Ramadevara Betta is a special place because it’s the first vulture sanctuary in India.It’s also great for hiking and watching different kinds of birds. Plus, it’s famous for being in the movie Sholay. People who love history, hiking, or just enjoying nature like to visit here. It is also known in another name – Ramagiri as told by the locals.

Few days back, my spouse suggested we go hiking there on Sunday. At first, I wasn’t sure, but on Saturday evening, I felt excited to go. I didn’t know much about the place, except that it was in Sholay.

Next day, we started at 6.15AM from home reached there by 7.40AM post breakfast and realized that the entry gate opens only at 9AM! We were 6 adults and 5 restless kids in 2 cars waiting outside the gate thinking should we bribe the guards or reroute to another near by hill. Finally we decided to wait.

As we whiled away the time, one of our friends ventured to explore a nearby hill, only to be swiftly reprimanded by the vigilant guards. With restless kids in tow, we weighed our options until the guards unexpectedly ushered us in at 8:15 AM, much to our relief.

With entry formalities sorted, we navigated towards the parking area, greeted by the welcoming shade of towering trees. We were the very first visitors for that day. The ascent began, each step unveiling the natural splendor of the surroundings. Amidst the verdant foliage, I found myself identifying familiar flora, from the sturdy neem adorned with fruits to the vibrant white flowers of the Pala indigo plant. I also spotted some mango trees and custard apple trees too.

As we approached the Hanuman Temple, we saw the beautiful Gulmohar tree bloomed with flowers showcasing the red carpet beneath. The terrain morphed into rocky steps, signaling the onset of a more challenging climb. Despite the daunting prospect, our spirits remained undeterred.

But, our resolve was tested when one of the kids encountered a nest of wasps, resulting in an unexpected moment of distress. Amidst cries of pain and concern, we rallied together, drawing strength from each other’s courage. It was scary and painful to watch the kid in pain as I have encountered many insect bites earlier. The kid gathered courage and climbed up after a break. We all waited for him to calm down and take the lead. With unwavering determination, we conquered the steep ascent, one step at a time.

The panoramic view from the summit was a fitting reward for our perseverance, offering a glimpse into the majestic beauty of the landscape. We spent some time there, taking pictures and enjoying snacks.

When it started getting crowded, we decided to head back down. The kid who got stung took a bit longer, but he made it down bravely. We decided to treat everyone to ice cream in town before heading home.

Despite the challenges, it was a fun and memorable day for all of us. We’ll cherish the memories of our adventure at Ramadevara Hill and look forward to more family outings in the future.