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Nandi Hills, probably the most popular weekend getaway from Bangalore with its breathtaking panoramic views has found its way into every travellers itinerary for Karnataka.
This ancient hill fortress situated in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka is perched at a height of 1445 km above sea level. Nandi hills was the coveted summer retreat for Tipu Sultan and later the British. The place garnered even more attention with world leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Queen Elizabeth II and dignitaries from SAARC nations choose to visit the town.
The ambience of the hilltop is what has made it so desirable. The predominantly lush green crest seems like it is suspended amidst the white clouds. While the hills have pleasant cool weather all year round, it’s the mornings that make it all the more special; the rays of sunshine cutting through the mist envelops the place in a beautiful golden hue.
KSTDC’s Mayura Pine Top at Nandi Hills is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay to take in the hilltop in all its glory; wake up to a picture perfect sunrise, enjoy leisurely strolls, sumptuous meals at the restaurant and maybe grab a drink from the bar to end the day. The KSTDC staff with an in-depth knowledge of the place can guide you to interesting treks and sightseeing spots.
While the main attraction of Nandi Hills is the picturesque viewpoint atop the hill, there is more to the place than just that.
Two ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are located in Nandi Hills. The Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple at the top of Nandi Hills was built in the Chola style of architecture, while the Bhoganandishwara Temple in the nearby Nandi Gram village is considered to have been built prior to the 9th century AD. The exquisite stone fringes, brass doors and ornate dwarapalakas (door keepers) display intricate workmanship and artistry.
This historical town is associated with the epic, Mahabharatha and was known as Ekchakrapura. Kaivara is believed to be the place where the Pandavas lived in exile for some time after they escaped from araginamane (house of wax). Kaivara is home to temples of Amaranareyana, Dharamaraya, Bhimeshwara, Arjuneshwara, Nakuleshwara and Sahadeveshwara.
Vidurashwatha, is an important pilgrim centre on the banks of Pinakini River. Vidurashwatha gets its name from Vidura (brother of Pandu and Dhritarashtra in the epic Mahabharata). It is also believed to be the abode of Sage Maithreya. Under the legendary Peepal tree in the town, you can find a number of consecrated snake stones which are objects of worship. Apart from being a pilgrim centre, Vidurashwatha has played a distinctive role in the Indian freedom struggle. In 1938, thousands of people arrived at Vidurashwatha to take part in a Satyagraha and tried to hoist the Congress flag. The police open fired and many unarmed protesters lost their lives. A cenotaph stands tall here in memory of the martyrs. Veera Soudha, the House of the Martyrs houses a picture gallery and a library. The complex also has an open-air theatre, auditorium and a play site for children.
Alambagiri is a famous religious centre because of the Venkataramana Temple. According to local belief, the idol of Lord Venkatesha is believed to be a Swayambhu (self-manifested). There is a tall Dhwajastambha (Flag Pillar) in front of the temple. Nearby are the temples dedicated to Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) and Kshetrapala (guardian deity of the place).
Muddenahalli, situated 3 km away from Chikkaballapura is a small village, but has become famous for being the birthplace of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visveswariah, recognised as the architect of modem Karnataka. The erstwhile Diwan’s home has been converted into a museum which is open to the public.
Murugamalla is known for the ruins of an 18th century fort situated on the hill at about 600ft height. At the foothills is an ancient Shiva temple, built during Paleyagar period. The town is
also home to one of the oldest dargahs in Karnataka, the Dargah of Peer Fakir Shah Wali.
This fort is situated 16 km east of Bagepalli, was founded around 1350 by a feudatory chieftain Gummanayaka and has been a place of pilgrimage is remarkable for its greenery and scenic beauty. The fort walls are about 50 ft. high from the ground level.
The prominent trekking routes from Nandi hills are Chanakeshava Betta to the north west, Brahmagiri to the south west and Skandagiri to the north. Apart from trekking, Nandi Hills now offers travelers a chance to try a hand at paragliding. The adrenaline rush from the jump coupled with the bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape at Nandi hills is an experience that must not be missed.
For reservations/ enquires regarding your stay at Mayura Pine Top Nandi Hills, please log on to www.kstdc.co or call Mob: 8970650070/75 Tel: +91 80 4334 4334