Ranging from boating in a serene lake to indulging in a thrill-filled night trek, there is a wide variety of things to do in Ramanagara for adventure lovers as well as tourists. Also known as The Land of The Seven Hills, this city in Karnataka is rapidly gaining popularity among all kinds of tourists seeking a memorable break from monotony of life. A number of picturesque tourist sites, refreshing wooded hills, exciting trekking trails, and fine quality silk are some of the most prominent factors that attract hordes of vacationers to come and spend some pleasant days here.
Whether you prefer sightseeing excursions or your idea of fun is challenging your body and heart by partaking in adventure, there are activities to do in Ramanagara for all. Trekking enthusiasts have a variety of trekking trails such as Savandurga Trek, Revana Siddeshwara Betta Trek, and Ramadevara Trek to choose from. Climb on the top of these hills and you can pamper your eyes with some captivating panoramas. Other adventure options available here include camping on serene spots and exhilarating rock climbing. Furthermore, for a relaxed vacation, you can spend your time here indulging in shopping, boating in Rangarayana Doddi Lake, and watching birds at Kanva Dam. So if you are planning a happening vacation in Ramanagara, you are definitely not going to run out of activities to try.
Add a tinge of thrill and adventure with one of the best places to visit in Ramanagara that is the camping site of Sholay hills. The campsite sprawls over 55 acres and offers a wide range of amenities to the visitors. Here one can enjoy Kayaking, Canoeing, Trekking, Rain Dance, Rappelling, Zip-lining, Ice Breaker, Tongue Twister, Communication Game, Ladder Climbing, Team Task, Scavenger Hunt, Carrying the ball, Rowing the boat, 10 Mints, Trust walk, and whatnot.
Not only this but here you can also play a lot of sports like volleyball, cricket, and several others that will make your day more memorable along with the beautiful surroundings.
Location: Sholay Hills, Ramanagra, Karnataka.
Timings: Open for 24 hours.
Price: Starting from INR 1,350 per person
Are you a nightcrawler? Take your nightlife excitement to another level with the night trek of Ramanagara. This is the place where rock climbing started and is a trending weekend escape from Bangalore. With the night trek, you can watch the sun go down and the sky change its color to deep black embellished with twinkling stars.
There are several locales where can go for a trek like that Ramgiri where the blockbuster Sholay was shot or the SRS hills that are known for its Rappelling and rock climbing activities.
Location: Sholay Hills, Ramanagra, Karnataka
Timings: 24 hours open
Price: Starting from INR 1,200 per person
One of the most sought after places to visit in Ramanagara is the Ramadevara Betta Hill that is located away from the concrete jungles of Bangalore. The hill is snuggled 3,000 feet above the ground and offers fantastic views of bountiful nature.
Something that makes this spot popular is that the Bollywood blockbuster “Sholay” was shot here and the surroundings of the hills are just beyond one’s imagination. If you are planning for a soulful escape then this is the best choice for you.
Location: Shri Pattabhi Rama Temple Sri Rama Hill, Thibbe Gowdana Doddi, Ramanagara, Karnataka 562159
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Price: None
Escape to the beautiful Sri Revanna Siddeshwara Betta hills that is famed for its arduous rock climbing spots and Siddheshwar temple. On the entire hill, there are three temples namely Sri Revana Siddeshwara temple, Bheemeshwara and Renukamba temple that offer tranquil environs to the devotees.
This elegant cave temple is snuggled on the notch of a monolithic stone hill and is surrounded by the trails of natural wonders. Whether you are looking for solace or wish to add a rock climbing experience to your trip, then this is the best pick.
Location: SRS Hills, Ramanagra, Karnataka
Timings: 24 hours open
Take a look into the folk world at Janapada Loka, which is one of the most interesting places to visit in Ramanagara. Commonly it is known as the “Folk Culture World” this folk museum is located at the Bangalore Mysore highway and was built back in the late 19th century.
The museum reflects 5,000 different folk artifacts and is divided into various segments. In each an every corner of the museum, there is a variant of Karnataka’s art and showcases the antique collection of about three decades.
