Ramadevara Betta is a temple hill and vulture conservation reserve in the granite hills of Ramanagara, known from the 1975 film Sholay. Short, steep trails lead to the Rama temple and to rocky viewpoints over the town.
Ramadevara Betta lies within the Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary near Ramanagara town, about 50 km from Bengaluru on the Mysuru highway. A stepped path leads up to the small Sri Rama temple, and further rocky routes give views across the Ramanagara boulder hills. The sanctuary was created to protect the long-billed vulture, and access is managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, so visitors should keep to the marked route and stay quiet. Temple and forest timings apply, with mornings the best for cool walking. The surrounding hills are also the centre of rock climbing in the region.
| Distance | 2-4 km round trip |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Namma metro does not reach Ramanagara; trains and KSRTC buses run from Bengaluru to Ramanagara, then a short auto ride |
| Best season | October to February |
| Address | Ramadevara Betta, Ramanagara, Karnataka 562159, India |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Ramanagara, about 50 km southwest of Bengaluru
What to bring
- Sports shoes with grip
- 1-2 litres of water
- Cap
- Binoculars for birds
Location
Ramadevara Betta, Ramanagara, Karnataka 562159, India
12.7027, 77.2777 View on map
Highlights
- Sri Rama temple on the hill
- Vulture sanctuary bird watching
- Views over the Ramanagara boulder landscape
- Easy access from the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway
Tips for visiting
- Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds at the temple
- Keep to marked paths inside the sanctuary
- Bring binoculars for raptors
- Avoid noon heat from March to May
- Check current forest access rules before visiting
When to visit
Early morning between October and February.
Accessibility
Steps and uneven rock; not suited to wheelchairs.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ramadevara Betta the Sholay hill?
The Ramanagara hills were the filming location for Sholay, and the range around Ramadevara Betta is commonly linked with the film.
How far is it from Bengaluru?
About 50 km, roughly 1.5 hours via the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway.
Is entry free?
Temple access is free; any forest entry charge is set by the Karnataka Forest Department.