Kalavarahalli Betta (Skandagiri)

Also read: Goa Travellogue and Trip to Shivanasamudra waterfalls

Kalavarahalli Betta (Skandagiri) is a hill which is part of the Nandi Hill ranges, North of Bangalore. It offers trekking and moderate-to-easy climbing options close to the city of Bangalore, India. It is situated in the district of Chickballapur, about 56 Kms from Bangalore city.

How to reach

To reach the place, take the National Highway 7 to Hyderabad via the new Bangalore International Airport. There are two routes to the place:

1) Hebbal flyover - Devanahalli - Nandi Hills - Muddenahalli - Kalavarahalli - Skandagiri

2) Hebbal flyover - Devanahalli - Chikkaballapur - Kalavarahalli - Skandagiri

Things to take

Please carry lots of water, adequate food and first-aid as there is virtually nothing available here.

Can I see clouds below the peak?

Yes you can, provided you are extremely lucky. The cool weather season of end November - early February is the best time to visit. You should be on top of the hill early in the morning in order to be able to admire the cloud formations under the peak.

Avoid rainy season as the climbing can get very dangerous.

Planning the trek

It will take you 2-3 hours to reach the peak of the hill (including breaks). You can plan to have lunch on the peak. It is best to be back on the ground before dark. The entire expedition will take you 6-7 hours.

Pictures:

View of Kalavarahalli Betta from the foot of the mountain:


Ruined fortification on top of the hill:

Temple on top of the hill:

View of Nandi Hill from the top of Kalavarahalli Betta:
Panoramic view from the top of the hill:

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Also read: Goa Travellogue and Trip to Shivanasamudra waterfalls