Of Mandargiri Hills near Bangalore, the unique temples, Mydala Lake and more

Over the years, Bangalore aka Bengaluru has become more of a concrete jungle due to growing urbanisation, however, there are delightful getaways close to the IT City. Located only 70 km from Bengaluru are Mandargiri Hills aka Basadi Betta which is a significant religious site for the Jainism in Karnataka.
Mandargiri is actually a hillock that can be easily accessed through the 450 carved stairs. While on top of the hillock, visitors can get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding agricultural land, the lake Mydala and Pandithanahalli village.

At the peak of the hillock are four temples dating back to 12th and 14th century. However, if you wish to visit the temples, be sure to contact the caretaker who keeps the keys with himself all the time. There is another remarkable shrine at the base of the hillock– the 81-ft tall Guru Mandir which has been built in such a manner that it resembles a peacock feather fan. The brightly-hued temple makes for a good backdrop for taking gorgeous Insta-worthy pictures.
The temple also has a towering idol of Chandranatha Tirthankara. The temple is good for meditation due to the deep silence that pervades it. Photoshoots are not allowed in and around the temple.

Behind the hillock is Mydala lake which can be accessed by a short walk. It is a cool place to spend some time.