Chasing Stars and Sunrise: My Magical Kunti Betta Night Trek

Some adventures sneak up on you. You think you’re just going for a quick night hike—but you return with memories etched in moonlight and mist. That’s exactly how the Kunti Betta Night Trek felt to me. Just 130 km from Bangalore, this hill in Pandavapura offers one of the most beautiful, thrilling, and accessible night treks in Karnataka. And believe me, watching the sunrise from its peak is something I’ll never forget.

Midnight Escape from the City: Journey to Pandavapura

After weeks of back-to-back workdays in Bangalore, I needed a break—something quick, budget-friendly, and away from the usual noise. That’s when a friend suggested the Kunti Betta night trek. I had heard about it—a short night hike near Mysore, ideal for a weekend adventure—but had never actually gone. With no second thoughts, we signed up with a local trekking group and left the city by 9 PM.

The road trip was smooth, and by midnight we reached Pandavapura, a small town named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. It is believed they spent time here during their exile, and the hill we were about to climb—Kunti Betta—is said to be named after their mother, Kunti.

The Climb Begins: Under a Blanket of Stars

Armed with headlamps, snacks, and energy, our group began the trek around 1 AM. The cool night breeze was perfect, and the sky above was a canvas of stars. As we left the base, the faint lights of Pandavapura faded away, replaced by the glow of our torches bouncing off giant boulders.

The terrain was a mix of rocky patches, steep slopes, and narrow trails winding around thorny bushes. While the Kunti Betta trek is just about 2 km one way, doing it in the dark turns it into a full-on adventure. Every step feels more exciting—and slightly mysterious. At one point, we had to scale a near-vertical rock face using footholds carved into the stone. It wasn’t overly dangerous, but it definitely got the adrenaline going.

We paused several times—not out of exhaustion, but to look up. The sky was breathtaking. With barely any light pollution, the stars were clearer than I’d seen in years. It felt like the universe was watching us climb.

At the Summit: Conversations, Campfire, and Calm

By 3 AM, we reached the summit. The view, even in the dark, was stunning. Two towering hills stood like guardians over a sleepy landscape, with occasional flashes from distant villages. The silence was comforting, only broken by our laughter and the crackling of a small campfire we lit near a flat patch of rock.

We sat around it, sharing stories, sipping on hot chai, and warming our hands. Some of us dozed off under the open sky, using our backpacks as pillows. Others just lay there, quietly taking it all in. There’s something about being on top of a hill in the middle of the night—it makes you feel infinite and grounded at the same time.

Sunrise from the Hill: A Spectacle in Gold and Blue

As dawn approached, the eastern sky began to shift from black to navy to deep orange. We woke up to a chorus of birds and the distant sounds of temples coming to life below. And then it happened—the sunrise over Kunti Betta.

The golden light bathed the entire landscape. The green fields, small lakes, and distant towns lit up in slow motion. From that height, everything looked peaceful and perfect. It was the kind of sunrise that doesn't just light up the sky—it lights up your spirit.

We all stood silently for a few minutes, watching the sun emerge from behind the hills, painting everything in warm hues. It was easily one of the most beautiful moments I’ve had on a trek.

Descending in Daylight: A Different Perspective

The way down gave us a completely new view of the trail. What had seemed mysterious at night now looked vibrant and full of detail. Massive boulders, natural rock carvings, and flowering bushes lined the path. We also got a better look at the surrounding landscape—lush farmlands, coconut trees, and small reservoirs sparkling in the morning sun.

By 7:30 AM, we were back at the base. Tired but grinning ear to ear. A small roadside shop served us steaming idlis and spicy chutney—possibly the best breakfast I’ve ever had after a trek.

Planning Your Kunti Betta Night Trek: Essentials and Tips

If you’re considering doing the Kunti Betta night trek from Bangalore, here’s what you need to know:

Best time to visit: October to February for cool nights and clear skies.

Distance from Bangalore: ~130 km; 3-hour drive.

Trek distance: Around 4 km round trip.

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate. Great for beginners but has a few tricky patches.

Things to carry: Headlamp/torch, jacket, water bottle, energy bars, and a power bank.

Permission: Not always required for small groups, but guided treks are safer and well-organized.

Nearby attractions: Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Brindavan Gardens, and Mysore Palace if you want to extend your trip.

Final Thoughts: Why Kunti Betta is a Hidden Gem

The Kunti Betta trek may not be as high or as famous as other treks, but what it offers is rare—a perfect night adventure just a few hours from Bangalore. It’s short, scenic, and filled with mythical charm. Whether it’s the starry climb, the thrilling caves and rocks, or the unforgettable sunrise—it gives you moments that stay long after the trek is done.

If you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s both peaceful and powerful, this is it. So pack that torch, grab your friends, and let the hills of Pandavapura give you a story worth telling.