A foresty hideout not too far from Bengaluru city

Turahalli is the only forest existing in Bengaluru today. It lies at some 20 km from Bengaluru off Kanakapura Road. You may not expect much from this forest, but the beautiful side of this spot will exceed all your expectations. Cyclists, joggers, nature lovers, rock climbers and day trippers consider it as their go-to place.

What’s in there?
It is full of eucalyptus trees that beckon with their fragrance. There are orchids and many more beautiful flowers to capture your sight, and are worth being captured on your camera. The forest is also home to wildlife like jackals, lizards, chameleons, peacocks, mongoose, a variety of chirpy birds and other animals. Turahalli also has trekking and cycling trails, and is frequented by fitness freaks that have now turned into Turahalli loyalists.

The forest also provides inspiration to bird watchers and photographers to get the right shot. Turahalli is also a good place to for a morning or evening walk. The hillock can be climbed by people of all age groups. But, it is ideal if you leave before dusk since this area might get unsafe after dark.
Don’t leave without

Visiting the temple on the hillock that is well-kept and frequently visited by worshipers. The temple is surrounded by serenity and beauty, and it is also a good spot to enjoy the lovely view of the IT city. If you are visiting the forest for a few hours, pack in drinking water as well as a snack box to fuel up, and a spare carry bag to keep in the packages you are going to discard.

On a final note

The forest is reeling under human impact, encroachment activities and unwarranted development for the sake of adventure sports. As a result, the forest has been reduced to hillocks with barely forested land. Although, the authorities are taking actions to curb illegal occurrences, it is imperative that the visitors to Turahalli forest also make sure to maintain the sanctity and beauty of the place.