Top 10 places to visit in Bangalore for Trekking

It’s 2019 and most Bangaloreans love to trek and why not? What better way to start off the New Year than to check out nature in all her natural splendor? After all, a healthy trek in the wild, and with a pleasant climate to go all around, all that’s required is a cup of hot coffee to call it a day.

Here are some of the top ten places that you definitely need to make a beeline for, when visiting Bangalore. Let’s have a look at them

Top 10 places to trek in Bangalore

Ramanagara

This beautiful trekking spot is located just 50km away from the hustle and bustle of Bangalore. It is as quaint, beautiful and also one that served as the quintessential backdrop to Sholay wherein it featured as Gabbar’s base.

The granite hills of Ramanagara, are honeycombed with caves and even more secluded wonders. In fact, it offers trekkers a lot of opportunities to trek, and explore the place around. There are other adventure sports available here, such as high rope traversing, rappelling, jumaring, rock climbing etc.

The hills, which are located at a height of 3000ft, can be quite steep at places; as a result, the trek itself can vary in difficulty.

Devarayanadurga

Devarayanadurga is a rocky hill that stands out in the middle of a picturesque setting. What makes this spot more awe-inspiring is the fact that men have gone to great lengths to build temples amidst this hilly outcrop (yoga Narasimha and Bhoga Narasimha).

And, from the yoga Narasimha temple, you can drive further along to the peak, to take in a panoramic view of the valley below. The hill, which is situated at a height of 3940ft, is a popular tourist spot among the locals.

It is home to more than a few caves, one which contains the statues of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. Moreover, you can spend a few days at a local guesthouse and explore the hill in detail.

 Makalidurga

Makalidurga is a famous hill fort, which is situated at a distance of 61kms from Bangalore. The hill certainly offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside including the almost spectral lakes surrounding it. It offers several trekking trails which can be moderately difficult for the layman.

But that being said, the trek itself is wonderful as it allows you to explore the various features of this region, including the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, at the top. The best time to visit this place would be between the months of September to February.

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills or Nandidurga is a popular tourist spot and one that’s just perfect for both trekking and hiking. Situated at a distance of 60kms from Bangalore and at a height of 1478 meters, Nandi hills manage to attract tourists in droves which is not surprising considering the fact that this place was Tipu Sultan’s summer resort.

A visit to Tipu’s drop is a must. Incidentally, this place is a 600ft cliff which provides you with panoramic views of the countryside. This place comes with good connectivity and there is also a guest house available at the top, which should provide you with a spectacular view of the Sunrise.

Skandagiri

Skandagiri is one of those few places that are famous for night trekking. Of course, it may seem silly to trek in the night but it offers you a beautiful view of the Sunrise from the top of the hill. Situated at a height of 4430 feet, and just 61km from Bangalore, Skandagiri is certainly not without history and a history that sets it apart.

It also comes with the ruins of a fort that was later occupied by Tipu Sultan. The trek starts at the base, and while clambering to the top, you are bound to come across two caves, which certainly should help make the visit interesting. The trek is moderately difficult and the best time to visit this place is from May to December.

Channarayana Durga

Channarayana Durga is an ancient hilltop fort and the one that offers you splendid views of the surrounding countryside. It is an ideal trekking destination as it comes replete with ancient temples and other monuments.

The Channarayana Durga is tagged as moderately difficult and moreover, it is better to avoid this place during the monsoon as the rocks get quite slippery. It is located at a distance of 100kms from Bangalore and the optimal time to visit this place would be from September to December.

Anthargange

Anthargange, located at a distance of 80kms and at an elevation of 4050ft is a famous religious spot, and also the one that shines out as a top tourist destination. It is renowned for its unique cave structure and its temples.

The place is picturesque, surrounded by lush greenery all around, and you can also participate in a session of night trekking at Anthargange. The target is the peak which is home to the ancient Anthargange caves, complete with an ancient spring.

It adds a touch of magic to the place and stands out for all the right reasons.

Kunti Betta

Kunti Betta is indeed a picturesque hill that is situated just 122kms from Bangalore. It is located in the Pandavapura Taluk of Mandya district and is a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists alike.

This place juts out from the surrounding countryside at a height of 2880 ft, while surrounded on all sides by sugarcane, paddy fields, and coconut groves. You can enjoy an awe-inspiring experience by participating in a night trek to Kunti Betta.

The trek would definitely be worth it as you take in the Sunrise in the morning.

Madhugiri

Madhugiri is the second largest monolithic rock in Asia. Standing at a height of 3930ft, it certainly offers you a panoramic view of the countryside from the top. It is fast turning out to be one of the top trekking destinations around Bangalore.

Located around 108km from Bangalore, it is less than a day’s drive away. You can still see the remnants of the mud fort, which was built around the slopes of this monolith. And, as for the views, it is indeed unparalleled in nearly every aspect.

Bilikal Rangaswamy Temple

This temple is located in the town of Kanakapura at a distance of 75km from Bangalore. It is known for its unique white rocks, which add its own splendor to the beauty of this place. It is a great destination for trekking and there are several trekking trails to choose from.

And, the temple is located right at the top and the view is to die for. The best time to visit this place is from August to January, post the monsoon season.

Conclusion

These are some of the top spots for trekking in and around Bangalore, and make sure that you research a little bit about the places first, find out where the local hotels and guest rooms are located. Book your rooms well ahead in advance and keep yourself informed about everything you can.