Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta is one of the popular hikes in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. It is known for the aerial view of Adiyogi. We hiked the Kaurava Kunda peak as a day trip from Bangalore. The hike was filled with lush landscapes and the rewarding sight of the majestic Adiyogi.
From the start to the summit, we’ve captured every detail of our hike. Join us as we share our personal insights, tips, and everything you need to know to trek to Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta.
DIY Hiking Guide to Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta
Table of Contents
How To Reach Kaurava Kunda from Bangalore?
By Road
Direct buses from the Majestic KSRTC bus stand to Kaurava Kunda are not available. From the Majestic KSRTC bus stand (platform 1A), you have to board a bus to Chikkaballapur first and then take another bus from Chikkaballapur bus stand to Adiyogi (INR 30).
Alternatively, from the Chikkaballapur bus stand, you can hop on an auto for INR 50 per person for one way.
Get down at the trailhead (boulder route) if you are choosing auto. If you own a private vehicle, you can start the hike from the Sonennahalli village (steps route).
If you are traveling by Adiyogi bus, walk back to the trailhead for about 3 Km which means the distance between the starting point of the hike and Adiyogi is about 3 Km.
By Train
Chikkaballapur Railway Station (Station code: CBP) is the nearest railway station close to Kaurava Kunda. Six trains leave from different parts of Bangalore to Chikkaballapur. These trains run from Monday to Saturday and not on Sundays.
We recommend boarding train 06387 (KSR Bengaluru – Kolar DEMU Special) which leaves KSR Bengaluru railway station at 8:35 AM. From the Chikkaballapur railway station, walk towards the KSRTC bus stand just 750 m away and follow the road route.
Get down at Adiyogi and walk to the trailhead or hire an auto to reach the starting point of the hike.
Kaurava Kunda Hike Details
Distance to the Base
68 Km from Bangalore
Cost
Free of cost. There is no entry fee or forest charges for the Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta hike.
Registration
No registration or pre-online booking is required.
Timings
No restrictions. It is open 24*7. However, it is not safe to hike at night.
Duration
1-2 Hours for the ascend, and 40 to 60 minutes for the descend.
Summit Height
The Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta peak lies at an altitude of 1244 m. You will gain an elevation of about 275 m from the Adiyogi main roadside (969 m) and 294 m from the Sonennahalli village.
Hike Distance
1.5 Km one way
Difficulty Level
Moderate – highly subjected to your fitness level.
Terrain
Grasslands, waterfall, valley, and stones.
Hiking Route
The trek can be started from two places – either from the main road (boulder route) or the Sonennahalli village (steps route). Both trails join together at the Sri Hari Harapura Kauravakunda Betta temple en route.
We chose to go by the boulder route. After reaching the temple, move towards the boulder on the left.
Carefully walk on the steep boulder and join the visible trail route. After a short ascend, you will come across another boulder, but not as challenging as the previous one.
Climb the boulder and join the visible trail again. The trail splits shortly thereafter. The trail on the right is frequently visited and the route is fairly visible. On the other hand, if you choose to go left, you will have to figure out the path in some places.
Better choose the right trail and follow the visible path toward the flat terrain. Walk towards the right to see the aerial view of the iconic Adiyogi.
You have to climb further up to reach the summit of Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta. The last stretch is steep and slippery. Ascend carefully and take breaks if needed. The visible path will guide you to the hilltop.
At The Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta Summit:
From the Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta summit (cover picture at the top), you can see the two most popular peaks – Skandagiri and Nandi Hills. Numerous lakes, Chikkaballabur town, and surrounding settlements can also be seen.
Unlike the other hills nearby, it doesn’t have a temple or fort or any shelter at the hilltop. It has a few trees for shade. There are no ideal markings to indicate the summit of the peak.
Kaurava Kunda is perfect for watching the sunrise. You can camp at the hilltop for the night and descend the next day.
Get down at Adiyogi and walk to the trailhead or hire an auto to reach the starting point of the hike.
Network Availability
Both Airtel and Jio had intermittent signals for most part of the trial. Comparatively, Jio worked better.
ATM Availability
An ATM is available near Adiyogi. The shops in the region accept online UPI payments. As the Kaurava Kunda trek has no entry fees, cash is not required. However, we recommend you carry cash.
Languages Spoken
Kannada is the only language spoken by the people of the region. Due to the increasing number of tourists, many people can converse in Hindi. English is spoken by a very few people.
Parking Availability
There is no dedicated parking space available in the region. If you start from Sonennahalli village, people park close to the lake.
If you’re starting from the boulder route, you can ride your two-wheeler (off-road bike) up until the Harihara Temple and start your hike from there. Four-wheelers need to be parked at the base.
Restroom Facilities
There are no restrooms at the base or on the trail. You are dependent on nature throughout the hike.
Best Time to Visit
Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta trek can be visited throughout the year. The best time to visit the Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta trek is during the early morning hours when the weather is perfect for hiking. Refrain from hiking during the peak monsoon season or if it rains heavily.
Where to Eat?
Restaurants are available near Isha Foundation Adiyogi. Many stalls and shops can be seen en route to the Adi Yogi. A few shops are located in the Sonennahalli village as well.
We recommend you carry some water and snacks before starting the Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta hike.
Where to Stay?
We visited Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta as a day trip from Bangalore. Ravi Hills Homestay in the Sonennahalli village is the closest property. Here are a few other recommendations close by.
- Sri Krishna Inn ($)
- Bloom Hotel Bengaluru Airport ($$)
- Summer House Nandi Foothills ($$)
- Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills – a Tribute Portfolio Resort ($$$)
- JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa ($$$)
Important Things to Remember
- 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.
- No monkeys were found in the region.
Essential Things To Carry
- Ensure you carry at least 1L of water per person.
- Take sufficient snacks and energy bars.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a guide required for the Kaurava Kunda or Harihara trek?
A guide is not mandatory to hike the Harihara Betta or Kaurava Kunda. You can do the hike on your own. There are no trail markings yet a visible route can be seen. It is better to use a GPX file while hiking. The route is marked on the OSMAND maps which you can use for reference.
Is camping allowed in Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta?
Yes, camping is allowed in Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta. It is one of the best camping spots near Bengaluru. You can pitch your tent and stay at the top. Be aware that there are no shelters.
What are the places to visit around Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta?
Isha Foundation Adiyogi Shiva statue is located very close by. Other places in Chikkaballapur include Nandi Hills, Skandagiri Betta, and Gudibande, to name a few.
If you find this blog helpful in planning your trip to Kaurava Kunda or Harihara Betta Peak, share it with your friends and family.
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