Also famous as Kalavara Durga or Kalwarbetta, Skandagiri Hill is best known for its mesmerizing sunrise and sunsets, Papagni Matt, Lord Shiva Temple, and the historical 18th-century ruins of Tipu Sultan’s fort on the top, as it was used to fight off against the British. As the title suggests this place is famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset as the first and last golden beam of sun rays spreads over the beautiful curtain of clouds making it a memorable scene to experience in serene nature.
Skandagiri Trek is a moderately challenging trek(which takes about 4-5 hours) situated in Chikballapur district of Karnataka. It is one of the five major hills found in Chikballapur. The Skandagiri Hill is situated approximately 1350 meters above sea level, and the best part is it's only around 70 km from Bangalore. Bangalore being a major city is well connected to many major and small cities as well. As it overlooks Nandi Hill and lush greenery, its breathtaking view of sunrise and sunset will leave you awestruck.
How to get here?
Skandagiri Hill is around 70 km away from Bangalore, so you have lots of options to choose from. If you are planning to go on your vehicle, just take the highway route NH44 and NH648 which will be around 1 hour 30 min to get to Chikballapur and then get to Kalwara Village (Starting Point). If you are planning to go via plane or train the procedure will be the same. Just get to Bangalore’s Kempegowda Airport or Bangalore Railway station and book a cab to Skandagiri Hill which will take around 2 to 3 hours depending upon the traffic.
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Should Read: Kudremukh
Trekking
Best Time to Visit
Skandagiri is known for trekking
throughout the year, our recommendation is you should visit in Winter which is
from November to February. The Scorching Summer of the South becomes unbearable
to trek . The flora and fauna prospers during monsoon but it should be avoided
because the boulders and muddy trails become slippery and dangerous to trek
through.
Skandagiri trail
information
The trek Starts at around 4 am. in the morning near the Papagni temple near Kalwara village Please be present at this time to start as early as possible to enjoy the sunrise at the top. Since it's a shorter trek, the route is well-marked and easy to get to the top. the route goes through several ruined fortresses and Samadhis which you can use to get some rest also. The places you will go through to get to the top of the Hill.
Papagni The: The mesmerizing aura of this temple will captivate you as it was built to worship goddess Parvati and many local deities. the devotees and trekkers can feel a strong sense of spiritualism in this temple. As it is the starting point of the trek all the trekkers seek blessing from Maa Parvati before commencing on the adventure.
Shiva Temple- This temple is situated on the top of the hill and is a major attraction for its old nature and of course, the temple acts as a resting point for trekkers.
Tipu Sultan Fort -This ruined fort has stood testimonial to India's
fight against the British, as it was used by King Tipu Sultan to fight back
against the British Invasion. The fort is now heavily damaged but some of the
wall still stands tall against the harshness of time. the ruined fortress
attracts many tourists as it has two caves, the first one at the bottom and the
second one in the middle. There is a stone house structure that is used by trekkers
to get some rest.
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Quick
suggestions/Tips
If you wish to Visit the place please take permission from the Forest department, which you can book online. Word of the trekking head will be final and ultimate. Have sufficient drinking water and snacks, as there are no stalls or shops en route to the top.
If you have Asthma or any
personal medical condition please try to avoid it, but if you insist upon it,
it will be at your own risk. Have protective trekking gear and a raincoat,
necessary medicines, and a first aid kit as a must. Smoking and consuming
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Don’t Litter, let's respect and enjoy nature.
Summary
If you are an aspiring trekker who wants to start his/her trekking adventure, if you are someone who wants a weekend getaway from the crowded life, If you are someone who wants to experience the mysticism of a spiritual journey, if you are a history buff, book with us and let us take you to the scenic and astounding beauty- Skandagiri Hill.