Near the Devarayana Durga and the Channarayana Durga fort resides the Chinaga Betta hill in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. Compared to Navadurgas, Chinaga Betta is less popular among tourists and explorers. The hike is perfect for beginners of all ages due to its simplistic trail.
This guide essays all the information you’ll need to hike Chinaga betta on your own. Let’s get right to it.
Chinaga Betta Hiking Guide
Table of Contents
How To Reach Chinaga Betta From Bangalore?
The only way to reach Chinaga Betta is by using your own vehicle, as buses or public transport are unavailable until the base of the hill. Tuk-tuks are also not available in the region. So, the only way you can reach the place is by taking a bus to Tumkur and then renting a two-wheeler or four-wheeler from there.
Network Availability
Chinaga Betta has intermediate connectivity with Jio on most parts of the trail. Airtel is very weak in the region.
ATM Availability
No ATMs are available in the region. Although the entry fee is paid online, we recommend you carry some extra cash with you. Shops in Chinaga Betta base accept digital payments.
Languages Spoken
Most people speak the regional language of Kannada.
Parking Availability
Ample free parking space is available before the hike’s starting point.
Restroom Facilities
No restroom is available at the base or the trek’s starting point. Come prepared, as you might have to do your business amidst natural surroundings.
Related: Use these super helpful public restroom tips during your travels.
Best Time To Visit
Chinaga Betta can be visited at any time during the year. However, the best time is between January and June. The monsoon season might make it difficult for you to climb as the terrain would be slippery and dangerous. You can also travel between the months of October and December. The climate will be relatively cooler, and you’ll feel less fatigue after finishing your hike. Always try to start your trek early. That way, you can take your time and beat the hot and humid weather.
Where To Eat?
There are a few shops near the base where they sell pooja items for the temple, quick bites, and water. But there are no sit-in restaurants nearby. Buy some energy bars and snacks and fill your tummy on the highway before reaching the base.
Where To Stay?
There are no stays available near Chinaga Betta. You’ll get decent stays in Tumkur. Since Chinaga Betta can be done as a day trip from Bangalore, you don’t need to stay overnight. You can start early, finish your hike, and return.
Things To Do In Chinaga Betta
Hiking the Chinaga Betta is the most popular activity in the region. Locals also visit the base temple of Swandenahalli Bettada Shri Ranganaathaswami Gudi frequently.
Hiking Details
Distance to the base: 80 Km from Bangalore
Entry Fee: Rs. 250 for adults, Rs. 125 for children + GST
Registration: Registration or pre-online booking needs to be done on the official eco-trails website.
Timings: From 6 AM to 6 PM
Duration: 2 hours for the ascend and 1 hour to descend.
Permission: Permission is needed to hike the Chinaga Betta as it is located in the reserved forest area.
Maximum Altitude: 1176.4 m
Hike Distance: 1.5 Km one way
Difficulty Level: Easy, highly subject to your fitness level.
Terrain: steps, rocks, grasslands, and forests
Hiking Route:
The hike starts from the temple of Swandenahalli Bettada Shri Ranganaathaswami Gudi. You must walk towards the right pathway and follow the visible route past another Swandenahalli Doddaiah Swami Gudi temple.
After crossing the temple, walk on the flat grasslands. After 500 m, you’ll see a slight change in the altitude as you move upwards.
The white direction marks guide you as you hike uphill.
After 500 m of hiking uphill, you’ll reach a vast open terrain. The hill towards your right is your summit. Walk towards the direction of the hill for 200 m.
Continue walking on the visible route until you reach the last stretch. You’d slowly start walking on slippery sand while being enveloped by dense trees. So, while you enjoy the trees’ shade watch your step. You’ll soon cross two massive boulders.
The last climb involves a boulder. This one would be slightly challenging as you’d have to place your legs and hands onto the rocky surface carefully. When we went, a support rope was detached. Thus it took us a while to do the climb. If you’re trekking with a group you can take each others’ help and make the process easy. On hiking further up, you’ll reach the summit. The return is the same route down.
At The Chinaga Betta Summit:
The stand-alone pillar tied with a red ribbon marks the summit of Chinaga betta. Enjoy the 360° views of surrounding settlements, hills, base temple, and the hiking trail.
Important Things To Remember
- A strict guide is not required to hike Chinaga Betta.
- The use of plastics and smoking is strictly prohibited. As a hiker, it is incumbent on you to be responsible and not litter. Collect and bring back the waste with you and dispose of them in proper dedicated bins.
- Illegal trekking is strictly prohibited.
- There is no water stream or shops once you start hiking.
- Monkeys are found at the start of the trail. Beware of your belongings and feed them only fruits. Read the blog to learn how to deal with the monkeys.
Essential Things To Carry
- Ensure you carry at least 1 L of water per person. Also, carry other liquids, such as fruit juices or simple electrolytes.
- Take some energy bars and snacks.
- Have your first aid kit handy.
- Cap, sunscreen & sunglasses are essential to ward off the summer heat.
- Carry a poncho or raincoat in case of rain.
- Above all, ensure you wear comfortable shoes with good traction and grip.
Read the blog to know more about what we usually carry for day hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a guide required for the Chinaga Betta trek?
The probability of getting lost in the Chinaga Betta hike is nil. The straight visible route will lead you to the summit. The trail is well-marked with direction arrows. Hence, a guide is not required to hike Chinaga Betta. However, you can use this guide to reach the place.
Is camping allowed in Chinaga Betta?
No, camping is strictly not allowed in Chinaga Betta.
Is a GPS file required to hike Chinaga Betta?
The hiking path is visible and straight, so you don’t require a GPS file. If you need a GPS file, drop an email to hello@twinsontoes.com
Can the Chinaga Betta hike be done in a day?
Chinaga Betta is usually done as a day hike. One day is enough to hike Chinaga Betta. You can return to Bangalore or your place of stay on the same day.
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