Trekking in Badami

As a beginner, the easiest way to start rock climbing is to register for a beginner’s rock climbing workshop. Bangalore has regular rock climbing workshops for beginners - almost every week. If you like the outdoors, sign up for the beginner's bouldering workshops which are conducted at Avathi every weekend. If you like the feeling of a high, sign up for the top rope climbing workshops that are conducted at Varlakonda regularly every month. In addition to the above, you could also sign up for the beginner's rock climbing course that includes a month long training on rock as well as in an indoor climbing gym.

Indoor wall climbing gyms (or climbing gyms as they are known commonly) are one of the most popular ways to try climbing for the first time. They are also  a great way to train for rock climbing outdoors. An indoor climbing gym has artificial holds (that mimic features found outdoors on rocks) that are set up on the wall.  

The routes usually are colour-coded and are set in a way that forces a particular movement. A climbing gym usually will have a few routes in different grades (difficulty levels) and these routes are reset once every few months! Indoor walls usually have bouldering, top rope climbing, lead climbing and speed climbing.  

Tadiandamol, also known as Thadiyandamol, is the highest peak in the Madikeri Taluk of the Kodagu district in Karnataka. After Mullayyanagiri and Kudremukha, it is Karnataka's third-highest point. In the valleys of the range, there are lovely shola forests that spread out in thick green tufts. It is a 15 km journey to the peak of Tandiandamol.

Green and lush, Tadiandamol draws you with promises of a spectacular view from its summit. With tall trees, wildlife that gambols happily in their natural habitat and a beautiful sunset at its top, this famous hill is a must visit for trekking enthusiasts.

Although there are two routes to reach the Tadiandamol hills, the Honey Valley route is the most common and easiest. The Honey Valley Road is the perfect way to see the unique beauty of the Tadiandamol hills.

The Tadiandamol trek begins from Kakkabe, which can be reached from Madikeri or Virajpet. Kakkabe is about 35-40 kilometers from Madikeri. The initial point is 4 kilometers away from Kakkabe, and the nearby landmark to the point is Nalakanad Palace. The area is densely forested, with streams running through it.

·Difficulty: Easy to moderate

·Best Time to Visit: November to March

·Duration: 2-3 days

·Distance from Bangalore: 270 km

·Highlights: Wildlife-spotting, sunrise view

·Elevation: 5735 feet

Bangalore is so much more than its vibrant city life. Amongst travellers and locals, the key draws of this urban hub seem to be its diverse shopping localities, rhythmic nightclubs and pubs with a laid-back ambience. However, if you love spending your days soaking up the sun in the midst of nature, trekking in Bangalore should be at the top of your list.

If you are a trekking connoisseur or simply a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of options for trekking in Bangalore. Make your way to the summit of spectacular rock formations that give you a birds-eye view of the city’s rich, vibrant landscape. Looking for a one-day trip out of the city? Trekking in Bangalore can be completed over the weekend with your loved ones. As a bonus, you could even pack a picnic and feast on home-made food in the enchanting outdoors.

Rocky hills, dense forests, pleasant weather - the trio makes a perfect combination for trekking.

Devarayanadurga Hill is rocky and surrounded by dense forests. You will spot many caves along your way and temples upon reaching the summit. The “Bhoga Narsimha" temple is dotted at the base of the hill whereas the “Yoga Narsimha” rests on the hilltop.

You will also spot idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana, and Goddess Sita on your way to the top. Namada Chilume, the spring that is believed to have served as a source of water for Ram, Lakshmana, and Sita, also flows from the Devarayanadurga Hills.

Difficulty: Medium

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Duration: One day

Distance from Bangalore: 72 km

Highlights: Namada Chilume, Sunrise View

Elevation: 3940 feet

Coorg, known for its lush natural surroundings is often called the ‘Scotland of India’. With coffee plantations that stretch in front of you for miles, waterfalls that spout forth in glistening drops and hills that range from low-lying to majestic, trekking in Coorg is one of the best ways to view its natural wonders.

Tadiandamol is the third highest peak in Karnataka and is the highest in this lovely destination. Trekking in Coorg is incomplete without making your way to the summit of this hill and witnessing the emerald countryside from the top. Apart from Tadiandamol; Pushpagiri, Iruppu Falls, Galibeedu Peak and Kotebetta Peak are just some of the fascinating trekking spots in Coorg that are sure to enchant you.

Make your way to this trekking paradise and discover the beauty of Karnataka on foot.

Badami is a town carved and brought to life from the finest red sandstone rocks. The blood and sweat of the people that built those monuments and buildings at the time of the Chalukya Dynasty is visible and marvelled at till date. It is only right that Rock climbing is one of the chief activities to engage in at Badami. Often noted for its rich history, lots of climbing routes that were hidden away amongst the temples and cliffs are being discovered and mounted by trekkers and hikers. It is sometimes referred to as the ‘Mecca of Rock Climbing’.

