A Complete Guide to the Bidirukatte Trek

Savandurga is a well-known name among trekking circles in Bangalore, famous for its challenging climb to a historic fort atop a steep monolithic hill.

But very few have heard of the Bidirukatte Trek. And even among those who have, it's mostly known for the Bidirukatte Lake. What often goes unnoticed is the short, easy hike up the hill behind the lake. And the stunning rewards it holds.

The trek begins with a right turn from Bidirukatte Lake, leading straight into a steep ascent over a rock slab. It’s a short burst of effort, but the moment you reach the serene Kempammane Sone waterbody, the fatigue fades away. The area is brimming with life — thorny Euphorbia, chirping birds, and buzzing bumblebees all around. The Savanadurga Hill stands tall behind you, forming an incredible backdrop.

In fact, this short climb to Kempammane Sone is the only real challenge on the entire route.

From there, it’s a pleasant walk through ancient fort ruins and short forest patches leading up to the hilltop. The trail is mostly level, with just a few gentle ups and downs. Below you the city of Ramanagara stretches till the horizon. The rugged skyline, with Huthribetta standing tall, adds a dramatic touch to the view.

We all know about the fort at Savandurga, but the ruins at Bidirukatte are no less intriguing. You see long stretches of fort walls, the main entrance, and so much more. And beyond the hilltop lie the ruins of an ancient 12th-century Hoysala temple. It almost feels as if you’re walking through a forgotten patch of time.

And we haven’t even spoken about the waterbodies. You see not one or two, but seven waterbodies along the trail — some big, others small — many of them with beautiful water lilies blooming amidst them.

But what stands out for us is how well-suited this trek is for families who want to trek with children. The large open area that greets you after the short climb past Kempammane Sone is perfect for kids to explore. No matter how far they run around, they’re always in sight. With the scattered ruins, scrub forests, and birdlife around, there’s no shortage of things to keep them engaged.

Unlike Savandurga, there are no steep ascents or tricky sections on this trail. And the sheer variety of experiences packed into this short, easy hike is something you rarely find elsewhere. Just over an hour’s drive from Bangalore, this trek stands out as one of the best getaways for families and children.

Trek Snapshots:

• Duration: One day
• Distance from Bengaluru: 65 km
• Highest Altitude: 3,200 ft
• Total Trek Distance: 5 km (both ways)
• Base: Bidirukatte Trek Start Point, near Savandurga Trek
• Permits: Aranya Vihaara Website (under Ramanagara District Treks)
  Go through this article for the steps involved in applying for permits
  

Can beginners attempt the Bidirukatte Trek?  The Bidirukatte Trek is an ideal beginner-friendly trail, perfect for those who are new to trekking. It offers a surprising amount of variety — from walking through fort ruins to exploring a 12th-century temple, and passing by several scenic waterbodies filled with blooming water lilies.

It’s a short, rewarding trek that can easily be completed in under 4 hours. If you’re looking to introduce children to trekking and the outdoors, the Bidirukatte Trek is one of the best places you can go to.

➤What to Watch out for

1) Fort Ruins at the Hilltop

At the summit of the Bidirukatte trek, you enter a 16th-century fort built by the Vijayanagara kings. The climb ends here, and the trail flattens out inside the fort. Soon after, you’ll see a long stone wall along the hill’s edge. It has just one entrance on the west, called Kailasa Dwara. To the south, a tall watchtower marks the highest point. From here, you get wide views of the entire landscape– the sprawling Ramanagara town, the Nayakanapalya Lake and rugged hills at the horizon.

If you look northwest, you’ll spot a 12th-century Nandi temple built by the Hoysala kings. The deity is now in a nearby village, but the structure still stands. The intricate sculptures are still intact in the shikhara of this temple. Behind the temple, a short bushy trail leads to another peak. From here, you get a close-up view of Savanadurga—a great way to end your trek.

Note: The climb to this second hill is marked on the attached GPX trail but it is not a usual route. If you want to climb the second hill, discuss that with the Forest Guide and check feasibility. The hill is usually off-limits due to dense shrubbery and animal movement.

2) Waterbodies on the Trail

Along the Bidirukatte trail, you’ll come across several water bodies—some large, some small. These are perennial ponds, named by locals to identify different sections of the forest trail.

Right at the beginning, you’ll see Bidiru Katte Lake—the largest water body on the trek. Benches and a shaded spot around the lake make it a great place to rest after your trek. After the first steep climb is Kempammane Sone. In the summer, you see flowering Euphorbia near it with hovering dragonflies and bumblebees. Further up is Basavannana Sone, filled with beautiful blooming waterlilies. It is small but deceptively deep. Locals say people have even drowned here. Just before the fort gate, Bagilu Sone appears next to Kailasa Dwara. At the summit is a beautiful pond filled with water lilies, best seen in spring and summer.

