Mandaragiri Hill — Attraction in Karnataka

Mandaragiri Trek: A Hidden Gem of Tranquility and Spiritual Bliss

Mandaragiri, also known as Basadi Betta, is a hidden treasure of a trek located in the Tumkur district of Karnataka, India. If you're a nature lover seeking a peaceful yet rewarding trekking experience, Mandaragiri should be at the top of your list. My recent trek to Mandaragiri left me awe-inspired, and I'm excited to share my review.

The journey to Mandaragiri starts with a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside, giving you a taste of rural Karnataka. As you approach the trek's base, you're greeted by the sight of a massive monolithic rock hill, crowned by a beautiful Jain temple. The sight alone is enough to ignite your sense of adventure and curiosity.

The Mandaragiri trek is relatively short but offers a fantastic combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual tranquility. The trail winds through lush green surroundings, with the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves creating a calming atmosphere. The path is well-marked, making it suitable for beginners and families, as well as seasoned trekkers.

As you ascend the hill, you'll come across the ancient Jain temple dedicated to Parshwanatha Swamy. The temple, with its intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance, offers a unique spiritual experience. The view from the temple's premises is awe-inspiring, providing a panoramic vista of the surrounding landscape.

Continuing the ascent, you'll reach the peak, where you're rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view that includes lush hills, sprawling farmlands, and a sense of serenity that's hard to find in bustling city life. I recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset to witness the sun painting the sky with vibrant hues, creating a mesmerizing scene that's perfect for photography enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the Mandaragiri trek is the unique series of stone steps carved into the rock, leading you to the Jain temple. These steps add a touch of adventure to the trek and make for an interesting experience, especially for those interested in history and architecture.

The trek is not overly challenging, making it suitable for families, solo travelers, and groups. However, it's essential to carry enough water and wear comfortable trekking shoes, especially during the hotter months.

In conclusion, the Mandaragiri trek is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual tranquility. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or someone looking to explore the beauty of Karnataka, Mandaragiri won't disappoint. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, soak in the serene atmosphere, and leave with a sense of rejuvenation. Don't miss the chance to experience this fantastic trek.

Parking available (approx Rs50), small eateries are present...

Another best one-day outing spot. Four main attractions - Chandranatha Tirthankara statue, Pinchi-shaped (Peacock feather) Guru Mandir, Mandaragiri Hill (Basadi Betta), and Mydala Lake.

As soon as you park your car, what you will first notice is the Chandranatha Tirthankara statue. Walk to this place (this one is adjacent to the car parking area) and pray peacefully. From here itself you can see Pinchi-Shaped Guru Mandir and the adjacent Mandaragiri Hill. You will come across a beautiful lawn as you reach Guru Mandir. This is a meditation hall with pictures all over the hall depicting Chandranatha Tirthankara. Meditate for some time.

Next is the Mandaragiri Hill. It's a small hillock. There are about 430+ steps to reach the top of the hill. It is an easy trek (around 45 mins to 1 hour) but it will make you feel tiresome. So take breaks as required. However, elders might find the trek difficult. The view from the top of the hill viewing the Tirthankara statue, Guru Mandir, and adjacent places is beautiful and mesmerizing. Within the hill, there are a series of Jain statues - when we went, few were under construction. Pray there and once you reach the backside of the temple you will notice the beautiful Mydala lake. Just go down (there are no proper steps) the rocks and there you will find a way to reach Mydala lake. Ask locals there how to reach Mydala as there are no clear indications.

There is another way to reach Mydala lake. Near the foot of the hill, on your right, you will see an arch kind of thing. You can take that route to reach Mydala lake. This is like as if you are trying to circumambulate the hill. Be very careful as the path is not good. If you reach Mydala lake from the backside of the top of the hill, you can also take this route to return back to the foot of the hill rather than once again climbing up and reaching down. Spend some time in the calm lake.

All the spots are picturesque. Capture them in your memory!

There are no eateries nearby. Only chat items, cucumber, fruits, and tender coconuts are available. So pack your own food and water. You can carry them along with you while you climb up the steps as there are many places to sit and eat on the backside of the hill. However, there are not too many shady places. Also, make sure not to climb up the hilllock during the afternoon when the sun is...

Plenty of car parking is available and they charge 40rs for a car. The entry to the hill is free.

The temple is not fully constructed on the top of the hill as of now. But the view from the top of the hill is great.

You have to walk stairs for about 15 mins to get to the top. Don't eat too much before climbing otherwise you might find it a bit difficult.

After climbing the hill, if you walk a bit towards the back side of the hill, you will see a great view of lake and nearby hills. You can sit there for sometime and enjoy.

From the back side of the hill itself, you can see a kachcha road going towards the lake. You will have to walk down for about 10 mins and you will arrive at the lake.

The lake water is not too dirty and you can put your feet in the slightly cold water and relax for some time. There is not so much crowd there but it's not too less either to feel unsafe.

Near the lake, we found a small shop who was selling water, juice, fruits etc. Other than that, you won't see any shop or any other establishments there.

To go back to your vehicle parking, no need to go back up to the hill. There is another kachcha way which directly leads to the entry point.The walk is about 15 mins. This path is also used by some vehicles to directly go to the lake without going to the top of the hill, but it may or may not be allowed at the entry point to take vehicles on this path. But if you are allowed, you can take almost any vehicle on this path. Although it is kaccha and a bit narrow, except very low ground clearance cars like honda city, you should be able to drive any car there if you have been driving for quite a while. I even saw one Alto 800 going down on this path.

You can also visit the nearby Jain temple in the form of peacock, situated near the huge Jain maharaj statue.

In Mandargiri, you won't find a decent place to eat. So eat a bit before coming here or do that afterwards. There are small eateries though which sell small items like coconut water, sugarcane juice, plums etc.

Please don't donate any wrappers or leftover items and take all your stuff back with you. Keep the...