Skandgiri is a beautiful hill town near Bangalore renowned for hiking and trekking and is also called Kalavara Durga among the locals. Inspired by the Nandi Hills, it lies at an elevation of 1450 m. The trek into the hilltop location is a thrilling one with a medium to advanced level difficulty for trekkers. It is understood that people often spend the night under the stars at the hilltop, which provides a fantastic view of the surrounding hills.
Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is located approximately 70 kilometers from Bangalore city and 3 kilometers from Chikballapur. The summit is at an elevation of about 1350 meters. Skandagiri is an ideal weekend getaway near Bangalore, preferred by the majority of experience and nature lovers. Located from the Nandi Hills ranges, in the space of roughly 68 kms from Bangalore, the historic mountain fort of Skandagiri is also famous by the name of Kalwarebetta. One of the most loved destinations such as hiking nearby Bangalore that offers a perfect rest from the busy and stressful town also transports the participants into a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The trek is a Fantastic climbing adventure for fans.
Skandagiri hiking is a daylong trip that's typically initiated following breakfast each morning. The total hiking distance is just 8 kms moderate to demanding difficulty level, making it essential for the participants to be physically and emotionally fit. Proximity to Skandagiri commences from your Papagni Temple, which will be located at the foothills of this Kalwara village. The participants expect to observe a majestic view of their fortress situated on the peak at an elevation of 1450 m above sea level through the entire hiking trail. The trail passes through a listing of dense shrubs, which can be very intriguing.
Skandagiri is part of those five prominent hills present in Chikkaballapura district, Karnataka, that tourists frequent for the excellent trekking prospects. At the top of the mountain, the magnificent views of the neighboring hills and the scenery make the journey worthwhile. It is also a site of historical significance. On top of this Skandagiri Hill, you can come across the ruins of an 18th century fort. Tipu Sultan employed that as a base to combat the British.
After the conflict between his kingdom and the Britisher's was lost, there was an increase in the British officials' energy. The fort didn't manage to flourish under his or her administration. Today, only a couple of walls of the fort stay erect while a significant section of the community is in ruins. Notable among the scene are just two temples, one at the base of the mountain and yet another at the top, that failed to arrive at any harm, while everything else lies within rubble today.
In addition, this is one of the notable trekking spots in Bangalore that can be visited during your day and the night. Project a trek on the trail up the hill on an evening of the full moon is just one of the adventuresome matters you can do in Skandagiri. At the peak of the mountain, the display of natural beauty around you'll be an enchantment to cherish.
How to reach
The nearest airport to Skandgiri is located in Bangalore. Skandagiri lies at an approximate distance of 70 km from Bangalore. Visitors can take the KSRTC bus, which runs in regular intervals between the two destinations. The bus drops the passengers at Chikballapur, which is the very last stop on this path. From there, they can either choose a stroll to reach Skandgiri or hire an auto to drop you off at the base of the hills. It will take 15minutes, and if you walk, it would require up to 45 minutes.
Best time to visit
The winter season, i.e., between November and March, will be the best time to stop by Skandagiri. The weather is quite pleasant in that period, and the atmosphere turns into a delightful display of colors.
From April to June, the summer season is not the best time to visit the place as the place is a bit too hot to undertake the trek. Avoid travelling to Skandagiri from July to October, as the hilltop witnesses the rainy season.