Two more ponds lie ahead—Kari Sone, seen from the fort ruins, with dark water that gives it its name, and Daari Sone, found along the path that leads to the temple.

Note: Although the waterbodies are beautiful, none of these ponds are safe for drinking. The water is stagnant and unclean. Do not try swimming in them either. They are deceptively deep.

3) Flora and Fauna

The trail begins in a forest with tall trees, shrubs, and thick bamboo clumps. But as you start climbing, the landscape changes. The forest gives way to a dry, rocky hill with no shade. Instead, you’ll find thorny Euphorbia plants growing right out of the rocks—something rare on other Karnataka treks. When we did this trek, we found the small forest section, just after Bidirukatte Lake, brimming with butterflies.

This scrubland is home to animals like sloth bears and leopards, though they’re rarely seen. Elephants also pass through once a year.

But what stands out most is the birdlife. Our team spotted nearly 20 species, including Yellow-throated Bulbuls, Malkohas, Brahminy Kites, Cormorants, Paddyfield Pipits, White-browed Wagtails, Purple Sunbirds, Oriental Honey Buzzards, Grey Junglefowl, and even an unidentified vulture. Near the ponds, you’ll also spot dragonflies and bumblebees. You hear them buzzing loudly even from a distance. For a short day trek, the variety of birdlife you get to see is incredible.

➤ Suggested Itinerary

Bidirukatte is a short trek that can be done at any time of the day, but we recommend starting early in the morning for the best experience.

• It is located approximately 50 km from Bangalore. We suggest starting your journey early, around 4:30 AM, to make the most of the trek.
• Ensure you obtain the necessary permits at least two days before your planned trek date. On-spot booking or trekking without a permit is strictly not allowed for the Bidirukatte trek.
  If you’re unsure about the permit process, refer to this linked article.
• Start your trek exactly at 6:00 AM. The Forest Office is situated right next to the entrance gate.
• Get your documents verified by the forest personnel at the start point.
• A local guide—mandatory for this trek—will accompany you throughout. Guides are available only at 6:00 AM, so starting earlier is not an option. We recommend being fully ready to begin the trek by 6:00 AM sharp, especially during summer, to avoid the heat later in the day.
• Aim to reach the top of the hill latest by 7.30 AM
• The summit features a vast open space with the ruins of a fort, a temple, and natural water bodies, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views.
• From the summit, head towards the ruins of an ancient temple. Spend some time exploring the temple complex. The sculptures on the shikhara are beautiful and still well-preserved.
• The descent to the base takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Once you’re back at the base, begin your return journey to Bangalore. You should reach the city by early afternoon, unless you choose to visit nearby attractions along the way.

➤ Detailed Trail Information

The Bidirukatte Trek unfolds beneath the imposing presence of Savanadurga Hill. Though short, it is dotted with several waterbodies and intriguing archaeological ruins.

Based on these highlights, the trek can be divided into the 5 following sections:

1. Trek Start Point to Kempammane Sone: 890 m | 30 mins
2. Kempammane Sone to First Hilltop via Fort Ruins: 800 m | 30 mins
3. First Hilltop to Second Hilltop: 1.3 km | 45 mins (Optional)
4. Second Hilltop to Temple Ruins: 650 m | 20 mins
5. Back to Bidirukatte Lake at Base: 1.2 km | 40 mins

Section I: Trek Start Point to Kempammane Sone

Trek Distance: 890 m
Trek Duration: 30 mins

• The trek starts along a straight wide trail through Kempegowda Tree Park
• Small trails branch right and left at various points. Don’t take any diversion and keep walking straight
• Walking past a Children’s Park, you will reach the edge of Bidirukatte Lake at the 500 m mark
• Straight ahead there are benches to sit on and relax. You can use them on your return
• For now, take the narrow foot trail that branches rightwards from the lake
• You will enter a small forest section with huge bamboo clumps
• But it ends quickly and you arrive on a huge black slab. Views of Savandurga Hills open up on your right
• At the 700 m mark, a steep climb starts. The entire patch is one big black boulder. It can be slippery in the rainy season
• In the next 100-150 m, you will arrive at a small flat area at the end of this climb. There is a beautiful waterbody here. This is Kempammane Sone. The huge, imposing structure of Savanadurga stands tall behind you. From hereon, Savandurga stays with you throughout.
• Sit by the waterbody. Observe the thorny Euphorbia growing around or dragonflies frisking in the water. Listen to the birds and buzzing bumble-bees before moving on to the next leg of your trek. 

