Backpack overnight to spot vultures

There is an exclusive vulture sanctuary very close to Bangalore where you can spot long-billed vultures nesting amid huge boulders.

Vulture Sanctuary at Ramanagaram, Karnataka

 The location is the picturesque Ramadevara betta or hillock that became famous after the Bollywood blockbuster Sholay was filmed here in the 1970’s.

Nature Admire is organising an overnight trip to Ramanagaram on the Bangalore-Mysore road, which is just 45 km from the city.

Travellers at Ramadevarra Betta, Ramanagaram

Also called Sholay hills, these hillocks with huge rock boulders have become a nesting ground for long-billed vultures and yellow-throated bulbuls.

Ramanagaram is known for the some of the world’s oldest granite outcrops. Parts of the landmark film A Passage to India was also shot here by David Lean. The forested area was declared a vulture sanctuary after a proposal to carve out a Buddha statue out of a monolith here was opposed by environmentalists a decade ago.

Different species of birds sighted at Ramanagaram

The craggy outcrop is one of the few locations in south India where long-billed vultures nest and one can also spot sloth bears in their natural habitat. There are also more than 150 species of birds that nature lovers can spot. The breath-taking views of the hillocks as well as the scenery from the top are photographers’ favourites.

Tented accommodation & Bonfire at Ramadevarra Betta

Nature Admire has organised an overnight stay at a camp site amid the hills, a small walk away from the sanctuary. The road is motorable upto this point.

As no transport has been arranged this time, those booking this tour can arrive at Ramadevarabetta by dusk. The camp site is located 2 km from Ramanagaram town and is located behind Nemmadi Ashram.

After a bonfire dinner and comfortable overnight stay in tents – two persons per tent, the next morning begins early with a trek to watch the scavengers.

A professional instructor will take participants on a three-hour outdoor workshop. 

Participants can head back towards Bangalore by noon.

Reporting time and date: June 25, 6 pm.

Camp ends: June 26, 11.30 am.

Cost: Rs 1,299 per head.

Offer : North Bangalorepost readers can avail a further discount of Rs.200 per head by clicking here and apply the code NBP 200 while booking

Includes: Welcome drink, stay, vegetarian dinner and breakfast only.

Stay: Tented accommodation. Toilets and bathrooms available.

Wear: Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots, cap, full-sleeved jacket, dark clothing and carry plenty of sunscreen. Binoculars and camera are a plus but try not to overload your backpack.

For any further details call Dev Balaji at 98450 79414