Skandagiri, hills & trekking near Bengaluru
Photo: Aranyaparva, CC BY-SA 4.0

Hills & Trekking · Chikkaballapura, Karnataka

Skandagiri

A rocky hill fort near Chikkaballapura, also called Kalavara Durga, climbed mostly as a pre-dawn trek to watch the sunrise above the clouds. The trail starts behind Papagni Mutt in Kalavara village and ends at fort ruins, a small temple and a pond on top.

About Skandagiri

Skandagiri is a hills & trekking spot in Chikkaballapura, Karnataka, about 60 km from Bengaluru.

The best season to visit is October to March. The best time of day is sunrise (pre-dawn start).

It is open daily from 3:30 am to 4:15 am. Entry is ₹250 per person. You need to book ahead: Online permit only; book a slot in advance.

The trek is moderate difficulty, 4 km, about 2.5 hours up, 1350 m high.

Group trips to Skandagiri are listed on Urban Break. Join one that is already going, or start your own and find people to go with.

Distance
About 60 km from Bengaluru
Open
daily: 3:30 am–4:15 am
Entry
₹250 per person
Best season
October to March
Best time
Sunrise (pre-dawn start)
Trek
Moderate, 4 km

Common questions about Skandagiri

Do I need a permit or booking for Skandagiri?

Yes. Online permit only; book a slot in advance. The entry fee is ₹250 per person. Book on the official site.

What is the entry fee for Skandagiri?

Entry is ₹250 per person.

What are the timings for Skandagiri?

It is open daily from 3:30 am to 4:15 am. Report at the base gate 3:30–4:00 AM; trek starts 4:00–4:15 AM.

When is the best time to visit Skandagiri?

The best season is October to March. The best time of day is sunrise (pre-dawn start).

How hard is the Skandagiri trek?

Moderate difficulty, about 4 km, around 2.5 hours up, 1350 m high.

How far is Skandagiri from Bengaluru?

About 60 km from Bengaluru in Chikkaballapura.

Can I go to Skandagiri with a group?

Yes. Group trips to Skandagiri are listed on Urban Break. Join one that is already going, or start your own and find people to go with.

Going to Skandagiri?

See upcoming trips, the weather this week and the map, or start a trip and find people to go with.

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