Male Mahadeshwara Betta: A Spiritual Trek to the Hills
Male Mahadeshwara Betta, also known as MM Hills, is a sacred hill located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, India. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. The hill is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek to the top of the hill is a popular activity among tourists and devotees alike. In this article, we will explore the Male Mahadeshwara Betta trek in detail, including its history, significance, trekking route, and other essential information.
History and Significance
Male Mahadeshwara Betta is named after Lord Mahadeshwara, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. According to legends, Lord Mahadeshwara appeared on the hilltop to bless his devotees and stayed there for many years. The hill is also associated with the Kuruba community, who believe that Lord Mahadeshwara was their protector and helped them during difficult times. The Kuruba community is known for their unique customs and traditions, and their presence can be felt throughout the trek.
The Male Mahadeshwara Betta temple is a major attraction on the hill, and is dedicated to Lord Mahadeshwara. The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery. The temple complex includes several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Parvati. The temple also has a large pond called 'Manikya Dhara,' which is believed to have medicinal properties.
Trekking Route
The trek to the top of Male Mahadeshwara Betta is a moderately difficult trek and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The trek starts from the base of the hill, where there is a parking lot and a small market selling snacks, water bottles, and other essentials. The trail to the top is well-marked and is a mix of steep climbs, rocky terrain, and forested paths. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and the scenery becomes more beautiful as you move higher.
There are several landmarks on the trek, including the Ganapathi temple, which is located halfway up the hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular spot for devotees to take a break and offer their prayers. Another landmark is the cave temple, which is located near the top of the hill. The cave temple is believed to be the place where Lord Mahadeshwara meditated, and has several small shrines dedicated to other deities. The final ascent to the top of the hill is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Other Attractions
Apart from the Male Mahadeshwara Betta temple, there are several other attractions on the hill. One of the most popular attractions is the Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located on the eastern slopes of the hill. The sanctuary is home to several species of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails, which offer a chance to explore the beautiful wilderness.
Another attraction is the nearby town of Kollegal, which is famous for its silk industry. Kollegal is known for its high-quality silk sarees, and visitors can explore the many silk shops and showrooms in the town. Kollegal is also known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes like ragi mudde, a traditional dish made from finger millet.
Accommodation
There are also some homestays available near Male Mahadeshwara Betta that offer comfortable accommodation options. These homestays are ideal for those who prefer a more homely and intimate stay experience. The hosts of these homestays are usually locals who are well-versed in the local culture and customs and can provide you with interesting insights into the place.
Some of the popular homestays near Male Mahadeshwara Betta are Mysore-based Honey Valley Homestay, Kukkavu Homestay, and Guddadamane Homestay. These homestays provide comfortable accommodation and offer a range of activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and sightseeing. They also serve delicious home-cooked meals that are made from fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Apart from homestays, there are several resorts and hotels located in and around Male Mahadeshwara Betta that offer comfortable accommodation options. The Srikanteshwara Residency, The Serai, and The Gateway Hotel are some of the popular options that you can consider.
The Srikanteshwara Residency is a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable accommodation and basic amenities. The Serai and The Gateway Hotel are luxury options that offer top-notch amenities such as swimming pools, spa services, and multi-cuisine restaurants.
In conclusion, Male Mahadeshwara Betta is a great destination for those who are looking for a peaceful and serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and comfortable accommodation options, Male Mahadeshwara Betta is a destination that you should definitely add to your travel bucket list.