Location: Bangalore - Mysore Highway, State Highway 17, Ramanagar District, Doddamannugudde Forest, Karnataka 562159
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Price: Starting from INR 10 per person and an additional INR 100 for photos and videos.
Quaint town tucked away from the hum-drum of city life, Channapatna is known as the “town of toys”. This town is not only a trending hotspot in India but has gained importance in the world for manufacturing creative and unique wooden toys. Each one of them is elegantly carved out on wooden pieces and one can be seen on the roads creating these beautiful masterpieces.
A few years back the art was about to die, but the Karnataka government helped the local artisans and revive the art. There are rumors that toys from the local artists have made their place in Obama’s White House for its intriguing style.
Location: Ramanagara district, Karnataka
Price: One day tour costs about INR 1,200 per person
With the literal meaning “goat’s leap” in Kannada, Mekedatu is one of the most serene places to visit in Ramanagara. This locale features the confluence of Arkavati and Kaveri that is a delight to the eyes. The river flows through the gorge and the display it extends is just beautiful.
This bountiful location is settled at the border of Chamarajanagar and Ramanagara district. If you are looking for a getaway from the concrete walls of Bangalore, then this is the place for you where you can find your “Nirvana”.
Location: Ramanagara District Karnataka, India
Timings: All time open
Price: None
Sprawling across 776 hectares the Kanva Dam is a man-made lake that attracts visitors from different corners. It is settled amidst the dense thickets and is a treasure for the bird watchers. Initially, it was established only as an irrigation process but later turned up as a great tourist spot. The reservoir is built across the Kanava river which is a tributary of the Kaveri river and is one of the most scenic spots of the region.
Location: Channapatna, Ramanagara District, Karnataka
Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm
Price: None
Feast your eyes with the jaw-dropping views of the Arkavati river which is one of the most wonderful places to see in Ramanagara. The stellar river flows across Karnataka and originates from the Nandi hills that increase its grandeur even more.
If you are looking for a soulful escape where you can watch the birds fly and soft cool breeze tickle over your face, then this is the perfect place for you. Another striking feature of this river is that it is the major source of water and is made up of three tributaries namely Kumudavathi, Suvarnamukhi, and Vrishabhavathi
Location: Near Nandi hills, Ramnagara
Timings: 24 hours open
Price: None
Explore the uniqueness of Asia’s largest cocoon market Ramanagara Silk Cocoon Market which is located 40 km away from Bangalore. To your surprise, in this market, approximately 50,000 kg of the cocoon is sold every day and all of it is freshly cultivated by the farmers.
This is one of the most revered tourist places in Ramanagara that sprawls over 2 acres. At this market, you can even shop the traditional silk artworks as it has a number of silk industries. Here you can shop the silks arts, take a tour to the silk industries, or lazily walk across the cocoon vendors.
Location: SH17, Ijoor, Ramanagara, Karnataka 562159
Timings: 24 hours open
Price: None
Located 50 km away from Bangalore, the Sholay Shooting HillTop was once a sleepy village and after two and a half years of shooting it certainly gained a lot of importance. The hill was the hideout place for Gabbar and the rugged terrains made the region look like a perfect place for the robbers.
At the time of the shooting, artists from different corners came here as the hill was a great spot for rock climbing. After in late 70’s this hill-top became one of the best places to see in Location: Sugganahalli, Karnataka 562159
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Price: None
One of the must-visit tourist places in Ramanagara is the Ramanagara Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary where you can watch the white-backed, long-billed, and Egyptian vultures that are a rare species. The park was built back in 2012 and three out of nine species of vultures are found here.
If you love watching birds then this place is a true delight for you as it holds a rare concept with unique vultures that are on the verge of extinction. The park is spread over 346 hectares and the vultures can be spotted in the entire region.
Location: Shri Pattabhi Rama Temple Sri Rama Hill, Thibbe Gowdana Doddi, Ramanagara, Karnataka 562159
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
Price: Starting from INR 25 per person and an extra INR 20 parking fee.
