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Are you looking for a quick escape from Bangalore? A day trip to DD Hills or Devarayanadurga is what you need! With its lush greenery, serene temples, and breathtaking viewpoints, DD Hills is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Having spent a day exploring the DD Hills, we can confidently say that this destination offers a refreshing break from city life. But before you pack your bags and hit the road, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your day trip.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know for a day trip to DD Hills from Bangalore!

DD hills or Devarayanadurga: A Day Trip from Bangalore

How To Reach Devarayanadurga From Bangalore?

By Train

The nearest railway station is Tumkur railway station (Station code: TK, 20 Km from DD Hills). There are a lot of passenger trains commuting from the Majestic Railway station, Bangalore. From the station, you have to take an auto or bus to reach DD Hills.

By Road

There are numerous BMTC buses from Majestic bus terminus to Tumkur. From Tumkur, you need to hop on another bus to reach Devarayanadurga. The frequency of the buses from Tumkur to DD hills is less.

The ideal way to reach Devarayanadurga or DD hills is by road using your personal/hired transport. Search for Yoganarasimha Swami temple parking on the map. This will lead you straight to the parking area from where you can start climbing the steps.

Things To Do In Devarayanadurga

Devarayanadurga which translates to “the hill of God” is also a famous pilgrim place located in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. This place is also frequented by bike lovers from Bangalore.

Devarayanadurga cannot be considered as a trek or hike, but rather a good road trip with family and kids.

Please note that during weekends and public holidays, it is extremely crowded. It is better to go during the weekdays to avoid crowds. And there are so many monkeys around. They are very notorious for snatching your food.

Devarayanadurga Trip Details

Distance from Bangalore and Tumkur

DD Hills or Devarayana Durga is located about 73 Km from Bangalore city and 17 Km from Tumkur.

Entry fee

There is no entry fee. You can visit Devarayanadurga for free. Special Pooja to the deity will be done for Rs. 30

Registration

No prior online registration is required.

Camping

Camping is strictly not allowed in DD Hills.

Devarayanadurga Temple Timings

The Yoga Narasimha Swamy temple located at the hilltop opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM. However, you can reach the hilltop early in the morning for an epic sunrise and good weather.

The Sri Bhoga Lakshmi Narayana Swamy temple is located at the base of the hills and opens at 8:30 AM. Many pilgrims park their vehicles over here and climb stairs to reach the top.

Trip Duration

It takes about 30 – 40 mins (one way) to reach the top. A day trip to the DD Hills easily takes half a day.

Summit Height

The DD Hills or Devarayanadurga is located at an altitude of 1201 m above sea level.

How To Reach The Top of DD Hills?

DD hill top can be reached in two ways. You can either climb the flight of stairs up from the base of the hill or utilize the well-laid roads until about 75% of the hill and climb around 200 steps to reach the top.

Places to Stop Enroute

You can stop for a few minutes and admire the Devarayana Durga lake, en route. The view of the clear water reflecting the trees is the epitome of aesthetic beauty. We highly recommend that you make enough time to soak in the serene views.

The Devarayanadurga Fort can be found after the parking lot while climbing the flight of stairs leading to the top. 

DD Hills Viewpoints

There are 3 viewpoints alongside the trail that you shouldn’t miss.

• To the left side of the shop, you can find chairs facing the view of the guest house (This viewpoint is a must-see).
• To the right of the fort arch and the Garudaanjaneya Temple with red-colored gates.
• View of the temple from the guest house road.

There is also a picturesque viewpoint worth visiting nearby. But, please be very careful as it is a steep cliff.

At The DD Hills Summit

Just before 5-10 steps to the temple, you can keep your footwear in the dedicated shoe rack for Rs.3 per pair. The summit of DD Hills is the Yoga Narasimha Swamy temple.

The Yoga Narasimha temple is said to be about 2000+ years dedicated to Lord Yoga Narasimha and Goddess Lakshmi. A sacred pond, known as “Kalyani Theertham” is also situated nearby. In recent times, people are no longer permitted to climb the Kumbi Hills, which is beyond the temple.

Note: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.

Festivals Celebrated

The “Narasimha Jayanthi”, a festival that commemorates the incarnation of Lord Narasimha is celebrated in grand manner in May every year.

The “Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Jathra”, a car or chariot festival is celebrated every year in the month of Phalguni on full moon day (March or April). 

Thousands of devotees from Tumkur, Bangalore, and other nearby places gather to celebrate these festivals and to see the beautifully decorated idols on these auspicious days.

Best Time To Visit

Devarayanadurga is popular among devotees all year round. Although the temple opens at 10 AM, you can go early and enjoy the climate in the morning.

Network Availability

Only Jio works in DD Hills. Airtel and BSNL connection is non-existent during this trial.

ATM Availability

No ATM is available nearby. Although the shops present in the region do accept online payments. However, it is a good practice to carry some cash with you, they come in handy for parking fees.

Languages Spoken

The native language, Kannada, is the only language spoken by the people of the region.

Parking Availability

Parking space is available at the road’s end and this is also the place where vendors sell snacks and drinks. During weekends, parking fees are collected.

Restroom Facilities

A public restroom is available near the parking lot.

Where To Eat?

There are about 4 to 5 shops where you can buy pooja items, cool drinks, and snacks. These shops are spread at the base, a few at the parking lot, and a few at the hill top.

Places To Visit Near DD Hills

On your way back to Bangalore, just 20 Km from the DD hills are the famous Jain temple of Mandaragiri and the Mandaragiri Digambar Jain Basadi, the popular peacock building. You can also visit Shivagange which is just 29 Km.

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