Check out these Easy/moderate trekking options near Bangalore

Trekking over weekends has become the most desirable activity of the millennial generation whether solo or in groups. With so many trekking places near Bangalore, this city has become a trekker’s haven. Here is a list of a few easy to moderate trails you can venture on your coming break.

The Savandurga hill is located 48 km. away and is one of the most popular trekking destinations around Bangalore and is extremely popular. The Karigudda and the Billigudda trail are the two trekking trails that run up to Savanadurga. The trek along Biligudda takes you through the ruined fort built by Kempe Gowda and the climb up to the fort tower can be a bit challenging. Adventure lovers, on the other hand, will find the Karigudda trek to be satisfying. People head here for a night trek and to catch the sunrise.

There are several resorts in Bangalore, but if you are staying towards the Bangalore International Airport, trekking up Nandi Hills should be marked on your calendar. There are two trekking routes to the Nandi Hills. One of the trails lies to the north of the Nandi hills and the other lies to the south of the Nandi hills. Several trekking enthusiasts regularly come to this hillock before sunrise and trek their way to the top, traversing through picturesque terrain at a tantalizing altitude with the cool morning breeze hitting their face surrounded by unpolluted lush greenery and a landscape that is hard to forget. Given the scenic route, a steady terrain and the enticing climb, this trek is also popular because it is of very moderate intensity and can be undertaken by almost anyone comfortable with walking. If you have time on your side, make a weekend of it with a stay at the amazing resort Discovery Village at the foot of Nandi Hills.

Skandagiri, an ancient mountain fortress stands at an altitude of about 1350 m and is a sought after night trek around Bangalore. Trekkers also go there for camping, bird watching and taking in breathtaking sunrise from the top. The Skandagiri trek is only moderately difficult and has two routes to reach the base of the hill. Take a detour from the road that leads to Nandi Hills or get in from Chikballapur. Hundreds of people gather at Papagni Temple at the foot of the hill on Saturday and Sunday mornings to watch the sunrise. This climb is recommended at dawn or on a full-moon night. On the uphill trek, you will also encounter a cave at the base of the hill and another midway to the top.

Not more than 80 kms from Bangalore, Anthargange is a tourist magnet with religious significance, nature galore and a beautiful trekking trail. Famous for the Anthargange Caves and Temple it is a popular pilgrimage site and ideal for night trekking around Bangalore. The temple stands amidst thick vegetation and is a scenic splendor. The Anthargange Caves which are on the peak are about an hour trek from the temple and all the caves can be easily explored by foot. Interestingly, some of these caves are large and provide for a good campsite, with many groups opting to camp here after their trek up the hill.

Madhugiri in Tumkur district is famous for the second largest monolithic rock hill in Asia after Savandurga. It lies at an altitude of 3,930 feet and is gaining popularity as a trekking destination from Bangalore. On your climb, you will find the Madhugiri mud fort on the slopes and a temple of Gopalakrishna at the top of the hill. This trek is of moderate to difficult level and takes about 1.5 hours one way, but it is definitely worth your while.

The hill fort Makalidurga is situated near the village of Makali 61 kms from Bangalore. In recent years, this trail has gained momentum, with many trekkers opting for a night trek. You can find a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna at the foot of the hill. This trek is definitely a must-try if only to behold the lakes on either side, the elegantly curving trail and the railway track below, from the hilltop. This is a moderate trek and though the trail is still not very popular, the experience it offers is unforgettable.

Irrespective of the difficulty level, trekking is an activity for people of all ages. The thrill of scaling the height, feeling nature in all its glory while bonding with your mates makes you want to definitely come back for more.