Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is an ancient mountain fortress located approximately 70 km from Bangalore city. It is one of the most loved destinations for trekking near Bangalore that offers a perfect break from the busy and stressful city life and transports the participants into a calm and peaceful environment. The trek is an exciting climbing adventure for nomads.
Read this photoblog on our trek to Skandagiri.
Customised private departures are available for families, friends, corporate groups, schools and colleges.
- Start journey from Bengaluru to Kalwara village in a TT/Mini Bus
- Reach the base camp and explore nearby places
- Start trekking to Skandagiri Peak
- Reach the top and enjoy the view
- Have a packed breakfast and indulge in photography
- Descend to base camp
- Start our journey back to Bengaluru.
Things to carry:
- Good Hiking shoes/Sandals (Make sure you wear good shoes with a great grip)
- Torch (Compulsory)
- Water Bottles - 2 litres (Compulsory)
- Cap/Hat/Sunglasses
- Snacks, Energy Bars, Fruits (There are no options of eatery nearby and during the trek)
- ID Proof
Standard pick up points for the trek:
- Banashankari Bus Stand
- Jayadeva Hospital
- BTM Signal
- Silk Board
- Marathahalli Kalamandir
- HSR BDA Complex
Do’s and Don’ts:
- We believe in leaving the mountains in a better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
- Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colours and heavy apparels as much as possible.
- A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
- Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
- If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
- Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
- Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers.
- If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately.
- Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek.
- To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek.
- The decision of the trek leader will be final and all trekkers must adhere to that.
- Trekking
- Breakfast as required before the trek
- Trek Leader
- Forest Entry Tickets
- Customised private departure available
What is included in the tour
- Travel: To and fro travel from Bengaluru to Chikkaballapura in a TT/Mini Bus.
- Food: 1 Breakfast.
- Forest entry tickets.
- Guide Fees and Driver Bata.
- Personal Accident Insurance.
- All government, local taxes and service charges.
- TrekNomads Fee, Trek Captain support and expertise.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions.
- Personal expenses.
- Any additional expenses due to emergencies.
- Altitude: 4,757 ft (1450 m)
- Distance from Bangalore: 65 km
- Trek Gradient: Moderate
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Trek Distance: 4 km
Skandagiri Trek FAQs
What is the Skandagiri trek famous for?
It is a site of historical significance, as the ruins of an 18th-century fort, which Tipu Sultan used as a base to fight the British, can be found on top of Skandagiri Hill. This attraction, also known as Kalavara Durga, is located about 60 kilometers from Bangalore. Skandagiri is also famous for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
When is the Best Time For Skandagiri Trek?
This adventure can be undertaken at any time. Winter, from November to January, is generally regarded as the best time to embark on this journey. Nothing beats stargazing after a challenging climb on a winter night, and in the monsoons, flora and fauna add a new dimension to the trek. However, the trek is tricky in the monsoon as the trail is slippery.
A summer trek to Skandagiri is possible if you have the stamina to endure South India's treacherous summer heat. Skandagiri is famous for its spectacular sunrise views. You can also go on the Skandagiri sunrise trek which can be done throughout the year, except during heavy monsoon.
How To reach For Skandagiri Trek?
You travel by road from Bangalore to Chikkaballapur. You can take a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride or walk to the base point in Kalawara village. Alternatively, you can hire a cab from Bangalore to Chikkaballapura. You could drive your own car/bike and park it in Chikkaballapur village if you know someone you trust or bring a driver who will stay in the car while you trek.
If you are going on the Skandagiri trek with Treknomads, to and fro travel from Bengaluru to Chikkaballapura in a Tempo Traveller/Mini Bus will be arranged for you.
Where does Skandagiri Trek start?
The trek begins near the village of Kalwara at the Papagni Temple. During your journey, you can see the Kalwarbettar fort ahead of you. After passing through some dense foliage, you will arrive at the fort, but the adventure has only just begun. There are six such ruined fortresses that lead to the ancient temple at the top. The scenery is spectacular throughout, and there are small samadhi caves along the trail where you can rest for a while.
What all things should I carry for Skandagiri Trek?
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Carry at least 2-3 litres of water in order to stay hydrated.
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Take a comfortable backpack.
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Carry a raincoat in the monsoon and a windbreaker in winter.
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Wear good hiking shoes or running shoes.
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Pack energy bars and light snacks.
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Carry a torch with batteries to help you see at night.
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Wear a hat & sunglasses.
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Carry basic toiletries.
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ID Proof