1. Camping And Adventure Activities In Ramanagara: The exquisite hilly landscape of Ramanagara ensures that outdoor lovers find ideal sites for camping and a myriad of adventure activities to try their hands on. Camping here is a sheer delight for both nature lovers and thrill seekers, and is counted among the best activities to do in Ramanagara. Pitch your tent in the middle of hills, by a lake, and experience nature at its best. To enhance the overall fun, you can also pair the camping experience with other activities like rappelling, trekking, ziplining, kayaking, etc.
2. Night Trek In Ramanagara: One of the most stimulating things to do in Ramanagara every outdoor enthusiast must try is night trekking. The city is replete with hills, and has a number of trekking trails which are apt for both night and day excursions. However, the thrill and pleasure of marching ahead under a starlit sky is unparalleled. If you time your trek perfectly, you will be rewarded with a gorgeous twilight sky, followed by a glorious sunrise scene.
3. Rock climbing in Ramanagara: Out of all the things to do in Ramanagara, the adventure of rock climbing holds a unique feeling. Whether you are a pro or you want to try your hand at rock climbing, this city, with its rocky hillocks, gives perfect experience laced with adrenaline pumping action. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, you get a chance to try various grades of rappelling and chimney climbing in several locations in the city.
4. Bird watching at Kanva Dam: A picturesque location which is home to a wide range of exotic bird species, Kanva Dam is an artificial reservoir, and is among the best places to visit in Ramanagara for bird watching. For the most memorable experience, be here during one of the winter mornings when you will be greeted by plenty of migratory birds in the lake and wooded hills around it. In addition to shots of some rare birds, you can also capture some stunning pictures of a surreal sunset scene here.
5. Spend a day at pilgrimage center-Purushottama Tirtha Gavi: If you are travelling to Ramanagara in pursuit of peace and contentment, immersing yourself in spirituality at Purushottama Tirtha Gavi is one of the recommended activities to do in Ramanagara. Located close to Kanva Reservoir, this shrine dedicated to Purushottama Tirtha Gavi enjoys a huge reverence among Hindus. Hordes of tourists as well as devotees frequent the temple, especially on weekends. Since the temple is located amidst pristine nature, away from civilisation, it is a good place to meditate and connect with God.
6. Savandurga Trek: Renowned as the largest monolith in the entirety of Asia, Savandurga attracts trekkers in huge numbers throughout the year. In order to reach to the top of this 4220 feet high hill, one has to undertake a strenuous uphill trek which will surely fix your hunger for action and thrill. For those who want to take a break from inactivity, this is certainly among the best activities to do in Ramanagara. Upon reaching the top, you can be assured to witness a beautiful scenery of the undulating hills and verdant plains.
7. Go for City Shopping: If you are visiting the city with your family over the weekend, embarking on a shopping spree is certainly one of the best things to do in Ramanagara. The city is a hub for cottage weaving industries, and is best known for offering fine quality silk. Whether you want to buy finished silk products or raw silk skein, Ramanagara promises to impress you with the quality of silk available here.
8. Bike trips at Ramadevarabetta hills: Popular among the local youth, a bike trip to Ramadevara Betta Hill is one of the most memorable things to do in Ramanagara. Riding to the foothills of this majestic hill is quite rewarding, as you get to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains during your journey. Embark on this adventure with your friends and spend a day chilling out or share your lover’s company to add shades of romance to the experience.
9. Rangarayana Doddi Lake Boating: A visit to Rangarayana Doddi Lake and boating there is counted among the most soothing activities to do in Ramanagara owing to the breathtaking beauty created by the water body and the surrounding hills. A boat ride in this lake gives you the chance to delight in the scenic beauty of the lake from different perspectives and capture it in your camera. Whether you are being accompanied by your lover or your family, the vibe of this place and activity will enhance your mood.
1. Ramadevara Betta Hill: Named after the 1000 year old Lord Rama temple situated at the top of the hill is Ramadevara Hill, a famous Hindu shrine. Just 50 km from Bangalore it is the perfect place for a short trip for someone seeking a breather from the fast paced life of the city. The granite hill is surrounded by a forest and pond Tirtha, which is an overwhelming scene for those who are able to view it from the top . There are two more temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman which are nearer to the base of the hills. Offering an ideal terrain for rock climbing and trekking, this hill is also famous for adventure activities in Ramanagara.
