Climb to an ancient fort with dominating views

TREK DIFFICULTY

TREK DURATION

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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 state highway 9 connecting Madhugiri and Dabbaspet. 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.

Watch these videos to get a glimpse of the trek

Watch these videos to prepare well for your trek

Channarayana Durga - Complete Trek Information 

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on any trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial 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.

- You will be staying in tents overnight 

- Carry own cutlery : 1 tiffin box, tumbler (or just plate and cup if not planning to pack food for the trek)

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. 

What are the highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek

Start your trek early in the morning. This way you would avoid the sun hitting on your head directly. The granite boulders also will be cooler and easier to climb.  

The trek can be divided into two sections

Base of the Hillock to First Level of Fort

From the First Level to the Top of the Fort

Section I: Base of the Hillock to First Level of Fort 

Trek Distance: 1 km
Trek Duration: 30-40 minutes

The trek starts from the main lane of the Channarayana Durga village area. This is the space where you will see locals catching up and chatting near the petty shop.


The trail starts just after the water tank where the villagers collect the water from. This would be the last space where you can fill your water bottles. The alternative option is to request the houses surrounding for some water. 



Take the lane just after the water tank at the right-hand side and head towards the hillock. There is no trail as such where the trek starts. It starts with a climb from here.


You will see arrow marks painted on the granite rocks which will guide you on the route. 

A gradual ascent takes you through a section of granite monolith rock. Stick a bit towards the right where you will get a better grip against the smaller boulders and bushes growing near these sections. 


The climb takes a bit towards the left and then you start climbing up again. Notice a small stone ruin towards the leftmost flank when you are climbing up. You will find a patch where there are grasses and cactus growing. Cross this section and the climb gets slightly steeper until you reach a flatter surface.

| Tip: Put your weight forward and towards the mountain when climbing up. If you are finding it difficult to climb the granite rock surface, remove your shoes and climb with your bare feet. This will be easier. 

You have the option of climbing up directly towards the first level or taking a slight deviation towards the left-hand side where the rock formation reminds you of a fissure or how this incredible geology takes place.

We would suggest taking this later route and having some fun trying to squeeze your way in lying on the rock surface. 


Notice the dark lines on the rocks. During the monsoon and post-monsoon season, you will see water trickling down these portions.

Few more minutes of this climb and you reach the huge entrance for the first level of the fort.


Look out on the carvings on a few of the rocks as you enter the fort. There are various shapes carved - snake, tortoise and many other animal figures. 


Walk through the majestic entrance and through the massive granite pillars supporting the entrance. You can take a sip of water and take a small break near the entrance where you get some good shade. 

Section 2: First Level to the Top of the Fort

Trek Distance: 1.2 km
Trek Duration: 50 mins to 1 hour

The first level of the fort has very interesting and exciting components to explore.


To begin with, go to the North-eastern side to see the pond/reservoir which stores water throughout the year. You can take a walk alongside this pond and spot many bastions of the fort.

Walking along the sides of the pond will easily take you about 10-15 minutes.


If you want to explore, take the North-western side. There is a small door that leads you towards a false route or perhaps another section of the fort during the earlier times.

You can wonder if this was actually a trap for soldiers. From the top, spotting the troops and attacking would have been much easier if you landed up over here.


Retrace back to the main trail and you will enter a section that is slightly flatter.

The trail opens up and the expanse is slightly broader now. This particular section resembles a feeling of trekking through the grassland. If you are walking in the autumn season or during the evening, watch out when sunlight hits on these golden-colored grass. 

Go around the perimeters of the fort and explore the ruins.


You are on the second level of the fort and trek through other features. You will come across stables, gallery sections when the armies were using the fort.

From here, the top of the fort is around 15 minutes. 

Climb through the last stretch and enter through the last of the doorway into a rectangular flat top surrounded by the fort structure on all sides. The view is hidden from your sight when you enter.


You need to climb onto the walls of the fort to take in the surrounding views and get the vantage point from the top. 

Walk around the entire top section of the fort. You will see the monolith mountain of Madhugiri towards your North, Siddarabetta, and other hillocks surrounding the Madhugiri city of Tumkur district.


The fort has many openings where canons used to be placed for protection.

Notice stone steps that can be climbed up to the top. It is beautifully camouflaged amongst the trees growing on the cracks of these rocks. Do not break any part of the ancient tree which has been growing for centuries. 


Be careful when placing your foot here on the steps and on the top while having a glance down. 

The descent to the base takes you through the same route. Exercise caution when you are descending down. It is very easy to lose your grip or slip when climbing down the granite boulder. 

If there are signs of weather going bad or clouds forming, then it’s better to descend down when the rock surface is dry and not slipping.


