Savandurga at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Karnataka |
| Famous For | monolith, trekking, Bangalore |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 1 day minimum |
| Language | Kannada, Hindi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), 65km from Savandurga |
| Nearest Railway | Doddaballapur (DBU) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Savandurga: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Savandurga is a massive monolith hill located near Bangalore, Karnataka. It's considered one of the largest monolith hills in Asia, attracting trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
Savandurga offers a challenging yet rewarding trek with panoramic views. However, the trek can be strenuous, especially during the hotter months. The area lacks extensive tourist infrastructure, so plan accordingly.
Savandurga: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple | 07:00-19:00 daily | Free | Anytime during opening hours | Remove footwear before entering |
How to Reach Savandurga: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Savandurga: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Doddaballapur (DBU) — Limited trains, mostly local. Located about 20 km from Savandurga. Check train schedules on IRCTC.
- From Delhi: 30-40 hours (₹1500-4000)
- From Mumbai: 20-25 hours (₹1200-3500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Savandurga: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), 65km from Savandurga
- Delhi: 2.5 hours (₹3000-7000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹2500-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹1500-2500
- Uber/Ola: ₹1200-2000
directions_bus Bus to Savandurga: Services & Timings
- From Bangalore: 2 hours (₹200-400)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances. Limited direct bus options to Savandurga.
Best Time to Visit Savandurga: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 20-32 degrees C | The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and rock climbing. T | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: June to September | 25-35 degrees C | The landscape turns lush green, offering a different perspective. However, trekk | Check weather forecasts before plan |
| Avoid: April to May | 35-40 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the scorching heat, making trekking un | If you must visit, start early in t |
Peak season note: Slightly crowded on weekends; consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience. Book transportation in advance.
2-Day Savandurga Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Nature & Landscapes
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
⛰️ Savandurga Hill
Savandurga Hill is the main attraction, a massive monolith offering a challenging trek. The hill is divided into two parts: Karigu…
💡 Tip: Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Wear a hat to protect your
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
The Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at the foothills of Savandurga. It's a small, ancient temple dedicated to Lord Naras…
💡 Visit during the early morning or evening for a more serene experience.
🏛️ Savandurga Fort Ruins
The ruins of Savandurga Fort are scattered around the base and slopes of the hill. The fort was historically significant, having b…
💡 Look for remnants of the fort's architecture integrated into the natural landscape.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Manchanabele Dam
Manchanabele Dam is a scenic reservoir located a short drive from Savandurga. It's a popular spot for picnics and water sports.…
💡 Visit during the monsoon season to see the reservoir at its fullest.
Top Places to Visit in Savandurga: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⛰️ Savandurga Hill | Free | 4-6 hours | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 2 | 🙏 Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple | Free | 30 minutes | 07:00-19:00 daily |
| 3 | 🏛️ Savandurga Fort Ruins | Free | 1 hour | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 4 | 📍 Manchanabele Dam | Free | 2 hours | 08:00-17:00 daily |
| 5 | ⛰️ Biligudda Peak | Free | 3 hours | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 6 | ⛰️ Karigudda Peak | Free | 3-4 hours | Sunrise to Sunset |
⛰️ 1. Savandurga Hill
Savandurga Hill is the main attraction, a massive monolith offering a challenging trek. The hill is divided into two parts: Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill).
📍 Getting there: Private car or motorcycle is the most convenient option. Parking available near the base of the hill.
🙏 2. Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
The Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at the foothills of Savandurga. It's a small, ancient temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu.
Honest take: A quick and peaceful visit; worth a stop if you are at Savandurga.
📍 Getting there: Located at the base of Savandurga hill, easily accessible by car or motorcycle.
🏛️ 3. Savandurga Fort Ruins
The ruins of Savandurga Fort are scattered around the base and slopes of the hill. The fort was historically significant, having been ruled by various dynasties.
Honest take: Interesting for history buffs. Don't expect a well-preserved fort; it's mostly ruins.
📍 Getting there: Located on the way up the hill, accessible by foot.
Food & Restaurants in Savandurga: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Bisi Bele Bath, Ragi Roti, Mysore Masala Dosa, Thatte Idli
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Local Karnataka cuisine | ₹/₹₹ (₹200-400 for two) | Villages near Savandurga |
| Dosas and other South Indian snacks | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Highway towards Bangalore |
| Benne Masala Dosa | ₹₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Bangalore |
🛺 Street Food: Local Markets in Doddaballapur — Chaat items, Vada Pav, local snacks (₹50-150 per person)
Savandurga Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹10000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Savandurga: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramanagara | 30 km | ~30–40 min | — |
| Bangalore | 60 km | ~1–1.5 hrs | Bengaluru, Tech Hub, Gardens |
Hotels in Savandurga: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Shivas Galaxy Hotel
₹800-1200/night
Doddaballapur
OYO Rooms Near Savandurga
₹700-1000/night
Nearby towns
🏨 Mid-Range
Gokulam Grand Hotel & Spa Bangalore
₹2500-4000/night
Yeshwantpur, Bangalore (approx. 50 km from Savandurga)
Taj Yeshwantpur, Bangalore
₹3000-5000/night
Yeshwantpur, Bangalore (approx. 50 km from Savandurga)
⭐ Luxury
The Oberoi, Bengaluru
₹10000+/night
MG Road, Bangalore (approx. 60 km from Savandurga)
ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bengaluru
₹8000+/night
Residency Road, Bangalore (approx. 60 km from Savandurga)
Savandurga Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare beforehand or use ride-hailing apps.
- ✓ Fake guides: Hire guides from reputable sources or rely on online information. Be wary of unsolicited offers.
- ✓ Wear light, comfortable clothing suitable for trekking. Carry a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Doddaballapur and Bangalore. Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage in the area. SIM cards are readily available at airports and mobile stores. You'll need your passport and visa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Savandurga
How many days are enough for Savandurga?
1 day minimum is ideal for Savandurga. Day 1 covers Savandurga Hill, while Day 2 explores Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and Savandurga Fort Ruins.
What is Savandurga famous for?
Savandurga is famous for monolith, trekking, Bangalore.
What is the best time to visit Savandurga?
The best time to visit Savandurga is October to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for trekking. Clear skies offer excellent views from the summit.
Is Savandurga worth visiting?
Yes, Savandurga is worth visiting for monolith, trekking, Bangalore. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Ramanagara.
What is the budget for a trip to Savandurga?
A 2-day trip to Savandurga costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple?
Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is open 07:00-19:00 daily. Best time to visit: Anytime during opening hours.
What is the entry fee for Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple?
Entry fee at Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple?
Remove footwear before entering when visiting Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple.