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About Mandaragiri Hill
Mandaragiri Hill, also known as Basadi betta, is located 60 km from Bangalore in the Tumkur district. This is a well-known pilgrimage site for Digambar Jains, as well as a picturesque setting. This is a short hillock trek with about 435 steps.
Guru Mandir of Mandaragiri hill
The Tirthankara Chandranatha statue can be seen from the open parking lot. It resembles a miniature Gomateshwara statue, which is also carved in a single stone. A pillar that is known as Manastamb also stands in front of the statue.
A paved pathway on the right side of the statue leads to the famous peacock feather temple. This shrine was built in memory of Digambar Jain ascetic Acharya 108, Sri Shanthinsagarji Maharaj, and features a 5ft statue of him. Paintings depicting the saint’s life cover the inner wall. This 81-foot-tall temple, which is 2400 square feet in size, is the first of its kind in Jain history. The design is in the shape of a peacock feather. Pinchi is another name for the peacock feather design on the temple. Pinchi is a symbol of detachment in Jainism. There is a footpath in front of Guru Mandir and gardens on both sides.
Mandaragiri hill Trek
The climb up the Mandaragiri hill is a straightforward 435-step ascent. The climb to the top will take about 20 minutes. Handrails are placed on the steps to help with climbing. Because the rock is not too steep, we can also climb through the steep. We arrived here around noon when it was both sunny and windy. From the top, we can see the lovely Pandithanahalli village and the enchanting Mydala kere lake. Another temple was under construction on the hilltop. We couldn’t go inside because the building was still under construction.
There is a lake at the back of the hill, and there is another small pond on the hill’s right side. The pond’s water is clean, and there are small fish in it. Small children were playing with them, catching fish with their hands or dupattas, and then returning them to the pond. The meadows that surround the pond add to the picturesque view. By dipping our feet into the cool water, we can unwind and enjoy ourselves for a while. This is yet another great location for photo shoots.
Mydala lake
Mydala lake is approximately 200 m from the hilltop. Because it is less crowded, spending the time is peaceful. Water is also pure and clean. From the lake, there is also an unusual mud road that leads up this hill.
How to reach Mandaragiri Hill
Route (From Bangalore)
Bangalore-Nelamangala-Dobbaspete-Mandaragiri hill
Travel Tips
- Locals aren’t exactly aware of this location. So, if you’re not using Google Maps, make sure the locals point you in the right direction. It is better to use Google Maps.
- There is a parking lot at the bottom of Mandaragiri hill for a small fee.
- It’s a good idea to bring sunglasses, hats, and water bottles with you.
- If you want to spend the entire day with your family, bring lunch/food and set up a picnic. One could easily spend the day here in the beautiful surroundings.
- There was only one canteen open when we arrived, but the food was tasty despite the limited options. It serves vegetarian food.
- The restrooms are well-kept and located at the base of the hillock.
- Keep the surroundings clean by not littering.
- You can watch the sunrise or sunset from the top of the hill. The sunrise and sunset from atop the hill are spectacular, so try to be there if possible.
- For a day trip from Bangalore, check our posts on Ramadevara betta, Pyramid Valley, and Lepakshi.