It will take you about 45 minutes to an hour to reach back to the base village. Make sure you have a Turn Around Time (TAT) at 5 pmif you start the trek post afternoon. 

➤ How to Reach Channarayana Durga Trek

Channarayana Durga trek starts from a small village called Channarayana Durga in the Tumkur district. 

Reaching Channarayana Durga by your own vehicle

If you are traveling in your own vehicle, then you need to head on the Bangalore-Tumkur highway, NH48. 

As you are nearing Dobbaspet, do not take the flyover. Enter the service road and the road going towards Madhugiri. A junction comes at Dobbaspet where one road goes to Doddaballapur and the other to Madhugiri. 

As soon as you cross the junction, you hit the state highway of SH3 towards Madhugiri. 

On the state highway, cross the major town of Koratagere. From here, you need to take the left turn on the road going towards Siddarabetta. It is about 5 km from the Koratagere town where this left turn comes. Watch out for the arch where the left turn needs to be taken. 

| Tip: You will see a board mentioning Siddarabetta and the turn to be taken for this. Follow this since there is nothing mentioned about Channarayana Durga on the main road. 

The other approach that you can take is to enter the Madhugiri region from Doddaballapur. You can drive either via Madhugiri or come to Dobbaspet. 

Use the Google map or GPX file to reach the base of the trek. 

Reaching Channarayana Durga by Public Transport System

If you are planning to take public transport, then the best way is to take a bus from Majestic and then head to Tumkur. 

From Tumkur, there are two buses that would leave and reach the base of Channarayana Durga. The first bus leaves at around 9.30 am from Tumkur. It would take the route of Siddarabetta, Tovinakere. 

There is also another bus leaving at 11.30 am from Koratagere to Channarayana Durga. The same bus goes back to Koratagere around 12.45 pm from the base village.

The last public bus would leave from Channarayarana Durga at around 1.30 pm to Tumkur. After this, there are no public buses from the base of the village. 

However, you can call for autos from the petty shops that sell limited essentials. 

Here are a few contact numbers of Auto folks who might be able to help – Ravi: 9480500309, Laxminarayan: 9731059781

The cost of the Auto from the State highway of the arch to the base village of Channarayana Durga will be INR 150-200.


Nearest International and Domestic Airport

Kempegowda International Airport – 43 km

Trek explored, documented by Indiahikes Team

Photos contributed by Suhas Saya, Gautam Singh, and Venkat Ganesh of the Indiahikes team

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. 

➤ Best Season to do the Channarayana Durga Trek

The best time to do Channarayana Durga Trek would be between the months of September to February. The months of post-monsoon are the best time to do the trek since you have a lot of greenery surrounding Channarayana Durga. The trek also comes out alive with small sections having water trickling down the rocky terrain.

The winter months are also very pleasant and a good time to experience the trek. 

The peak of the monsoon season is not recommended due to the rocks being extremely slippery. During this season, you need to keep an eye on the weather and then take the call. 

During the summer season, you can do this trek. However, it tends to get very tiring and hot without proper shade or cover on the trail. This can hamper your experience of the trek. Due to less tree cover on the trail, we recommend you wear a cap or a hat if you are trekking during the summer months. 

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. ID cards of either Aadhar card or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Disclaimer certificate: Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Please carry the above document with you. The document needs to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed, and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please print these back-to-back on two sheets. Do not print separately and help in reducing paper usage.

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

2 light single sheets to lie on and cover yourself with in the tent.

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. 

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with a few commitments from your end. Here are our eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria For The Indiahikes Southern Campus Trek

Wonderful experience.

That is an unforgettable night under the stars.

Complete information on the weekend trek from Indiahikes Southern Campus. Trek details, experiences, maps, photos, videos, when to go, what to take, how difficult is the trek etc.

Channarayana Durga Trek 2024 - Weekend Trek - Indiahikes

southern campus Channarayan Durga Treks Near Bengaluru Indiahikes Weekend Treks channarayan chann channarayanA chenna channa chennarayana camping treks near bangalore CRD chan

A 3-day camping program for 10-16 year olds near Bangalore

Sending your child to a winter camp is a big decision. We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you clear any doubt or resolve any queries. Please get in touch.

DURATION

AGE LIMIT

For over eight years, we have taken thousands of children trekking in and around Bangalore. We notice extraordinary changes in the children within just 4-5 hours of trekking. They discover a new connection to nature, find an unknown confidence in themselves, and unlock a different level of camaraderie with their peers. Add a camping experience to this, and their learning multiplies manifold. 

This is why we have opened up Winter Camp with trekking near Bangalore for children. These are 3-day programmes where children go on trekking adventures and camp outdoors. At the same time, unknown to them, they gain rare life skills and values that are otherwise difficult to imbibe in daily life or school life. We bring these learnings to life through methods of experiential learning.

