Introduction
Skandagiri trek, which is about 70 km from Bangalore, is a perfect morning trip for a weekend getaway from the city for many reasons, including its proximity to the city, breathtaking views, and of course all the photos of the sunrise from the mountains.
Skandagiri Mountain Castle, also known as Kalwarbetta or Kalavara Durga, is historically significant. This fort is said to have been built by Tipu Sultan and has been abandoned since 1791 when he was defeated in the Anglo-Mysore War. Since then, the fort has deteriorated to such an extent that it is all that remains. The beauty of the ancient hill of Skandagiri, on the other hand, has grown over time. And as overnight travel across the state becomes more restricted, Skandagiri is under threat.
Skandagiri Mountain Castle, also known as Kalwarbetta or Kalavara Durga, is historically significant. This fort is said to have been built by Tipu Sultan and has been abandoned since 1791 when he was defeated in the Anglo-Mysore War. Since then, the fort has deteriorated to such an extent that it is all that remains. The beauty of the ancient hill of Skandagiri, on the other hand, has grown over time. With increasing restrictions on night travel across the state, the Skandagiri climb is one of the few night treks allowed.
Primary destination
Walk to Skandagiri as the dawn breaks in the sky. | Enjoy the stunning early morning views of the nearby mountains and forests. | A journey through the brutal nature of rural Karnataka. | a short drive from Bangalore
- Easy (Difficulty level is subjective.) (Difficulty level is subjective.)
- Trail Type: Walking long distances over rocky terrain
- 9 kilometres (there and back)
Travel procedure
Day 0: Leave Bangalore at 10 a.m. on Saturday.
Day 1: Arrival at base camp at 2 a.m.
Start the journey at 4 a.m. and finish at the top.
Take off and return to base around 9 a.m.
On the way back, breakfast Arrives in Bangalore at around 2:00 p.m. Sunday (approx.)
When to visit the Skandagiri trek
Skandagiri Mountain is shown to tourists all year round. However, the best time to visit Skandagiri is from November to January, when the surrounding greenery and hills offer breathtaking views during sunset. During the summer months, one can go hiking in the mountains.
Skandagiri Hills are famous for their night treks. For this reason, walking usually starts after dark and lasts until after the first light of the day. One of the attractions that attract tourists from all over the world to this beautiful place is the sun emerging from the blue clouds.
Kukke Subramanya Temple is a Hindu temple that houses the idol of Kartikeya, the Hindu god of snakes. It is said that Vasuki, the celestial serpent, and many other serpents took refuge in this temple when they were attacked by Garuda. Skandgiri Temple is open from 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 3:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Difficulties of the Skandagiri Trek
Skandagiri is a straightforward trek. The Skandagiri Trek does not have any parts that can be classified as difficult. On the other hand, a traveller must always plan for the worst-case scenario.
Here are some things to look out for when climbing and descending:
- Slippery roads (specifically rainy): During monsoons, the mud and rocks are very slippery, requiring caution when moving. Travelers should be careful when choosing footwear during the rainy season and should check the weather forecast to avoid heavy rainy days.
- Rocks and Stones: During this trek, hikers will be required to step on small rocks or walk on large slabs of rock. Although this is a wonderful part of the journey, caution should be exercised. Jumping or falling off rocks can cause serious damage, so hikers should be careful in these areas.
- Furry sections: As the trail is a mixture of rocks and mud, there are sections of mud road that are often treacherous even when it hasn’t rained. Movements and falls of a few metres are common in some places. So be careful with these parts.
What to bring on the Skandagiri trek
- ID card, scarf, bandana, and sunglasses
- Water (at least two litres)
- or electrolyte powder or drink (Electoral, Gatorade, Glucon D, etc.)
- High-calorie foods (nuts and dried fruits, homemade bread, etc.)
- A rubber stopper, a safety pin, and a screwdriver (useful in an emergency)
- Clothes should be avoided for the front of t-shirts that are easy to clean. Poncho, only in the rainy season
- Cover electronics only with plastic sheeting during the monsoons.
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Walking sticks are optional.
First aid kit:
- Practical Clothes (Normal andamp; Waterprof)
- analgesic spray (Relispray, Volini, etc.)
- Antiseptic water (Savlon, Dettol, etc.)
- Antiseptic powder (Povidone-Iodine powder such as Cipladine, Savlon, etc.)
- Bandages and cotton rolls
- crepe bandage
- wide medical tape (paper or cloth).
- Acidity, narrow micropore tablets for motion sickness (Avomine) (Gelusil, Digene, etc.)
- Soft Relief Tablets (Crocin)
