Jogimatti - Chitradurga's Hidden Gem

Jogimatti is a peaceful hill station near Chitradurga, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Located about 10 km from Chitradurga town, it offers a refreshing escape from city life. Its cool weather, lush greenery, and beautiful views make it ideal for a one-day trip or a quiet weekend getaway.

We started our journey to Jogimatti from Chitradurga after exploring the historic Chitradurga Kallina Kote the previous day. The drive took about 30 minutes. After passing through the checkpost, the road wasn't in great condition, but it was surrounded by dense forests and scenic landscapes. The narrow and rough road added to the sense of adventure.

If you're driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition because the uphill journey can be challenging.

Entry Fee:

- ₹25 per person
- ₹200 for a car
- ₹50 for a camera

Considering the road conditions and parking facilities, paying ₹200 for the car didn't seem worth it.

Jogimatti is named after a sage called "Jogimatti," who is said to have meditated here in ancient times.

There's a small viewpoint where you can enjoy panoramic views of the valleys below and the distant Chitradurga Fort. Unfortunately, we couldn't see the valley because it was a foggy day.

After spending some time near the peak, we returned to Chitradurga. If you're ever in the Chitradurga region, a visit to Jogimatti is a must.

There's also a waterfall called Himavad Rameshwara, which beautifully cascades down the hills during the monsoon. You need to walk about 1 km to reach it. If you visit during the monsoon season, the waterfall is in full flow and offers a stunning sight. Even though it wasn't at its peak during our visit, the lush green surroundings made the hike worthwhile.

Tips for Visitors:

- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (July to September) or winter months (November to February) when the weather is cool, and the waterfall is at its best.
- What to Carry: Since there are no shops or eateries on the hill, bring your own snacks, water, and essentials. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking most of the time.
- Respect Nature: Jogimatti is a pristine location, so please take back any waste and avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Jogimatti may not be as popular as other hill stations, but that's what makes it special. The untouched beauty, solitude, and opportunity to reconnect with nature are what I loved most about this place. It's a perfect getaway for those looking to escape city life or explore lesser-known gems of Karnataka.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or someone seeking peace, Jogimatti has something for everyone. The combination of trekking, serene scenery, and a glimpse into Karnataka's natural beauty makes it a destination worth exploring.

Chitradurga Fort

Exploring the Majestic Chitradurga Fort during the monsoon season had been on my wish list for a long time. This year, the area received plenty of rain, and it was quite a treat to experience the cool weather in Chitradurga!

We were in Chitradurga to celebrate Diayan's first birthday, with all our friends planning to join us. We decided to gather a day early and visit the "Chitradurga da Kallina Kote" as a group.

Our plan was to reach Chitradurga by 10:00 AM, quickly freshen up, and start exploring the fort by 11:00 AM. However, our captain, Naveen Katte, had other ideas. By the time we finally picked him up, it was already 1:30 PM. He kept us waiting near the bus stop for over an hour and a half, repeatedly saying, "Just 5 more minutes, I'll be there." 😜

About Chitradurga Fort:

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Chitradurga Fort is a historic marvel that resembles to India’s rich cultural heritage. Known locally as "Kallina Kote", this massive fort is located in the Chitradurga district, around 200 kilometers from Bangalore.

A Glimpse into History:

The Chitradurga Fort has a long and storied past. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, it was initially developed by the Chalukyas, Hoysalas and later expanded by the Nayakas of Chitradurga. The fort played a crucial role in defending the region against various invaders, including Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan.

The fort is an architectural wonder, spread over 1,500 acres with seven concentric walls, 18 ancient temples, 19 gateways, and a series of interconnected passages. Its unique design makes it almost impossible for invaders to breach. The rugged terrain, combined with the strategic placement of watchtowers, provided excellent defense.

Since we started late, we knew we wouldn’t be able to cover the entire fort (it takes at least a full day to explore this beautiful place). So, we tried to see as much as we could. The slippery rocks forced us to be careful with our steps, slowing us down.

We also met Jyoti Raj, an Indian free solo climber from Chitradurga. Known as "Kothi Raju," he’s famous for climbing Chitradurga Fort without any safety harnesses.

