Nijagal Betta or NijaGallu Hills -Weekend Trekking and Picnic spot

A trekker's delight just 55 km out of the city must be a welcome break for those rearing to try some adventure during the weekend. Nijagal Betta provides the right setting for such an outing.  NijaGallu literally translates to Truth Rocks (I have no idea why this name!). Known to a handful few, Nijagallu is a mostly unexplored hillock and a getaway spot out of Bangalore.

Located a few hundred meters from the Bangalore-Tumkur highway, Nijagal Betta is a hillock of ruined temples, forts, caves and striking rock formations. However, much of all this, save for a portion of the fort wall, is not visible from the road. It's believed that Hyder Ali and Peshwa Madhav Rao fought a war here.

Path to take:

Though the hill is accessible from Hale Nijagal, a nearby village, the approach if much easier is from the highway if one uses a vehicle.  Incidentally, some enterprising youths conduct a rural tour in the picturesque Hale Nijagal village. In case you want a short trek, you can drive unto the Dobbespet flyover and then take the road by the left side of the flyover, drive a short distance and then turn to the left if you are approaching from Bangalore. 

Route from Tumkur / Bangalore:

Nijagallu Betta (Hills)If you are coming from Tumkur side, then drive unto the flyover and take the flank road underneath and then turn right going under the flyover and then take a right turn again. Soon take a left turn drive straight until you reach the foot hills of the Betta. 

Make enquiries in case you feel lost.  If you wish to enjoy a long trek, and then park your vehicle somewhere near the flyover and then start walking in the same route described above or walk through Hale Nijagal Village.

The climb:

The climb is tough initially because of the loose gravel. But the path becomes rocky as you climb, thus giving a better foothold. Halfway up the hill, the two outer layers of the fort come into view. The fort is believed to have been built by Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar in the mid-17th century.

Once the first outer wall is crossed, it's easier to navigate the path. It's a little tricky towards the end as the path hugs a large boulder and only a flimsy rail provides some much needed support.

Path to Nijagallu HillsThis path finally leads to a set of adjacent caves that nestle a small Sri Siddeshwara (Shiva shrine) and Dargah, which are popular among local villagers. The final part of the hill rises above these shrines. It's a steep outcrop, but rough hewn steps provide enough grips leading to a set of rock-cut shelters and caves. You may find some monkeys keeping you company at the top of the Betta. Just opposite to the Dargah, you can climb further up the hills, unto the summit.

The peak provides an unobstructed view of the countryside, the snaking NH4, neighbouring hills and even Shivagange Hills. The trek is fairly easy and it takes about 90 minutes to two hours to reach the top at leisure.

There are plenty of abandoned structures worth exploring. The path has many sculptors from the Hoysala period and also has rock etchings that appear to be pre-historic, but this hasn't been authenticated.

It's suitable for the whole family, though you can camp at the foot of the hills and have a picnic lunch. During my trip there, my 4 year old niece was able to tread the hills easily, though it doesn't look inviting to all.

How to reach Nijagal Betta:

Nijagal Betta is situated on Tumkur Road; approximately 55 Km from Bangalore after Dobbspet are a set of two petrol bunks on the right. Nijagal Betta is right opposite these two.

Transport: Buses are available to Dobbaspet; Hire local transport to the foot of the hill.

Travel Tips:

Do wear proper shoes and clothing as fine gravel makes the ground slippery. Narrow paths towards the end are thick with thorny bramble. Beware of slippery side of the rocky outcrop as you climb.  Carry snacks, water and soft drinks if you wish to enjoy a leisurely chat at the foot hills.

Places close to Nijagallu include the imposing Sivagange Hills or the scenic DevarayanaDurga Hills

Return to Places to See around Bangalore or go to Bangalore Attractions