Ramanagaram Guide: What To Do, How To Reach And More

Ramanagaram is easily accessible by road from Bangalore through the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway. There are also KSRTC buses that ply the same route. There are also trains from KSR Station in Bangalore to Ramanagaram. 

The best time to visit Ramanagaram is between November and February when the weather is cooler. 

For adventurers, Ramanagaram is ideal. For several years now, trekkers and rock climbers, in particular, have been stopping by to explore the hills surrounding this town. The terrain here ranges from easy to challenging, so you can sign up for an experience whether you're a pro or a novice. With adventure outfits, you can also try your hand at rappelling or nighttime hikes. Among the many hillocks surrounding Ramanagaram, Ramadevarabetta is especially popular with adventure enthusiasts. Once you reach the top, you can even explore a cluster of temples dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita, and Hanuman.

Ramadevarabetta is a favourite spot for bird watchers as well. Equip yourself with a pair of binoculars and head out for a day of spotting gorgeous winged creatures. Indian Robins, Ashy Prinias, Laughing Doves, and Kingfishers are common here. But what you should watch for are the Long-Billed Vultures. An endangered species, the vultures nest in the hills of this area and provide a thrilling sight.

Sandwiched between Ramanagaram and Channapatna is the Kanva Reservoir. While it is fairly well-known, it doesn’t get overcrowded, and you can still manage a quiet picnic by the waters. When you are there, you can spend a day relaxing and also exploring the rich birdlife. However, if you want a day packed with activity, do carry a frisbee or board games from home.

Ramanagaram’s claim to fame is that it served as the backdrop for one of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters—Sholay. The 1975 film was extensively shot here, and an entire village set was recreated just outside the town. Today, this stretch of hills is even referred to as Sholay Hills. If you are an avid fan of the cult classic, pack a camera and recreate scenes from the film here. Guided tours are rare, so you may have to rely on your instincts and research.

Janapada Loka is one of Ramanagara’s star attractions and is located right on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway. It showcases the folk arts of Karnataka and houses more than 5,000 artefacts. You can amble along the many wings of the expansive museum and discover everything from traditional instruments to sculptures, age-old utensils, handlooms, and even recreations of rustic homes. Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time.

No outing can be complete without food, can it? While you can’t expect a gourmet lunch here, there’s quite a variety to choose from. On the Bangalore-Mysore Highway, Kamat Lokaruchi is a top pick. Drop by for South Indian breakfast staples in the morning. Their cylindrical idlis, crispy dosas, and vadas are popular. They also serve a breakfast buffet. For lunch, their North Karnataka thali is a must-try. However, this place is immensely popular, and you may have to wait for a table if you’re traveling on a weekend or public holiday. In Ramanagaram town, there’s Taj Biryani Paradise, which dishes out delicious meaty treats.