Biligirirangana range of hills (B R Hills) Lose yourself in these ancient hills, which take their name from the Ranganatha Swamy Temple that sits at the edge of a granite precipice with a drop of more than 1000ft. into a dense forest. Find inner peace at the foot of the great champak tree (Dodda Sampige,) believed to be more than 2000 years old and worshipped by the Soligas, the tribals of that area. Don't miss the coffee estates, the tribal hamlets and the Vivekananda Girijana Kalyana Kendra which displays preserved tribal information and the biodiversity of the region. There are many trekking trails here, including one that leads up to Honnamati, the highest point of the range.



Biligirirangana Hills or simply BR Hills is a mere 230 km from Bangalore (90 km from Mysore) but a whole different path to a wonderful jungle experience. This range of hills is picturesquely located between the Cauvery and Kabini rivers. It stands 5,091 ft. above MSL and provides a panoramic view of the lush
forests below.

Places to see around:-

Biligirirangaswamy Temple : Situated on top of the highest peak, this ancient temple gives Biligirirangana Betta its name. The deity in the temple is Venkatesha, popular as Ranganatha.

Dodda Sampige Mara :
Literally the 'Big Champak Tree' is a 2,000 years old giant tree thet still flowers in season. The tree is deeply revered by the local Soliga tribals, who believe it is the adobe of loard Rangaswamy. It's believed that other deities also reside here and are represented by over 101 stone lingas.

Biligirirangaswamy Sanctuaryy : Spread across 540 sq.km, this sanctuary is home to Gaur, Chital, Sambar, Elephants, Tigers, Panthers and Bears.

Kanchikote : These are the ruins of an old fort stated to have been built by the Gangaraja of Shivanasamudra.

Himvad Gopalaswamy Hills : The Himvad Gopalaswamy Hills in Mysore District is situated in the verdant Western Chats. The hills are a trekker's delight and a popular holiday resort too. Situated atop the Hill is the Gopalaswamy Temple

Rath Festival : The Ratha Festival at Biligirirangana Betta is held during 'Vaishakha' in the month of April. Once in two years, the local tribes make an offering of a large pair of slippers measuring one foot and nine inches, made out of skin, to the deity.

Shopping:-

One can pick up pure honey from here. There are also several basket-making units here.

Get away from the blistering summer months. The Ananthagiri hills are on the way to Araku Valley and are famous for coffee plantations.