Skandagiri Trek from Bangalore: A Complete Guide (2025)

Published: 3 Jul 2025

Looking for a peaceful break from the busy streets of Bangalore? The Skandagiri trek is the perfect weekend adventure. Just a short drive away, this early morning trek takes you above the clouds.

People love it for one reason: the sunrise. It’s magical. As the sun rises over the hills, the whole sky lights up in shades of orange and pink. You feel like you are standing above the world.

This guide will help you plan the Skandagiri trek from Bangalore step-by-step. You will learn how to reach the base, when to go, what to carry and some helpful tips if it’s your first time. Ready to catch the sunrise? Let’s get started!

Table of Content

How to Reach Skandagiri from Bangalore
Skandagiri Trek Details– What to Expect
Best Time to Visit Skandagiri
Skandagiri Trek Permissions & Entry Fee
What to Carry for the Skandagiri Trek
Tips for First-Time Trekkers
Real-Life Skandagiri Trekking Story
Conclusion
FAQs About Skandagiri Trek from Bangalore

How to Reach Skandagiri from Bangalore

Getting to Skandagiri is easy. It’s around 60 kilometers from Bangalore and the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

You can go by:

Car or bike – Most people prefer driving early in the morning.
Cab – You can book an Uber or Ola for a round trip.
Private vehicle with friends – A group ride makes it more fun!

📍 Exact Location:

Skandagiri is near Chikkaballapur, just a few minutes from Kalavara village. From there, you will find the base of the trek.

You can use Google Maps and search for:
“Skandagiri Sunrise Trek Starting Point” – It will take you straight to the base.

Tip: Start from Bangalore around 1:30 AM if you want to catch the sunrise on time.

Skandagiri Trek Details– What to Expect

The Skandagiri trek is a popular sunrise trail near Bangalore. It’s short, scenic and filled with a mix of forest paths, rocky steps and open hills. You don’t need to be super fit but you should be ready for a bit of a workout.

Here’s everything you need to know before you hit the trail:

Trek Distance & Duration

Total distance: Around 5 to 6 km one way (10–12 km round trip)
Trek time: It usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the top, depending on your pace
Return time: Coming down is faster and it takes 1 to 1.5 hours
You will spend some time at the top, so plan for 3.5 to 4 hours total.

Trek Difficulty Level

Level: Moderate
Good for first-timers but it can be a bit tiring.
The path is natural with uneven stones, steep parts and a few tricky spots.
There’s no railing or support, so walk carefully, especially in the dark.

Real-life tip: If you have not trekked before, take small breaks and carry water. Many beginners complete it comfortably.

Best Time to Start the Trek

To catch the sunrise, timing is everything.

Start the trek by 3:00 AM or 3:30 AM from the base
You will reach the top just before sunrise which is usually between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM.
It’s dark at that time, so bring a torch or headlamp.

Why so early? The sunrise from Skandagiri is the main attraction. On clear days, you will see the sky turn golden with clouds floating below. It feels like standing above the world.

Trail Experience

The trail begins with a narrow forest path.
Then it opens into rocky hills with a great view of nearby valleys.
At some spots, you’ll need to climb carefully using both hands.
There are old ruins and a temple at the top, perfect for resting and taking photos.

Trekking Rules

Only day trekking is allowed (between 4 AM and 5 PM).
You need a forest entry pass which must be booked online.
Guides may be available at the base, but not always. Go in a group for safety.

Best Time to Visit Skandagiri

You can visit Skandagiri almost any time of the year but some months are better than others. The weather, visibility and trail conditions can change a lot depending on the season.

✅ Best Months: November to March

The weather is cool and pleasant.
You will get clear skies and a better chance to see the sunrise above the clouds.
The trail is dry, so it’s easier and safer to climb.

Example: Most trekkers plan this hike between December and February, when the sunrise view is at its best. The misty mornings feel magical!

☀️ Summer (April to June)

The weather gets warmer, especially after sunrise.
You can still do the trek early in the morning.
Carry more water and wear a cap to avoid heat.

🌧️ Monsoon (July to September)

Not a good time to trek.
The trail gets slippery and risky due to rain.
Cloudy skies may block the sunrise view.

Tip: Avoid trekking during heavy rain or stormy days. Safety should always come first.

Skandagiri Trek Permissions & Entry Fee

To trek at Skandagiri, you need permission from the Forest Department. This helps in protecting the area and managing crowds.

Is Permission Required?

Yes. You must book an entry pass online before the trek. If you don’t have one, the guards at the base will stop you.

Entry Fee (Approximate)

Indian Citizens: ₹250 to ₹500 per person
Foreign Nationals: May be slightly higher (check the booking portal)
Sometimes, prices change during weekends or public holidays.

Note: This fee includes forest entry and maintenance charges.

Where to Book

You can book your pass through the Karnataka Eco-Tourism website.
Website: https://myecotrip.com

Choose Skandagiri Hill Sunrise Trek
Select your date and number of people
Pay online and carry a digital or printed copy of the receipt

ID Required

Carry a valid photo ID like an Aadhar card or driving license. You will need it at the entry checkpoint.

Walk-in Entry Not Allowed

You can’t just show up and start the trek. Only pre-booked visitors are allowed.
If you forget to book, you will be sent back.