Section II: Kempammane Sone to First Hilltop via Fort Ruins

Trek Distance: 800 m
Trek Duration: 30 mins

• From Kempammane Sone, the climb up the black rock slab continues for another 120 m
• As you reach the end of the climb, a wide open clearing greets you. Straight ahead, the fort ruins and the hilltop you’re headed to come into view. To your right, a scrub-forested hill rises gently, dotted with the ruins of an old temple. In the distance, the Ramanagara cityscape stretches across the horizon, with the striking outline of Huthribetta rising beyond it.
• In next 5 mins, you walk through the ruins of the fort and emerge on the other side
• The Basavanna Sone waterbody, with beautiful water lilies waits for you. This is an area where you can spot a lot of waterbirds like cormorants and lapwings.
• 200 m from Basavanna Sone, you arrive at the edge of a deep valley. The rocky surface drops steeply.
• Take a left and in the next 30 m, you’ll find a narrow trail going into the forest. This is your way to the first hilltop.
• The narrow forest trail ends and after a small climb beyond it, you arrive at the hilltop
• Take in the views and the winds. There is a small waterbody here as well. With blooming lilies and the giant structure of Savandurga reflected in its waters, it looks beautiful
• From the hill top you get great views of how the entire place is spread out. You also see a small waterbody amidst the rocky landscape stretching before you. Beyond that, is the bigger Nayakanapalya lake down below.

Section III: First Hilltop to Second Hill Top

Trek Distance: 1.3 km
Trek Duration: 45 mins

• From the first hilltop, retrace your route back to Basavanna Sone
• From Basavanna Sone, take a left turn towards the second hill and temple ruins
• You see the walls of the fort and the main entrance on your left as your walk
• At the 400 m mark, you’ll spot the Bagilu Sone waterbody. It marks the main entrance to the fort.
• Here, it will seem that the base area of the second hill is separated from your trail by a deep valley that is difficult to cross. But keep walking straight for 200 m and then take a left. You’ll find an easy access to the base
• This flat spread out area at the base of the second hill is locally called the Durgadabura
• From here, you can access the temple ruins or climb the second hill top

Note: The climb to this second hill is not part of the usual itinerary. Please seek permission from the Forest Guide who is accompanying you. Go by what he says and do not try to push him for this diversion. It is kept off-limits most of the time, as the route up the hill is thorny and forested.

• If your guide agrees, head towards the hill, else go directly to the temple area
• From the base, the climb to the hill is 400 m of steep ascent. There is no clear trail and the dry scrub forests can be thorny.
• You’ll come across a beautiful tree with white bark and quadrifoliate leaves growing on a rock. This is the Bildale Mara (Givotia rottleriformis). The summit lies just beyond this tree.
• From this second hill top, you get great 360 degree views of Nayakana Palya Lake on one side and temple ruins on the other. You also get a great aerial view of the Savanadurga State Forest and the villages beyond it.

Section IV: Second Hilltop to Temple Ruins

Trek Distance: 650 m
Trek Duration: 20 mins

• After spending time at the second hilltop, make your way back to the Durgadabura area
• From the base of the hill, take a left. You’ll soon find a red soil trail going down into the forest
• In 10–15 minutes, you’ll exit this small forest patch and reach a clearing where the temple is located.
• It is a 12th-century Nandi temple built by the Hoysala kings. The deity is now in a nearby village, but the structure still stands. The intricate sculptures are still intact in the shikhara of this temple.
• Spend some time exploring the ruins or just resting in its shade

Section V: Back to Bidirukatte Lake from Temple Ruins

Trek Distance: 1.2 km
Trek Duration: 40 mins

• Retrace your way back to the Durgadabura area again from the temple ruins
• Now take a left for your return leg back to the trek base
• At the 500 m mark from this left turn, you’ll arrive at a point where the steep, rock wall of Savanadurga stands right in front of you. This is a great echo point. You can try shouting out a phrase and hear it echo among the hills. You’ll usually hear 3 clear echoes before the voice fades out
• Just ahead of this echo point, walk past the Dwari Sone waterbody
• In the next 100 m, you are back at Kempammane Sone. Now just retrace your route back to Bidirukatte Lake.
• There is a beautiful boulder, shaded by tall trees near the lake where you can stop and rest. Else you can use the cemented benches built by the Forest Department.
• This is where your trek ends. Spend some time by the Bidirukatte Lake before taking the last 500 m walk back to the main gate. 

➤ Best Time to do the Bidirukatte Trek

Bidirukatte Trek is accessible throughout the year. However, the ideal time to experience this trail is between September and February.

