Savandurga - Trek one of the largest monolithic hills in Asia

Savandurga is 61 Kms from Bangalore (Bengaluru) near Magadi and yet another spot enjoyed by the trekkers. Savandurga is a hill with a fortress which was the hideout of Kempe Gowda.

There is a temple dedicated to Narasimhaswamy and Veerabhadraswamy. The hills are about 4000 feet high (1300 meters) and is known for its green landscape, thickets, and cool environment on top of the hills.

Savanadurga is part of the granite hill range of Ramanagaram and are  great spot for a quick getaway from Bangalore on regular days or on weekends. A perfect spot to enjoy nature and the mighty hills as you leave the hustle and bustle of Bangalore behind.

Read about Ramanagaram and Channapatna Guide

History:

View from the top of SavandurgaSavandurga comprises of two hills known locally as Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill). The earliest record of the name of the hill is from 1340 AD by Hoysala Ballala III from Madabalu where it is called Savandi. Another view is that the name is originated from Samantadurga attributed to a Samantharaya, a governor under Ahchutaraya at Magadi, although there is no inscription confirming this.

This was the secondary capital of the Magadi rulers such as Kempegowda. from 1638 to 1728, Mysore took over this place and Dalavayi Devaraja occupied this place with the palace at Nelapattana. In 1792 Lord Cornwallis captured it from Tippu Sultan and this was described by Colonel Wilks.

Robert Home in his Select views in Mysore (1794) shows distant views of the hill from Bangalore. He called it Savinadurga or the fort of death. There were no steps to reach the hill top and it was covered by Bamboos and other trees forming a barricade.

Temple and Trekking:

At the food of the hills, there are the Veerabhadra Swami temple and the Narasimha temple that is frequented by locals. There is also a lake that looks inviting at the foot of the hills and you could cool yourself here or make a small picnic and then later head for the trek.

Billi Gudda or White Hill is easier to climb of the two. An overgrown shrub path starts near the temple at the base of the foothills. There are white paint marks that serve as indicators for the path to climbing the hill; it soon disappears after a while. Thick Bamboo bushes and throny shrubs greet you along the way.

Temple at Savanadurga HillsIt is advisable to go as a group of more than three; do carry supplies of water and energy biscuits as all may not enjoy the trek. A Nandi statue is seen at the summit of the hills and the view from the top is definitely worth the trek.

Karigudda is supposed to more dangerous to trek than BiliGudda and should not be attempted by amateur trekkers and climbers.

In all, Savandurga is a nice destination for exploring the mighty hills; if you are coming with family, all will not be able to climb the hills. In that case you can combine this with Ramanagarama and Channapatna and have lunch or snacks at Kamat Lokaruchi (an ethnic travellers restaurant in Ramanagaram)

How to reach here: Savanadurga is about 50 Kms away from Bangalore. You could take a bus from Bangalore or come here by your bike or car. The easiest route is to take the Magadi Road until you reach Magadi town. After this you will have to take a left towards Ramanagram and reach Nayakanapalya. Take a left here again and proceed further to reach Savandurga. The local villagers are helpful with directions.

Best time to visit: November to April. The hills tend to get slippery during the rainy season.

Where to stay: The temple at the foot of the hills has choultries and has basic food and accomodation facilities. If you are looking for better rooms, head to Ramanagaram town where you can find local hotels.

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