Bandaje Falls Trek Via Ballarayanadurga Fort
Bandaje Falls, Karnataka
Trek Highlights
Bandaje Falls Trek via Ballarayanadurga Fort
The Bandaje Falls Trek via Ballarayanadurga Fort is a thrilling and scenic trekking route located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. This route offers a combination of rich history, natural beauty, and a moderate to challenging trek. The trek passes through the remnants of Ballarayandurga Fort, adding a historical touch to the adventure, before leading to the stunning Bandaje Falls.
This trek is slightly less conventional than the standard Bandaje Falls route and takes you through beautiful forest landscapes, offering a more immersive experience with its quiet, serene surroundings and scenic viewpoints. The Bandaje Falls , though in ruins, offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a great spot for both history buffs and nature lovers.
Bandaje Falls Trek via Ballarayanadurga Fort: Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to undertake the Banadje Falls Trek is during the post-monsoon season (October to March). During this period, the weather is cool and pleasant, and the waterfall is in full flow, creating a spectacular scene. Avoid visiting during the monsoon (June to September), as the trail can become slippery and treacherous, and the area may be prone to landslides.
Trek Details:
- Trek Distance: 14 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Altitude: 1,250 meters (4,101 feet).
- Best Time to Visit: July to December.
- Starting Point: Ballarayana Durga Base Village
ThingsCarry
- Sturdy Footwear: The trail can be rocky and uneven, so wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip.
- Water and Snacks: Carry enough water to stay hydrated, and pack some energy-boosting snacks like nuts and fruits.
- Rain Gear: Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially if trekking during the shoulder months.
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the majestic Banadje Falls.
The Bandaje Falls Trek is a fantastic blend of adventure, nature, and history, making it ideal for those who enjoy offbeat treks. The fort offers historical intrigue, while the trek to Bandaje Falls immerses you in lush forests and rewards you with stunning views. If you’re looking for a relatively peaceful yet adventurous trek in the Western Ghats, this is an excellent option.
Historical Significance
Ballarayanadurga Fort
- Construction and Purpose:
- Ballarayanadurga Fort is believed to have been constructed during the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–16th century). The fort was strategically located atop the hill to defend the surrounding region and monitor any potential invasions.
- The fort’s exact construction timeline is uncertain, but it likely dates back to the 16th century, when the Vijayanagara kings controlled large parts of southern India.
- Strategic Importance:
- The fort’s location made it a valuable military asset, providing a commanding view of the surrounding area and enabling it to control access to key trade and travel routes through the Western Ghats.
- Although there are no concrete records of battles fought here, the fort was likely used in local conflicts between different regional powers, including the Vijayanagara Empire, Mysore Kingdom, and smaller chieftains in the region.
- Decline:
- The fort eventually fell into disrepair after the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire and the rise of other regional powers, particularly the Mysore Kingdom.
- By the British colonial era, the fort had lost its military relevance and was largely abandoned, leaving behind only the ruins that trekkers can explore today.
Trek Brief Itinerary : Bandaje Falls Trek via Ballarayanadurga Fort
- Day 0 :
- Departure from Bangalore.
- Day 1 :
- Reach Bandaje Trek Base early in the morning.
- Freshen up, have breakfast and take packed lunch.
- Start trek around 8 AM and reach Summit by 12AM
- Start Descending by 1PM reach base by 6 PM
- Return back to Homestay. Have Dinner. Rest for the day
- Day 2 :
- Wakeup, have breakfast and checkout from Homestay
- Visit the sightseeing places.
- Tea Estate
- Beluru Chenakeshva Temple
- Have Self-Sponsored Lunch at Hassan
- Travel back to Bangalore reach by 10 PM
Similar Treks : Kudremukha Trek , Netravthi Peak Trek
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Trek Amenities
2 Breakfast, 2 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Bonfire (Based on Weather)
Food : Veg Food
Jeep Ride
Local Guide
Mountain view
Sightseeing
Stay : Tent Stay
Transport (Bangalore to Bangalore)
Trek
Trek Itinerary
Departure from Bangalore
- Reach Bandaje Homestay early in the morning
- Have authentic homemade breakfast
- Kick-off the day with warm up exercises.
- Embark on the Bandaje trek post warming up.
- Visit Ballarayana Durga Fort on the way.
- Reach the Peak around afternoon and have a delicious packed lunch.
- Start your descent towards the Trek base and Reach Bandaje Home stay.
- Have Hi-Tea and Relax for the rest of the day.
- Have Dinner, Relax, Share Trek Stories, and Enjoy the evening.
- Start your day Early.
- Have Breakfast at the Homestay.
- Visit the Sightseeing places.
- Kodige Falls, Beluru Shri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple
- Reach Bangalore by 9 PM (Based on the Traffic).
Location
Find a route from your location
Included
- Meals - Veg. Food
- 2 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 1 Dinner
Exclude
Important Advisory
- If cancellations are made 4 days before the start date of the trip, no cancellation fees will be applicable.
- If Cancellations are made within 1-3 days before the start date of the trip, 60% of Total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fee.
- Same Day cancellations are non refundable.
- In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain trips or activities may get cancelled. In such cases we will try their best to provide an alternate feasible solution. However a cash refund will not be applicable for the same.
Trek: Cancellation Policy
- If cancellations are made 4 days before the start date of the trip, no cancellation fees will be applicable.
- If Cancellations are made within 1-3 days before the start date of the trip, 60% of Total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fee.
- Same Day cancellations are non refundable.
- In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain trips or activities may get cancelled. In such cases we will try their best to provide an alternate feasible solution. However a cash refund will not be applicable for the same.
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Terms and Conditions:
No reserved seats, first-come, first-served. You can swap seats if needed, but avoid arguing with the coordinators.
If couples are seated separately, please be kind and adjust seats if possible.
Meal times will be announced by the guide. There will be no dinner stop on Friday night—eat before boarding or bring food with you.
Shared accommodation for boys and girls (beds or mats provided). Do not expect luxury.
A basic fitness level is required for the trek.
Follow all instructions given by the guide or instructor.
Common charging points will be available. We are not responsible if you miss the chance to charge your phone.
Bring a copy of your ID proof with you.
Smoking and alcohol are strictly not allowed before or during the trek.
Do not bring jewellery or other valuables.
Shared washrooms will be available. Attached washrooms are not provided.
Separate accommodation is not available since this is a group trip.
Drop-off points will be the same as the pick-up points.
Bring your own mask and sanitizer.
Not all bus seats recline, especially in the back. Please cooperate.
This is a basic adventure trip, not a luxury tour. Adjust your expectations accordingly.
Stick to the reporting times and follow the schedule.
Do not litter in the forest or throw plastic waste.
Pickup and drop-off will only be at designated points.
Sunday lunch and food during travel are your own responsibility.
We don’t have partnerships with lunch stop hotels. We are not responsible for delays in service.
The schedule, route, and plans may change without notice due to unexpected issues. Be prepared to adjust.
Bring your personal medications. We carry basic first-aid supplies.
Bring an umbrella and rain jacket as it is the monsoon season.
Goprayana reserves the right to modify or cancel the event due to unavoidable circumstances.
Zero tolerance for narcotics or illegal substances. If found, you will be handed over to the police.
