"Most Pocket friendly destination near Bangalore"
Written on : 18-December-2016
Visted During : July 2014
Some more Information
Makalidurga trek is an easy trek but I personally enjoyed the trek for couple of reasons. This is a perfect spot when you are totally broken (Not heart but pocket!) It costs you less than INR 100 if you travel by train. You do not have any option for food near the trekking point and hence do not forget to carry some. All you get near is some biscuits and tea, snacks near the train station. During summer Makalidurga is very hot and trekking here may not be a pleasure in the noon. The earlier you visit the better it is. Also, mostly the place is almost deserted one once you start trekking. But, place looks safe enough (I would not suggest this trek for just a couple though.) The train to Makalidurga starts from Yashawanthapura station. Yashawanthapura train station has parking location and hence you can park your vehicle here and take a train. The train time varies at times and I would suggest to check when you plan. It will mostly be around 7.00 am.
My Experience and Opinion
The best feeling is when you realize that you have completed your trip in less than INR 100! Yes, it really is a special feeling! I had planned to trek Makalidurga during 2013 when I visited Nandi Hills and then rode in my bike to base. But, that day, we were so contained by the view at Nandi Hills that we planned to simply take a nap beneath a tree in Makalidurga base and came back. The next time I planned to go by train and trek and that decision gave me a very special experience. Train journey is around one hour and Makalidurga is the train stop.
The Trek
There are 2 parts within this small trek. One that is 2kms in distance from the train station to the base. Here you walk in the train track and reach the base. While you walk from Makalidurga, the hill is to your left and there is clear path. But, you need to take a right towards uphill after around 500 meters from base. The wider road now ends and trail starts. This might be little tricky since there are no proper markings towards the peak. You might find people who can help you in guiding uphill.
On a very bright day, the trek might be boring and tiredsome too. Post monsoon should be better time to visit since it will be greener and better in terms of weather too. It is a short trek so, not too many stories to share and not too many information as well. Check out the photos below.
Photos
En Route
The Signature
1 Hour Before (1.00 PM)
1 Hour Later (2.00 PM)
The Most Important asset while travelling - Google Maps. (I would suggest not use this but take a train as said above)
