With popular tourist spots and serene forest areas in the southern districts of the State rendered inaccessible following the devastation caused by the recent floods and landslips, residents of Bengaluru are looking closer home for a quick break this festive season.
Hill stations, which have turned lush green this monsoon, have become favourite destinations of many tourists. Ramadevara Betta, Revanasiddeshwara Betta and Savandurga Betta in Ramanagaram district, Shivanasamudra Falls in Mandya, Nandi Hills in Chickballapur district, Shivaganga Hill in Bengaluru Rural, Devarayanadurga in Tumakuru, and Kotilingeshwara Temple in Kolar have been attracting a large number of tourists these days. Many of these destinations are less than 70 km from the city and make for great day-long or weekend visits, offering activities that range from birdwatching to rock-climbing.
Among these hill stations, Ramadevara Betta, 50 km from the city on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway, has been seeing an influx of tourists these days, according to tour operators.
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There are 400 steps that lead visitors to the Ramagiri temple, and the climb is quite scenic. The hill, which has been declared a sanctuary of vultures, a critically endangered species, attracts birdwatchers. The Bollywood film ‘Sholay’ was shot here, against the backdrop of the stunning granite rocks. “Both the young and the old, the poor and the rich visit this place because of its scenic beauty,” said Kumar, a guide with the Tourist Department.
The Forest Department has taken up several works to conserve rainwater, improve groundwater level, increase green cover, and fence the place to protect the birds. But the use of plastic and dumping of non-degradable items in the areas are concerning, added Mr. Kumar.