TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy-Moderate
TREK DURATION
2 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
3790 ft
AGE LIMIT
6 to 55 years
Indiahikes Southern Campus, Channarayana Durga
Channarayana Durga Trek is located near to Madhugiri in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. A trek that is very close to our hearts at Indiahikes since it reveals many surprises as you go climbing through each of its layers of the fort.
The trek is very much accessible and close to the SH 9 state highway connecting Madhugiri and Dabaspet. The beautiful majestic fort reminds you of medieval times that was used as a strategic fortress in this region of Madhugiri and Tumkur. It is one of the Navadurgas around Bangalore, the entire fort is divided into multiple layers and sections.
One can clearly see the brilliant minds that went into the design and structure of this fort that was built during the 16th century. The fort is daunting to you right from the time you are starting the trek from the base and it gets grandiose as you come closer.
Just the sheer climb through the granite rocks adds to the thrill. Be it with false doors leading you to the wrong side of the fort, a reservoir to store water throughout the year and ancient hallways mark this for an exploration one must truly venture into.
The view from the top of the fort is also a sight to witness. You get to see the famous monolith of Madhugiri from the top and other surrounding hillocks in a grand setting.
The trek is ideal for any age group and especially for families, friends, and colleagues to start trekking. A fit trekker can complete the trek within a couple of hours while those who want to take it leisurely can spend half a day easily exploring the trek.
Indiahikes Southern Campus Videos
Watch these videos to prepare well for your trek
Quick Itinerary
Day 1
Reach the Southern Campus by 11 am in your own vehicle
Start your day with a fresh lunch with the Indiahikes team. Start trekking by 2.30 pm. Trek up to Channarayanadurga fort and return by 7.30 pm. Spend the evening sharing stories over dinner and camp in tents for the night.
Campsite location - https://goo.gl/maps/aUWYEqAr788HdxP57
Parking Location near the temple - https://goo.gl/maps/gLyr1h1VeiGADtQ47
Day 2
Have breakfast and spend time at the campus. Leave by 11 am in your own vehicle.
Start the day at 6 am, with a walk around the campus. Have breakfast, participate in activities like bird watching. Leave the campus by 11 am in your own vehicles
IMPORTANT POINTS
- You will be staying in tents overnight
- Carry 2 bottles of water, 1 lt each.
- Carry a small notebook and pen/pencil
- Carry own cutlery : 1 tiffin box, tumbler (or just plate and cup if not planning to pack food for the trek)
PRO-TIPS
1. This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Plan your gear according to the weather forecast. In case of sunny days, ensure you have a sun cap and wear full-sleeved tshirts. In case of rain, don't forget your rainwear.
2. Start your drive well in advance so that you reach the campus on time. Factor in any traffic jams you may face in and around Bangalore.
Why I Believe Everyone Must Trek: A Note from the Founder
Trekking transforms lives. It has completely changed my life. When I see my colleagues at Indiahikes, all of them have been impacted greatly. The transformations have been profound and irreversible.
I see it in our trekkers too. I have seen them change professions, careers or start a new life. I have seen them get in and out of relationships, and create new projects. These are life-changing experiences.
I have seen children building resilience. I have seen families come together. When I see those above 55, I see them rediscover passion and a sense of purpose. These are not small gains.
New professions, new economies, and businesses have opened up in the mountains. Our staff no longer go to cities to earn their living. Their income has increased. Above all, they are happiest working in this world. Trekking has been truly transformative.
Everyone must trek. It transforms lives far more than you imagine.
Highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek
What are the highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek
Photo Gallery
A beautiful view of the fort as you get to camp right near to the base of this magnificent hillock. Photo from Indiahikes Archive
Channarayana Durga Fort at dusk, with a panoramic view in the background. Photo by Bharath Ramesh
Taking a moment to reflect and enjoy the sunset while descending down from the fort. Photo by Nithyam Nachappa
Know Your Trek
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a surficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Indiahikes Southern Campus trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Don’t miss the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section at the end. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 26-28 °C during the day.
The nights are pleasant at around 18 – 22 °C.
You would only need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain.
Plan Your Travel
The Indiahikes Southern Campus is easily accessible from Bengaluru. Here is the location on Google Maps.
The drive to it is quite scenic with the many different hills popping up at the horizon as you zoom on the highway.
Once off the Expressway, on NH-648, you get close to the countryside of Karnataka punctuated with houses and shops tightly clustered around the road.
Notice how you leave the civilization behind as the Channarayana Durga village draws near.
The only way to reach the Southern Campus is via road, preferably through a private vehicle. Public transport is sketchy in this region. It’s best not to bank on it.
Pro-Tip: For budget travellers, take a local train/public bus to Tumakuru and take a local bus to Tumbadi from the Tumakuru bus depot. And from Tumbadi, take a shared auto-rickshaw to reach Channarayana Durga village (Please confirm bus timings and frequency before taking this option). Here are a few contact numbers of Auto rickshaw folks who might be able to help – Ravi: 9480500309, Laxminarayan: 9731059781
Given that this is just a one-night weekend outdoor program, with very comfortable weather, we advise you to travel light.
Here’s a list of things you must bring along with you:
- A 20L backpack – A small comfortable backpack will suffice.
- 2 t-shirts – Expect to get sweaty, you will need a change of clothes after your trek
- An extra pair of trekking pants – Avoid shorts at all costs, there are thorns along all the trails.
- Shoes with good grip – Even sports shoes will work, as long as they have a good grip
- One jacket
- Rainwear
- Headlamp
- Sun cap
- Sunglasses
- An extra pair of socks
- A light towel
- Two 1 litre bottles (reusable)
- Your lunch box, mug, and spoon
- A small toilet kit
- Insect repellant
- 2 light single sheets to lie on and cover yourself with in the tent.
PRO TIPS
- As the trail is exposed, with very little tree cover, make sure you cover yourself well while trekking. Carry a full-sleeve t-shirt/shirt and full trekking pants for this trek.
- Keep a pair of sandals to walk around the campsite.
- Disposable cutlery, plates, glasses etc
- Packaged foods and snacks
- Wet wipes
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