2. SRS Hills: The Sri Revana Siddeshwara Hills is a sacred ground for the followers of Shiva and is a hub for adventure activities in Ramanagara. Its popular among trekkers and rock climbers who are fascinated by the monolithic boulder and challenge themselves to reach the top. The hill is surrounded by paddy fields and lakes. The cave temple at the top of the boulder is the Sri Revana Siddeshwara temple while two more temples Bheemeshwara and Renukamba are at the base. Adjacent to it is huge lake Devrakere. The temple holds Rudtabhisheka pooja everyday which shouldn’t be missed by those trekking.
3. Janapada Loka: This is a museum dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the rural culture of Karnataka. It houses around 5000 folk artefacts including hunting equipment, agricultural tools, household wares, scriptures, folk literature and music, puppets, and around 400 years old sculptures. The museum has different sections like Loka Mahal, Chitta Kuteera, Doddamane Shilamala, Ayagaramala etc. Blue lake greenery park and regional food. The perfect time to visit is during the Lokothsava and kite festivals.
4. Channapatna: Known as the Toy Town of India, Channapatna is listed among the best places to visit in Ramanagara. It has the most creative and gorgeous handcrafted wooden toys that are in high demand in the country as well as abroad. Channapatna is also famous for its Kadu Winery of the Sulu vineyard. There is a wine tasting and wine making tour for those interested. The town also has Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary that is popular among bird watchers.
5. Mekedatu: It is a quiet picnic spot situated by the Kaveri river as it flows through a narrow ravine. There is a coracle for those who want to enter the water. Meekedatu's popularity is with its name which means ‘Goats leap' . It has mythological significance with the disguise of Lord Shiva as a goat. The scenic beauty and the calming sound of the waves makes it the perfect place to unwind.
6. Kanva Reservoir: The reservoir is an artificial lake formed by the construction of a dam on river Kanva for an irrigation project. The spot is popular among bird watchers and those seeking extreme sports. The banks of the Kanva is used as a camping ground for those visiting. There are lots of activities for those visiting like fishing, kayaking, zip lining, rope walking and swing walking. There is also a temple nearby that is visited by tourists called Purushothama Tirtha Gavi.
7. Arkavati River: Another peaceful spot for visitors to come and relax amongst nature is the Arkavati river. It is the largest mountain river of Karnataka emerging from the Nandi hills. The river has a dam built on it called Harobele dam. The river is a popular fishing spot as visitors sit by rocks and fish while enjoying the scenery.
8. Ramanagara Silk Cocoon Market: The sericulture sector of Karnataka is the biggest among all the states of India with major silk coming from Ramanagara. Ramanagara is called the largest cocoon market of Asia. The silk cocoon market has a wide variety of silk from the crepe silk with gold sari borders to the celebrated Mysore silk. It’s the right place to get the purest silk with shops offering different varieties and there’ll be something for everyone.
9. Sholay Shooting HillTop: The hills of Ramanagara are called Sholay Shooting Hills after the blockbuster movie Sholay(1975) that captured the hearts of many and is still remembered as a masterpiece and classic. Tourists travel to the hills to try and identify the different locations from the movie scenes. Whether it was the scene were the iconic train chase occurred, or when Gabbar assaulted Thakur or where his famous dialogue with Kalia took place. The hills is also where another movie called Passage to India (1984) was shot.
10. Ramanagara Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary: This is the only vulture bird sanctuary in India. The sanctuary was built to stop the extinction of Asian vultures from being displaced due to the rapid industrialisation in Karnataka. There are around 20 endangered species of birds. Trekkers, researchers and bird watchers visit the sanctuary to catch a glimpse of the critically endangered long boiled vulture and the Egyptian vulture.
1. Rock climbing at Ramadevara Betta: Invest your energy and time in indulging in rock climbing adventure at Ramadevara Betta, and you will be rewarded with panoramic views and a sense of triumph. A popular trekking spot in the region, Ramadevara Betta is a hill with a popular trekking trail, which also offers perfect opportunities for rock climbing. If you are in the mood for a serious adventure, you must consider this option.
