Savandurga Hill

About Savandurga Hill

Savandurga Hills serve as the base for pilgrims who come to visit the Savandi Veerabhadreshwara Swamy temple and Narasimha Swamy temple, situated at the base of the hills. These hills are also quite popular amongst rock-climbers, cave-explorers and adventurers. The dry deciduous forest surrounding the hills is home to the endangered Yellow-throated Bulbuls, Sloth bears, Leopards, etc. Even the flora of the Savandurga Hills is quite varied, comprising of over 59 tree and 119 shrub species.

Savandurga is formed by two hills known locally as Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill). The earliest record of the name of the hill is from 1340 AD by Hoysala Ballala III from Madabalu where it is called Savandi. Another view is that the name is originated from Samantadurga attributed to a Samantharaya, a governor under Ahchutaraya at Magadi, although there is no inscription confirming this.

Interesting things to do

Forest Walking:
After lunch & a little relaxation started a hiking over the forest countryside on the other side of the mountain and the way to that begins from the park itself. This showed a real adventure of walking at a no-man area, surprisingly we are again accompanied by Fathima all over the way. This is again 1.5 hours of walk through camping area, woods, ponds and rocks. We reached place of an old abandoned temple in midst of the woods. We stayed, slept, tattled there for almost an hour or so. At 5:00pm in the evening we are about to prepare our tea, but our portable gas stove didn’t light up and we have to return without having tea. Finally again after continuous walk for an hour we reached the park gate where our vehicle stood. We could see Fathima waving a bye for all of us with her tail, saying her a goodbye & few biscuits we are on the go way back to the concrete jungle called Bengaluru.

Interesting things to Visit

• Veerabhadreshwara Swamy temple
• Narasimha Swamy temple

Nearest Visiting places

Lal Bagh:
Hyder Ali laid out this famous botanical garden and his son added horticultural wealth to them by importing trees and plants from several countries. The garden today houses over 1000 species of flora which include rare and enchanting collection of tropical plants, trees and herbs. The Glass House, modelled along London’s Crystal Palace, is the center of attraction in this 2400 acre park. Bi-annual flower shows attracting participants from all over India is held in the Glass House. In July, 2003 it was decided that the Department of Horticulture and Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) would jointly take up the development of Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens.

ISKCON:
Situated on Chord Road, it is a must visit temple in Bangalore. It stands over a small hill and is a very clean and well maintained temple. Akshaya Patra program sponsored by the temple is very popular.

Bull Temple:
This temple, built by Kempe Gowda, houses the magnificent stone statue of the sacred bull, Nandi. It stands over 15 feet tall and is over 20 feet long . In Nov/Dec every year, when the groundnuts have been harvested, a groundnut fair is held near the temple. The first groundnuts are offered by the farmers to the sacred bull.

Gangadhareshware Temple:
Known for its four monolithic pillars and rare idol of Agni, the God of fire,this temple was built by Kempe Gowda. A unique phenomena is witnessed here on Jan 13/14th every year when the rays of the setting sun enter through the window, pass between the horns of the Nandi and shine on the Shivalingam.

Dharmaraja Temple:
Located at Nazarethpet in the suburbs of Bangalore, this temple is the starting point of the annual Karaga procession. The revered idols of this temple are the Shri Dharmaraja Swamy, hero of the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna.

Dargah Hazarath Tawakkal Mastan:
This Muslim shrine,located in Cottonpet, a suburban locality, is associated with the Hindu Karaga festival too. The procession annually visits the Dargah of this Sufi saint, Tawakkal Mastan. His tomb attracts both Muslim and non-Muslim pilgrims.

Jumma Masjid:
The Jumma Masjid is probably the oldest mosque in the city. It is an imposing structure with tall ornamented granite pillars adorning the elevated prayer hall. Scores of devote Muslim worshippers throng this masjid during the annual festivals of the Muslims. It is located in the busy market area of Bangalore, K.R.Market.

Ravindra Kalakshetra:
The Kalakshetra, built to commemorate Rabindranath Tagore’s centenary, promotes cultural activity in the city. It has a superb theatre and houses the Cultural Akademi Offices. Next to it is the Gothic styled Puttannachetty Town Hall whose huge auditorium can easily accommodate over 1500 persons.

St. Mary’s Church:
Established by a French missionary Abbe Dubois in 1811, St.Mary’s church is the only church in Karnataka state to be elevated to the status of a minor Basilica. Every September, The Virgin Mary’s festival is celebrated with a procession that attracts people of all faiths. The church is situated near the Shivaji Nagar Bus Terminal.

Ulsoor lake:
A picturesque lake with several tree-shaded islands in it, is an ideal picnic spot. You can go boating or go for a swim in the nearby swimming pool that is part of the recreational complex near the lake. You can also go to the nearby Gurdhwar, the largest Sikh shrine in Bangalore…More

Tipu’s Palace:
Built in 1791, this beautiful two-storeyed ornate wooden structure with exquisitely carved pillars, arches and balconies was one of Tipu’s favourite summer retreats.

Hesaragatta:
25 Kms away, Hesaragatta is an interesting picnic spot offering water sports to the adventurous. Boating and wind-surfing is the major attraction. It also has a dairy & horticulture farm where you can picnic.

Ramohalli:
Ramohalli, located 28 Kms west is a popular picnic spot. A major attraction at Ramohalli is the 400 year old giant Banyan tree which sprawls over an incredible 3 acres.

Muthyalamaduvu:
Also known as the Pearl Valley, Muthyalamaduvu is 40 Kms away. The beautiful cascading water falls surrounded by verdant settings provide an ideal picnic getaway.

