Belagumba - a quaint village, about 69 km from Bangalore, set amidst rocky hills is bound to be an enchanting getaway for hikers and trekkers. The village is also known as Siddarameshwara Kshetra and has a temple which is estimated to have been built in the 15th century. There is a beautiful rocky hillock behind the village, which is an ideal climbing and trekking spot for adventurous groups of friends. The cave temple of Shiva at the top is popular among devout Shaivaites. The trek up the beautiful rocky hill, Siddarameshwara Betta will prove an enjoyable experience for young and old alike.

The Siddarameshwara temple is ascribed to the rulers of Hoysala dynasty. Local folklore is that the idol of Shiva in the Linga form was found naturally among the rocks of the hill, the same was brought down and installed in the present location by a Siddi or Shaivaite saint. Thus installed the Idol was worshipped by Lord Rama who was travelling in search of Seeta and thus evolved the name Sidda-Rama-Ishwara which holds good till today.

Residents of Belagumba and surrounding villages believe in the miraculous powers of the lord and make it a point to visit the temple at least once a month informs the priest. Though the original temple was built only of stone pillars without intervening walls, the modern shrine is a beautiful fusion of ancient and modern. Old pillars have been retained and solid concrete walls have been built to provide safety and strength to the original construction. A massive mural of Lord Shiva and Saint Basaveshwara adorn the front walls of the temple.

A short walk from the temple on a village path which criss-crosses through lush green fields, mango and coconut grooves leads to the base of the Siddarameshwara betta. There is a small naturally formed stone well here, where barefoot devotees wash their feet before beginning their ascent. Though the water level recedes to very low levels during summers it has never been dry according to locals. Initially the ascent is quite gentle and seems easy, but after about 100 metres, the path becomes very steep.

The climb over the steep, uneven path would leave even the fittest city dweller gasping for breath by the time one reaches the peak. But just spending a few minutes at the top will rejuvenate you with its cool breeze and panoramic natural beauty around. The top of the hill is a vast plateau strewn with boulders of all sizes, shapes and colours. Below one of these boulders is a natural cave-like formation which has been consecrated as a temple. There is a large pillar installed atop this boulder, probably as an indicator that the temple is located here.

The cave temple is not so interesting but the climb and the spectacular scenery around is well worth the trouble. One can take an afternoon nap in the shade of one of the large boulders or engage in a game of hide-and-seek if kids are in tow. In short, Belagumba promises an outing of fun away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Travel Tips

How to get there: By Bus: There is no direct bus to Belugumba from Bangalore. The best way to travel is by KSRTC bus to Tumkur, where you take any other bus going towards Devarayanadurga and alight at Belagumba. By Road: Drive out on the Tumkur Road (NH 4) for 30 km and cross Nelamangala suburb. Follow the Toll Road to reach the entrance of Tumkur town passing through Dobbaspet, Kyatasandra and other small villages. As you enter Tumkur there is an intersection. Proceed on the Sira Road and drive for another two km where a small road turns right. Turn right and proceed straight for another two-km to reach Belagumba. As you enter the village, a conspicuous welcome arch to the right is seen. A few hundred metres on this road leads to the Siddarameshwara temple.

Place to Stay: One could take permission and stay at the temple, but camping atop the hill is a good option if a group of trekkers wish to do so. Carry torches and adequate mosquito repellent cream.

Special Information: The Siddarameshwara temple is open all days as there is a small Math inside the campus. If the temple door is closed, knock and the priest will let you in.