2. Chimney Climbing at Revana Siddeshwara Betta: Revana Siddeshwara is a 3066 feet tall hill in Ramanagara that makes chimney climbing – an easier variant of rock climbing – available for adventure junkies. For those who want to experience rock climbing without having to tax their minds and bodies, this activity is certainly one of the most sought after adventure activities in Ramanagara. A Shiva temple is perched atop a hill, which makes it a popular adventure as well as religious spot.
3. Revana Siddeshwara Betta Trekking: Offering you a delightful experience that combines the thrill of adventure and calm of nature, Revana Siddeshwara Betta Trekking lets you climb to the top of a hill that is more than 3000 feet high. One of the best adventure activities in Ramanagara, this trek is sought after by many over the weekends. Looking down at the sweeping views of the verdant landscape below will soothe your senses and transport you to another dimension. For some extra fun and an even intense adrenaline rush, some also prefer to undertake this adventure at night.
1. Eagleton Golf Resort: A lavish property spanning across acres of land with sprawling golf courses, Eagleton Golf Resort is a delight for any traveller with a taste for extravagance. Apt for a comfortable break from routine, the resort features a variety in terms of accommodation, food, and amusements. A collection of six tasteful dining venues will keep your taste buds pampered on your stay here. Accommodations at this luxury resort are available in three categories – Executive Suite, Deluxe Room, and Standard Room – all of which come with a range of amenities.
2. Vana Resort: Some of the factors that make Vana Resort one of the best choices of accommodation in the region are its refreshing atmosphere, well-equipped rooms, and modern amenities. If you are in for a peaceful retreat, this resort, featuring manicured lawns, clusters of tropical trees, and a forest area, will keep you close to nature and relaxation. As per your budget and requirements, you can choose from heritage cottages, standalone villas, and well-appointed rooms.
3. Shilhaandara Resort: A mid-range luxury resort located at the foot of a hillock in Ramanagara, Shilhaandara Resort is an ideal choice if you want to enjoy a rejuvenating getaway with family and friends. The resort presents to the guests a kaleidoscope of ancient architecture, world-class accommodations, and an exciting range of adventure activities in Ramanagara. Get adventurous by partaking in an ATV ride, stay in a tent or a lavish suite, and put your mind and body at ease by opting for an ayurvedic spa.
4. Club Magnolia Resort: The ultimate destination for a rewarding staycation near Ramanagara, Club Magnolia Resort turns no stone unturned to make your vacation unforgettable. An in-house restaurant to fix your hunger pangs with delicious meals, lavish suites and rooms to give you a world of comfort, and a tastefully developed garden are there to give you a virtually perfect break from monotony of life. Whether your purpose of visit is business or leisure, the resort has all the facilities ready.
5. Hill View Resort: Spend a few days away from the hubbub of the city by embracing verdance and tranquility of nature at Hill View Resort. Set around a rock formation, laced with all modern amenities, this gives a perfect value for money stay experience. The resort offers a perfect space and ambience to create memories with your loved ones. While the cozy royal suites with modern furnishing lets you bask in to your heart’s content, the adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and archery are a treat for the thrill seeker within you.
You can reach Ramanagara from any part of India by air, rail, and road.
By Road: Ramanagara can be comfortably reached by roadway, as a six lane expressway connects it to major cities in the state like Bangalore and Mysore. Regular buses and private taxis are available to travel to Ramanagara.
By Air: Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is the nearest major airport from Ramanagara, which has regular flights to and from major cities in India like Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. The airport is located at a distance of 87 km from Ramanagara and can be easily reached by road.
By Rail: Ramanagara is connected with major cities of South India through railway network. Numerous train to and from the cities like Bangalore and Mysore are available on a daily basis.
Ramanagara has a tropical climate, and is thus known for its pleasant climate throughout the year. However, summer days tend to get too hot sometimes and it frequent rains are not uncommon during monsoon. So, the winter months, which span from November to February, feature the most favourable climatic conditions here. Especially if you are visiting Ramanagara with the objective to indulge in activities such as rock climbing and trekking, these winter months have the most favourable temperatures. Besides, the moderate day temperatures also help sightseers explore the city better.