Our expertise in camping programmes for children has grown over the years, especially after running summer camps in the Himalayas for 10-16 years olds. You'll see multiple parents vouching for our summer camp programme here. 

With our experienced facilitators, you will see recognisable changes in them when they are back after this program. So if your child is between the ages of 10 and 16, this is a priceless adventure.

➤ This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Children need to have their sun caps and wear full-sleeved T-shirts. They should also carry their rainwear for any occasional showers during the program

➤ The pickup will take place at two points: The Indiahikes office at Sahakarnagar at 7 am or Gorguntepalya, People Tree Hospital  at 7.30 am. So parents can drop their kids off in either of the two places.

➤ Children should carry a small notebook and pen/pencil to jot down their experiences and observations from the program 

➤ They should also carry their own cutlery: 1 tiffin box, spoon, and a small coffee mug. It is also mandatory for each one to carry 2 bottles of water, 1 lt each. The entire list of things to carry is given below under 'What to Pack'

➤ Packing snacks for the trek: Children will be given healthy food with a good variety, including plenty of trail snacks. Yet, if you're sending snacks along, ensure no plastic waste is generated. This is a plastic-free trek. Encourage zero-waste snacks.

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a 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.

First time I have seen her so observant and focused

The program was curated in a way to make it informational and fun for kids.

Thanks for making this so fun, educational and inspirational.

Bhuvi enjoyed the time thoroughly

Thank you so much Team Indiahikes for such a wonderful programme

Thanku team for making this trek educational n memorable.

Thanks Indiahikes team for making this a wonderful experience for all the kids and encouraging them to trek more.

Looking forward to more such treks with the team

Thank u so much for making it such fun and educational experience .

What Children Learn in Winter Camp Programs

The winter months are very pleasant and a good time to experience the trek. 

Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 24-28° C during the day.

The nights can get a bit chilly with temperatures at around 15–22° C. 

Children would need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain. 

Considering that this is a two-night weekend outdoor program, children need to get the personal gears. We advise everyone to travel light given the temperatures will be pleasant. 

Here’s a list of things that they need to bring along as an individual: 

A 30L backpack – A small comfortable backpack will suffice.

3 T-shirts – Expect to get sweaty after the trek or around the campus. Children need a change of clothes after this and for the night. 

An extra pair of trekking pants – Avoid shorts for children at all costs. There are thorns and blades of grass along all the trails.

Sandals or Crocs - To walk around the campus

2 light single sheets/light blanket - To lie on and cover yourself inside the tent

Rainwear - Either a Poncho or a Rain jacket with a rain pant

Eligibility Criteria For The Winter Camp near Bangalore

Why Indiahikes for Winter Camp, Bengaluru

Complete information on the winter trek camping from Indiahikes Southern Campus. Trek details, experiences, photos, videos, what to take, difficulty level

2024 Bangalore Winter Camp For Children - Indiahikes

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Trek to a lakeside hill near South Bangalore

PICK-UP POINT

Bananthimari Betta is a part of the lush Bananthimari Reserve Forest, 60 kilometres off Bangalore, near Kanakpura. In Kannada, Bananthi means ‘she, who is just borne with a child’ and Mari means ‘goddess.’ Women and families who are unable to bear children, come to the Bananthimari Temple which is located at the base of the hillock. To the locals, these twin hillocks are better known as Karadi Betta (Karadi - Bear, Betta - Hill).

The hillocks, mainly known to the locals, are relatively lesser known to the trekking world. The trek to the summit is a picturesque landscape through ancient lakes, lush forests and boulders, dating back to more than 50 million years. 

The path leading to the base of the hill crosses through villages and small settlements with farms growing vegetables and grains. You may even be greeted by the friendly village folk and their cattle on the way to the temple!

The Bananthimari Betta trek offers diverse landscapes, an experience catered to beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. Throughout the trail, you will witness a variety of bird, insect and plant species, making it one of the most gorgeous trails around Bangalore. 

Bananthimari Betta - Complete Trek Information 

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Bananthimari Betta 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.

- You will be staying in tents overnight.

1. This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Plan your gear according to the weather forecast. On sunny days, ensure you have a sun cap and wear full-sleeved t-shirts. In the event of rain, don't forget your rainwear. 

The Bananthimari Betta Trek can be divided into three sections.

Walk from Bananthimari Temple to First view point

A gentle ascent from the first view point to the second view point.

Trek from the second-view point to the peak.

Section I: Bananthimari Temple to First view Point.

The Bananthimari Amma Temple, located at the base of the hill, serves as the starting point for the trek. This temple is dedicated to Bananthimari Amma, a local goddess believed to bestow fertility. You might come across some locals performing pooja, or aarthi, at the temple.

Upon arriving at the temple, you can park your vehicle and commence your trek. The trail is well laid out with mostly eucaliptus and bamboo trees.

