Introduction
Skandagiri trek is considered to be an epic journey through strenuous terrains that adds fun to life. The trek is located near Bangalore. It is situated at Chikkaballapura, Karnataka. The trek begins from the Kalwara Village and ends at the Skandagiri Hilltop. It is about 1350 metres in altitude and takes nearly 5 hours to complete the trek. The total distance of the trail is 8 kms and the ideal time to begin the trek is 4 AM. The trek ranges from easy to moderate in difficulty level.
Best time to visit
It is said that one can do this trek at any point of time but the best time to do it is in Winters. That is from November to January, which is usually considered the best time to go on this trek. On a winter’s night the trek looks mesmerising and nothing can beat the stargazing after a difficult climb. In the monsoon season, the flora and fauna provide a fresh appeal to the trek thus making it a nature friendly appeal. In Summers the trek to Skandagiri is doable only if you have the stamina to withstand the treacherous summer heat of South India. The trail has an open path in its way thus one has to face the burning heat of the sun.
Where to start?
The trek commences from the Papagni Temple near the village of Kalwara. The first few minutes of the trek consists of a semi-dry trail but soon after you can see the lush greenery. You can also see the Kalwarbettar fortress right ahead of you during the trek. After walking through a path of dense foliage, one will reach the fortress. The fun view has just started. There are about six such ruined fortresses along the trail that lead to the ancient temple at the top of the hill. The view throughout the trek is glorious and there are small samadhi caves where you can rest when tired. The trek leads to a perfect adventurous and true exploration of cave moments. The path throughout is considered to be safe and there are no such reports of snake bites or attacks.
Why it is so famous?
The Skandagiri trek is known for its night trek. Most people camp overnight and stay in caves to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise later. However, there are a few who begin to trek early in the morning and return by sundown as per their pace. But they miss out on the majestic view under the stars. It is recommended that people choose night camping under the stars and nature as it makes their journey more rewarding and provides an amazing experience.
What to worry about?
One should not worry about food throughout the trail. Presence of several shacks and tea stalls on the trek trail that sell snacks, cookies, tea and cold drinks/ water provide aid during the trek. One can also have food at a few restaurants in Chikkaballapura such as Kamat Upachar Restaurant, Chandru Hotel, Hotel Babuji and Swathi Restaurant.
If you love trekking you can also do Kunti betta trek in Bangalore as it is a very amazing trek.
Essentials to keep handy while trekking:
- Carry lots of water while night camping and remember to stay hydrated.
- Ensure that you take a comfortable backpack.
- Carry a raincoat in monsoon and a windbreaker in winter to keep you protected.
- Wear good hiking shoes or canvas shoes to protect yourself along the trail.
- Pack enough energy bars and light snacks as you might need it during the trek.
- Carry a torch with extra batteries to help see at night.
- Take hat or sunglasses to protect yourself
- Carry basic toiletries while trekking.
Why you should do this trek?
It is an easy and memorable trek that will make you want to explore even more hiking spots nearby in the near future. It is a spot that even first time trekkers will enjoy and thus one must begin with this trail. There are various spots nearby that one can explore including Amrita Sarovar, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Brahmashram Cave and Nandi hills. One can enjoy paragliding and explore Tipu’s drop also. The cost of trekking is quite admissible. Skandagiri trek is pocket friendly and provides more than it asks for. You can also camp overnight in your own tent at the summit campsites as located in the trek.
You must take permission from the forest department of Karnataka for trekking. The skandagiri hills trek is considered to be one of the best night treks near Bangalore and must be explored.
