Where to go Rock Climbing in Karnataka

Karnataka's landscape is dotted with open areas, hillocks and sturdy towering rock formations. These make for great spots to go rock climbing.

This article gives information on some of the Best Rock Climbing Areas in Karnataka:

1. Ramanagaram

The town of Ramanagaram is well-known for its exquisite handicrafts and stone carved artefacts. In fact, carpentary is one of the major small-scale industries in this rural town. Many tourists visit this town for its historic temples, such as the Arkeshwara Temple, the the Rameshwara shrine, etc. Even more popular are its many rock formations for both novice and professional rock climbers. The climbing grades vary from 5.8 to 5.11. The area was the center of the famous Hindi film 'Sholay', starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, and Amjad Khan. In the film Amjad Khan plays the role of dacoit named 'Gabbar'. Hence, one of the climbs is uniquely nicknamed 'Gabbar ki asli pasand' (Gabbar's true liking is the literal meaning)! Then there is the 'Kali' rock wall, named after Gabbar's henchman. All this adds a fun twist to a rock-climbing expedition.

How to get there: You can hire wheels to take you to Ramanagaram or hop aboard a KSTC Bus from Mysore or from Bengaluru (about 40kms).

2. Turahalli

This hillock attracts a lot of rock climbers, especially over the weekends, as the rock formations are great for beginners. There is a good trekking trail ideal for families. The hillock itself is a large boulder area located adjacent to the tiny village of Turahalli.

How to get there: You need to drive about 7-8km from the Banashankari temple, which is located at Cholachigud, near Badami, and then it is a further two-and-a-half km. from the Kanakpura main road.

3. Badami

The red sandstone of the rock formations here attracts rock climbers from India and abroad. It is a good idea to avoid the summer months as the rocks get very heated up and are not conducive for climbing. Also it is said that slithery snakes make their home here so you need to be extremely cautious about where you tread.

How to get there: You can take the KSTC buses either from Hubli (about 100kms) or from Bengaluru (about 500kms).

4. Kabbal Durga

This rocky hilltop is famous for its temple dedicated to Goddess KabbaLamma and the fort ruins at its peak. There are two bolted routes here as well as varied climbing routes.

How to get there: You can go via Bengaluru (about 75kms),Channapatna(22kms via the Bangalore-Mysore road),and Kanakapura (15kms - take diversion from Satnoor). It is best to go in your own wheels, as the KSTC buses are infrequent.

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