Introduction
Are you an adventure enthusiast looking for the perfect trekking destination? Then, Skandagiri is the ideal place for you. Located in the Chikkaballapura district of Karnataka, Skandagiri is a mountain fortress situated at an altitude of 1276 meters above sea level. It is a perfect destination for trekking and camping. Trekking at Skandagiri is a great way to explore nature, to be closer to its beauty and to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top. It is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, and one can explore the stunning scenery and get an amazing experience. In this guide, we are going to tell you all about the Skandagiri trek, from its route to the things you should carry. We’ll also provide an overview of the best time to visit, the scenic beauty and the challenges you must be prepared for
About Skandagiri
Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is located near Bangalore, Karnataka and is one of the most popular trekking destinations in India. It is a hill fort located at an elevation of about 1300 meters and is a popular spot for trekkers, hikers and campers alike. This fort was built in the 16th century by the rulers of the Vijayanagar Empire and is a great place to explore the outdoors and get a glimpse of the beautiful surroundings.
The trek to Skandagiri usually starts from the base village of Papagni, located at the foothills of the fort. From here, the trekkers reach the summit in about three to four hours, depending on their pace. The entire trek is around 8 to 9 kilometers long and provides breathtaking views of the nearby cities of Bangalore and Nandi Hills.
The trail to the summit is well laid out and follows a moderate incline throughout. The trekkers will pass through various terrains along the way, including rocky pathways, dense forests and open patches of grass. Along the way, you can also find many temples, dedicated to various Hindu gods, which add to the beauty of the trek.
The pinnacle of the trek is the summit, which offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding areas, including the beautiful city of Bangalore. On the summit, you can also find a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the fort.
The trek to Skandagiri is considered to be one of the safest and easiest treks in the country and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels
How To Reach Skandagiri
Skandagiri is a beautiful mountain located near Bangalore that is perfect for an adventurous trekking experience. Located at an altitude of around 1300 meters, the trek offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape and is a great way to spend your weekend. But before you embark on this journey, you must know how to reach Skandagiri.
The closest town to the Skandagiri trek is Chikkaballapur, which is about 60km away from Bangalore. From there, you will have to take a bus or hire a cab to reach the Skandagiri trek base. The road leading to the trek is a bit steep and winding, so it is advisable to reach the base of the trek before the sun sets.
Once you reach the base, you will have to take a 4×4 vehicle to reach the summit. The route is quite long and can take up to 4-5 hours depending on the weather conditions. The trek offers a unique view of the landscape from the top of the mountain and is a great experience for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
The best time to go on the Skandagiri trek is during the winter months, as the weather is pleasant and offers a great view of the mountains. It is also important to carry enough supplies as the trek can take a few hours and there are no supplies available around the area. So make sure to carry enough food, water and other essentials before heading out on the trek.
Things to Carry While Travelling To Skandagiri
When planning for a trek to Skandagiri, it is important to pack the right items that you need for the trails. A few essential items you should consider to bring are:
- Comfortable Clothing:
It is important to wear comfortable and breathable clothing that will help keep you cool on hot days and warm during cold nights. Choose layers that you can easily take off and put on depending on the weather. Remember to bring a rain jacket, too.
- Sturdy Shoes:
It is necessary to wear good and sturdy shoes for better grip and comfort. They should provide sufficient traction for the trails and should have enough cushioning for your feet.
- Trekking Poles:
Trekking poles are very helpful in providing balance and support for the steep climbs and descents. They also help you to move faster and with ease.
- First-Aid Kit:
It is always a good idea to carry a first-aid kit with you, which should include all the necessary items like bandages, antiseptic sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.
- Snacks and Water:
It is important to stay hydrated and hydrated during your trek. So, it is essential to bring a sufficient amount of water with you. You should also pack snacks to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
These are some of the items that you should consider while packing for your Skandagiri trek.
Temperature
Skandagiri is a great trek for all levels of experience, but the temperature at the top can be quite cold and unpredictable. The climate in this region can vary from one season to the next, so it is important to plan accordingly and dress accordingly. During the winter season, temperatures at Skandagiri can drop to below freezing, so it is important to bring warm clothing and a good sleeping bag. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels at nearly 70%. It is important to bring plenty of water and keep hydrated as the conditions can be extreme.
In the monsoon season, it is important to check the weather forecast before planning your trek and be prepared for rain and thunderstorms. The temperatures can be quite cool, though the air is likely to be quite humid. It is important to wear the right kind of clothing – waterproof outerwear and good hiking shoes – to ensure your safety and comfort while trekking during the monsoon.
The temperature at the summit of Skandagiri can be quite unpredictable, and often changes rapidly, depending on the time of day and time of year. Early mornings are usually the coldest, with temperatures dropping to as low as -2 Celsius. During the day, the temperature can reach up to 15 degrees Celsius, while in the evenings it can drop to as low as 5 degrees Celsius. It is important to be prepared for any kind of weather, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and season.
Nearby Places to Visit
One of the main attractions to the Skandagiri trek is the nearby places to visit. The holy town of Chikballapur is a great destination for any traveler looking for a spiritual experience. There are numerous temples, including the Venugopalaswamy temple, the Bhoganandishwara temple, the Ram temple and the Hanuman temple. These are some of the oldest temples in the area, and they embody the culture and traditions of South India.
Also located nearby is the Narsimha Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a variety of wild animals, including tigers, elephants, deer, and peacocks. The sanctuary also has some of the best trekking trails in the area, so make sure to take advantage of the opportunity.
For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, the Chikballapur Nature Conservation Reserve is the perfect destination. The reserve is home to some of the most beautiful flora and fauna, and you can even camp overnight to get the full experience.
In addition, the nearby town of Nandi Hills has some great attractions. The hill offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape, as well as several temples, such as the Anjaneya temple and the Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Skandagiri trek is an amazing trek for those who love adventure and exploring nature. It is a perfect way to spend time amidst nature, with family and friends. With the help of this complete guide, you now know everything you need to know before embarking on your Skandagiri trek and enjoy the incredible experience to the fullest.