Another alternate start of the trek would be from Bananthimari Lake, which is located 300 meters before the temple, just beside the road. The lake, surrounded by rocky outcrops and eucalyptus trees, is itself a sight to behold. Once you start the trek, continue along the road to the temple. Watch out for various species of birds that flock to the lake for their feed.

After walking approximately 200 meters from the temple, you'll come across a pond on your right. Watch out for the reflection of the surrounding hillocks on the water.

Continue for another 70 meters, and you'll notice a path to your left. Opt for the left path. The path will lead you to a bunch of huge rocks and boulders. A few of these boulders look like caves. The whole section is filled with bamboo trees. We dont get such sections on other treks around Bangalore. Trekking on this path does not feel like a regular trek around Bangalore. The path is well laid out, with a few arrow marks to guide you.

After a steep ascent through the forest filled with boulders for about 10 minutes, you'll arrive at the first viewpoint. The place is a small clearing with views of the surrounding lakes. Watch out for various patterns on the rocks formed by millions of years of erosion and weathering.

Section 2: First View Point to Second View Point

Take a brief pause and then proceed along the trail until you arrive at the boulder section from the forest section. You'll need to maneuver your way through the boulders for about 10 minutes, which will lead you to the second viewpoint. The view point is filled with fallen rocks and cairns This vantage point provides a stunning perspective where you can view the nearby lakes and the rocky formations in the surroundings. The climb on the boulder can get tricky during the rainy season.

An ascent of 150 meters will lead you to flat land. It's worth noting that the clearing isn't a small, typical viewpoint; instead, it's a relatively spacious area. Take the time to explore the place, and in the far corner, you'll come across a rocky outcrop that marks the highest point.

Continue your walk along the clearing to the highest point. After walking for 5 minutes and a short descent of 10 meters, you will reach a small bamboo trail where you can take a break. Observe the silence, except for the occasional crawling of lizards or insects on the dry leaves scattered on the forest floor. Cross the section to reach a second boulder section with a short but steep ascent.

During the climb, you will feel like you have reached the summit. But once you reach the top, you will realize that the actual summit is another 50 meters away. Once you reach the peak, you will see a structure made of rocks.

From this elevated position, you'll have a panoramic view of tiny villages to your right, while to your left, you can admire the Bananthimari Reserve Forest. The surrounding peaks of Kabbala Durga and Bheemana Kindi are also visible. 

Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 25 - 28° C during the day. 

The nights are pleasant at around 15 – 22° C. 

You would only need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain. 

➤ Best Time to do the Bananthimari Betta Trek

The best time to do the Bananthimari Betta Trek would be between the months of September to February. The months of post-monsoon are the best time to do the trek since you have a lot of greenery even surrounding Bananthimari Betta. The trek also comes out alive with small sections having water trickling down the rocky terrain.

The peak of the monsoon season is not recommended due to the rocks being extremely slippery. During this season, you need to keep an eye on the weather and then take the call.

This trek can be done even during the summer season. However an early morning trek is recommended. So that you will be able to return to the base by around 10.30 AM. Afternoon heat during summers, may be intense and may hamper the trek experience. Please use a cap or a hat (preferably with flaps), if you will be trekking here in the summer season. 

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

After the forest section, 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.  

Our Indiahikes Kanakpura campus is a zero-waste campus. This means, it is a dustbin-free zone, so you will not be able to dispose of any of your waste on the campus. 

Eligibility Criteria For The Indiahikes Kanakpura Campus Trek

Bananthimari Betta Bananthi Bananthi Mari Betta Mari Betta Kanakapura trek bananti mari karadi betta BNM BBT

Minchukallu betta is a massive hill, located around 85 km from Bangalore. Not so popular among trekkers, this was once a three-stage fortified hill. The ruins of the fort wall and temple are some wonders to think about when you are trekking here.

The trek starts from Masanipalya village, 18 km away from Tumkur. You can also approach the hilllock from Hoskote of Tumkur region. The hill looks like a perfectly carved hemisphere from Hoskote. From Masanipalya village, the stepped multilayered hillock is a great sight for the start of your adventure.

Minchukallu trek, also called Minchukallu by locals, takes you through many different trails. For a short trek, the surprises that it takes you through in the first 1 km is unpredictable. During monsoon, you’ll get to see many pretty streams along the way. You’ll even have to walk in the water canal to reach the base!

Once on top, it opens to the magnificent views of all the hills around. You get to see Jenukallu gudda, Hoskote Timappa betta, Devarayana Durga hills and even an aerial view of Hoskote lake and its surroundings. There is a Hanuman Temple on the top and villagers trek there on occasions to worship. During other times, mostly the hill is deserted.

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. 

Minchukallu Betta - Complete Trek Information 

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