Shivagange — Attraction in Shivagange

Date and Time of Experience: 18th May 2019, 10 AM till 6 PM

Parking: Available, Chargeable INR 30, Road Side

APPEAL: Requesting people not to throw rubbish here and there as there are dustbins available every spot.

It was a peak summer, an unfavorable time, still we thought to give a try and this turned out to be a much cherished and memorable family trek in our list.

Shiva Gange as name suggests, is a complete spiritual and sacred place. The entrance to the trek is through a mandap that leads to main Lord Shiva temple. Many people remove their footwear outside this temple and trek barefoot untill the hilltop, however you can take your footwear and enter the madap if you wish to.

Once darshan is over in main Shiva temple you can proceed for trekking from an entrance besides temple. There are small shops selling water bottles, fruits, bhels, lime juices alternately diat someseberal stops till the top where you can rejuvenate. This best way to take your time relax, experience and enjoy the beauty of nature at every stop.

At half distance you will find a statue of Lord Shiva and Parvati, a small shop. Onward the way is quite stiff and needs caution, moreover monkeys will make it even challenging for a person having a bag or water bottle. It is highly recommended not to carry any bag or purses, as you can get water or snacks till peak.

Follow arrows as there can be multiple ways to the peak and follow railing path, as this happened with us and we took a path where we couldn't see anyone until we reached half way. We were scared for a moment, later we saw police man taking same rout, he relaxed us and told to always take a main rout as it is safest one.

After half distance we were exhausted and thought to give up. But we sat near Shiva statue, and found few families with kids proceeding ahead. We made our mind, left the place and found the real beauty of this magnificent place starts from there. The stiff stairs and a beautiful view makes it a thrilling experience.

When you almost at the peak there is a shop where you can keep bags etc. in case you carried with you, because to reach at peak you have to go through a group of monkeys who are aggressive and may attack. No need to be scared, in worst case you may have to give up the material monkey asking for :P.

On the peak you can visit three points at small distances. Nandi statue (little crowded as everyone wants selfie, so be very cautious) Lord Shiva temple (Very quite and cool place, also there is a Pandit present there who gives Tirtha) A giant tilted rock with railing form where you can see a magnificent view of the whole of a surrounding land with lake, forest. There is a bell hung below at the tip of this humongous rock, which can be seen almost before reaching top. This steals every one's heart and appreciate the idea and they imagine how some one must have done this. The picture tells whole story than word.

We reached top at around 2.00 PM, stayed there for an hour. It was suddenly started raining with thunderstorm and lightening, that thrilled us. The cold breeze and unprecedented view of the surrounding land partially covered with sunlight, clouds and a small smokey area covered with clouds that were precipitating into rain was something nature's amazing gift that we witnessed.

At 3.00 PM we started descending and reached in parking by 6.00 PM as we took some breaks in between. There was a brightest, bold and a colorful Gulmohara tree on return path, that i ever saw. You can see the picture. Also saw a rarest Nagpushpa tree that has a flower which has a shape of cobra on the shivalinga. Few of such experiences made our journey not only a memorable experience but also made us think that there is so many things to discover about the nature, it's mystery and to connect to our roots which is a...

“Go where you feel most alive.”

Shivagange is a mountain peak with a height around 2640.3 feet and Hindu pilgrimage center located near Dobbaspet, in Bengaluru Rural district India. It is situated 20 km from the town of Tumakuru and 55 km from Bengaluru. The sacred mountain is shaped as a shivalinga and a spring flows near locally called "Ganga", there by giving the place its name. It is also known as Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of the South) and has various temples such as Gangadhareshwara temple, Olakal Teertha, Sri Honnammadevi Temple, Nandi Statue, Patalagang Sharadambe temple and several theerthas such as Agasthya theertha, Kanva theertha, Kapila theertha, Pathala Gange. Sri Honnammadevi Temple is inside the cave. Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is also inside the cave. Gavi means Cave, Gangadhareshwara means Parameshwara having Gange on the top. Every January, on the day of Sankranthi festival, the marriage function of Sri Gangadhareshwara and Sri Honnammadevi (Parvathi) is conducted. At that time it is claimed Ganga holy water comes from the rock at the top of hill and that holy water is used to solemnise the dhare ritual of the marriage function. . This location was originally under the control of Hoysala kings and the queen Shanthala, wife of Vishnuvardhana, who committed suicide as she did not give birth to a son. The hill was fortified during the 16th century by Shivappa Nayaka. These fortifications currently lie in ruins. The founder of Bengaluru, Magadi Kempegowda, also made improvements to the fortifications and kept a portion of his treasure within it. A month-long cattle fair is held during Sankranthi month (around January) every year, which is a market place for bullocks.

Trekking: The area is a popular site for rock climbing in the Karnataka state. The entire trail to the peak is well marked and the presence of man-made steps (often carved into the rocky landscape, but sometimes made from rocks) makes the trail suitable for beginners. There are frequent rest opportunities with stalls serving food and drinks. The trekking path to reach summit from foothills is of 2.3 km in a pre-defined path. The trail becomes steep and narrow near the summit of the mountain - safety rails are provided in such areas. Monkeys are the main fauna inhabiting the hill.

Pro-Tip: If you are carrying snacks or food, finish it off at the base itself once you are done with the trek. The monkeys can get really aggressive about food. You have a few stalls and small eateries as well.

Visitors: Around 250 to 300 people visit daily.

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A Perfect Fusion of Adventure and Spirituality – Shivgange Hills

Shivgange Hills is an awe-inspiring destination that seamlessly blends spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Located near Bangalore, this hill is a true gem for both trekking enthusiasts and pilgrims alike. From the moment you start your ascent, you're greeted by panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, dense greenery, and rugged terrain that make the experience exhilarating.

The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the Shivgange temple at the peak, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The hill itself resembles the shape of a 'Shivalinga,' adding a deeper spiritual dimension to the adventure. As you climb, you’ll come across several smaller temples and sacred spots, each steeped in mythology and history, enhancing the sense of spiritual connection. The most famous is the sacred spring of water, known as 'Ganga,' which is believed to have divine properties. This fusion of nature and faith truly makes Shivgange Hills a unique pilgrimage spot.

For trekkers, the hike is both challenging and rewarding. The rocky terrain, steep inclines, and winding paths test your endurance, but the feeling of accomplishment when you reach the summit is unparalleled. Along the way, there are many spots to rest and take in the mesmerizing views of the valleys and hills that surround Shivgange. The final stretch of the trek is the most thrilling, with iron railings in place to help climbers navigate the steep rocks leading to the top.

The best part of visiting Shivgange Hills is that it offers something for everyone. For those seeking a spiritual experience, the temples and the divine energy of the place are rejuvenating. For adventure lovers, the trek provides the perfect dose of adrenaline. And for nature enthusiasts, the views and the peaceful environment make for an unforgettable day.

Whether you're visiting for a spiritual retreat or an outdoor adventure, Shivgange Hills will leave you in awe of its beauty, history, and serenity. A must-visit for anyone...