Ramanagaram:
Rock-climbers and adventure seekers need look no further. 49 Kms south-west from Bangalore, Ramanagaram, provides the ideal location with landscaped rock faces. Another major attraction at Ramanagaram is the silk cocoon marketing centre. One of the most famous Hindi movies Sholay was shot in Ramanagaram.

Janapada Loka:
Sprawling across 15 acres, Janapada Loka or “Folk-culture World” is a world of simplicity and art.Janapada Loka, a subsidiary of the Karnataka Janapada Parishath, is dedicated to preserve and promote folk art and culture. The complex has an art gallery, an open-air theatre, a studio and a museum. Janapada Loka is located near Ramanagaram and is 53 Kms away from Bangalore.

Channapatna:
A bustling town, 60 kms south-west from Bangalore, Channapatna is famous for its eye-catching lacquer ware and hand-crafted wooden toys. It is also a major silk centre of Karnataka.

Mekedatu:
Gushing waters, imposing landscapes, and untouched picnic spots is what Mekedatu is all about. The Cauvery river squeezing through a narrow gorge before traversing its south-bound terrain is a breathtaking sight .It is 98 Kms south of Bangalore.

Nandi Hills:
One of the popular retreats of Tipu Sultan, the Tiger of Mysore, Nandi Hills offers breathtaking getaway of the weary tourist. Tipu’s Drop, a 600m high cliff face provides a magnificent panoramic view of the beautiful terrain. Nandi Hills is 60 Kms north of Bangalore.Other attractions are Tipu’s Drop, Yoga Nandishvara Temple, a beautiful Chola temple, Dravidian-style Bhoganandishvara temple and Muddenahalli, hometown of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, architect of modern Karnataka at the base of the hill.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

**Bangalore Gate Hotel :**Kempe Gowda Rd,Bengaluru,ph:080 41100777

**Comfort Inn Hotel:**Gandhinagar 18,III Main Road,Bangalore,Karnataka,India,ph:080 22203025

Location info

• **Address:**Savandurga Hill, Bangalore,Karnataka,India

• District: Bangalore

• Nearest City: Bangalore

• Best time to visit: November to April

Climate & weather

The weather is moderate in the range of 15 - 22 Degree C all through the year. Best season:Septmeber to Jan

History of Savandurga Hill

Savandurga comprises of two hills known locally as Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill). The earliest record of the name of the hill is from 1340 AD by Hoysala Ballala III from Madabalu where it is called Savandi. Another view is that the name is originated from Samantadurga attributed to a Samantharaya, a governor under Ahchutaraya at Magadi, although there is no inscription confirming this.This was the secondary capital of the Magadi rulers such as Kempegowda. from 1638 to 1728, Mysore took over this place and Dalavayi Devaraja occupied this place with the palace at Nelapattana. In 1792 Lord Cornwallis captured it from Tippu Sultan and this was described by Colonel Wilks.

How to reach Savandurga Hill

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Bangalore railway station

• **Nearest Airport:**Bangalore airport

**Road Transport:**Savanadurga is about 50 Kms away from Bangalore. You could take a bus from Bangalore or come here by your bike or car. The easiest route is to take the Magadi Road until you reach Magadi town. After this you will have to take a left towards Ramanagram and reach Nayakanapalya. Take a left here again and proceed further to reach Savandurga. The local villagers are helpful with directions.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**100

Nearest Hospital:
Wockhardt Hospital:No. 23, 80 feet road, Guru Krupa Layout, Nagarabhavi,Bangalore,Karnataka,India,ph:080 23014444
Shushruti Hospital And Research Centre:Shushruti Nagar,Andrahalli Main Road, Peenya 2nd Stage,Bengaluru,Karnataka,ph:080 28362040

• Society/Community Phone Number:

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Savandurga Hill

October to March is peak season with pleasant temperatures (15-28°C). April-June is warm but still pleasant compared to plains. July-September brings monsoon with misty landscapes and occasional rain.

Timings & opening hours

Open throughout the day. Government tourist spots have timings 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hill station areas are accessible 24/7, but activities are best during daylight.

Entry fee & tickets

No entry fee for the hill station area. Specific viewpoints, parks, and gardens may charge INR 10-50 per person. Vehicle parking fees apply at popular spots.

Duration needed

Half a day to explore the hill station. Weekends are popular for a relaxing getaway. 2-3 days recommended for fully experiencing the area and nearby attractions.

Safety tips

Hill roads can be narrow with sharp curves — drive carefully. Watch for wildlife crossing roads, especially in forest areas. Carry warm clothing as temperatures drop in evenings. Stay on marked trails during treks.

Things to carry

Carry drinking water, snacks, comfortable walking shoes, hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, power bank, and personal medications. A light jacket or umbrella is recommended during monsoon season (June-September). Carry warm clothing/jacket (temperatures drop significantly in evenings). Trekking shoes if planning walks. Rain gear during monsoon. Binoculars for birdwatching.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station is at the base of the hills. Nearest airport: typically Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore or Mangalore International Airport. Taxis and buses are available from the base town.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the temperature at Savandurga Hill? A: Typically 15-28°C during season, dropping to 10-15°C in winter nights. Q: Are there accommodation options? A: Yes, from budget homestays to luxury resorts. Q: What is the best time for trekking? A: October to February for pleasant weather and clear trails.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Hill Stations

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Savandurga Hill

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Savandurga Hill on popular travel photography sites and social media.