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Are you a trekking enthusiast, an avid history and structure lover, or an adventure junkie? Then this trek to Channarayana Durga Fort is to your taste. This stands out among other famous Karnataka treks because of the magnificent strategic fort situated at a height of 3734 feet, bringing back the era of the 17th century to life.

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek is a scenic one-day trek located near Tumkur in Karnataka. This fort is perched atop a rocky hill at an elevation of 1,188 meters above sea level. 

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The fort’s history dates back to the 17th century, when it was built by Channappa Gowda, who named it after the deity Chennakeshava. Later, the fort came under the rule of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before the British took over. Today, the ruins of the fort still stand tall on the hilltop.

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek involves a moderate 4 km uphill climb through rocky terrain. Trekkers need to traverse through thorny bushes and boulders to reach the top. The highlight is the breathtaking 360-degree views of the plains below from the fort.

Also Read: 10 Best Fort Treks in Maharashtra for 2024

Getting to the Starting Point

The trek starts from Channarayana Durga Fort, which is located around 85 km from Bangalore near Tumkur. There are a few different ways to get to the starting point from Bangalore:

By Bus: There are regular KSRTC buses from Bangalore (Majestic bus stand) to Tumkur. From Tumkur, you can take a local bus or hire an autorickshaw to reach Channarayana Durga Fort, which is around 15 km away.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Tumkur, which has regular trains from Bangalore. The Shatabdi Express covers the distance in around 1.5 hours. From Tumkur station, you can take a bus or autorickshaw to reach the fort.  

By Car: You can drive from Bangalore to Channarayana Durga Fort via NH-48. It’s an 85 km drive and takes around 2 hours. If you are driving, this is the most convenient way to reach the starting point.

Two-Wheeler: If you are riding from Bangalore, take the NH-48. It’s a nice ride through villages and small towns. Make sure your bike is serviced before the ride.

Tumkur is the nearest major town, which is well connected to Bangalore by bus and train. From Tumkur, you need to cover 15-odd km to reach Channarayana Durga Fort, the starting point of the trek.

Also Read: 8 Most Beautiful Trekking Places in Himachal Pradesh

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek Route

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek starts from Nandi Hills, located around 60 km from Bangalore. This is a popular hill station that serves as the base for many treks in the region. The trekking route begins at the Nandi Hills entrance. You will walk on a tar road that passes along the backside of the Nandi Hills. After around 1 km, a small trail diverts left from the road into a forested area. This muddy and uneven trail winds through thick vegetation and small clearings for another kilometer. 

At the top of this climb is a small clearing and the first viewpoints of the surrounding hills and valleys. From here, the trail continues along the ridge, alternating between forest cover and open areas. You will pass an ancient temple and ruins of fort walls along the way. After around 2.5 km from the start, the trail reaches the summit, which has an old temple and stunning 360-degree views. This completes the 3- to 4-hour trek.

Also Read: Top Trekking Destinations in India for Adventure Lovers

Channarayana Durga Fort Trek Duration

The total duration of the Channarayana Durga Fort Trek is around 4-5 hours. This includes the time taken for both the ascent and descent. 

The ascent to the peak takes about 2-3 hours. The trail is steep and requires some climbing in parts, which increases the effort and time required to reach the top. Most trekkers can make the ascent in 2.5 to 3 hours.

The descent back takes about 1-2 hours. Going downhill is easier and quicker than climbing up. With some careful footing, most people can make the descent in 1 to 1.5 hours. So in total, the climb up and return will take around 4-5 hours for most trekkers doing this adventure. Carry enough food and water for this duration when attempting the Channarayana Durga Fort Trek.

Also Read: 8 Famous Treks in Maharashtra for Hiking This Summer

Channarayana Durga Fort Trek Difficulty

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek is considered moderately difficult. The total trek distance is around 16 km, with the ascent being gradual but steady. The trail is mostly rocky and uneven. Trekkers need an average level of fitness to complete this trek without much difficulty. 

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Some key aspects regarding the trek difficulty are:

• The total elevation gain during the ascent is around 1000 feet. The highest point is Channarayana Durga Peak at 4,300 feet.
• The trek requires 5-6 hours to complete one way. This includes ample breaks in between. The pace is moderate.
• There are no extremely steep climbs, but you need to be prepared for constant ascents and descents throughout. The trail is also exposed to the sun at times.
• Good cardiorespiratory fitness is recommended. If you work out 3-4 days a week, you can comfortably do this trek. Prior hiking experience helps.
• Good muscle strength in the legs will help while trekking uphill and negotiating the rocks. Core body strength provides stability.
• No technical climbing skills are required. Basic fitness suffices if you trek at a steady pace.