During the peak monsoon season, the surrounding forests transform into a lush green paradise. The views are breathtaking. But rock surfaces become slippery. Overflowing water bodies along the trail can also pose challenges and safety risks.

By September, the rains begin to recede, yet the forests remain vibrant and green. This period offers one of the most beautiful trekking experiences with fresh foliage and mild weather.

Winter brings pleasant weather, clear blue skies, and excellent visibility. It's also the best season for birdwatching, as many species are active during these cooler months.

Since the trail includes open rocky terrain, summer can be harsh with high temperatures. If you plan to trek in summer, make sure to start early, preferably around sunrise. This allows you to complete the trek before the midday heat becomes intense.

➤ How to reach the Bidirukatte Trek

The Bidirukatte trek, situated about 60 kilometers from Bengaluru, starts at a clearly marked entrance within the Savandurga State Forest. It falls in the Magadi Taluk of Ramanagara district. 

To reach the starting point of the trek, you need to reach the Savandurga Cross. The trek starting point is located about 3 kilometers ahead of this Cross. The final stretch can be covered on foot, by hitchhiking, or by hiring an auto-rickshaw.

How to Reach Bidirukatte Trek from Bangalore by Car

The trek starts at a clearly marked entrance within the Savandurga State Forest. It is easily accessible by road. There is parking space at the starting point of the trek. However, the parking is unmonitored. Park at your own risk.

• If you are starting from the Northern side of Bangalore, we suggest taking the Magadi Road upto Magadi Town. From Magadi Town, you need to turn left towards the Savanadurga Cross. 
  You can use this Google Map Link for easy navigation.
• If you are starting from the Southern parts of Bangalore, we suggest taking the Mysore Road. Drive past Kengeri and take a right turn towards Dodda Alada Mara after about 25 km. Follow the signs toward Manchanabele Dam, then proceed further toward the trek starting point.
  You can use this Google Map Link for easy navigation.

How to Reach Bidirukatte Trek from Bangalore by Public Transport

To get to the trek by public transport, first reach Savanadurga Cross. From there, it’s just 3 km to the trek base. You can take an auto or even walk to the starting point.

Reaching Savanadurga Cross by Bus:

• Take a Bus to Ramanagara from Kengeri Satellite Bus Stand in Bangalore.
• Local buses run frequently between Ramanagara and Magadi. All of them pass Savanadurga Cross on the way. Hop onto one of those buses and get down at Savanadurga Cross.
• There are a few BMTC buses from Kalasipalya to Magadi. They can drop you directly at Savanadurga Cross. But their frequency is low and they make many stops before reaching Magadi. Take this option only if you're up for a long, bumpy ride.

Reaching Savanadurga Cross by Train:

• Take a train from Bangalore City Junction (KSR Bengaluru)  to Ramanagara Railway Station. Trains to Ramanagara are frequent and the journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
• From Ramanagara, take a local bus or shared transport to Savanadurga Cross. 

From Savanadurga Cross- It’s 3 km to the trek starting point. You can choose to walk or take an auto. Shared autos charge INR 20 per person but will start only after all seats are filled. Alternatively, you can book a full auto for yourself for INR 100. This can be shared between 4-5 team members.

➤ Frequently Asked Questions about the Bidirukatte Trek

1. Is there any permission required to do the Bidirukatte Trek?

Yes. You need to obtain permits from Aranya Vihaara to do this trek. Go through this article for a detailed guide on how to book permits through Aranya Vihaara.

2. How difficult is the Bidirukatte Trek?

The Bidirukatte Trek is an ideal beginner-friendly trail, perfect for those who are new to trekking. It offers a surprising amount of variety — from walking through fort ruins to exploring a 12th-century temple, and passing by several scenic waterbodies filled with blooming water lilies. It’s a short, rewarding trek that can easily be completed in under 4 hours. If you’re looking to introduce children to trekking and the outdoors, the Bidirukatte Trek is one of the best places you can go to.

3. Are there any food stalls and water sources on the Bidirukatte Trek ?

There are no food stalls on this Trek. However, there is a drinking water station right at the trek start point. But there are no further water sources along the way as well. So, we strongly recommend you to fill enough water (2 litres) at the starting point.

5. What is the distance of the Bidirukatte Trek from Bangalore?

Bidirukatte Trek, about 65 km from Bangalore main city, is accessible by both private and public transportation means.

6. Can I do the Bidirukatte Trek alone?

No. Forest Department Guides are a must for the trek. They will join your team at the trek starting point.

