We wanted our kids to explore more of outdoors. During one of those spontaneous meets with my friends, we decided to take our kids to a small half a day hike. With kids you see everything through their eyes and experience things you wouldn’t when traveling without them. First thing that came to my mind was Ramadevarabetta Vulture sanctuary. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any vultures these days, yet I was hoping for some luck. Even though we couldn’t see the vultures, it’s a nice place for a short hike with kids.
We booked an Ola outstation for next day and we were ready for this small outing. Ramadevara betta is well-known for being the location for the iconic Bollywood film Sholay.
To reach the top of the hill, we must climb approximately 400 steps. I have divided this hike into two parts. The first segment consists of man-made steps to climb. These steps will lead till temple. One has to climb ~300 steps to reach temple. The second segment from the Lord Pattabhirama temple is a slightly sloped unpaved path with small pebbles and rocks along the way that eventually leads to approximately 100 steps carved into the rock itself. They are quite steep in places, but not especially dangerous. It has railings on both ends for support.
There is an arch at the entrance with Lord Ganesha and Hanuman idols on either side. Large rocks and a lot of trees with beautiful tree canopies sheltering them. The huge boulders were a sight to watch. Its an easy simple climb till Pattabhirama Temple and there is a small Sugriva gruha right opposite to that. We can also see a small pond which is completely fenced.
Since it was still early in the morning and not too hot, we decided to climb the last part first and go to the top and stop in temple while traversing down. We just have to follow the unpaved path to the summit’s base. The last part of the climb does have really steep steps. The stone steps from this point are carved into the rock. The rails are on both sides, making ascending and descending easier. Though it appears to be dangerous from the bottom, it is not particularly difficult. Ascend and descend is from same route.
Once you reach top, we have a beautiful panoramic view of the hills and the town below. Though it was hot we took our time to relax and enjoy the view. When we reached top, there were very few people and this gave the chance for kids to be themselves and freely roam around.
On the way down we stopped near the temple had a look at the beautiful fenced pond. The Pattabhirama temple is quite a charming one and the idol itself is quite unique with Sita sitting on Rama’s lap. You can have a view of beautiful Saptarishi betta to your left. I would suggest going early in the day as the sun tends to become scorching hot after 12 PM.
Once we were down, since we had some time, we decided to stop by near Kanva reservoir. We lost the route; however we ended up in back side of reservoir. This place was remote and in the mid of farm fields. However, some locals had a kayak boat and we decided to kayak with kids for a while. By then it was late afternoon and kids were super hungry. Post this we started our journey back towards Bangalore.
Overall, we enjoyed both the places. It was good, quick and meaningful Sunday. Understanding and appreciating the natural environment is the first step in wanting to preserve it. In this digital world, we need ensure that our children still experience a childhood filled with dirt, mud, puddle, trees, sticks and tadpoles. If you are thinking of taking your kids to a small hiking experience then this is definitely one of them
Tips:
- Make an early start in order to arrive at the hilltop before 11 am.
- Wear comfortable attire, and carry sunglasses and suncap.
- Though drinking water taps are available on the temple grounds, it is preferable to carry your own water bottles
- Avoid going on festive days
Facts
Distance from Bengaluru Central – 48 kms
Distance from Kengeri – 32 kms
Distance from Ramanagara Town – 2.5 kms
Location: Google maps works so well and it will take you right to the bottom of this place
Location in Maps: Ramadevara betta Vulture sanctuary
Timings: 9 to 5 PM
Entry Fee and parking cost :~150 rs per person
Gradient: Easy
Meander - Read & Roam 