One of the most famous structures within the fort is the "Onake Obavva Kindi," a narrow passage where Obavva, the wife of a guard, single-handedly fought off enemy soldiers with a pestle. Her bravery is legendary and is celebrated to this day.

Chitradurga Fort is not just a historical site; it is also a place of natural beauty. The fort is surrounded by rocky hills, and the view from the top is breathtaking. The area is dotted with beautiful landscapes, and the fort itself is home to several ancient temples, each with intricate carvings and sculptures.

The trek up to the fort can be challenging (especially when it rains), but the panoramic views and the experience of exploring such an ancient site make it worth the effort.

Tips for Visitors

- Entry Fee : ₹25 for adults; still cameras are free, but there is a charge of ₹100 for videos.
- Wear comfortable shoes : The fort involves a lot of walking and climbing.
- Carry water and snacks : There are limited facilities inside the fort.
- Best time to visit : Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Guided tours : Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and significance.

Chitradurga Fort is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this ancient fortress has something to offer everyone.

Nelligudde Kere

After exploring Ramadevara Betta, we took a quick break to fill our empty stomachs at Rajesh Biryani Hotel in Ramanagara. The biryani here is delicious and definitely worth trying.

Since we had some time, we decided to visit Nelligudde Kere on our way back home.

Nelligudde Kere is about 15 kilometers from Ramanagara, 3 kilometers from Bidadi, and 50 kilometers from Bangalore, making it a great spot for a day trip. You can easily reach the lake by car or bike, and there’s plenty of parking near the entrance.

The best time to visit Nelligudde Kere is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The cooler months from October to February are ideal, as the weather is nice and the surroundings are lush and green after the monsoon. Early mornings offer a calm atmosphere with misty surroundings, while late afternoons give you beautiful lighting for photography.

The lake is surrounded by greenery and rocky formations, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a quiet picnic, or just sitting by the water and relaxing.

We spent some time walking around and taking pictures.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a photography outing, or just a simple day trip, this lake offers a calm and beautiful setting that will refresh your senses. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the peacefulness of Nelligudde Kere – a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Ramadevara betta Vulture Sanctuary

If you're a nature lover looking for an offbeat destination near Bangalore, the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary should be on your list. This sanctuary is a peaceful retreat for those who enjoy wildlife, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes.

After a quick visit to Thimmappana Betta, we decided to try our luck at spotting vultures at Ramadevarabetta, which is about 15 kilometers away. It had been a while since we last visited, but the beauty of this place never disappoints.

About Sanctuary for Vultures:

The Ramadevara betta Vulture Sanctuary is one of the few places in India dedicated to protecting vultures. These majestic birds, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on carrion, have been declining in numbers due to habitat loss and poisoning. The sanctuary is home to a small population of critically endangered Long-billed Vultures and Egyptian Vultures. 

Ramadevara betta is located about 45 kilometers from Bengaluru and 5 kilometers from Ramanagara city, taking around an hour to reach. This spot isn’t just for spiritual seekers; it’s also great for beginners looking to start trekking. It’s one of the best one-day trek spots around Bengaluru and is home to India’s first Vulture Sanctuary, established in 2012 to protect these birds.

The sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Bangalore. The drive takes about an hour and a half, and the route is scenic, passing through small villages and lush greenery.

We arrived at Ramadevara betta around 8:30 AM and noticed a crowd already waiting outside the gate to buy their tickets. The place is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entry fee of Rs. 25/- per person and Rs. 20/- for bikes.

 The climb is moderately challenging, with steps carved into the rock and a few steep sections. 

Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views and a sense of peace that's hard to find in the bustling city.

The best time to visit the Ramadevara betta Vulture Sanctuary is during the cooler months, from November to February. The weather is pleasant, making the trek more enjoyable, and the chances of spotting vultures are higher.

Tips for Visitors

- Plastic bottles are not allowed inside sanctuary
- Wear comfortable shoes : The trek involves some rocky terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must.
- Respect wildlife : Avoid making loud noises and maintain a safe distance from the birds to avoid disturbing them.
- Don't litter : Help keep the sanctuary clean by carrying your trash back with you.

Ramadevara betta Vulture Sanctuary is a perfect day trip for those looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a trekker, or simply someone who enjoys serene landscapes, this sanctuary offers a unique experience that you won't forget.