Photographer Girdhar Singh
Anthargange is a hill range that is blessed with unique natural beauty. The rocky hill range is situated at a height of about 1226 metres from sea level in the Kolar district of Karnataka, approximately 70 km from Bangalore.
The main attractions of Anthargange are numerous volcanic rock formations and a series of natural caves formed from small volcanic rocks. The name Anthargange also refers to a perennial spring that is found near the Kashi Vishweshwara temple on the hilly range. The hilly range is a haven for trekkers and adventure seekers.
The beauty of Anthargange
Anthargange is a unique hill that is covered by a blanket of dense forest at the base. However, as one moves up the rocky hill the greenery thins out and is finally replaced by some thorny bushes that adorn the top of the hill.
The mystic caves
The caves of the hill are a major draw for the travellers. These caves are a result of natural accumulation of big and small rocks over a long period of time to form cave like structures. The caves are of various sizes. Some of the caves are so small and narrow that it is impossible to pass through them. Some of the caves can only be explored by crawling through them, as they do not have the space to allow travellers to stand and explore them.
Charms of temples and springs
Another major attraction of Anthargange is the presence of a few old temples. The hill also has a few natural springs. Among the springs the most famous one is found inside the Kashi Vishweshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also known as the Anthargange Temple due to the presence of the spring. The specialty of the spring is that it emerges from a small crevice in the rock and flows throughout the year.
The spring is a steady stream of water, the source of which is unknown to everyone. The stream of water flows into a pond situated nearby. The water of this Anthargange spring is considered to be sacred by the local people and tourists with a spiritual bend of mind. It is believed that the water flowing out of the spring has its origin in the holy river Ganga that flows through the eastern part of the country. It is remarkable to note that Anthargange means Inner Stream or Ganges from deep.
Anthargange is a destination that never ceases to attract visitors. The pleasant weather of the area adds to the lure of the place.
Trekking and other adventurous activities at Anthargange
The charm of Anthargange is primarily due to the presence of its rocky structures and caves. The area is an excellent destination for several adventurous activities. Trekking is one of the most popular activities of Anthargange. The hilly range presents a steep and challenging climb for trekkers to reach the summit.
The thrill of trekking is enhanced by the beautiful natural sights that can be discovered while on a trek to the top. The initial part of the trek is quite easy as footsteps are built till the Anthargange temple. From the base of the hill there are a flight of two hundred steps that lead to the temple.
However, beyond the temple the trek route winds through the forest and the climb becomes a steep one. Just covering the trek route and overcoming the obstacles to reach the summit can be an enthralling experience in itself.
Explore the beauty of nature at Anthargange
To add to the adventure the place is scattered with the natural caves. Exploring the caves and rock formations can be a memorable experience. The ancient caves are inviting and intimidating at the same time. Some caves are set deep beneath the rocks. Such caves are cool but musty. Some caves are so narrow that it is impossible to explore them by any means. Some others are large enough to allow adventure seekers to make comfortable entry into them.
The hiking can be dangerous at some places as there are no places to hold. At such places all one can do to move ahead is to leap forward, leaving behind all kinds of fear.
Once at the top, one can get a lovely view of the Kolar town below. The gentle breeze and the calmness add to the magical beauty of the place.
Apart from trekking, the place is also famous for other adventure activities. The rocky surface of the area is ideal for rock climbing, rappelling and high rope traversing. Such adventure activities are helped by the pleasant weather conditions of the area.
The area is also a chosen destination of campers. The hill top is often used by trekkers to camp at night and enjoy the starlit night sky or go on night cave explorations.
Information for visitors
While on an adventure trip to the top of the hill it is better to carry water and pack food items as there is no shop for such things at the hill-top. Campers and night cave explorers must go prepared with torches and other necessary tent items. Monkeys are a menace in the area and travellers must be careful about them. It is advisable for travellers to guard their belongings as monkeys are known to run off with anything that they can lay their hands on.
How to reach Anthargange
Anthargange lies in close proximity to Bangalore and has excellent roadways till the base of the hill. It is easy to reach the place as it has very good connectivity options.
By Air
The nearest airport to reach Anthargange is the Bangalore International Airport that stands at a distance of 70 km. The airport caters to both domestic and international tourists as it operates flights to various corners of the country and to several destinations on the international level, including Asia, America, Europe and Middle East countries.
By Rail
The nearest railway station for Anthargange is the Kolar Railway Station that lies at a distance of around 3 km. The Kolar railway Station is connected by several trains to the nearby cities and towns. Travellers can reach Anthargange from Kolar by means of local transport like taxis, cabs, tempos, etc.
By Road
Anthargange is not connected by bus either from Bangalore or from Kolar due to the hilly terrain. However, there are taxis, cabs and bikes available to reach the destination. The journey to the destination by bike is the most exciting one as the journey is a short one and passes through beautiful surroundings.
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