Duration: ~12 hours (Start to end)
Trek Distance: ~8 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate (rocky & steep patches)
Best Time to Visit: September to April (skip monsoon season to be safe)
Start Point: Kalavara Halli, ~70 km from Bangalore

✨ The Adventure Begins

It all started one restless night - we set off from Bangalore around 11 PM, headlights slicing through the quiet city streets as we chased a promise: a golden sunrise from the top of Skandagiri hill. 😄
The drive took about 3 to 4 hours, picking up other trekkers and by 3 AM, we reached the base near Kalavara Halli village, one of the lesser known gateways to Karnataka’s trekking gems.

After a quick freshen-up at nearby restaurant, we tightened our laces, switched on our headlamps, and began our ascent in the cool pre-dawn silence.

🥾 The Trek: Rocky, Steep, and Green

The Skandagiri trek is roughly 8 km round trip, with terrain that can feel deceptively easy at first but don’t let it fool you. As we moved along, the trail turned steeper and rockier, occasionally challenging us with loose gravel and uneven steps carved into the hill’s natural flow. The greenery around was soothing though, and the sound of rustling leaves and chirping birds under the moonlight gave it a magical vibe.

We ascended in about 2 hours, with a few water breaks and moments to catch our breath (and stare at the stars).

🏰 History on the Hill

Reaching the top is not just about the view, it’s about walking through history. The ruins of a fort believed to have been built by Tipu Sultan still whisper stories from the past. This fort now lies in peaceful decay, surrounded by mist and marvel.

The view from the peak, though, steals the spotlight. We arrived just in time to catch the sunrise slowly breaking through the clouds, casting golden rays over the lowland fog. It was every bit as breathtaking as promised. (check out above pictures that I clicked ☺️)

🍽️ The Descent and Return

The trek down took about 1.5 hours and required careful footing, especially with the sun now warming the stones we’d climbed earlier. We stopped for a simple but soul satisfying breakfast on the way back — idlis and hot filter coffee that tasted even better after a night of trekking.

Back in Bangalore by late morning, it was hard to believe we'd fit so much into one night nature, history, adrenaline, silence, sunrise, and sambhar.

🛡️ Trekking Tips (If You Go)

• Wear sturdy, gripped trekking shoes especially for the rocky terrain

• Carry a flashlight or headlamp if you’re trekking at night

• Pack light snacks & at least 1 liter of water

• Avoid during monsoons trails get slippery

• Trek with a guide or group if it’s your first time

• Follow local rules (Forest permits etc.)

Skandagiri isn’t just a trek, it’s a mini adventure packed into 12 hours. From silent climbs to sweeping sunrise views, from stone fort ruins to post-hike breakfasts, this is the kind of experience that stays with you longer than you'd expect.

Whether you're a first-time trekker or a sunrise chaser, Skandagiri deserves a spot on your weekend bucket list.