A Day Trek From Bangalore To Ramadevara Betta

About Ramadevara Betta

Ramadevara betta in Ramanagara district is about 60 km from Bangalore. Ramadevara betta is well-known for being the location for the iconic Bollywood film Sholay, as well as a religious site that houses the 1000+-years-old Sri Rama temple. In addition, it is well-known for being India’s only vulture sanctuary. However, we didn’t see any of the 27 vulture species that resides here during our stay. Even though we couldn’t see the vultures, it’s a nice place for a short hike.

Ramadevara betta/Sholay Hills Trek

To reach the top of the hill, we must climb approximately 400 steps. I have divided the trek into two segments. The first segment consists of man-made steps to climb. The second segment from the Lord Rama temple is a slightly sloped unpaved path with small pebbles and rocks along the way that eventually leads to approximately 80 steps carved into the rock itself. They are quite steep in places, but not especially dangerous.

First Segment

Second Segment

We decided to stop by the Sri Rama temple on our way down from the hilltop. We must then follow the unpaved path to the summit’s base. Along the way, there is a viewpoint that we can enjoy. Anjaneya’s statue is carved into the base of the rock. Further, the stone steps from this point is carved into the rock.

When we arrived, there was a queue of about 15 people, so we had to wait for a while. We must wait while the other party ascends/descends because the steps carved into the rock are narrow and steep in between. Security guards will be stationed on the roof to keep an eye on the crowd. He’ll keep whistling and warning you if you get too close to the edge. Also, if you are traveling with toddlers or the elderly, please take extra precautions. The rails are on both sides, making ascending and descending easier. Though it appears to be dangerous from the bottom, it is not particularly difficult.

Top View

When we reach the top, we have a breathtaking 360-degree view of the hills and greenery. Once we arrived and saw the breathtaking view, we knew it was worth the visit. We can relax and soak in Mother Nature’s soul-calming vibrations. The wide region near the summit is densely green, with numerous vegetation and little ponds. We could also see the famous ‘Sholay hill’ from the top.

When we arrived, there was also a group of about 20 people from the Yoga team. Mentors were accompanying them. They all sat on the hilltop and performed pranayama, meditation, and yoga. We stayed on top for nearly an hour before returning down to avoid the midday sun. We made our way down the hill and arrived at the temple around 12 pm.

1000-Year-Old Sri Rama Temple

Stories of the temple

As per the belief, Sugreeva built the temple during the Tretayuga period which was later developed during the Kempegowda era. The idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Anjaneya are carved from a single stone inside the temple. By the side, there is a small natural pool known as Ramatheertha. It is also referred to as Dhanushkoti theertha because one crore theertha will congregate here. A large boulder known as the Homaikumbhi rock surrounds the temple. This temple has a view of the Rameshwara temple, which is to honor Lord Shiva. During his visit, Rama worshiped Shiva here.

Food facilities At Ramadevara Betta

With the support of the Village Panchayat, the temple serves food to all visitors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and government holidays. This initiative to provide lunch is good as we’ll be tired by the time we get down the steps. Furthermore, until we reach the Ramanagar city area, we have no access to any other food services. Lunch consists of rice, sambar, curd, and payasam.

Food donations are voluntary but greatly appreciated. We can eat on the temple grounds, on verandas, or on large rocks. After that, we should wash the plates. We are responsible for keeping the premises clean and thoroughly washing the dishes, as the same plates will be served next. We rested for a while after eating before beginning to descend the steps. Finally, we went to the park after we descended to unwind for a while.

Silk Cocoon Market

How To Reach Ramadevara betta

Route (From Bangalore) :

Bangalore-Mysore Road-Bidadi-Ramanagara-Ramadevara Betta

By Road:

Bike/Car: 

• The drive from Bangalore to Ramanagara along the Bangalore-Mysore National Highway is relatively easy. This route does not have tolls.

Bus: 

• There are numerous buses available from Bangalore to Ramanagara. It will take approximately 1.30 hours to get there.

By Rail:

• From Bangalore, trains run frequently to Ramanagara. It will take about 45 minutes to get there.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. Taxis from the airport to Ramanagara are easily available.

Travel Guidance

• Make an early start in order to arrive at the hilltop by 11 am. Please keep in mind that the gate will open at 9 am, so plan accordingly. After 12 pm, the sun will make it difficult to climb the steps.
• Wear comfortable hiking attire, and carry sunglasses and hats.
• The facilities are located at the bottom of the steps, however they are in poor condition.
• Though drinking water taps are available on the temple grounds, it is preferable to bring water bottles.
• Prasadam will be available at the temple after 12 pm on weekends and holidays. It is a truly admirable initiative to provide food for tourists. We can contribute to the food drive, but it is not mandatory. If you are visiting the area other than on weekends, it is best to bring your own food because there are no restaurants until you reach the main road.
• Read our post about Mandaragiri Hill trek for another day trip from Bangalore.