Savandurga Hill Trek – Route, Tips, and My Personal Experience

It all started on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I was scrolling through my Instagram feed, envying every friend who seemed to be outdoors. Between reels of waterfalls and mountain tops, a name popped up multiple times—Savandurga Trek. A bit of research told me it’s Asia’s largest monolith, just 60 km from Bangalore. That was it. My next weekend plan was set.

The idea of scaling a massive granite hill with panoramic views, historical remnants, and the thrill of a raw climb had me excited. I’d done treks before, but this one felt different—it had the reputation of being tough but rewarding. Little did I know, Savandurga would challenge my stamina, test my fear of heights, and fill me with an unmatched sense of accomplishment.

Route and Starting Point – The Trail Up Biligudda

The Savandurga trek has two main hills—Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill). Most trekkers, including us, go for Biligudda as it's the safer and more accessible route, with markers along the way.

We left Bangalore at 4:30 AM to avoid the heat, driving through quiet roads and misty landscapes. The route via Magadi Road was smooth and took about 1.5 hours. Parking was available near the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, which also marks the base of the trek.

The trail isn’t like forest treks with shaded paths—it’s open rock all the way, which means you're exposed to the sun. But it also means non-stop scenic views as you climb. The route is mostly marked with white arrows painted on the rocks, which helped a lot, especially during the steeper sections.

Expect about 4 to 5 steep segments that require careful footing. Though it’s not technically difficult, it demands a good level of fitness, especially for those new to trekking.

The Climb – Raw, Real, and Beautifully Challenging

The initial part of the trail was fairly manageable. We were surrounded by morning mist, and a soft breeze made the uphill easier. But soon, the incline became steeper, and there were stretches where we had to scramble using both hands.

I remember one point in particular where the slope was so steep, we had to crouch low and climb sideways. It was thrilling and slightly intimidating, but those moments gave the trek its character.

With every pause, the view became more breathtaking. Below us lay the Arkavathi River, snaking through green hills and scattered villages. It felt like nature was revealing layers of its beauty with every step we took upward.

We crossed some ruins of an old fort, believed to date back to the Kempegowda era, adding a historic touch to our journey. And just when our legs began to tire, we saw the Nandi statue—a sign that we were near the summit.

At the Summit – Silence, Sky, and That Feeling of “Wow”

After roughly 90 minutes of steady climbing, we reached the top of Savandurga hill. It wasn’t crowded—just a handful of early risers like us, all sharing that post-climb high.

The summit has a small stone Nandi shrine, but the real magic is the 360-degree view. From up there, the forests stretch endlessly, the wind whistles gently, and the city noise feels like a distant dream.

We sat there in silence for a while, munching on sandwiches and sipping water, just soaking it all in. There’s a sense of peace that only a good trek can bring—the kind that clears your mind and resets your soul.

Essential Trekking Tips for Savandurga

If you’re planning to do the Savandurga trek, here are some practical tips from my experience:

• Start Early: Begin before 6:00 AM to beat the heat and catch sunrise if you can.
• Wear Good Trekking Shoes: The granite surface can be slippery, especially if there’s dew or after rain.
• Carry Water and Snacks: There are no shops along the trail. At least 2 liters of water is a must.
• Avoid Monsoon Season: The rock becomes dangerous to climb when wet.
• Watch Your Step: Some parts have steep drops and no railings—move carefully and stay within the marked trail.
• Travel Light: A backpack with essentials is enough. Heavy gear will slow you down.
• Be Mindful of the Environment: Don’t litter; carry your trash back down.

This trek is not recommended for children or elderly hikers due to the steep sections.

Final Thoughts – Why Savandurga Is a Must-Do Trek Near Bangalore

The Savandurga Hill Trek is not your typical forest or mountain trail. It’s a bold, bare climb over one giant rock, but that’s what makes it so raw and unique. There are no commercial stalls, no ticket counters, no crowds (if you go early)—just you, the rock, and the sky.

It’s a perfect one-day trek from Bangalore for those who crave adventure, solitude, and stunning views without going too far. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a first-time trekker seeking something memorable, Savandurga delivers an experience that stays with you long after you’ve come back down.

I left with sore legs but a happy heart, already planning when I could return again—maybe next time with a new group of friends, or maybe solo, just me and the hill.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Magadi Road, 60 km from Bangalore
• Trek Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours one way
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time: October to March (avoid monsoons)
• Type: Day trek over open monolith rock
• Special Note: Watch sunrise for an unforgettable experience!