What to Pack for the Bidirukatte Trek

➤ Places to Visit After Completing the Bidirukatte Trek

1. Lokaruchi Restaurant: The Kamat Lokaruchi Restaurant is an age-old and extremely popular eatery in Ramanagara. The restaurant is known for its traditional ambiance and authentic Karnataka cuisine. You can plan a breakfast or even a brunch at Lokaruchi after your trek. It is a 30 km drive from the trek start point but we feel it’s absolutely worth the time.
   
2. Manchanabele Dam: Manchanabele Dam is a picturesque reservoir built across the Arkavathi River which is 14 km from Bidirukatte trek. Surrounded by lush green hills and rocky outcrops, it offers a serene environment for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat from city life. The area is popular among nature lovers and photographers for its tranquil beauty. While the dam is a favored spot for day outings, it's important to note that swimming is prohibited due to safety concerns arising from sudden fault-lines and deep slush in the reservoir bed.
   
3. Dodda Alada Mara (Big banyan tree): Dodda Alada Mara is around 25 km from Bidirukatte trek which is also known as the Big Banyan Tree, is a 400-year-old natural marvel spread across more than 3 acres. This giant tree with its sprawling aerial roots forms a canopy.It holds great cultural and historical significance among locals and is considered a sacred and tranquil place. It's a perfect stop for nature lovers and a peaceful spot to relax after a trek.
   
4. Thippagondanahalli Reservoir: Thippagondanahalli Reservoir, also known as TG Halli or Chamarajasagara, is situated at the confluence of the Arkavathi and Kumudavathi rivers, about 36 km from Bidirukatte trek. Constructed in 1933 under the supervision of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, it was once a major source of drinking water for Bengaluru.Though its role as a water supply source has diminished over time, the reservoir remains a tranquil spot for visitors interested in photography and nature. The area offers a peaceful environment, making it suitable for quiet visits and reflection.
   
5. Nelligudde Lake View Point: This lake is about 23 km from the Bidirukatte trek start point. A peaceful and serene place with a really good view of sunsets. It's also a place for those interested in photography. It is about 14 km from Dodda Alada Mara and 12 km from Manchanabele Dam.
   
6. Big Banyan Vineyard: A spacious and well maintained vineyard with a factory and wine tasting experiences, just 20 km from your trek.

➤ Other Treks in the Region

1. Savandurga Trek: Savandurga trek starting point is around 500 m from Bidirukatte trek.This is one of Asia’s largest single rock formations (monolith hills), made up of two peaks – Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill). Most trekkers climb Karigudda as Biligudda is considered more difficult and less accessible. The trail involves granite rock paths with patches of shrub forest and panoramic views of the surrounding forested areas and the Arkavati River. At the summit, there are remnants of a fort built by Kempegowda, adding historical interest to the trek.
   Savandurga has two temples at the base. Savandi Veerabhadra Swamy temple and Sree Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy temple. They attract devotees from many parts of Karnataka.
   Note: Obtain permits from the Aaranya Vihara Website for this trek.
   
2. Ramadevarabetta (Ramanagara): Just about 25 km from Bidirukatte, the Ramdevarabetta in Ramanagara is one of the most iconic trekking spots near Savandurga. Famous as the filming location of Sholay, the climb leads you past granite boulders, a temple. It overlooks a small sanctuary area for vultures and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Ramanagara landscape.
   
3. Huliyurdurga: About 30 km from Bidirukatte, Huliyurdurga is one of the lesser-known Navadurgas. The hill has remnants of an old fort built by Kempegowda and a Shiva temple at the top. The rocky climb is adventurous and rewards you with panoramic views of surrounding villages and forests.
   Read through this guide for a complete understanding of the Huliyurdurga Trek.
   
4. Uttari Betta / Huthribetta: Just about 30 km from Bidirukatte, Uttari Betta (also known as Huthribetta or Huthridurga) is a lesser-known yet rewarding trek near Magadi. This hill is dotted with fort walls, stone steps, and an old temple dedicated to Shiva. The trail winds through lush greenery and rocky outcrops, gradually opening up to sweeping views of the surrounding hills and countryside.

➤ Trek Contribution

Trek documented by Upayan Chatterjee and Indiahikes Trekking Club Members (Abhijith, Ashwin, Kumkum, Naveena, Naveen, Nishchith, Preeti, Sai, Shravya, Shivam, Subramanyam, Sumedha, Sushanth, Ullas, Vaishnavi and Vikas)

Trek written by Upayan Chatterjee and Indiahikes Trekking Club Members (Kumkum, Naveen, Naveena, Sai, Shivam and Sumedha)

Banner Image by Sushanth Kumar