Article Published On - 16-10-2025
Are you an adventure enthusiast seeking a unique and thrilling trekking experience? Look no further than Skandagiri, one of the five hills known as the ‘Panchagiris’ in the scenic Chikballapur district. With its unique blend of history and natural beauty, this trek is a magnet for adventurers of all levels and a must-visit for nature lovers.
Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is situated in the charming village of Kalavara Halli. The foothills of this magnificent hill are home to the historic Papagni Mutt, which dates back to ancient times and is revered by the people of Karnataka.
The trek to Skandagiri is a physical journey and a step back. It begins at the historic Papagni Mutt, a place of reverence that dates back to ancient times. As you ascend, you’ll discover the remains of a fort, a testament to the area’s rich History. Initially owned by a local leader, this fort was later seized by the legendary Tipu Sultan, who used it as a base to resist the British forces. Despite his defeat in 1791, the fort reminds him of his valiant efforts.
Upon reaching the summit, prepare to be captivated by a breathtaking panoramic view of the four nearby hills known as ‘Giris. ‘ This view, a feast for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, is a testament to Skandagiri’s beauty. The best part? Skandagiri is less than 60 km from Bengaluru and just 3 km from Chikballapur, making it easily accessible by road and railway and an ideal destination for adventurers of all levels.
The trek to Skandagiri takes approximately five hours, which includes a two-hour ascent, two-hour descent, and one-hour summit break. Trust me, this trek is worth every second you spend on it. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the thrill of Skandagiri Trek!
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If you plan to take on the Skandagiri Trek, you must be prepared for any weather. The trek is open throughout the year, but depending on the season, you must take necessary precautions to make the most of your journey.
If you’re trekking during the summer months, wear a cap or hat to guard against the harsh sun rays. The trail doesn’t provide adequate tree cover, and exposure to the sun can make you feel tired due to dehydration. So, keep yourself hydrated and wear suitable clothing to stay comfortable throughout the trek.
On the other hand, if you plan to go on the trek during the monsoon season, don’t forget to pack a poncho or a raincoat to stay dry. You should also bring a rain cover for your backpack to keep your belongings safe. However, it’s important to note that trekking in heavy rain is not advisable, as it can make the trail slippery and affect your overall trekking experience.
So, whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, follow these tips to make the most of your Skandagiri Trek adventure!
Skandagiri, also known as Kalavara Durga, is a famous trekking destination located 70 km away from Bangalore. The trek to the summit is quite challenging, but it’s worth the effort as it takes you through dense forests, rocky terrains, and ancient ruins.
The trek can be divided into three sections. The first involves a flat trail walk from Papagni Mutt to the Forest Checkpost, covering 800 meters. The second is a gradual incline that leads to the initial rest stop, which takes approximately 50-60 minutes to complete. The last section is the most challenging, involving a steep ascent to the summit.
To begin the trek, you must reach Papagni Mutt, located in the village of Kalavara, just 3 km from Chikballapur. The Mutt houses an ancient temple and has ample parking space for vehicles. It’s recommended that you fill up your water bottles at the nearby water tank, as there are no other water sources along the trail. From the Mutt, you must trek for 10 minutes to reach the Forest Checkpost, where you must show your government-issued ID card to the forest guard.
From the Forest Checkpost, the trek to the rest point is approximately I1100 meters long and takes around 50-60 minutes to complete. The trail is marked with directional arrows and signboards that guide you through the Skandagiri forest area. As you progress, the trail becomes increasingly challenging, with uneven rocks, slippery mud, and thick vegetation. However, the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape is stunning.
After reaching Rest Point I, which is around 0.9 km from the summit, the final leg of the journey begins. This section is the most challenging part of the trek, featuring steep inclines, rocky surfaces, and narrow passages. Proper footwear with a good grip is crucial to avoid slipping on slippery mud surfaces. After a 20-minute climb, the ruins of an ancient fort will start to appear, providing a glimpse into those who lived here in the 18th Century.
Exercise caution as you navigate through narrow passages, and be extremely careful during the 50-foot vertical climb up a rocky surface. The final section of the trek is steep and slippery, requiring cautious footwork. Once you reach the summit, spend at least 30 minutes exploring the ancient temples and admiring the breathtaking 360° view of the surrounding hills.
For the descent, follow the same path but be prepared for new challenges. The steep sections require caution and slow movements to avoid slipping and sliding. Although the way markers may not be easily visible, following the prominent trail will safely lead you back to the base.
To reach Skandagiri, you can drive from Bangalore to Chikballapur, where Skandagiri is located. You can use Google Maps to get directions. If you can’t use Google Maps, follow these directions:
Drive along National Highway 44 towards Chikballapur. After passing the Bengaluru Airport Toll Plaza, continue straight ahead. Two-wheelers can enter for free, while four-wheelers need to pay a toll fee.
After driving for about 40 kilometers, you can take two routes to reach Skandagiri:
Option 1: Continue straight along National Highway 44 for 12.7 kilometers from Rani Cross (Nandi Cross), then turn left onto Chikballapur Road. After about 2.7 kilometers:
Option 2: Take a deviation from National Highway 44 at Rani Cross (Nandi Cross) and head towards Chikballapur Road. After covering 2.7 kilometers:
Option 3: From National Highway 44, turn left onto State Highway 104 at Rani Cross and continue towards Skandagiri. At Karahalli Cross, take a right turn via Nandi Grama and then left at Gantiganahalli. Follow the same route as above, which takes you through the picturesque town of Nandi Grama, making it a scenic and enjoyable journey. The distance from Bangalore is measured from Vittal Mallya Road, the city center.
If you use public transport, start from Majestic Bus Station or Majestic Railway Station in Bangalore. Take a bus or train to Chikballapur Bus Station or Chikballapur Railway Station. From there, take an auto rickshaw to Papagni Mutt, which is about 3 km from the city center. Alternatively, you can walk from the bus or train station to Papagni Mutt, as it is a relatively short distance.
Train schedules for traveling between Bengaluru and Chikballapur are as follows:
From Bengaluru to Chikballapur: 08:30 AM on Train No. 76551, 08:30 AM on Train No. 76551, 07:55 AM on Train No. 76526.
From Chikballapur to Bengaluru: Departure at 06:10 PM on Train No. 76525, 03:55 PM on Train No. 76552.
Bus Schedule for Chikballapur and Return Journey:
From Majestic Bus Station in Bengaluru, buses operate every 10 minutes to Chikballapur. The exact frequency applies to buses traveling from Chikballapur back to Bengaluru.
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India. Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
