Feeling adventurous? Take a pick out of our list and try one of the trekking trails around luru that will make you forget you’re just a few hours away from home (and no, we don’t mean Electronic City!)
Makalidurga
Situated near a village of the same name, Makalidurga is a trekker’s paradise with a landscape that is a mix of green hills, lush forests and fort ruins. The railway track passing through the foot of the hill adds to the rustic feel. It also offers other activities such as rappelling and rock climbing. At a towering height of 4,430ft, the hill unfolds a visual treat once you reach the top – a carpet of green and the sparkle of a lake, as you watch out from the Makalidurga Fort. This site is also one of few night trek destinations that makes for a quick weekend getaway from the city. You can either drive down in your own vehicle or choose to take the train to the Makalidurga station and begin your trek from there.
Approx. distance from Luru – 100 mins/60 km
Level – Easy to moderate
Nandi Hills
Home to Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, these are the famous Hills of Bangalore that needs no introduction. Gather your posse and mark this one on your calendar for a day well spent. Open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day, we suggest you get in at day break to avoid the bottleneck at the forest department check post. You can park your car or bike at the designated parking lot and choose to explore one out of the two trails (north & south). Alternatively, we recommend getting up on your good old bicycle to navigate the hills. Budget friendly accommodation is also available for an overnight stay, at: nandihillsreservations.in. Standing 4851 ft high, don’t forget to carry your woolens!
Approx. distance from Luru– 120 mins/62 km
Level – Easy to moderate
Shivaganga
Besides being a worthwhile destination for trekkers to survey, the Shivaganga Hill also offer a lesson on religious history. Be sure to spot the angle from which the hills outline the form of the Shiva Linga. As you make your way up the 4,488 ft high hill, there are several small temples that lead to the Shiva Temple at the top which is located in a cave. The last part of the climb may test your fitness levels a little but don’t give up. Be sure you do not carry many things or bags as monkey trouble is something you do not want to face! Instead, carry your money in a small pouch and purchase refreshments from the many sellers throughout the climb.
Approx. distance from Luru – 80 mins/54 km
Level – Moderate
Savandurga
Known to be the largest monolith in Asia, this one is a must-try for any trekking enthusiast. Consisting of two smaller hills, Billigudda and Karigudda, it rises to a height of 3937 ft at its peak, with its gentle slopes allowing for a comfortable climb even for novice trekkers. Take cover in the cool shelters of the ruins of a majestic fortress that was built by Kempe Gowda II and once a citadel to the legendary Tipu Sultan. The gradient offers spaces to set-up your camp so carry your tent if you would like to stay a little longer and enjoy a sunrise or sunset.
Approx. distance from Luru – 90 mins/60 km
Level – Easy to moderate
Anthargange
Part of the Shathashrunga Mountain Range, Anthargange has something of interest for everyone. Check out the caves carved out of volcanic rocks, pay a visit to the temple, listen to the soothing sound of the perennial spring that flows out through a fissure or just take in the varied landscape. Night treks at this range are extremely popular as exploring the caves in the mysterious moonlight adds to the thrill of the trek.
Approx. distance from Luru – 100 mins/70 km
Level – Easy
Karighatta
A perfect beginners’ trek, the Mekedatu, Karighatta trail takes you along the banks of the river Cauvery rising to a height of 2697 ft above sea level. Once you ascend to the peak, it gives you a fabulous view of the surrounding areas for miles, including Mysore and Srirangapatna. Also keep an eye out to spot the confluence of the Cauvery and Lokpavani rivers. The hill can also be climbed using the 450 stone steps that have been carved out as a pathway to the temple at the hill top.
Approx. distance from Luru – 120 mins/98 km
Level – Easy