Trekking in Kunti Betta
Kunti Betta consists of two rocky hills that tower over thepicturesque town of Pandavapura, which is located around Bangalore. British called these two rocky hills French Rocks.
The two hills are at a height of 2,882 feet above sea level and are separated by a valley. The place has historical and mythological importance. Legends state that during their exile period, Pandavas and their mother Kunti stayed in this part for sometime and Kunti liked the hillock, thus the name Kunti Betta.
The valley houses the Mallikarjuna Swamy temple, Nandi and Ganesha, both carved out of a large monolithic rock. Trekking upward, you will come across Kunti kola, which is a small rock depression. Rainwater is collected in this depression. Near Kunti kola, there is a giant footprint like formation, called Bheemana Pada by the locals.
Standing at the summit, one can enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, backwaters of Tonnur Kere, lakes and vast expanse of agriculture fields.
In addition to Kunti Betta, there are lot more exciting trekking trails in Karnataka.
Location
State: Karnataka
Exact Location: Kunti Betta is located near Pandavapura. District: Mandya
Nearest Town: Mandya, Pandavpura
Distance from Bangalore: 150+ km
How to Reach
Bangalore - Mandya - Pandavapura
Catch a bus from Bangalore to Mandya or Srirangapatnam and from there head to Pandavapura in a local transport. Reaching Pandavapura, you can hire an auto to reach the base of Kunti Betta. The trains running between Bangalore and Mysore also halt at Pandavpura railway station. Pandavpura is 25+ km from Mysore.
Other Attractions in the Vicinity
Chunchanakatte Falls: Its located near Chunchanakatte village in Mysore district. This spectacular waterfall cascades down from a height of 20 m.
Melukote: Located 51 km from Mysore and 133 km from Bangalore, Melukote is in the Pandavapura taluk of Mandaya district. Built on the rocky hills of Yadavagiri, it overlooks the Cauvery (Kaveri) valley. Its one of the important holy places in Karnataka. The place is dotted with several beautiful temples. The principal temple is dedicated to Lord Cheluva-Narayana Swamy. A visitor can also visit Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary.
Trek Length: 1 Day
Best Time to Visit
All year round, but best time is September to May.
Things to Carry
- Walking stick
- Hiking shoes
- Woolen clothes
- Water and snacks
- Torch
- Medical kit