Trek to a lakeside hill near South Bangalore

TREK DIFFICULTY

TREK DURATION

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

AGE LIMIT

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 Indiahikes Kanakpura 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. 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. 

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. 

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 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.

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. 

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.

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.  

Keep a pair of sandals to walk around the campsite. 

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

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.

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

Please note that this is a special trek designed for stargazing enthusiasts. The trek fee is slightly more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

This is a trek specially designed for trekkers above 58 years. The trek fee is Rs 3000 more than the regular fee (Please note this is only for Himalayan treks) Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that this is a special trek. The trek fee is Rs 3000 more than the regular fee. Know more about the trek here. 

Please note that the family treks are meant for families with a child/children under 14 years of age. If you do not fit this criteria, you can register for any of our regular groups. Read more about family treks here.

You are joining our waitlist. Your chances of getting a confirmation are high, but not certain. We will notify you as soon as a trekker cancels their trek.

When we brought out new trails in Indian trekking, safety came with us. Back in 2012, we were the first to introduce microspikes, and two years later, pulse oximeters became standard thanks to us. Nobody does safe treks like Indiahikes. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with – everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes.

We are India’s safest trekking organisation

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have brought out treks that have become India's most famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Brahmatal, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023 alone, we brought out five new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own.

We are pioneers of treks in India

More than 25,000 people trek with us every year. We are the largest trekking organisation in India. 24% of our trekkers come back to trek with us every year. Over 4,000 students from the top educational institutions trek with us every year. Aside from this, families with children choose to trek with Indiahikes knowing that our treks are the safest. We have taken over 8000 children trekking so far, and the number continues to grow. 

We are India’s largest trekking organisation

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey. 

Our treks are transformative

Since 2012, we have pioneered sustainable practices that have become standard in trekking. Using eco-bags, our trekkers have cleared over 120 tonnes of litter from the mountains. We do not carry packaged foods; instead, we serve freshly made food. We do not light campfires; we carry coal to light angethis to keep you warm. Our bio-toilets not only keep our toilets odour-free but also enrich the soil. When you trek with us, you leave mountains better.

We are India's most sustainable trekking organisation

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

If you are unable to complete a trek, or if you love a trek, you can repeat it with us anytime. You don’t have to pay us for it. See our thoughts behind this here.

You’re guarded with our trek again philosophy

Our thrice-a-day oxi-metre checks keep altitude sickness at bay, never allowing you to reach a point where you need evacuation.

Daily 3-time health checks keep you safe at any altitude

With around 30% of our trekkers being women, all women, including those travelling solo are comfortable to join any of our groups.

Join any group, they are all women-friendly groups 

Our kitchen teams understand your needs as a vegan (or a Jain). We will take special care of your food, even in the remote Himalayas. 

We have specially designed bio toilets to ensure you have no sight or smell in toilets, at the same time making sure the toilets cause no harm to the fragile ecosystem we trek in.

Be comfortable and sustainable with bio toilets

We’ll admit it. Our love for food surpasses our love for minimalism. Expect freshly cooked, multi-cuisine food at all camps, designed to meet your nutritional requirements and keep your taste buds happy!

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