Things To Do Near Bananthimari Betta

Bananthimari Betta is part of the thick Bananthimari Reserve Forest, 60 kilometers off Bangalore, near Kanakpura. In Kannada, Bananthi means 'she, who is just borne with a child', and Mari means 'goddess.' Women and families unable to bear children come to the Bananthimari Temple, located at the base of the hillock. These twin hillocks are better known to the locals as Karadi Betta (Karadi - Bear, Betta - Hill). 

These hillocks are totally unknown even to the locals, but in the world of trekking, they are relatively lesser known. The scenario on the summit is a picture-perfect landscape through ancient lakes, lush forests, and boulders dating back to more than 50 million years. At the bottom of this Hill, the road runs along villages and small settlements where they farm vegetables and grains. And it may just be that some friendly villagers and their cattle might even greet you as you walk your way to the temple! 

The trek of Bananthimari Betta promises diverse landscapes and an experience geared for novices and  seasoned trekkers. While undertaking the trek, you will  see various kinds of birds, insects, and plant species; the entire region is one of the most beautiful trails around Bangalore. 

Bananthimari Betta is a hill deep in the Western Ghats-a UNESCO World Heritage Site-in Chikmagalur district,  Karnataka, India, known primarily for having added to its combination of natural beauty, peaceful conditions, and scenic views the relatively easy trekking trail. It features several endemic species of flora, some of which are medicinal herbs. It is also a birding haven as the Western Ghats are one of the biodiversity hotspots globally. You will spot species such as Malabar Trogons, Indian Hornbills, and many other birds, butterflies, small mammals, and much more. If you are fortunate, you may even glimpse gaurs, Indian bison, wild boar, or mongoose. 

This summit is an excellent place to behold the serene and stunning sunrise or sunset views. There are days when early morning mist hides this valley, so it becomes a mystical scene. On lucky days, it drizzles sunlight through the clouds with ethereal ramifications over rolling hills and greenery. When the sunset paints orange and red hues in the sky, that is the spot for photographing the sunset itself. As legend has it, Bananthimara Betta  has  several folklore attached to it. For instance, it is said that in the old days, the Hill was the venue of a divine meeting between a sage and gods. The name Bananthimara could also be related to the character Bananti, who, according to belief, is a relation to the hills. 

Historically, the region of Bananthimara Betta was vital as it was close to the early kingdoms of Karnataka. This region is next to the ancient town of Banavasi, said to be the old capital of the Kadamba dynasty. The Kadambas ruled this region in the 4th to 6th century CE and were great patrons of art, culture, and architecture.  The  Banavasi, near Bananthimara Betta , is the center of the Kadvbanas. The Banavasi Sri Madhukeshwara Temple  dates back to the 5th century CE. The temple is one of the oldest surviving temples in that region,  a  witness  to  what Kadambas wrought regarding architecture and religion. 

One of the significant trekking near Bangalore can be done during the day and night. One of the adventurous  activities you can engage in at Bananthi Betta is taking a trek on the trail up the Hill on the night of the full moon. The natural beauty around you at the summit of the mountain will be an enchantment to cherish!

BANANTHIMARA BETTA HIGHLIGHTS: 

• Historically, the Kadambas have patronized art, culture, and architecture, leaving it with significant historical sites. The Kadambas patronized art, culture, and architecture, leaving the place with significant historical sites. 

• This is located in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. 

• A fantastic view Hill, a quiet abode for nature lovers and trekkers, also 

• This is one of the very popular trekking and nature walk sites and a pilgrim center. 

• A retreat for history enthusiasts, culture lovers , and nature lovers 

• Bananthimara Betta has  historical and natural significance to it, as it is considered the abode of the ancient Kadamba dynasty, folklores of localities, and  a place in the Western Ghats. It is a sweet combination of religious, cultural, and natural heritage  for historians, pilgrims, and nature lovers alike. 

Check Out: One Day Trip From Bangalore | Trekking Near Bangalore | Two Day Trip From Bangalore

BEST TIME TO VISIT: 

The ideal times to visit this destination , Bananthi Betta, are April, June, November, and March.  Pleasing  weather  prevails during these periods , and a beautiful display of ambient colors shapes  the surrounding atmosphere.  The  hilltop experiences rain from July to October, so visits should be avoided at such a time. 

TIPS WHILE VISITING BANANTHI BETTA: 

• Monsoon certainly is not the period to visit Bananthi Betta as all roads are wet, the trails are slithery, tiring, and hard to stay afoot , and the terrain has been such a huge problem to traverse. 

• Always carry enough water with you so that incidents of dehydration do not arise. 

• Wear comfortable clothes and footwear so that unease does not arise. 

• Since the trail is long, you should ensure you are physically fit to undertake the hike. Exercising and stretching activities may be helpful for a few days before the hike. 

• For the night trek, you must ensure that you have adequate torches and batteries that will be useful at such a time. 

HOW TO REACH:

A reasonable distance from the highway by road , hiring a taxi, or availing your  car from Chikmagalur,  around 30 to 35 km from Kottigehara, is feasible. It is a reasonably thrilling journey through the Western Ghats with exotic views of coffee plantations and forests. Chikmagalur  has connectivity with other large cities in Karnataka , such as Mangalore, approximately 150 km, and Bangalore, nearly 250 km. 

The nearest railway station is Kadur (about 40 Km). From Kadur, you may hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kottigehara. 

The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, which lies some 150 kilometers away from Chikmagalur. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach Kottigehara. 

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