It started with a casual Friday evening conversation: “Let’s do something different this weekend.” With a group of friends who love spontaneous plans, we landed on the idea of the Uttari Betta trek. None of us had been there before, but the pictures of the sunrise looked straight out of a dream. The best part? It was only about 75 km from Bangalore – perfect for a quick weekend trek.

We packed light, set our alarms for 1:30 AM (yes, that early!), and promised ourselves that watching the sun rise from a hilltop would be totally worth the sleepy eyes.

The Start – Midnight Roads and Starry Skies

By 2:30 AM, we were on the road, a mix of excitement and yawns in the air. The drive towards Uttari Betta, also known as Hutridurga, took us through sleepy villages and narrow winding roads. It felt like we were leaving the world behind for a while.

We reached the base camp around 4:30 AM. The air was crisp and cold, and the sky was filled with stars. Our trek guide greeted us with a torchlight and a warm smile, and after a quick briefing, we were off — into the dark, with just our flashlights and the sound of our steps.

The Ascent – Through Ruins, Caves, and Silence

The trail started gently, winding past ancient stone gateways and old fort walls. Uttari Betta has a rich historical feel — like every rock has a story. As we climbed higher, the terrain shifted from forested paths to rocky outcrops, with viewpoints that made us stop and just breathe.

One of the highlights was a small cave we had to squeeze through — pitch dark, narrow, but thrilling! Once we got through, the trail opened up to a flat area with an old temple and a view of the surrounding valleys cloaked in mist.

If you're looking for a trekking spot near Bangalore that combines nature and history, this one hits the sweet spot.

The Summit – A Sunrise to Remember

Around 6 AM, we reached the peak of Uttari Betta. The horizon had started glowing, and we rushed to find the perfect spot to sit, wrap ourselves in our jackets, and wait for that first golden ray.

And then – magic.

The sun slowly peeked out, painting the sky with oranges, pinks, and purples. The fog below swirled like waves, and the distant hills looked like islands in a sea of clouds. It was quiet. Peaceful. Spiritual, even.

In that moment, everything felt still — like nature was holding its breath and gifting us a moment of pure, unfiltered beauty.

Breakfast with a View – The Reward After the Climb

After soaking in the sunrise, we sat on the rocks with our packed breakfast — simple idlis, chutney, and bananas. Nothing fancy, but when you eat with the sky above and the earth far below, even the simplest meal feels royal.

We clicked a few photos (okay, maybe a lot), shared stories, and took in every last bit of that hilltop sunrise before heading back down.

The descent was quicker but filled with laughter, new friendships, and the promise to come back again — maybe even for a sunset trek next time.

What Makes Uttari Betta Trek Special?

There are many treks around Bangalore, but Uttari Betta stands out for several reasons:

• It’s beginner-friendly – not too tough, but still adventurous.

• You get a mix of nature, history, and temples.

• The sunrise view from the top is absolutely breathtaking.

• It's a great alternative to the crowded Skandagiri trek.

• It’s perfect for a night trek or early morning hike.

Whether you're an experienced trekker or just looking for something different to do over the weekend, this is one trail that offers the best of Karnataka’s beauty without needing days of planning.

Tips for the Uttari Betta Trek

Here’s what I wish I had known before going:

• Start early: The trek is best done as a night or sunrise trek.

• Wear good shoes: Some parts are rocky and slippery.

• Carry a torch: Essential for the night trek.

• Pack light snacks and water: Stay hydrated.

• Dress in layers: It gets cold at the top in the early morning.

• Go with a guide or group: It’s safer and more fun.

Final Thoughts – Hills, Hearts, and Healing

Back in Bangalore by 10 AM, we were tired, dusty, and incredibly happy. The Uttari Betta trek turned out to be more than just a hike – it was a pause button on life, a reminder that beauty exists right in our backyard, and that sometimes, all it takes is a hilltop and a sunrise to feel alive again.

If you’ve been caught in the loop of deadlines and noise, take a detour. Let the hills call you. Let Uttari Betta surprise you, calm you, and maybe even change you.

Quick Info Recap:

• Location: Near Kunigal, ~75 km from Bangalore

• Trek difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Best time to go: October to March (ideal for night treks and cool weather)

• Distance: Approx. 5 km round trip

• Time required: 3–4 hours (including breaks)