Makali Durga Betta — Attraction in Karnataka

Absolutely amazing, awesome and one of the great places for trekking around Bangalore!

Please note that booking on myecotrip.com is mandatory to trek on this hill. A payment of Rs.250/-(+tax) person to be made along with booking (rather registration). The attendant at the gate will ask for email confirmation of booking and payment. Even if one has not done the booking and payment ahead of time, it can be done at the gate itself. I guess it is a beautiful system implemented by the Karnataka Forest Department. The attendants too are sincere and honest not to let the unregistered trekkers to enter by taking money illegally!

The attendant will also provide you with the phone number of a guide who will be available midway for any help; especially at one rocky knob to help climb up as it is very steep and slippery. The attendants at the entry too advise you of dangerous stretches.

Importantly, there is network signal available even atop the hill so that you can live stream and do video calls too!

This hill is just about 65kms from Bangalore and good road too with just about half kilometre of mud road, between the farmland, and the parking lot. This parking lot seems to be built and maintained by a resort coming up there (not sure though). There is a public toilet at the parking lot and it is very clean (maybe because it is new!).

It is ideal to start trekking early in the morning as the gate opens at 6am. Especially in summer it can get really hot also because of the rocky terrain all around.

Monsoon time will be great with lots of greenery around and cool weather makes the entire trekking experience memorable. Trekking in monsoon might be a bit difficult and risky too due rain and the algae covered rocks!

Light weight clothing is ideal and a proper well studded pair of trekking shoes is a must for the 45° gradient and very treacherous track. Although it will be very tiring, one can enjoy every moment of trekking through the stretches of grass and woods.

Great views of the foothill, lake and the villages keep you encouraging to keep trekking and climbing up the hill. Upon reaching the rocky knob up the hill, one will automatically lie down for a much needed rest!

Atop the hill the truly unpolluted fresh air completely rejuvenates the body and more so the mind while one can experience the true energy of the breathe and how it traverses through the lungs! It is highly recommended to spend good amount of time on the rocky knob to enjoy the breeze, calmth and the beauty of mother earth, instead of hurrying to return.

As nothing is available enroute and/or atop the hill, carrying essentials like water and snacks is ideal. The upcoming resort maybe of help in the future.

I guess it is a lesser opted trekking hill due to the steep track. There was hardly any crowd even on Saturday! That's another best part of this hill so that there peace, no hawkers and no littering as well!

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A Majestic Journey: Makalidurga Trek I recently had the pleasure of embarking on the Makalidurga trek, and I can confidently say that it was an unforgettable experience that left me awe-inspired and rejuvenated. Nestled in the lap of nature, the Makalidurga trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and historical significance that makes it an ideal destination for all nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.

The trek starts with a moderate ascent through lush greenery, which in itself is a treat for the senses. The trail is well-marked and maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Along the way, you'll encounter captivating landscapes, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas that make every step worthwhile.

As you ascend, the true charm of Makalidurga slowly unfolds. The majestic fort, perched atop the hill, reveals its intriguing history and cultural significance. The ruins of the fort are a testament to the rich heritage of the region, providing a glimpse into its past and offering fantastic photo opportunities.

The highlight of the trek is, undoubtedly, the awe-inspiring sunrise and sunset views from the summit. Watching the golden hues of the sun dance over the horizon, casting enchanting shadows on the landscape, is a surreal and almost meditative experience. It's a moment that will etch itself into your memory forever.

Additionally, the trek's accessibility from Bangalore is a significant advantage for those seeking a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The journey to Makalidurga is relatively short, allowing you to enjoy the trek even on a weekend.

For photography enthusiasts, Makalidurga offers a plethora of opportunities to capture the beauty of nature and the sense of accomplishment after conquering the summit. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family seeking bonding time, this trek caters to all, providing ample space to create cherished memories together.

Safety is paramount, and the trek organizers ensure that all necessary precautions are taken, making it a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The local guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to share intriguing stories about the area, adding a personal touch to the adventure.

In conclusion, the Makalidurga trek is a gem among Karnataka's trekking destinations. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and the thrill of reaching the summit make it an unbeatable experience. If you're looking to escape the mundane and connect with nature's wonders, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on this mesmerizing journey. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, the Makalidurga trek promises an enchanting and enriching experience that will stay with you long after the...

Is a hill fort situated near the village of the same name. It is 60 km north of Bangalore and 10 km after Doddaballapura on the way to Gauribidanur. The fort at the summit has an old temple of Shiva with Nandi and in legend Markandeya Rishi performed penance here.Makalidurga Fort stands at the top of a huge granite hillock, huddled up amidst the chains of hills, formed like a valley close to Ghati Subramanya, a well-known pilgrimage center. It has a fort on top, at a height of 1,117 m. It has become one of the trekking destination for adventurers. Many people go for night trek to this place. At a distance of 61 km from Bangalore City Junction, 18 km from Doddaballapura and 6.4 km from Ghati Subramanya Temple, Makalidurga is a hill fort situated near the village of Makali in Karnataka. This is one of the top things to do in Bangalore.

Makalidurga hill is situated at an altitude of 1350 m above the sea level. It used to be granary storage of the late 1800’s palegar ‘Makaliraya’. Hence it is known as Makalidurga. At the foothill there is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. This hill is filled with date plants, lemon grass and small boulders. From the hill top it is very beautiful to see the lakes on either side, curvy roads and the railway track below this hill. The glimpse of the train from here is very exciting.

Makalidurga Trek is a moderately difficult trek. There are some directions written on the rock which provide directions for climbing. The trekking trail here is not as popular as Savandurga but the experience is still wonderful. The Fort situated atop the massive granite hill is the main attraction in Makalidurga. The fort at the summit has an old temple of Shiva with Nandi and in legend Markandeya Rishi performed penance here. The path leading to the fort comprises of rocky and uneven trails which are often traversed by trekkers from various regions.

According to the history of Makalidurga, Vijayanagara Empire where they used to conduct army exercises in this place. The place was later captured by Shahaji (father of Shivaji) after

Vijayanagara Empire and then was ruled by Kempe Gowda after he captured that from Shahaji. The night trekking in Makalidurga is an excellent experience. The trek to the top of the hill takes about 2 hours, which means trekkers could easily start at 10 at night, camp for a while at the top of the hill and then make the way down by 5 in the morning. Professional guide is required for night trek at Makalidurga and also carry a torch, mosquito repellent, sufficient food and water with trekkers.Visitors are best advised to carry their own food and water while coming for a day outing in Makalidurga. The months of September to February are the best time to trek in...