Skandagiri Night trek tale

 Hey Folks! What is your idea of a perfect escapade from the usually lazy cozy Bangalore winter weekend? Does the thought of venturing in the spooky silence of night lure you?

That’s what me and my school buddy, along with a group of fellow trekkers did this time; to explore nature in the sparkle of darkness by embarking on a night trek to Skandagiri, also called Kalavara Durga, almost 70 km from Bangalore and is one of the few legal night treks in this region I’m aware of.

The plan was made all of a sudden during the busy week and we started our thrilling adventure on Friday around 11pm. Reaching there in 2hrs, we hardly had the time to get a quick nap. At around 3am we gathered at the base camp for the Forest officer to open the gates. Being a reserve forest, its mandatory to take forest permit to do hike in this trail.

Meanwhile we were briefed by our guide on the do’s and don’ts along the way and a short description on the history of the place. Rightly as Google would tell you, this site is of historical significance, with the ruins of an 18th century fort, used by Tipu Sultan in fight against the British.

Contrary to the notion, the washroom at the base camp was very clean to use. We started the trek at 4am with a backpack filled with water bottles, chocolates, dry fruits, energy bars and a torch!

The initial part of the trail is rocky and dry with loose gravel, given that its night its good to watch our feet. Walking the rugged terrain amongst the dense shrubs and under the canopy of twinkling stars, we could see the silver cascade of shimmering light reflecting on the night landscape and it will leave you spellbound.

The trail is moderately tough with some very steep ascents, slippery parts, rocky patches, and narrow trails, but the pathways are clearly marked. It’s wise to use good trekking shoes with grip and ankle protection. It takes almost 2hrs to the top where there is a Nandi temple. I reached at about 5,30am. It is very windy and cold at the top, carrying winter jacket, gloves and skull cap would be handy.

Slowly the sky started turning crimson and by 6,40am, we could see the upper rim of the sun in the horizon among the misty clouds like a cherry fruit, reflecting its beautiful aura on the surrounding hills. The splendid view was worth all the pain, and we stood there mesmerized for several minutes. The town below slowly woke from their slumber and its view from atop was breathtaking. Capturing the beauty in our eyes, mind and camera, we started our descend by 7am.

The downhill trek was not very easy as the steep mountain gave ample jerks to the tired knees. It’s good to have some prior trekking experience to be able to undertake the abrupt ascents and descents without much difficulty. The 8km trek tests our physical and mental endurance and ‘’Never Quit’’ is good mantra to chant in our minds.

‘’Happiness is only real when it is shared’ and it echoed in the chats during the trek and while having sumptuous breakfast with the new friends made in this journey. I’m energized and already looking forward to my next trek!!