Rock climbing in Badami is an experience unlike any other. The rocky terrain here gives birth to some beautiful paths; some easy to conquer, others that demand perseverance. Rock climbing in India can be pursued in many places but the benefits of starting in Badami are immense. The trails here are truly beginner friendly and leave you with the confidence and desire to do more. Be that as it may, Badami has something for every type of climber. If you’re an adventure junkie, the climbs here will never disappoint. On the path there you will not only practice resilience but also be rewarded with some of the most awe-inspiring sights that will validate your climb. The difficulty level ranges from 3b - 8b+ and will leave you eager to participate and perfect your sport. 

Rock Climbing in Badami is a perfect 3/3 with trained professionals for safety, engaging beginner friendly trails and spectacular views at sunrise or sunset. To cut your search short, we offer trustworthy resources. Read on. 

We’re so used to whizzing by in cars or buses, watching the world go by in a hazy blur of greens and browns, that we often forget the magic of walking. On foot, the world unveils itself in different hues, showing us small secrets of nature that we miss while we’re driving past. To truly appreciate a new destination, we should travel on our own two feet, discovering trails that wind away from the traditional path, eateries that can’t be found anywhere on Google and vistas that make you feel as though you are flying, but without your feet leaving the ground.  

Hampi, on the banks of the Tungabhadra River was once the glorious ancient city of the Vijayanagara Empire. Trekking in Hampi can set your love of history soaring as you walk through its ruins, monuments, temples and palaces. A unique feature of the region is how cleverly the artisans have used the boulders that pepper the landscape in their architecture, splitting the rocks in the middle cleanly, and using these sheets in constructing walls and platforms. While trekking in Hampi, you can gaze down at the city from high rocky hills, taking in the reddish historical remains and the glistening river that lazily winds across the rugged countryside.  

A bag-packing paradise, slip on your hiking boots and embark on a journey through history with trekking in Hampi.  

Bangalore is often mistakenly identified as just another urban hub filled with nightclubs, pubs, and shopping centers. However, the city is surrounded by areas of wide grasslands, dense forests, meadows, and rocky spots, that invite you to snooze in its arms.  

Camping in Bangalore is one of the most popular things to do for adventure enthusiasts, naturalists, trekking buffs, or people looking for a fresh new twist on their holidays. While vacations are normally associated with luxury hotels and spacious rooms, night camping in Bangalore under a sky adorned with glittering stars is an experience that can recharge the heart and soul of any weary traveler. Gather your friends, family, or even colleagues and come experience the great outdoors in all its beauty. As night falls the only sounds to be heard are the occasional chirping of crickets and the crackling of the campfire.   

Pitching a tent in wide open spaces away from throngs of people has always been one of the best ways to connect with nature. Camping in Bangalore allows you to dip your feet in a world of outdoor adventure activities such as kayaking, rock-climbing, canoeing, paragliding, and more. 

So why stay in a stuffy hotel room when you can stay in nature as its very own guest?  
 
Pack your bag and take your pick from our list of campsites in Bangalore! 

Karnataka has a long and arduous history that must be remembered and revisited. At Badami, there really is something for every tourist to experience.  

Badami, a town in North Karnataka was discovered in the 6th century. Today, eons later, we look at monuments and structures that date back hundreds of years. The Chalukya Dynasty is distinctly remembered for building the town from ground up and aiding the growth of the scenic town we have today. Viewing such places through a phone screen or a postcard will never do it justice.  

With over 120 temples, Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal have been termed the cradle of Indian architecture. Heritage tours in Badami will aid our understanding of the history with personal anecdotes, gripping and riveting details about the structures and a clearer timeline.  

With the large number of sources we have access to now to learn about something, it can be difficult to zero in on whom to trust and believe. The main testament to take into account while attempting to learn about a place is those of the locals themselves. Being part of a heritage tour with the locals present there plays a significant role in strengthening their economy. Coupled with a walk along the monuments whose walls speak for themselves, a heritage tour in Badami is the best way to learn about the town and its history that surprises even its inhabitants to this day. 

Ramanagara is a city in Karnataka that is famous for the majestic circle of hills that surrounds it. When the cult classic Bollywood film Sholay was filmed amidst the Ramanagara Hills, the granite hills received the

nickname ‘Sholay Hills’.

The Ramanagara region is famous for trekking and rock climbing in Bangalore with routes and lovely trails that wind to the top of summits that feature beautiful vistas. Ramadevara Betta and SRS Hills are both popular for trekking but the list does not stop there.

With a belt of rugged granite hills that spread out for miles, you can discover lesser known hiking routes in this trekking paradise.

Ramanagara is also a great place for camping, and kayaking at the nearby Manchanabele Dam.

It takes a great deal of planning, effort and vision to create difference and nurture originality in each structure that would essentially serve the same purpose. Badami, a town built by the Chalukya Dynasty in the 8th century, is synonymous with a grand exhibition of temple architecture, skill, history and art. Meticulously dug and carved out of stone, this town is home to many temples made of sandstone and serve as epicentres for conversations surrounding the Hindu and Jain faith.  

The Badami Cave Temples, Aihole, Bhutanatha Temples, Mallikarjuna Temples, Ravana Phadi Temple, Agastya Lake and Badami Fort are some places that must feature on your list while sightseeing in Badami. A trip to Badami is incomplete without temple visits where one spends time looking in all four directions, taking in the sight of splendour.  

By virtue of no two stones looking the absolute same, all temples here are built vastly different from one another in terms of the stories they tell and the sculptures contained within their walls. One might say that sightseeing in Badami tends to be monotonous with just temples on the list, when in reality, a large chunk of what Badami has to offer and their culture is this.  

Camping in Badami  

The joy in traveling comes from having small, brief moments to yourself when you're one with the land, sky and air. These are often moments of quiet or shared moments with your loved ones. Camping is a successor to a hike, trek or a climb and nurtures many qualities in people like teamwork, communication and an exchange of smiles and stories. A mere 450 kms from Bangalore, it makes the perfect weekend getaway from the hustle of the city.  

Camping in Badami is an experience on its own. The sky at night has countless bright, twinkling stars and is a sight to behold from the top of the hills. Badami has within it many short canyons that can be explored. You can camp at the foothills or peak of the hills here in Badami. It's safe and has spectacular views. There are no significant camping spots in Badami but to be sure of solo camping plans and the best time and place to set up camp on these hills, check with the organisers and locals there.  

Make that impromptu plan! Go camping in Badami and live out your camp fantasies.  

Located in the base of Charmadi Ghat in Chikmagalur, Didupe and Ermayi Waterfalls trek are one of the most exciting treks in Karnataka. It is an unexplored gem with spectacular beauty and challenging slippery terrain.

The trail starts at the base of Charmadi Ghat where the multi-folded Didupe waterfall forms a serene pond structure. Quite challenging due to the steep climbs, the journey to the top is totally worth it. Beginners can rest at the Didupe falls and spend some time swimming and observing nature.

People who are more adventurous can reach the top of the trek at Ermayi Falls. Apart from swimming, travellers also enjoy camping here. Watching the sun cast a golden glow on the rocks and skittering frogs skimming across the streams is very satisfying after completing this challenging trek.

·Difficulty: Medium

·Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except for monsoons

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 320 km

·Highlights: Didupe Falls, Ermayi Falls, Swimming, Camping

A hill fortress in Karnataka, Nandi Hills is a well known trekking spot that is great for beginners that are looking for a new thrill. The hill is home to Tipu Sultan Fort, a summer retreat that was constructed for the 18th century ruler after whom it was named after. This lovely fort features stone carvings and wall paintings that will delight any history buff.

The sunrise from the Nandi Hills is what attracts many visitors to its summit. To reach its peak, you would need to cover approximately 12000 steps on foot. However, the luxuriant greenery and verdant foliage that overflows on the ground makes it a pleasant hike and time passes by quickly until you emerge at the top.

Take a day trip to these beautiful hills and have an enjoyable trek under the sun.

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

Best Time to Visit: September to April (Moderate weather and lush green environment)

Duration: All day long

Distance from Bangalore: 60 km

Highlights: Sunrise View, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, 1000-year-old sculpture of Nandi, Tipu Drop, Tipu's Summer Residence

Elevation: 4850 feet.

Can you think of a better way to explore this rock-cave town than trekking through the beautiful paths? Trekking in Badami will leave you with an immense amount of appreciation for land and nature. Upon reaching the summits, you will be blessed with the view of the forts and temples from the hills.  

The best way to see Badami is undoubtedly to trek up the Northern Hills through the pathway between the rocks. A few of the most popular spots to go trekking in Badami are the Badami Fort, Shivalaya, Temple Caves to Mahakuta and the Bhutanatha Temple. Discover Badami by foot with a water bottle, backpack and camera in hand for the warm and lovely pictures you can remember it by later.  

Trekking in Badami is also beginner friendly and is a good spot to do your first trek. The paths are safe and the land has good grip. You can choose to look at this hike up the hills as a lovely walk in the afternoon or as an adventure jungle trek if you are up for a challenge. Be prepared to encounter more rocks and small, insignificant structures built by the Chalukyans and learn about how the dry forests here can source potential medicine, fruits, gum, fuel, food, fodder and oil yielding plants. There are also a number of rare plants found here like the Purple Witch plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family and Graham’s Groundsel belonging to Compositaea  family.  

Travel tip: Badami is best visited in the months of October-March but are also said to be charming in the months of July-August before the heavy rains start and make the paths unmountable. 

Nestled in picturesque environs, Kudremukh is located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. Lush greenery, white floating clouds, dense forests, plenty of waterfalls, rugged trekking trails and bamboo bushes make Kudremukh one of the best trekking places in Karnataka. It is also a great option for those looking for a trek near Bangalore over the weekend.

As you walk up to the summit, the Kudremukh Peak reveals a spectacular view of the green landscape that looks like a lush carpet from above. The second highest peak in Karnataka, Kudremukh gives you a 360 panoramic view of Chikmagalur that is indescribable. Meadows, waterfalls and emerald forests dot your trekking trail from the Kudremukh Trek Base.

Upon reaching the hilltop, you can also occasionally spot some peacocks and Sambar Deer.

·Difficulty: Medium

·Best Time to Visit: October to May

·Duration: 1 day

·Distance from Bangalore: 340 km

·Highlights: Camping, meadows, day trek

·Elevation: 6207 feet