Also Read: Top 10 Treks of Uttarakhand for Summer of 2024

Best Time for the Channarayana Durga Fort Trek

The best time for the Channarayana Durga Fort Trek is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking. Why? October to December is a good time as the monsoon rains would have receded, leaving the hills lush green and fresh. The temperatures are moderate. January to March is also favorable, as winters set in and the days are relatively cool.

During the October to March window, daytime temperatures range from around 20°C to 30°C. The nights can be cooler, dropping to 10°C or lower at higher altitudes. You can expect mostly clear skies, though some winter fog is possible. The chances of rainfall are low, which aids trekking.

Summers from April to June should be avoided, as it gets very hot. Monsoons from July to September bring heavy rains that can hamper the trek.

Also Read: Top 10 Adrenaline Pumping Things to Do in Lonavala Hill Station

Food Options

The food options during the Channarayana Durga Fort Trek are quite limited. Since this trek goes through remote hills and villages, there are no restaurants or shops along the way. Trekkers need to carry their own food supplies with them. It’s advisable to pack ready-to-eat snacks like energy bars, fruits, sandwiches, nuts, etc. that don’t require any cooking. Carrying a packed lunch for the first day is also a good idea. 

There are a few local shops in the villages along the way where you can get biscuits, chips, and bottled water. However, it’s not guaranteed that these shops will be open or well-stocked. So relying on them for food is not recommended. 

Once you complete the trek and get back to the starting point of Dodda Alada Mara, there are a couple of restaurants where you can have a hearty meal. Hotel Mayura serves local Karnataka-style vegetarian thalis. For non-vegetarian food, the Channarayana Durga Non-Veg Restaurant is a good option with chicken and mutton biryanis. There are also a few small local tea stalls here that serve snacks like vada pav, samosa, etc.

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Trek Essentials

Clothing

1. T-shirt/Top – Quick dry t-shirt that wicks sweat away from the body. Avoid cotton.
2. Trek pants – Lightweight and quick dry. Convertible pants work well.
3. Jacket – Lightweight windproof jacket. Temperatures can drop at higher elevations.  
4. Socks – Avoid cotton socks. Choose wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks.
5. Trekking shoes – Sturdy shoes with good ankle support and tread. Waterproof shoes are recommended.

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Gear

1. Backpack – 25-35 liters capacity. Make sure it fits well and distributes weight effectively.
2. Trekking poles – Helpful for navigating uphill and downhill sections. Also good for stability.
3. Headlamp – Essential for early morning starts or unforeseen delays. Bring extra batteries.
4. Water bottle/hydration pack – At least 1 liter capacity. Hydration is vital. 
5. Whistle – Useful for signaling location in case of emergency.
6. First aid kit – painkillers, antiseptic cream, bandages, and more

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Supplies to Carry

1. Snacks – Trail mix, protein bars, dry fruits, etc. Avoid chocolate as it melts.
2. Extra food – Packed lunch and high-energy snacks. Replenish calories burned.
3. Water – Always carry extra. Dehydration is a real risk.
4. Sun protection – Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to prevent sunburn.
5. Toilet paper – Scarce facilities mean this is a necessity. 
6. Plastic bags – For trash and to waterproof gear in case of rain.
7. ID proof – Carry original ID card or documentation.
8. Cash – Small change for local transactions. ATMs are limited.
9. Map – Though the route is straightforward, having a map as a backup is recommended.

Also Read: Top 6 Adventurous Things to Do in East Sikkim

Lace up your boots.

The Channarayana Durga Fort Trek is not just a trek; it’s a journey that immerses you in history, culture, and nature, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So lace up your boots, pack your bags, and set forth on this unforgettable adventure that promises to take you on a voyage of discovery and awe.

As you plan your adventure to Channarayana Durga Fort, remember to pack essentials, including food, water, and trekking gear, to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. The best time to trek is from October to March, when you can enjoy the moderate temperatures and clear skies that enhance the trekking experience.

Stay tuned for more adventure guides from Salam Travellers.