Savandurga Hill is a granite hill near Magadi, about 50 km from Bengaluru city, with a steep, rocky climb and historic fort ruins at the top. It makes a day-trip destination for hikers who prepare for the terrain and take care on the ascent and descent.
- Location: near Magadi, about 50 km from Bengaluru city
- Features: the twin peaks Karigudda and Biligudda, plus hilltop fort ruins
- Climb: steep and rocky, with no steps on the marked route
- Transport: Karnataka Tourism recommends a private vehicle or taxi
What can you see at Savandurga Hill?
Savandurga brings together a rugged hill climb, historic fort remains and two temples at the foothills. Karnataka Tourism describes it as two peaks, Karigudda and Biligudda, rising to 4,024 ft above mean sea level.
The hill’s earliest recorded name was Savandi, in a record from 1340 CE associated with Hoysala ruler Ballala III. Ruins at the summit are associated with Kempegowda, Tipu Sultan and other rulers who controlled Savandurga. At the foothill, Savandi Veerabhadreshwara Swamy Temple and Narasimha Swamy Temple are two notable places to see.
How should you prepare for the Savandurga trek?
The Savandurga climb is steep and rocky, so Karnataka Tourism advises good fitness and extreme care. The marked route uses white arrows and has no steps, making careful footing important throughout the climb.
Pack water, food, a first-aid kit and a survival kit, and climb and descend carefully in a group. The surrounding vegetation is thick, and bears and leopards inhabit the area. Do not remain at the summit after dark.
What should you know about access and safety?
Plan your outing around the climb and confirm current access rules before setting out. Karnataka Tourism encourages trekking, rock climbing and biking-hiking, but does not state current trekking hours, permit requirements or entry charges.
A trekking operator says online registration through the Aranya Vihaara portal is required, night trekking is prohibited and trekking hours are 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; those details are not confirmed by Karnataka Tourism.
Rules can change, so check the official site before you go. Follow the marked route, stay together as a group and allow time to descend before dark.
How do you get to Savandurga from Bengaluru?
Karnataka Tourism recommends travelling from Bengaluru by private vehicle or taxi. Savandurga is about 50 km from Bengaluru city and 90 km from Bengaluru airport. Bidadi railway station is the closest railway station, 30 km from the hill. Hotel Pearl Inn is one accommodation option in Bengaluru.
Nearby stops include Manchanabele Dam and Magadi, each 13 km from Savandurga. The Big Banyan Tree is 23 km away, while Ramadevara Betta is 32 km away. You can plan one of these into the day if the timing and conditions suit your group.
A different Bengaluru outing to consider is a day trip to Nandi Hills.
FAQs
How far is Savandurga from Bengaluru?
Savandurga is about 50 km from Bengaluru city and 90 km from Bengaluru airport.
Are there steps on the Savandurga climb?
No. Karnataka Tourism describes a marked route with white arrows and says there are no steps on the climb.
What should you carry for the trek?
Carry water, food, a first-aid kit and a survival kit. Karnataka Tourism also advises climbing and descending carefully in groups.