📝 Pro tip: Book your slot at least 2–3 days in advance, especially on weekends. Only a limited number of people are allowed each day.

What to Carry for the Skandagiri Trek

Packing smart can make your trek safe and fun. You don’t need a lot but a few essentials will help you enjoy the early morning climb.

Trekking shoes– The trail is rocky, so wear good grip shoes.
Water bottle– At least 1 litre. There are no shops on the trail.
Headlamp or torch– You will be trekking in the dark, so light is a must.
Jacket or hoodie– It gets cold before sunrise, especially at the top.
Snacks– Carry light food like bananas, energy bars or dry fruits.
Backpack– Small and comfortable. Keep your hands free while climbing.
Power bank– For your phone or torch, just in case.
Trekking permit & ID– Carry a print or screenshot of your booking, and your photo ID.

Tips for First-Time Trekkers

If it’s your first time trekking Skandagiri, these tips will help you stay safe and enjoy every step.

Start early, reach before sunrise
Begin the trek around 3:00 AM to reach the peak by sunrise. It’s dark, so starting early gives you enough time to climb slowly and safely.
Wear good trekking shoes
The trail has rocks and loose soil. Shoes with good grip will keep you steady and prevent slipping.
Don’t trek alone
Always go with a group or a friend. It’s safer, more fun and helpful in case of any trouble on the trail.
Keep your torch handy
The first part of the trek is in the pitch dark. A headlamp or hand torch will help you stay on the path.
Follow the marked trail
Stick to the main path and follow other trekkers. Avoid shortcuts because they can be risky and confusing in the dark.
Carry only what’s needed
A heavy bag will slow you down. Pack light and bring only the essentials like water, snacks and ID.
Respect nature and don’t litter
Carry back your waste. Let’s keep Skandagiri clean and beautiful for others too.
Book your permit in advance
Spots are limited each day. Booking early avoids last-minute disappointment at the entry gate.

Real-Life Skandagiri Trekking Story

Here’s a real story from Rohit, a weekend trekker from Bangalore:

“We left Bangalore at around 1:30 AM in our car and reached the Skandagiri base by 3:00 AM. The road was quiet and smooth. We had booked our forest pass online, so getting past the check post was easy.

The trek started in complete darkness. We used headlamps to follow the narrow path through the forest. There were small groups ahead and behind us, which helped us stay on track. The trail was steep in some parts but we took short breaks to catch our breath.

By 5:15 AM, we reached the top. It was cold and windy. Slowly, the sky turned orange. At 6:00 AM, the sunrise began, golden light spread across the sky and clouds floated below us like a soft white carpet. Everyone just stood there quietly, watching. It was one of the best views I’ve ever seen in my life.

After taking photos and resting, we started the descent at around 7:30 AM. It was easier coming down and the view in daylight was beautiful. We reached the base by 9:00 AM, had breakfast in a local shop and drove back to the city. By noon, we were home with tired legs and happy hearts.”

📝 Moral of the story: Prepare well, start early and enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

Conclusion

The Skandagiri trek from Bangalore is one of the best ways to enjoy nature, adventure and a stunning sunrise, all in one trip. It’s close to the city, beginner-friendly and gives you a peaceful break from your daily routine.

Just plan ahead, book your permit and pack wisely. Whether you go with friends or join a group, this trek will give you memories that last long after the sun rises.

So, are you ready to chase the clouds this weekend?

FAQs About Skandagiri Trek from Bangalore

Here are frequently asked questions:

Is Skandagiri safe for solo trekkers?

It’s generally safe if you have the proper permit and start with other groups. The trail is dark in the early morning, so it’s best not to go completely alone. If you are solo, try joining a guided group for safety and company.

Can I camp overnight at the top of Skandagiri?

No, camping at the top is not allowed. The forest department only permits day treks from early morning to evening. You will need to descend after watching the sunrise.

Are washrooms available during the trek?

No, there are no washrooms on the trekking trail or at the peak. You may find basic facilities near the starting point, so plan accordingly before starting the trek.

Can kids or older people do the Skandagiri trek?

Yes but only if they are healthy and comfortable with walking uphill. The trail has steep and rocky parts, so it’s better suited for teens and adults with moderate fitness.

Is food available during the trek?

There are no shops or food stalls along the trail. It’s best to eat something light before the trek and carry dry snacks and water with you.

What if I miss booking the forest entry pass?

Without a valid entry pass, you won’t be allowed to trek. Booking in advance is necessary as walk-ins are not accepted and slots may fill up quickly.

What time should I leave Bangalore for the trek?

Leave around 1:30 AM if you’re driving. This will give you enough time to reach the base, check in and start the trek by 3:00 AM to catch the sunrise.

Is there mobile network coverage on the trail?

You may get weak or no signal at some points on the trail, especially in forested areas. It’s best to download maps or inform someone before starting the trek.

Do I need a guide for the Skandagiri trek?

Not always but it can help if you are unfamiliar with trekking or going for the first time. The trail is usually clear and busy on weekends, so you can follow the crowd if needed.

Are pets allowed on the Skandagiri trek?

No, pets are not allowed on this trail. The forest area is protected and rules don’t permit animals for safety and wildlife reasons.