One of Asia's largest monolith hills at 1,226 metres, with a short but challenging rock-face trek and a fort ruin.
Savandurga is a huge granite monolith with two peaks, Karigudda and Biligudda, and a Narasimha temple at its foot. The trek to the summit follows worn rock, is steep in places and should not be attempted in rain. The hill was fortified under Kempegowda and later rulers, and the ruins of the fort are visible on the way up. The Arkavathi river flows nearby. It is a favourite weekend trek for Bengaluru hikers.
| Distance | About 60 km west of Bengaluru |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1.5-2 hours each way by road |
| Getting there | Mode: Car or motorbike; Detail: No direct rail; buses run to Magadi, followed by a local vehicle to the hill |
| Cost | Free entry; forest department and guide fees are small, under ₹300 (approx $3.12 USD) |
| Difficulty | hard |
| Address | Savandurga, Magadi, Ramanagara district, Karnataka 562120, India |
How to get there
- Car or cab: about ₹2,500-4,000 (approx $26-42 USD) return for a half-day
- Bus: BMTC and KSRTC buses to Magadi, then a local auto
- Motorbike: popular for weekend rides
- Organised tour: trekking groups run guided ascents
Location
Savandurga, Magadi, Ramanagara district, Karnataka 562120, India
12.9204, 77.2949 View on map
Highlights
- Monolith trek to the summit
- Narasimha temple at the base
- Fort ruins
- Arkavathi river views
Tips for visiting
- Start by 6am; the rock face heats up quickly
- Avoid the trek after rain
- Carry water; there are few shops on the slope
- Forest department restrictions may apply on some days
When to visit
October to February, starting at dawn.
Frequently asked questions
Is Savandurga a hard trek?
It is moderate to hard with steep exposed rock, and unsuitable in wet weather.
Is there public transport?
Buses reach Magadi, but the last 15 km usually needs a private vehicle.