Ramadevarabetta

Ramadevara Betta

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Ramanagara, Karnataka, Ramadevara Betta stands as a prominent hill that holds not only natural beauty but also a rich historical and spiritual significance. This ancient hillock, also known as Ramagiri, is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, trekkers, and spiritual seekers alike.

Historical Significance

Ramadevara Betta boasts a history that dates back centuries. It served as a strategic vantage point for various rulers, including the mighty Vijayanagara Empire and the legendary chieftain Kempegowda. The hill is adorned with several ancient temples, ruins, and inscriptions, offering glimpses into the region’s historical past. The area was strategically crucial for its commanding view of the surroundings, making it an ideal location for military and defensive purposes. One of the most interesting stories associated with this place is Lord Rama’s killing of Kakasura (the crow demon, who is also the son of Lord Indra) with an arrow made of a blade of grass (dharbhe hullu), when it was troubling Sita Matha. Finally, Kakasura seeked refuge and pleaded for forgiveness from Lord Rama when the other gods declined any help. As Lord Rama relieved him from being a crow which was the demon’s cursed form, it is said that no crows have ever been sighted in and around this place.

Architectural Marvels

The hill is dotted with ancient temples dedicated to Lord Rama and Lakshmana, contributing to its name “Ramadevara Betta.” The temples showcase intricate carvings and architectural details, reflecting the artistic prowess of the bygone eras. The shrines serve as both religious sanctuaries and historical artifacts, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike. The revered Ramadevara Temple on the hilltop is a focal point for pilgrims. The temple’s architecture, with its traditional South Indian style, adds to the cultural and spiritual allure of the place. The stone carvings and sculptures within the temple precincts narrate tales of devotion and ancient craftsmanship.

Trekking and Adventure

Apart from its historical and spiritual facets, Ramadevara Betta is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The hill offers trekking trails that cater to both beginners and seasoned trekkers. The ascent to the hilltop is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the trek a memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The famous blockbuster Sholay was shot on this picturesque Hill. Since the 1970s this location has become extremely popular among tourists. Ramadevara Betta Hill is the only Vulture Sanctuary in India and one of the best regions for trekking. Different species of birds can also be found in this region but it is especially famous for the vultures.

The vulture sanctuary was officially set up in 2012, but the long-billed, Egyptian and white-backed vultures have been roosting in the hills of Ramanagara for several decades. These are the three species found in Ramanagara out of the nine found in India. Alarmed at the drop in the vulture population over the years – an estimated 97% of the long billed and 99% of the Egyptian vultures have disappeared – environmentalists and bird watchers campaigned to have the area declared as a sanctuary. In 2012, around 346.41 hectares was earmarked as a protected area for the vultures. It is within this patch of the map that the proposed Sholay theme park is located.

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