Skandagiri Sunrise Trek Experience | goChaarana
On June 14, 2025 by adminSkandagiri Trek had been on my list for a long time, especially because of its reputation as one of the best sunrise treks near Bangalore. The idea of trekking at night, walking through forest trails under a starry sky, and witnessing the sunrise above the clouds sounded irresistible. So when I finally booked the trek with goChaarana, I knew it was going to be special.
Also known as Kalavara Durga, Skandagiri is located in the Chikkaballapur district, around 70 km from Bangalore, making it a perfect weekend escape for beginners, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
The Journey Begins—Late Night Departure from Bangalore
Our journey started late at night with pickups across Bangalore. I boarded the goChaarana vehicle, excited and slightly sleepy, but the energy inside quickly changed that.
As usual, the trek lead initiated a fun introduction and ice-breaking session. Strangers slowly turned into familiar faces as we shared where we were from, why we love trekking, and what brought us here. The city lights faded behind us as we headed toward the hills, carrying excitement for the sunrise ahead.
Reaching the Base & Trek Briefing
By around 4:30 AM, we reached the Skandagiri trek base near Shri Veerabrahmendra Swamy Matha. The air was cool, calm, and refreshing—completely different from the city.
Our trek leader conducted a quick safety briefing, explained the trail conditions, and ensured everyone was ready. Since Skandagiri is a regulated trek, permits had already been arranged in advance, making the process smooth and hassle-free.
With headlamps on and hearts racing, we were ready to begin.
The Night Trek – Forests, Fort Ruins & Rocky Trails
At around 5:30 AM, we started the night trek to Skandagiri Peak. The trail is about 4 km one way and gradually ascends through:
- Forest paths
- Rocky patches
- Ancient fort ruins
- Muddy sections (especially during monsoon and winter)
Walking in silence under the stars, with only torchlight guiding the path, was a surreal experience. Occasional conversations, the sound of footsteps, and the cool mountain breeze made the climb enjoyable yet adventurous.
As we gained altitude, the landscape slowly opened up, offering faint glimpses of the valley below.
Sunrise Above the Clouds—The Skandagiri Moment
By around 6:30 AM, we reached the Skandagiri summit—just in time.
What followed was pure magic.
The sun slowly rose from behind the clouds, painting the sky in shades of orange and gold. Thick clouds floated below us, creating the famous “above the clouds” sunrise that Skandagiri is known for. The cool breeze, silence of the hills, and glowing horizon made the moment unforgettable.
We spent time soaking in the views, clicking photos, and simply being present.
At the summit, we also explored the ancient Skandagiri Fort ruins and visited the Shiva temple, which added a peaceful, spiritual touch to the experience.
From the peak, we could spot surrounding hill ranges like Nandi Hills, Channagiri, and Kaurava Kunda—a rewarding sight after the climb.
The Descent & Breakfast Break
Around 7:30 AM, we began our descent back to the base. With daylight fully in, the trail looked completely different—green patches, rocky paths, and scenic viewpoints that we had crossed in darkness earlier.
By 9:15 AM, we reached the base safely. After freshening up, we headed to a nearby restaurant and enjoyed a hot South Indian breakfast, which tasted extra good after the trek.
By around 12:00 PM, we were back in Bangalore—tired, happy, and carrying memories that would last far longer than the journey itself.
Final Thoughts—Why Skandagiri Is Special
The Skandagiri Sunrise Trek is more than just a trek—it’s an experience.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, Skandagiri offers:
- A thrilling night trek
- Stunning sunrise above the clouds
- A mix of history, nature, and adventure
- A perfect one-day escape from Bangalore
With goChaarana, everything—from permits and safety to guidance and transport—was well organized, making the trek smooth and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a refreshing, short, and memorable trek near Bangalore, Skandagiri should definitely be on your list.
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