Trek to Shivgange

Participants:

1. Shrikant Gaikwad
2. Chakrapani
3. Srinivas R.
4. Vijay Sankar
5. Wife (Chumki) and Myself

Date: 13th March, 2011

Mode of Transport: Bajaj Platina 125 cc, Hero Honda Passion, Unicorn

This was trip which I have been planning for some time but was not able to make it, for one thing or the other and finally, it happened that too after my marriage.

`Shivgange` derives it’s name from it’s shape (Shiv Linga shape) and springs running underneath (Ganga). Ideal for one day trek, this place is near Dobbaspet, Tumkur district, at around 54 kms from ISRO HQ, New BEL Road. `Shivganage` is also known aliasly as “Dakshina Kashi” or Kashi of South India. The presence of a large number of temples have made it into a pilgrimage center.

1. Gangadhareshwara Temple: Gangadhareshwara, is said to be one of the forms of Lord Shiva. It is below a huge rock and as such the roof is very low. It is said, that the offerings in Ghee turns into Butter, not sure how. There is also a tunnel therein (inscription therein), which as per the locals, connects to Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bangalore.
2. Patal Gange: The word describes it’s meaning, underground Ganga. The water level keeps changing throughout the day. It is said to be connected to connected to Antaragange in Kolar. The water is considered sacred in both the places.
3. Olakala Teertha: Olakala Teertha, is another temple on the way to the Nandi statue, at around 1 kms from the base. You need to put your hand inside a small opening and touch the spring flowing underneath. It is said to be lucky in case you are able to touch or feel the water.

There is a huge statue of Shiv/Parvati on the way to the the Nandi Statue. Seems this is newly constructed.

4. Nandi Statue: The Nandi statue is the nighest point of the hill. It is around 3 kms from the base. The view from the top is awesome. There is also a point where Queen Shantala wife of Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana committed suicide. This point is known as Shantala drop.

Route Information:

The place is around 54 kms from ISRO HQ. One needs to go straight on to NH4 till Dobbaspett (around 20 kms from Nelamangala). As you reach Dobbaspet, don’t take the flyover, go underneath and take left turn and travel for 6 KMs to reach Shivagange. As you move on the road, you will have a good view of the hill.

There are lot places to cool yourself on the way to the Nandi, making it less tiring.

Note: Do not carry any bags. Monkeys therein will snatch anything whatever they can get hold of.