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Savandurga

Savandurga

Savandurga is a place with a fort on a lofty mountain, about 60 km from Bengaluru. The hill consists of two granite cliffs of 4000 feet tall and 13 kilometres (8 miles) in circumference , one called Bilibetta or white peak, another Karibetta or black peak.

It was a prominent place during the Hoysala rule. Over a period of time several rulers held this place. The hill fort on the top of the outcrop was erected in 1543 by Samanta Raya. It then came to Immadi Kempe Gowda of Bengaluru until 1728 when it was captured by the Raja of Mysore from whom it passed to Haider Ali. During the Anglo-Mysore Wars of the late 18th century, Savandurg was the most forbidding of all the Tippu's hill forts in the area and hitherto deemed impregnable. Nevertheless, British troops under Cornwallis commanded by Lt Col Stuart mounted a successful assault against the fort in December 21, 1791.

The entire area is covered by verdure and serene atmosphere. This region is famous for medicinal plants and shrub forest. This is a paradise for the climbing enthusiasts. Climbers can scale sheer rock faces enduring up to grade 7. It is also good for a day's trek and camping at the foothill.

Nearest Towns:

Ramanagar

Location info:India->Karnataka->Bangalore->Ramanagar

Distances:Savandurga is located between Magadi and Ramanagar
Camping Sites: Cant camp up there
Trek Length: Two to three hours

Route Info:

Take the Bengaluru (Bangalore) - Mysuru (Mysore) highway and took the Magadi road from Ramanagar. This road is smoother, though longer, compared to the usual path taken, which is Bengaluru - Magadi road and a left from Magadi, leading to Ramanagar.

Best Time To Visit:

Early morning so that u can enjoy the cool breeze of morning

Worst Time To Visit:

When it is raining since the place becomes a lot slippery and is difficult to trek through

Difficulty Level:

Difficult for first timers

Summary:

Savandurga (literally meaning the 'fort of death') is a large monolithic rock about 60 kilometers away from Bangalore. If you are planning on getting there, take magadi road and drive straight down for about 40-45 kilometers, then look to your left for a gas station. There will be a sign in English pointing Savandurga to the left. Take the left and go straight for about 10 kilometers, and you will come to a settlement with quite a few temples. Park your vehicle there, and look for the power lines leading up the hill.

Some words of advice, eat a full breakfast before you start on the journey, carry lunch with you (you will have to go to magadi for restaurants, though you will get some biscuits and juice cartons at the bottom), stretch well before you start the climb, wear good rubber soled shoes, walk in a zig zag manner if it is very steep

Things To Look for:

 

Things To Be Aware Of:

The climb up will be steep at places so got to be carefull

Things To Carry:

  • Personal medication (if any)
  • One strong backpack
  • Water bottles (enough to carry at least 2 liters of water)
  • Energy Food (Chocolate bars, flavored milk, Electrolyte drinks - Glucon-D, etc).
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Rain Coat (Just in case)
 

References

http://usandeep.com/trekking/savandurga.html
http://www.prashblog.com/2008/08/trekking-at-savandurga.html

Important Phone Numbers :

 

Permission:

No need