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Friday, March 29 2024
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Health & Lifestyle

Go Rock climbing in Ramnagara

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I remember, when I was younger, every summer vacation, my friends and I would be outdoors almost the entire day or go picnicking nearby. But now, I can’t even imagine myself going out in the April sun and enjoy the outdoors. I realized I needed to reignite that child inside me and experience the outdoors all over again. So, I joined this rock climbing group, I found online, and in one of our recent trips, went to explore the hills of Ramanagara.

Ramanagara at a glance
At only 50 Km from the city, Ramanagara is the most popular spot for camping, climbing, and trekking near Bangalore. They call it the Mecca of Rock Climbers. With its rugged landscape of boulders and rocky hills, it makes for a perfect platform for climbers. Some of us booked a cab from Bangalore to Ramnagara, and it took us less than two hours to reach via Mysore Road. The others drove their cars and bikes.

Needless to say, the April temperature was not quite merciful on us. But I tried to focus on the adventure ahead and distracted myself from feeling the heat. Also, as we drew closer to the hills, it felt nicer with the open areas and greener surroundings. We met with our fellow climbers, all set out to challenge the summer heat and win over the tough terrain.

There were are a few popular areas that climbers usually cover in Ramanagara – Senapathy, Gowda’s farm, Gethna, Mother Wall, Ramadevara Betta (Temple Rock) and Achalu. We decided to explore the scenic landscape of Ramdevara Betta. Surrounded by ample greenery, mountain bluffs, and ponds, it was surely a treat. The ambiance felt so uplifting that I almost forgot about the weather.

The climb
We started with bouldering, where we had to use the grip of our hands and legs to climb the huge boulders. Our coach-cum-team-lead then directed us to top-roping. With our gear and harness, we were all set to climb the steep sidewalls of a huge stony hill. The terrain here was nothing like the ones I had done before (not that I have ample experience). Despite the traction on the shoes and grooved rocks, there were a few slips here and there, but nothing that caused us more than a bruise. But it felt good, like a warrior’s scar! I initially didn’t push myself too much, since it was the first time this was my first intense climbing experience. But soon, I got into the groove and continued the climb up the 25 feet high slope. It took me quite a while, but when I reached the top, it was not only exhilarating but felt like a big achievement! And the views from the hilltop was like the perfect prize that I had earned. The landscape looked stunning, even with the sun overhead. A little farther, I could see the temple tower, sitting atop a hillock. After a few of my friends reached the top, we rested for a while, enjoyed the views, hydrated ourselves and descended. I discovered, that descending is trickier than the ascent and I had to be more careful.

Walk to the temple
There was a huge camping ground at the bottom of the hills, with many overnight campers and climbers. We took our lunch break there and soon, headed towards the temple, which was the main attraction of the area. The road to this temple passed through hill slopes but had steps cut out. There were railings on either side for support. It seemed easier than our last activity since we had to just climb steps, but let me tell you, they were tricky. It took us quite a while to reach the top. The old temple sat on a cliff in a quiet and peaceful area and overlooked the famous Vulture Sanctuary. This was also a perfect spot for bird watching, something I wish to do this winter.

After resting for a while and exploring the temple area and capturing the landscape on camera, we came back to the base around sunset.

I have to admit, summer treks and climbs are not easy. I was drenched in sweat from head to toe, but inside, I could feel that child in me jumping in joy and feeling a sense of rejuvenation. We are so caught up in our air-conditioned, glass-walled, corporate lifestyle that we forget that we need to be in the natural environment as well, once in a while, and take a deep, long, breath of the natural air and let us revive ourselves. This trip to Ramanagara turned out to be purely therapeutic! And with a lot of natural Vitamin D as well.

Pro Tips:

  • If you want to avoid the summer heat, you can also go for rock climbing in the winter months, when the weather is pleasant and you can include other activities like trekking and camping, in your trip itinerary. 
  • If you are traveling from other cities to Bangalore, you can prebook a reliable Bangalore airport taxi service and reach Ramanagara in no time.
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Archana Permi

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