Hills – Tipu Sultan’s summer retreat

Located around 60 kilometres away from Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one such tourist spot that has gradually been discovered by visitors over the years and has now become a well-known weekend getaway. Featuring beautifully carved arches and majestic pillars with intricately painted walls and ceilings, Nandi Hills is scattered with shrines and monuments and is surrounded by mesmerizing views, making this place no less than a hidden paradise.  Situated at a height of 4851 feet above sea level, you can see a convoy of weekenders from Bangalore during early hours catching the glimpse of sunrise.

• Skandagiri – An ancient fortress atop a hill

If you thought that trekking is an activity only to be done in the morning, you are certainly wrong. Skandagiri, a hilltown near Bangalore, gives you the opportunity to trek and explore the hills in the night while the moon is casting its light. Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga or Kalavara Betta is at an elevation of 1450 meters surrounded by the Nandi Hills. The hill has a ruined fort on the way which makes the night trek even more interesting by adding the element of horror. And the best part is that you can spend the night at the hilltop under the stars. Not to forget the bonfire that is especially lit for the trekkers to sit around and enjoy the warmth. Well, if you opt for a night trek, you do not have to worry about finding a hotel because the various trekking companies that conduct the night treks will provide you with a sleeping bag or you can even opt for the camps that are set up on the top of the hill by them. But if not, there are plenty of hotels around Skandagiri that offer comfortable stay and are surrounded by trees.

• Devarayanadurga – Perched amidst lush forests and stunning valleys

There are three levels to this hill. The first level is easiest and can be done by anyone, the second needs a little preparation and is for amateurs. Coming to the third level of the trek, only professionals or a person who has experience in trekking should go for it. That being said, the entire route to the top of this rocky hill (at an elevation of 1204 metres) will be worth it. Moreover, with plenty of natural springs along the entire route make for an excellent stopover in case you get exhausted. Do stop at the most famous natural water spring on the entire route – Namada Chilume. At the base of your trekking trail, there is Bhoga Narasimha temple and on the top, you will find the Yoga Narasimha temple, both religiously important for the locals. Amidst the temples and lush greenery of the hill, there is also a cave with statues of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman, which definitely merits a visit.